JOHNSON COUNTY —A Kansas man is going to prison for a knife attack killing in 2021.

Last week, Judge Thomas Sutherland sentenced John Daniel Crawford Murry to 371 months for second degree intentional murder, agggravated robbery and aggravated burglary of a dwelling, according to the Johnson County District Attorney's office.

In June, Murry pleaded guilty to the death of Chargles Dillon in October of 2022. In November of 2022, police arrested Murry and c0-defendant Devin Braswell following an investigation by the Merriam Police Department, Johnson County Crime Lab, the Metro Squad and the district attorney's office.&nbsp;

Just after 11p.m. on October 21, 2021 Merriam police responded to a reported stabbing&nbsp;near Royalty Way and Kings Cove Drive. First responders located a victim, who was later identified as Dillon. He died at the scene.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719090625167.png" alt="Murry -photo Johnson County" />
 <figcaption>Murry -photo Johnson County</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —A Kansas man is going to prison for a knife attack killing in 2021.Last week, Judge Thomas Sutherland sentenced John Daniel Crawford Murry to 371 months for second degree intentional murder, agggravated robbery and aggravated burglary of a dwelling, according to the Johnson County District Attorney's office.In June, Murry pleaded guilty to the death of Chargles Dillon in October of 2022. In November of 2022, police arrested Murry and c0-defendant Devin Braswell following an investigation by the Merriam Police Department, Johnson County Crime Lab, the Metro Squad and the district attorney's office.&nbsp;Just after 11p.m. on October 21, 2021 Merriam police responded to a reported stabbing&nbsp;near Royalty Way and Kings Cove Drive. First responders located a victim, who was later identified as Dillon. He died at the scene.

Prison for Kansas man in knife attack killing

WASHINGTON (AP) — In some corners of the Democratic Party, last week felt like déjà vu.

The party's vice-presidential nominee’s military record was under assault from Republicans — attacks reminiscent of those&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?183127-1/swift-boat-veterans-political-ad">leveled two decades earlier on Sen. John Kerry</a>&nbsp;during his run for the White House.

Democratic strategists who lived through the Kerry onslaught, however, say the political landscape has changed so much since 2004 that they do not believe the attacks will land with the same resonance.

“It is a very different world,” said Tad Devine, a senior adviser to Kerry’s 2004 campaign.

Former President Donald Trump's campaign responded to the selection earlier this month of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as the Democratic vice presidential nominee by attempting to pick apart his military record. Walz served for 24 years in the Minnesota National Guard, but Trump's campaign has criticized him for using imprecise language to describe how he carried a weapon in war and when he retired from service.

Kamala Harris' campaign has pushed back against the attacks, but some Democrats worry Republicans might succeed in turning Walz's military service into a liability. Others accused Republicans of attempting to “swift boat” Walz, a reference to the 2004 campaign and a sign of the campaign's continued relevance.

Kerry’s campaign was caught flatfooted in the summer of 2004 by attacks that questioned whether the presidential candidate had earned his many commendations as a commander of a swift boat during the Vietnam War. Kerry received three Purple Hearts, a Silver Star and a Bronze Star.

By 2004, America was involved in two wars — in Iraq and Afghanistan — following the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks. Kerry, a senator from Massachusetts, had made his military service a centerpiece of the hard-fought presidential primary campaign, to the point of starting his nomination speech by saying he was “reporting for duty."

Republicans sought to undermine that selling point by raising questions about his Vietnam War service. An outside political group, the Swift Boat Veterans for Truth, led the anti-Kerry campaign, spending millions of dollars on hard-hitting television ads. One&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?183127-1/swift-boat-veterans-political-ad">spot</a>&nbsp;featured men who served in Vietnam questioning Kerry's leadership and heroism, as well as his fitness to lead the country;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?183495-1/swift-boat-veterans-political-ad">another</a>&nbsp;blasted Kerry’s participation in later anti-war protests.

“I remember being in Ohio and listening to that ad. And I called my campaign headquarters and said, guys, I just heard an ad. And if I heard that ad, I wouldn’t vote for me,” Kerry&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/transcripts/644830886">told NPR in 2018</a>.

Some in Kerry’s campaign wanted to respond more forcefully, while others wanted to take a more cautious approach, concerned that focusing on the attacks would elevate them.

The campaign pushed back in the press but spent little money on costly television ads to address the controversy.

That trepidation, one-time Kerry advisers said, ensured that the public began to question the candidate's ability to handle national security matters.

Chris LaCivita — a top Trump campaign adviser — was one of the top Republican operatives behind the “swift boat” campaign. When Democrats compared the attacks on Walz to those on Kerry, LaCivita posted on X that the 2004 allegations “were never disproven.”

“Two things you don’t do is lie about the medals you received and whether or not you saw combat. Those are the two big sins. And he’s guilty of at least one of them,” LaCivita told The Associated Press last week.

Multiple veterans who served with Kerry refuted the accusations in 2004. Matthew Dowd, the chief strategist for the Bush campaign in 2004, said last week that the “swift boat” allegations were “&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/matthewjdowd/status/1821607421804212429">nearly all lies</a>.”

The Trump campaign has sought to take a similar approach in criticizing Walz's service. Trump's running mate, Sen. JD Vance, has led the charge, accusing Walz of lying about his record. Vance, a Marine veteran, also accused Walz of abandoning his unit before it deployed to Iraq.

The Harris-Walz campaign has pushed back against the criticism. A campaign spokesperson told the AP that Walz “misspoke” in 2018 when he attempted to make a point on gun control by saying he carried weapons in a war. Walz did not see combat during his tenure in the Minnesota National Guard.

Walz’s first congressional campaign in March 2005&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/walz-national-guard-military-ae43d684bf1319e535f9f620552155d7">issued a statement saying</a>&nbsp;he planned to run despite a possible mobilization that might send his soldiers to Iraq. According to the Guard, Walz retired from service in May 2005. Three months later, the Army issued a mobilization order for Walz’s unit. It was sent to Iraq in March 2006. The Harris-Walz campaign has pushed back against the Republican characterizations that Walz retired to avoid deploying to a war zone.

Walz achieved the rank of command sergeant major. But because he did not finish certain coursework before his retirement after 24 years in the National Guard, he retired as a master sergeant, a lower rank, for benefits purposes.

It is unclear how effective these GOP attacks will be. Democrats who worked on the Kerry campaign said they are likely not going to be as potent because so much has changed since 2004.

The main reason: Campaigns are now flush with cash, making it easier to fight back.

In 2004, Kerry and President George W. Bush, the Republican nominee, took public funding,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fec.gov/updates/2004-presidential-campaign-finance-activity-summarized/">receiving $74.6 million each</a>&nbsp;from the government, barring them from private donations. The decision, said Devine and others, handcuffed a campaign that wanted to focus on its preferred message.

“We were living in a world of limited resources where we had to make decisions about should we go on the air now, should we go on later,” said Steve Elmendorf, Kerry’s deputy campaign manager. The Harris-Walz campaign "doesn’t have those constraints.”

Public funding is a thing of the past, and Harris' operation&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/harris-fundraising-democrats-trump-fbc14aa926444b4f961f579c63811766">raised</a>&nbsp;a staggering $310 million in July. The Democratic campaign, aided by what President Joe Biden collected before he stepped aside, is expected to raise well over $1 billion.

“If we were going to respond to those attacks in the paid media, we were going to need to spend money that we were going to need in October,” said Devine.

The strategists pointed to other differences in today's environment.

Whereas the “swift boat” attacks were generated by an outside group relying on advertising, Republicans have largely hit Walz on social media and in interviews. Such broadsides may reach the GOP base but not the independent voters who will decide the election.

Walz is also not the presidential nominee — as Kerry was. Voters tend to focus on the candidates at the top of a ticket,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/trump-vp-pick-no-impact-jd-vance-political-experts-disagree-2024-8">something Trump himself has noted.</a>

And then there is the issue of Trump. Could attacks on Walz’s 24 years of military service boomerang on the Republican standard-bearer? The former president has been criticized for avoiding military service over&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2018/12/26/politics/trump-bone-spurs-vietnam-war/index.html">claims he suffered from bone spurs</a>.

Despite the differences in the two campaigns, veterans of Kerry's run said Democrats should take to heart a lesson they learned the hard way: They waited too long to counterattack. Mark Mellman, Kerry's pollster, said Democrats should be particularly concerned about attacks on Walz's integrity, a key selling point of his candidacy. “To the extent that image is damaged,” Mellman said, “it can be quite problematic.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723596135448.png" alt="Gov. Tim Walz spoke at the Government Employee Union Convention in Los Angeles Tuesday -image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Tim Walz spoke at the Government Employee Union Convention in Los Angeles Tuesday -image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — In some corners of the Democratic Party, last week felt like déjà vu.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Let me be clear: I am damn proud of my service to this country. <a href="https://t.co/9a9rJSQurQ">pic.twitter.com/9a9rJSQurQ</a>&mdash; Tim Walz (@Tim_Walz) <a href="https://twitter.com/Tim_Walz/status/1823469160891855266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The party's vice-presidential nominee’s military record was under assault from Republicans — attacks reminiscent of those&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?183127-1/swift-boat-veterans-political-ad">leveled two decades earlier on Sen. John Kerry</a>&nbsp;during his run for the White House.Democratic strategists who lived through the Kerry onslaught, however, say the political landscape has changed so much since 2004 that they do not believe the attacks will land with the same resonance.“It is a very different world,” said Tad Devine, a senior adviser to Kerry’s 2004 campaign.Former President Donald Trump's campaign responded to the selection earlier this month of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as the Democratic vice presidential nominee by attempting to pick apart his military record. Walz served for 24 years in the Minnesota National Guard, but Trump's campaign has criticized him for using imprecise language to describe how he carried a weapon in war and when he retired from service.Kamala Harris' campaign has pushed back against the attacks, but some Democrats worry Republicans might succeed in turning Walz's military service into a liability. Others accused Republicans of attempting to “swift boat” Walz, a reference to the 2004 campaign and a sign of the campaign's continued relevance.<h2>The origin of "swift boating"</h2>Kerry’s campaign was caught flatfooted in the summer of 2004 by attacks that questioned whether the presidential candidate had earned his many commendations as a commander of a swift boat during the Vietnam War. Kerry received three Purple Hearts, a Silver Star and a Bronze Star.By 2004, America was involved in two wars — in Iraq and Afghanistan — following the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks. Kerry, a senator from Massachusetts, had made his military service a centerpiece of the hard-fought presidential primary campaign, to the point of starting his nomination speech by saying he was “reporting for duty."Republicans sought to undermine that selling point by raising questions about his Vietnam War service. An outside political group, the Swift Boat Veterans for Truth, led the anti-Kerry campaign, spending millions of dollars on hard-hitting television ads. One&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?183127-1/swift-boat-veterans-political-ad">spot</a>&nbsp;featured men who served in Vietnam questioning Kerry's leadership and heroism, as well as his fitness to lead the country;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?183495-1/swift-boat-veterans-political-ad">another</a>&nbsp;blasted Kerry’s participation in later anti-war protests.The ads were effective.“I remember being in Ohio and listening to that ad. And I called my campaign headquarters and said, guys, I just heard an ad. And if I heard that ad, I wouldn’t vote for me,” Kerry&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/transcripts/644830886">told NPR in 2018</a>.Some in Kerry’s campaign wanted to respond more forcefully, while others wanted to take a more cautious approach, concerned that focusing on the attacks would elevate them.The campaign pushed back in the press but spent little money on costly television ads to address the controversy.That trepidation, one-time Kerry advisers said, ensured that the public began to question the candidate's ability to handle national security matters.Chris LaCivita — a top Trump campaign adviser — was one of the top Republican operatives behind the “swift boat” campaign. When Democrats compared the attacks on Walz to those on Kerry, LaCivita posted on X that the 2004 allegations “were never disproven.”“Two things you don’t do is lie about the medals you received and whether or not you saw combat. Those are the two big sins. And he’s guilty of at least one of them,” LaCivita told The Associated Press last week.Multiple veterans who served with Kerry refuted the accusations in 2004. Matthew Dowd, the chief strategist for the Bush campaign in 2004, said last week that the “swift boat” allegations were “&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/matthewjdowd/status/1821607421804212429">nearly all lies</a>.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723596192711.png" alt="Gov. Tim Walz image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Tim Walz image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Walz pushes back</h2>The Trump campaign has sought to take a similar approach in criticizing Walz's service. Trump's running mate, Sen. JD Vance, has led the charge, accusing Walz of lying about his record. Vance, a Marine veteran, also accused Walz of abandoning his unit before it deployed to Iraq.The Harris-Walz campaign has pushed back against the criticism. A campaign spokesperson told the AP that Walz “misspoke” in 2018 when he attempted to make a point on gun control by saying he carried weapons in a war. Walz did not see combat during his tenure in the Minnesota National Guard.Walz’s first congressional campaign in March 2005&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/walz-national-guard-military-ae43d684bf1319e535f9f620552155d7">issued a statement saying</a>&nbsp;he planned to run despite a possible mobilization that might send his soldiers to Iraq. According to the Guard, Walz retired from service in May 2005. Three months later, the Army issued a mobilization order for Walz’s unit. It was sent to Iraq in March 2006. The Harris-Walz campaign has pushed back against the Republican characterizations that Walz retired to avoid deploying to a war zone.Walz achieved the rank of command sergeant major. But because he did not finish certain coursework before his retirement after 24 years in the National Guard, he retired as a master sergeant, a lower rank, for benefits purposes.It is unclear how effective these GOP attacks will be. Democrats who worked on the Kerry campaign said they are likely not going to be as potent because so much has changed since 2004.<h2>Flush with cash</h2>The main reason: Campaigns are now flush with cash, making it easier to fight back.In 2004, Kerry and President George W. Bush, the Republican nominee, took public funding,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fec.gov/updates/2004-presidential-campaign-finance-activity-summarized/">receiving $74.6 million each</a>&nbsp;from the government, barring them from private donations. The decision, said Devine and others, handcuffed a campaign that wanted to focus on its preferred message.“We were living in a world of limited resources where we had to make decisions about should we go on the air now, should we go on later,” said Steve Elmendorf, Kerry’s deputy campaign manager. The Harris-Walz campaign "doesn’t have those constraints.”Public funding is a thing of the past, and Harris' operation&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/harris-fundraising-democrats-trump-fbc14aa926444b4f961f579c63811766">raised</a>&nbsp;a staggering $310 million in July. The Democratic campaign, aided by what President Joe Biden collected before he stepped aside, is expected to raise well over $1 billion.“If we were going to respond to those attacks in the paid media, we were going to need to spend money that we were going to need in October,” said Devine.<h2>Walz is not the presidential nominee</h2>The strategists pointed to other differences in today's environment.Whereas the “swift boat” attacks were generated by an outside group relying on advertising, Republicans have largely hit Walz on social media and in interviews. Such broadsides may reach the GOP base but not the independent voters who will decide the election.Walz is also not the presidential nominee — as Kerry was. Voters tend to focus on the candidates at the top of a ticket,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/trump-vp-pick-no-impact-jd-vance-political-experts-disagree-2024-8">something Trump himself has noted.</a>And then there is the issue of Trump. Could attacks on Walz’s 24 years of military service boomerang on the Republican standard-bearer? The former president has been criticized for avoiding military service over&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2018/12/26/politics/trump-bone-spurs-vietnam-war/index.html">claims he suffered from bone spurs</a>.Despite the differences in the two campaigns, veterans of Kerry's run said Democrats should take to heart a lesson they learned the hard way: They waited too long to counterattack. Mark Mellman, Kerry's pollster, said Democrats should be particularly concerned about attacks on Walz's integrity, a key selling point of his candidacy. “To the extent that image is damaged,” Mellman said, “it can be quite problematic.”___

🎥 Harris-Walz push back against criticism of his military service 

Mary Rose (Cannon) Ernst-Reinhardt, 84, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Friday, August 9, 2024 at the Russell Regional Hospital.

Mary was born December 2, 1939, in Emporia, Kansas.&nbsp; She was the daughter of Glenn and Hattie Jane (Harlan) Cannon.&nbsp; She grew up in Madison, Kansas until the seventh grade when her family moved to Russell.&nbsp; She graduated from Russell High School in the Class of ’57.

Mary was united in marriage to Lionel Ernst on December 22, 1957.&nbsp; They made their home in the Russell, Hays, Kansas, and Sydney, Nebraska areas.&nbsp; This union was blessed with four children; Greg, Kay Lynn, Joseph and Julie Ann.&nbsp; Lionel preceded her in death on May 29, 1984.&nbsp; Later she was united in marriage to Doanld Reinhardt on February 14, 1990 in Mesa, Arizona.&nbsp; They became “snowbirds” and spent their time in Russell and Zapata, Texas.&nbsp; Donald preceded her in death on October 9, 2020.

Mary was a devoted wife and homemaker for her family.&nbsp; She also was a farmer’s wife, helping Donald on the farm.&nbsp; She also worked in the office for Dr. Sam for over 15 years.&nbsp; She was a member of the St. John Lutheran Church and Martha’s Circle.&nbsp; She later was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.&nbsp; She was a member of the Russell V.F.W. Ladies Auxiliary, the Red Hat Ladies and the Daughters of American Revolution (DAR).&nbsp; She enjoyed quilting, cooking and baking, playing cards and attending family gatherings.

Mary’s surviving family includes her daughter, Kay Lynn Ickler (Steve) of Russell, Kansas; son, Joseph “Joe” Ernst (Tessa) of Wilson, Kansas; 9 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandson.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; both husbands; daughter, Julie Ann Honas; son, Greg Ernst; brother, William Howard Cannon; sisters, Anna Mae Miller and Martha Helen Relph; grandson, Luke Ernst; and great grandson, Cael Evans.

Celebration of Mary’s Life will be held at 10:30 AM, Thursday, August 15, 2024 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell.&nbsp; Burial will follow at the Russell City Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Wednesday, August 14, 2024 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, with the family present to greet friends from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM.&nbsp; A Memorial has been established with the Russell V.F.W. Ladies Auxiliary.&nbsp; Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723491228244.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Mary Rose (Cannon) Ernst-Reinhardt, 84, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Friday, August 9, 2024 at the Russell Regional Hospital.Mary was born December 2, 1939, in Emporia, Kansas.&nbsp; She was the daughter of Glenn and Hattie Jane (Harlan) Cannon.&nbsp; She grew up in Madison, Kansas until the seventh grade when her family moved to Russell.&nbsp; She graduated from Russell High School in the Class of ’57.Mary was united in marriage to Lionel Ernst on December 22, 1957.&nbsp; They made their home in the Russell, Hays, Kansas, and Sydney, Nebraska areas.&nbsp; This union was blessed with four children; Greg, Kay Lynn, Joseph and Julie Ann.&nbsp; Lionel preceded her in death on May 29, 1984.&nbsp; Later she was united in marriage to Doanld Reinhardt on February 14, 1990 in Mesa, Arizona.&nbsp; They became “snowbirds” and spent their time in Russell and Zapata, Texas.&nbsp; Donald preceded her in death on October 9, 2020.Mary was a devoted wife and homemaker for her family.&nbsp; She also was a farmer’s wife, helping Donald on the farm.&nbsp; She also worked in the office for Dr. Sam for over 15 years.&nbsp; She was a member of the St. John Lutheran Church and Martha’s Circle.&nbsp; She later was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.&nbsp; She was a member of the Russell V.F.W. Ladies Auxiliary, the Red Hat Ladies and the Daughters of American Revolution (DAR).&nbsp; She enjoyed quilting, cooking and baking, playing cards and attending family gatherings.Mary’s surviving family includes her daughter, Kay Lynn Ickler (Steve) of Russell, Kansas; son, Joseph “Joe” Ernst (Tessa) of Wilson, Kansas; 9 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandson.Mary was preceded in death by her parents; both husbands; daughter, Julie Ann Honas; son, Greg Ernst; brother, William Howard Cannon; sisters, Anna Mae Miller and Martha Helen Relph; grandson, Luke Ernst; and great grandson, Cael Evans.Celebration of Mary’s Life will be held at 10:30 AM, Thursday, August 15, 2024 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell.&nbsp; Burial will follow at the Russell City Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Wednesday, August 14, 2024 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, with the family present to greet friends from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM.&nbsp; A Memorial has been established with the Russell V.F.W. Ladies Auxiliary.&nbsp; Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.

Mary Rose (Cannon) Ernst-Reinhardt

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/shauneen-miranda/">SHAUNEEN MIRANDA</a>

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Education said last week it will use a phased rollout to launch the 2025-26 form to apply for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/dont-give-fafsa-advocates-student-financial-aid-urge" target="_blank">federal financial student aid</a>, which will make the application fully available two months later than usual.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid — better known as FAFSA — will be available to hundreds of students on Oct. 1, gradually ramping up to be available to all by Dec. 1. The staggered approach is an attempt to fix any issues before the form is open to everyone.

The phased rollout came after the 2024-25 form, which got a makeover following Congress passing the FAFSA Simplification Act in late 2020, witnessed its share of hiccups and glitches during the soft launch in December and past the official debut in January.

Though advocates expressed concerns regarding the form’s failure to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/01/24/politics/fafsa-inflation-fix-income/index.html" target="_blank">adjust for inflation</a>, its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.chronicle.com/article/miscalculation-in-fafsa-formula-is-another-unforced-error" target="_blank">formula miscalculation</a>&nbsp;and its&nbsp;<a href="https://fsapartners.ed.gov/knowledge-center/library/electronic-announcements/2024-04-01/update-tax-data-received-fa-ddx-and-manually-entered-information" target="_blank">tax data errors</a>, which prompted processing delays, the department has worked to fix these issues.

“As we rolled out the 2024-2025 FAFSA cycle, we met various challenges in its first year,” U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said during a call with reporters Wednesday.

Cardona said “these challenges — rooted in a federal student aid department that was also in desperate need of modernization — resulted in frustration for many students, families, education leaders and policy makers from the Hill.”

The Education secretary added that over the last 10 months, the department has “spent lots of time with these stakeholders to ensure their experience and their input influences our work moving forward,” noting that the new rollout process reflects the extensive feedback the department has received.

Jeremy Singer, who leads FAFSA strategy within the department’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/us-department-education-announces-jeremy-singer-fafsa-executive-advisor-office-federal-student-aid" target="_blank">Office of Federal Student Aid</a>, said hundreds of students will participate in the testing period beginning Oct. 1.

Singer said that availability will expand to thousands of students in mid-October and then to tens of thousands of students in early November, all prior to the form opening up to all students and families by Dec. 1.

Hearing from many students, families, schools and organizations, Singer said some of the most common demands included a concrete launch timeline and ability to track progress on that timeline, the launch of a form that’s fully functioning and assurance that there will be no major defects once the form is launched.

Senior department officials said states and schools have told them that no determination of financial aid will be made before the system opens for all students in December.

U.S. Under Secretary of Education James Kvaal, who oversees higher education and financial aid, including the&nbsp; Office of Federal Student Aid, said that in March, the department received nearly 40% fewer FAFSAs than they had on the same date a year prior.

But now that gap is under 4% and they “continue to close it every week,” Kvaal said.

The department is inviting volunteers to take part in the testing period and said it will release more information in the coming weeks on how students and other partners can get involved in this initial process.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700516528497.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/shauneen-miranda/">SHAUNEEN MIRANDA</a>WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Education said last week it will use a phased rollout to launch the 2025-26 form to apply for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/dont-give-fafsa-advocates-student-financial-aid-urge" target="_blank">federal financial student aid</a>, which will make the application fully available two months later than usual.The Free Application for Federal Student Aid — better known as FAFSA — will be available to hundreds of students on Oct. 1, gradually ramping up to be available to all by Dec. 1. The staggered approach is an attempt to fix any issues before the form is open to everyone.The phased rollout came after the 2024-25 form, which got a makeover following Congress passing the FAFSA Simplification Act in late 2020, witnessed its share of hiccups and glitches during the soft launch in December and past the official debut in January.Though advocates expressed concerns regarding the form’s failure to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/01/24/politics/fafsa-inflation-fix-income/index.html" target="_blank">adjust for inflation</a>, its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.chronicle.com/article/miscalculation-in-fafsa-formula-is-another-unforced-error" target="_blank">formula miscalculation</a>&nbsp;and its&nbsp;<a href="https://fsapartners.ed.gov/knowledge-center/library/electronic-announcements/2024-04-01/update-tax-data-received-fa-ddx-and-manually-entered-information" target="_blank">tax data errors</a>, which prompted processing delays, the department has worked to fix these issues.“As we rolled out the 2024-2025 FAFSA cycle, we met various challenges in its first year,” U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said during a call with reporters Wednesday.Cardona said “these challenges — rooted in a federal student aid department that was also in desperate need of modernization — resulted in frustration for many students, families, education leaders and policy makers from the Hill.”The Education secretary added that over the last 10 months, the department has “spent lots of time with these stakeholders to ensure their experience and their input influences our work moving forward,” noting that the new rollout process reflects the extensive feedback the department has received.Jeremy Singer, who leads FAFSA strategy within the department’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/us-department-education-announces-jeremy-singer-fafsa-executive-advisor-office-federal-student-aid" target="_blank">Office of Federal Student Aid</a>, said hundreds of students will participate in the testing period beginning Oct. 1.Singer said that availability will expand to thousands of students in mid-October and then to tens of thousands of students in early November, all prior to the form opening up to all students and families by Dec. 1.Hearing from many students, families, schools and organizations, Singer said some of the most common demands included a concrete launch timeline and ability to track progress on that timeline, the launch of a form that’s fully functioning and assurance that there will be no major defects once the form is launched.Senior department officials said states and schools have told them that no determination of financial aid will be made before the system opens for all students in December.U.S. Under Secretary of Education James Kvaal, who oversees higher education and financial aid, including the&nbsp; Office of Federal Student Aid, said that in March, the department received nearly 40% fewer FAFSAs than they had on the same date a year prior.But now that gap is under 4% and they “continue to close it every week,” Kvaal said.The department is inviting volunteers to take part in the testing period and said it will release more information in the coming weeks on how students and other partners can get involved in this initial process.

U.S. Education Department to gradually roll out new FAFSA form by Dec. 1

WASHINGTON (AP) — A California man with a history of political violence was sentenced on Friday to 20 years in prison for repeatedly attacking police with flagpoles and other makeshift weapons during the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol.

David Nicholas Dempsey’s sentence is among the longest among hundreds of Capitol riot prosecutions. Prosecutors described him as one of the most violent members of the mob of Donald Trump supporters that attacked the Capitol as lawmakers met to certify Joe Biden’s 2020 presidential election victory.

Dempsey, who is from Van Nuys, stomped on police officers’ heads. He swung poles at officers defending a tunnel, struck an officer in the head with a metal crutch and attacked police with pepper spray and broken pieces of furniture, prosecutors said.

He climbed atop other rioters, using them like “human scaffolding” to reach officers guarding a tunnel entrance. He injured at least two police officers, prosecutors said.

“Your conduct on January 6th was exceptionally egregious,” U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth told Dempsey. “You did not get carried away in the moment.”

Dempsey pleaded guilty in January to two counts of assaulting police officers with a dangerous weapon.

Only former Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio has received a longer sentence in the Jan. 6 attack. Tarrio was sentenced to 22 years for orchestrating a plot to stop the peaceful transfer of power from Trump to Joe Biden after the 2020 presidential election.

Dempsey called his conduct “reprehensible” and apologized to the police officers whom he assaulted,

“You were performing your duties, and I responded with hostility and violence,” he said before learning his sentence.

Justice Department prosecutors recommended a prison sentence of 21 years and 10 months for Dempsey, a former construction worker and fast-food restaurant employee. Dempsey’s violence was so extreme that he attacked a fellow rioter who was trying to disarm him,&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.235380/gov.uscourts.dcd.235380.69.0.pdf" target="_blank">prosecutors wrote</a>.

“David Dempsey is political violence personified,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas Brasher told the judge.

Defense attorney Amy Collins, who sought a sentence of 6 years and six months, described the government’s sentencing recommendation as “ridiculous.”

“It makes him a statistic,” she said. “It doesn’t consider the person he is, how much he has grown.”

Dempsey was wearing a tactical vest, a helmet and an American flag gaiter covering his face when he attacked police at a tunnel leading to the Lower West Terrace doors. He shot pepper spray at Metropolitan Police Department Detective Phuson Nguyen just as another rioter yanked at the officer’s gas mask, prosecutors wrote.

“The searing spray burned Detective Nguyen’s lungs, throat, eyes, and face and left him gasping for breath, fearing he might lose consciousness and be overwhelmed by the mob,” they wrote.

Dempsey then struck MPD Sgt. Jason Mastony in the head with a metal crutch, cracking the shield on his gas mask and cutting his head.

“I collapsed and caught myself against the wall as my ears rang. I was able to stand again and hold the line for a few more minutes until another assault by rioters pushed the police line back away from the threshold of the tunnel,” Mastony said in a statement submitted to the court.

Dempsey has been jailed since his arrest in August 2021.

His criminal record in California includes convictions for burglary, theft and assault. The assault conviction stemmed from an October 2019, gathering near the Santa Monica Pier, where Dempsey attacked people peacefully demonstrating against then-President Trump, prosecutors said.

“The peaceful protest turned violent as Dempsey took a canister of bear spray from his pants and dispersed it at close range against several protesters,” they wrote, noting that Dempsey was sentenced to 200 days of jail time.

Dempsey engaged in at least three other acts of “vicious political violence” that didn’t lead to criminal charges “for various reasons,” according to prosecutors. They said Dempsey struck a counter-protester over the head with a skateboard at a June 2019 rally in Los Angeles, used the same skateboard to assault someone at an August 2020 protest in Tujunga, California, and attacked a protester with pepper spray and a metal bat during a August 2020 protest in Beverly Hills, California.

More than 1,400 people have been charged with Jan. 6-related federal crimes. Over 900 of them have been convicted and sentenced, with roughly two-thirds receiving terms of imprisonment ranging from a few days to the 22 years that Tarrio received.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723237501529.png" alt="David Dempsey photo United States District Court" />
 <figcaption>David Dempsey photo United States District Court</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — A California man with a history of political violence was sentenced on Friday to 20 years in prison for repeatedly attacking police with flagpoles and other makeshift weapons during the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol.David Nicholas Dempsey’s sentence is among the longest among hundreds of Capitol riot prosecutions. Prosecutors described him as one of the most violent members of the mob of Donald Trump supporters that attacked the Capitol as lawmakers met to certify Joe Biden’s 2020 presidential election victory.Dempsey, who is from Van Nuys, stomped on police officers’ heads. He swung poles at officers defending a tunnel, struck an officer in the head with a metal crutch and attacked police with pepper spray and broken pieces of furniture, prosecutors said.He climbed atop other rioters, using them like “human scaffolding” to reach officers guarding a tunnel entrance. He injured at least two police officers, prosecutors said.“Your conduct on January 6th was exceptionally egregious,” U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth told Dempsey. “You did not get carried away in the moment.”Dempsey pleaded guilty in January to two counts of assaulting police officers with a dangerous weapon.Only former Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio has received a longer sentence in the Jan. 6 attack. Tarrio was sentenced to 22 years for orchestrating a plot to stop the peaceful transfer of power from Trump to Joe Biden after the 2020 presidential election.Dempsey called his conduct “reprehensible” and apologized to the police officers whom he assaulted,“You were performing your duties, and I responded with hostility and violence,” he said before learning his sentence.Justice Department prosecutors recommended a prison sentence of 21 years and 10 months for Dempsey, a former construction worker and fast-food restaurant employee. Dempsey’s violence was so extreme that he attacked a fellow rioter who was trying to disarm him,&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.235380/gov.uscourts.dcd.235380.69.0.pdf" target="_blank">prosecutors wrote</a>.“David Dempsey is political violence personified,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas Brasher told the judge.Defense attorney Amy Collins, who sought a sentence of 6 years and six months, described the government’s sentencing recommendation as “ridiculous.”“It makes him a statistic,” she said. “It doesn’t consider the person he is, how much he has grown.”Dempsey was wearing a tactical vest, a helmet and an American flag gaiter covering his face when he attacked police at a tunnel leading to the Lower West Terrace doors. He shot pepper spray at Metropolitan Police Department Detective Phuson Nguyen just as another rioter yanked at the officer’s gas mask, prosecutors wrote.“The searing spray burned Detective Nguyen’s lungs, throat, eyes, and face and left him gasping for breath, fearing he might lose consciousness and be overwhelmed by the mob,” they wrote.Dempsey then struck MPD Sgt. Jason Mastony in the head with a metal crutch, cracking the shield on his gas mask and cutting his head.“I collapsed and caught myself against the wall as my ears rang. I was able to stand again and hold the line for a few more minutes until another assault by rioters pushed the police line back away from the threshold of the tunnel,” Mastony said in a statement submitted to the court.Dempsey has been jailed since his arrest in August 2021.His criminal record in California includes convictions for burglary, theft and assault. The assault conviction stemmed from an October 2019, gathering near the Santa Monica Pier, where Dempsey attacked people peacefully demonstrating against then-President Trump, prosecutors said.“The peaceful protest turned violent as Dempsey took a canister of bear spray from his pants and dispersed it at close range against several protesters,” they wrote, noting that Dempsey was sentenced to 200 days of jail time.Dempsey engaged in at least three other acts of “vicious political violence” that didn’t lead to criminal charges “for various reasons,” according to prosecutors. They said Dempsey struck a counter-protester over the head with a skateboard at a June 2019 rally in Los Angeles, used the same skateboard to assault someone at an August 2020 protest in Tujunga, California, and attacked a protester with pepper spray and a metal bat during a August 2020 protest in Beverly Hills, California.More than 1,400 people have been charged with Jan. 6-related federal crimes. Over 900 of them have been convicted and sentenced, with roughly two-thirds receiving terms of imprisonment ranging from a few days to the 22 years that Tarrio received.

Man who attacked police gets one of longest Jan. 6 sentences

Robert W. Moore , son of John W. and Martha F. (Cox) Moore, was &nbsp;born October 14, 1931 in Colony, KS, and passed away Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at the Hays Medical Center, Hays, KS, at the age of 92.

He grew up in Colony, graduating from Colony High School, and then attended Kansas University in Lawrence. &nbsp;In 1953 he went into the Army and served in Korea. &nbsp;He was honorably &nbsp;discharged in 1955. &nbsp;Upon his return he was united in marriage to Glenna L. Pursley on January 26, 1958 in Independence, KS. &nbsp;The couple moved Manhattan, where Robert completed his bachelor’s degree in Engineering at Kansas State University. &nbsp;The couple then moved to Arkansas.

In August 1972 the couple moved to Phillipsburg where he worked for Tamko until his retirement in 1996. &nbsp;

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Glenna in 2014; and a son John in 2021

Survivors include his daughter Vivian Meyer and husband Jerry of Phillipsburg; son Carl and wife Mashel of Alma, NE; daughter-in-law Cindy Moore of Bennington, KS; brother Ronald of Warsaw, MO; sister Roberta Corlis of Winterset, IA; 10 Grandchildren; 23 Great Grandchildren; and 1 great great grandson.

&nbsp;A celebration of Robert’s life will be held Monday evening, August 12, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, Phillipsburg, with Pastor Jay Brandon officiating, followed by the family receiving friends until 8:00 p.m. &nbsp;for visitation. &nbsp; A graveside service with military honors conducted by the Fort Riley Honor Guard will then be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 14, 2024 at the Ozark Colony Cemetery, Colony, KS with Pastor Steve Bubna officiating.

Mr. Moore will lie in state from noon until 9 p.m. Sunday and from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel.

Memorial contributions may be made to the &nbsp;Phillipsburg Boy Scout Troop 123 or Phillips County Retirement Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723317932882.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Robert W. Moore , son of John W. and Martha F. (Cox) Moore, was &nbsp;born October 14, 1931 in Colony, KS, and passed away Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at the Hays Medical Center, Hays, KS, at the age of 92.He grew up in Colony, graduating from Colony High School, and then attended Kansas University in Lawrence. &nbsp;In 1953 he went into the Army and served in Korea. &nbsp;He was honorably &nbsp;discharged in 1955. &nbsp;Upon his return he was united in marriage to Glenna L. Pursley on January 26, 1958 in Independence, KS. &nbsp;The couple moved Manhattan, where Robert completed his bachelor’s degree in Engineering at Kansas State University. &nbsp;The couple then moved to Arkansas.In August 1972 the couple moved to Phillipsburg where he worked for Tamko until his retirement in 1996. &nbsp;He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Glenna in 2014; and a son John in 2021Survivors include his daughter Vivian Meyer and husband Jerry of Phillipsburg; son Carl and wife Mashel of Alma, NE; daughter-in-law Cindy Moore of Bennington, KS; brother Ronald of Warsaw, MO; sister Roberta Corlis of Winterset, IA; 10 Grandchildren; 23 Great Grandchildren; and 1 great great grandson.&nbsp;A celebration of Robert’s life will be held Monday evening, August 12, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, Phillipsburg, with Pastor Jay Brandon officiating, followed by the family receiving friends until 8:00 p.m. &nbsp;for visitation. &nbsp; A graveside service with military honors conducted by the Fort Riley Honor Guard will then be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 14, 2024 at the Ozark Colony Cemetery, Colony, KS with Pastor Steve Bubna officiating.Mr. Moore will lie in state from noon until 9 p.m. Sunday and from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel.Memorial contributions may be made to the &nbsp;Phillipsburg Boy Scout Troop 123 or Phillips County Retirement Center.

Robert W. Moore

Valerius “Val” J. Rohleder age 94, of Abilene, Kansas passed away on Thursday, August 8th, 2024.&nbsp; Val was born to Nick and Minnie (Dreiling) Rohleder on December 19, 1929, in Emmeram, Kansas.&nbsp; Val married Tina (Geist) on October 15, 1956, in Hays, Kansas.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; He graduated from St. Joseph Military Academy in Hays in 1948. He joined the U.S. Army and served in the Korean War.&nbsp; In 1978, Val and Tina moved to Abilene KS where they opened their business Pioneer Farm and Ranch Supply.&nbsp; Val coached baseball and taught religion classes for his church, but his greatest passion was running his farm store. Val worked in his store for more than 40 years before retiring at age 90.&nbsp; He was a member of St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Abilene, the St. Joseph Knights of Columbus 3rd&nbsp;Degree and the Bishop Cunningham Assembly 4th&nbsp;Degree Knights of Columbus both of Hays, KS.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Val is survived by his wife, Tina, of the home; his three children, Nick Rohleder and wife, Teree, Salina, KS; Jody Jenkins and husband, Dr. Jim, Junction City, KS; Amy Dautel and husband, Mark, McPherson, KS; his six grandchildren, Samantha; Kristan; Hunter; Hannah; Jordan and Dustin; his ten great grandchildren; and his sister-in-law, Yvonne Rohleder-Braun, Hays, KS.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his parents, Nick and Minnie Rohleder; his sisters, Petronella “Pete” Graf; Theresa Von Lintel; Rita Wolf; Josita “Jo” Pfannenstiel; Mary “Janie” Polifka; and his brother, Ronald “Ronnie” Rohleder.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A visitation will be at Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home in Abilene, on Monday, August 12th from 5:30-7:30 P.M. with a Rosary at 5:30 P.M.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Tuesday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays with a vigil service and a Knights of Columbus and Hays Daughters of Isabella rosary at 7:00 P.M. Tuesday, and from 9:30 to 10:30 A.M. Wednesday, at the Church.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The 4th&nbsp;Degree Knights of &nbsp;Columbus will stand Honor Guard from 6:00 to 7:00 P.M. Tuesday, at the mortuary.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 A.M. Wednesday, August 14, 2024, at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis, 900 Cathedral Ave., Victoria, Kansas with celebrant, Father James Moster O.F.M. Cap.&nbsp; A burial will be at Saint Fidelis Cemetery Victoria, Kansas.

&nbsp;A luncheon will follow at the Victoria V.F.W. Hall.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The family suggest memorials made payable to: St. Andrew’s Catholic Church for Masses; &nbsp;St. Andrew’s School; or Hospice of Dickinson County in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd&nbsp;Street, Hays, Kansas &nbsp;67601.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723218053025.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Valerius “Val” J. Rohleder age 94, of Abilene, Kansas passed away on Thursday, August 8th, 2024.&nbsp; Val was born to Nick and Minnie (Dreiling) Rohleder on December 19, 1929, in Emmeram, Kansas.&nbsp; Val married Tina (Geist) on October 15, 1956, in Hays, Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; He graduated from St. Joseph Military Academy in Hays in 1948. He joined the U.S. Army and served in the Korean War.&nbsp; In 1978, Val and Tina moved to Abilene KS where they opened their business Pioneer Farm and Ranch Supply.&nbsp; Val coached baseball and taught religion classes for his church, but his greatest passion was running his farm store. Val worked in his store for more than 40 years before retiring at age 90.&nbsp; He was a member of St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Abilene, the St. Joseph Knights of Columbus 3rd&nbsp;Degree and the Bishop Cunningham Assembly 4th&nbsp;Degree Knights of Columbus both of Hays, KS.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Val is survived by his wife, Tina, of the home; his three children, Nick Rohleder and wife, Teree, Salina, KS; Jody Jenkins and husband, Dr. Jim, Junction City, KS; Amy Dautel and husband, Mark, McPherson, KS; his six grandchildren, Samantha; Kristan; Hunter; Hannah; Jordan and Dustin; his ten great grandchildren; and his sister-in-law, Yvonne Rohleder-Braun, Hays, KS.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his parents, Nick and Minnie Rohleder; his sisters, Petronella “Pete” Graf; Theresa Von Lintel; Rita Wolf; Josita “Jo” Pfannenstiel; Mary “Janie” Polifka; and his brother, Ronald “Ronnie” Rohleder.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A visitation will be at Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home in Abilene, on Monday, August 12th from 5:30-7:30 P.M. with a Rosary at 5:30 P.M.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Tuesday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays with a vigil service and a Knights of Columbus and Hays Daughters of Isabella rosary at 7:00 P.M. Tuesday, and from 9:30 to 10:30 A.M. Wednesday, at the Church.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The 4th&nbsp;Degree Knights of &nbsp;Columbus will stand Honor Guard from 6:00 to 7:00 P.M. Tuesday, at the mortuary.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 A.M. Wednesday, August 14, 2024, at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis, 900 Cathedral Ave., Victoria, Kansas with celebrant, Father James Moster O.F.M. Cap.&nbsp; A burial will be at Saint Fidelis Cemetery Victoria, Kansas.&nbsp;A luncheon will follow at the Victoria V.F.W. Hall.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The family suggest memorials made payable to: St. Andrew’s Catholic Church for Masses; &nbsp;St. Andrew’s School; or Hospice of Dickinson County in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd&nbsp;Street, Hays, Kansas &nbsp;67601.

Valerius “Val” J. Rohleder

Donald P. “Don” Renchko, age 67 years of Great Bend, Kansas passed away at his home in Great Bend on August 6, 2024.&nbsp; Don was born on October 23, 1956 at Los Angeles, California to Steven and Dorothy (Marvel) Renchko.&nbsp; He was a caregiver for his mother in her later years, and after moving to Great Bend in October of 2017 he worked nights at Walmart in Great Bend unloading freight and stocking shelves.&nbsp; Don loved to make bricks from scratch for landscaping, and enjoyed walking and bike riding.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Survivors include two sisters:&nbsp; Stephanie (&amp; Patrick) McCormick of Florida and Susanne K. Welcher of Great Bend; several nieces, nephews and cousins.&nbsp; Don was preceded in death by his parents.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Cremation has been chosen and a Memorial Service will be held at a later date to be announced.&nbsp; The family has requested that Memorial Contributions in Don’s memory be made in care of the family for later designation. Online condolences may be left for the family and a complete obituary may be viewed at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.charterfunerals.com/locations/great-bend.php">http://www.charterfunerals.com/locations/great-bend.php</a>.

Donald P. “Don” Renchko, age 67 years of Great Bend, Kansas passed away at his home in Great Bend on August 6, 2024.&nbsp; Don was born on October 23, 1956 at Los Angeles, California to Steven and Dorothy (Marvel) Renchko.&nbsp; He was a caregiver for his mother in her later years, and after moving to Great Bend in October of 2017 he worked nights at Walmart in Great Bend unloading freight and stocking shelves.&nbsp; Don loved to make bricks from scratch for landscaping, and enjoyed walking and bike riding.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Survivors include two sisters:&nbsp; Stephanie (&amp; Patrick) McCormick of Florida and Susanne K. Welcher of Great Bend; several nieces, nephews and cousins.&nbsp; Don was preceded in death by his parents.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Cremation has been chosen and a Memorial Service will be held at a later date to be announced.&nbsp; The family has requested that Memorial Contributions in Don’s memory be made in care of the family for later designation. Online condolences may be left for the family and a complete obituary may be viewed at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.charterfunerals.com/locations/great-bend.php">http://www.charterfunerals.com/locations/great-bend.php</a>.

Donald 'Don' Renchko, age 67

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State is receiving votes in the 2024 United Soccer Coaches Preseason Top 25 Poll, released on August 6. The Tigers appeared in the receiving votes section of the poll three times last year and last ranked among the Top 25 during October of the 2022 season.

Fort Hays State has eight returners on this year's squad, but four of those returners earned all-conference honors in 2023. Three of the four all-conference selections were all-region honorees. The Tigers will see an influx of 28 newcomers this year as head coach Alex Nichols&nbsp;enters his first year guiding the program.

Fellow GAC/MIAA conference member Southern Nazarene starts the year inside the Top 25 at No. 23. FHSU will also face a pair of preseason ranked teams in non-conference play, which includes No. 8 Midwestern State and No. 12 Maryville.

Below is the United Soccer Coaches Men's Soccer Preseason Top 25. Rank - School - Prev W-L-T 1 - Franklin Pierce - 1 - 21-0-2 2 - Colorado State University-Pueblo - 2 - 18-5-3 3 - Florida Tech - 3 - 13-3-5 4 - Lewis - 4 - 13-4-6 5 - California State University-Los Angeles - 5 - 18-1-3 6 - Limestone - 6 - 14-3-2 7 - Gannon - 7 - 18-2-2 8 - Midwestern State - 8 - 20-1-1 9 - University of Charleston - 9 - 19-2-0 10 - Cal Poly Pomona - 10 - 14-2-5 11 - Barry - 11 - 13-4-1 12 - Maryville&nbsp; - 12 - 12-4-6 13 - West Florida - 13 - 12-1-6 14 - Post 14 - 13-2-6 15 - Indianapolis - 15 - 12-2-7 16 - Clayton State - 16 - 15-3-3 17 - Illinois-Springfield - 17 - 13-1-7 18 - California State-Chico - 18 - 11-2-7 19 - Lynn - 19 - 10-3-6 20 - Wingate - 20 - 12-5-2 21 - Fort Lewis College - 21 - 12-5-4 22 - Tiffin - 22 - 14-3-3 23 - Southern Nazarene - 23 - 14-5-2 24 - McKendree - 24 - 12-2-7 25 - Millersville 25 - 14-3-3&nbsp;

Also receiving votes: Point Loma Nazarene, California State Monterey Bay, Lincoln Memorial, West Chester, Mississippi College, Lake Erie College,&nbsp;Fort Hays State, Rogers State, Colorado Mesa&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723043096558.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State is receiving votes in the 2024 United Soccer Coaches Preseason Top 25 Poll, released on August 6. The Tigers appeared in the receiving votes section of the poll three times last year and last ranked among the Top 25 during October of the 2022 season.Fort Hays State has eight returners on this year's squad, but four of those returners earned all-conference honors in 2023. Three of the four all-conference selections were all-region honorees. The Tigers will see an influx of 28 newcomers this year as head coach Alex Nichols&nbsp;enters his first year guiding the program.Fellow GAC/MIAA conference member Southern Nazarene starts the year inside the Top 25 at No. 23. FHSU will also face a pair of preseason ranked teams in non-conference play, which includes No. 8 Midwestern State and No. 12 Maryville.Below is the United Soccer Coaches Men's Soccer Preseason Top 25. Rank - School - Prev W-L-T 1 - Franklin Pierce - 1 - 21-0-2 2 - Colorado State University-Pueblo - 2 - 18-5-3 3 - Florida Tech - 3 - 13-3-5 4 - Lewis - 4 - 13-4-6 5 - California State University-Los Angeles - 5 - 18-1-3 6 - Limestone - 6 - 14-3-2 7 - Gannon - 7 - 18-2-2 8 - Midwestern State - 8 - 20-1-1 9 - University of Charleston - 9 - 19-2-0 10 - Cal Poly Pomona - 10 - 14-2-5 11 - Barry - 11 - 13-4-1 12 - Maryville&nbsp; - 12 - 12-4-6 13 - West Florida - 13 - 12-1-6 14 - Post 14 - 13-2-6 15 - Indianapolis - 15 - 12-2-7 16 - Clayton State - 16 - 15-3-3 17 - Illinois-Springfield - 17 - 13-1-7 18 - California State-Chico - 18 - 11-2-7 19 - Lynn - 19 - 10-3-6 20 - Wingate - 20 - 12-5-2 21 - Fort Lewis College - 21 - 12-5-4 22 - Tiffin - 22 - 14-3-3 23 - Southern Nazarene - 23 - 14-5-2 24 - McKendree - 24 - 12-2-7 25 - Millersville 25 - 14-3-3&nbsp;Also receiving votes: Point Loma Nazarene, California State Monterey Bay, Lincoln Memorial, West Chester, Mississippi College, Lake Erie College,&nbsp;Fort Hays State, Rogers State, Colorado Mesa&nbsp;

⚽ FHSU men receives votes in United Soccer Coaches preseason poll

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22JOHN%20HANNA%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By JOHN HANNA&nbsp;</a>

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Two special prosecutors said Monday that they plan to file a criminal obstruction of justice charge against a former central Kansas police chief over his conduct following a raid last year on his town's newspaper.

In an lengthy report summarizing the findings of their investigation, the special prosecutors, Sedgwick County District Attorney Marc Bennett and Riley County Attorney Barry Wilkerson, note that the staff of the newspaper that was raided, the Marion County Record, committed no crimes.

It wasn't clear whether they planned to charge former Marion Police Chief Gideon Cody with a felony or a misdemeanor, and either is possible. The prosecutors also hadn't filed their criminal case as of Monday. It could be days before they file it because they were working with the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, which stepped in at the request of its Kansas counterpart.

There was no immediate response to a voicemail left at a possible cellphone number for Cody, and it wasn't clear who might be representing him in the potential criminal case. Attorneys defending Cody in federal lawsuits that were filed over the raid did not immediately reply to a message seeking comment.

The prosecutors detailed events before, during and after the Aug. 11, 2023, raid on the Record and the home of its publisher, Eric Meyer. The report suggested that Marion police, who were led at the time by Cody, conducted a poor investigation that led them to “reach erroneous conclusions” that Meyer and reporter Phyllis Zorn had committed identity theft or other computer crimes.

But the prosecutors concluded that they have probable cause to believe that Cody obstructed an official judicial process. They said two pages of a written statement made by a business owner following the raid were not submitted to investigators with the rest of the statement in September 2023, about six weeks after the raid. Cody had accused Meyer and Zorn of identity theft and other computer crimes related to the business owner's driving record to get warrants for the raid.

The report also makes a passing reference to text messages between Cody and the business owner after the raid. The business owner has said that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-newspaper-raid-police-chief-resigns-e4ddf5a06defbb702bc23650827e53fd">Cody asked her to delete text messages</a>&nbsp;between them, fearing people could get wrong ideas about their relationship, which she said was professional and platonic.

“The findings will be incorporated into charges which will be sought in Marion County District Court,” the special prosecutors wrote in their report.

Bennett and Wilkerson concluded that neither Meyer nor Zorn committed any crimes in verifying information in the business owner’s driving record through a database available online from the state. Their report suggested Marion police conducted a poor investigation to “reach erroneous conclusions.”

The raid sparked a national debate about press freedoms focused on Marion, a town of about of about 1,900 people set among rolling prairie hills about 150 miles (241 kilometers) southwest of Kansas City, Missouri. Cody resigned as chief in early October, weeks after officers were forced to return materials seized in the raid.

Meyer's 98-year-old mother Joan Meyer, who co-owned the paper and lived with him, died the day after the raid from a heart attack. Meyer attributed her death to the stress of the raid.

A felony obstruction charge could be punished by up to nine months in prison for a first-time offender, though the typical sentence would be 18 months or less on probation. A misdemeanor charge could result in up to a year in jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692219843330.png" alt="Photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22JOHN%20HANNA%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By JOHN HANNA&nbsp;</a>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Two special prosecutors said Monday that they plan to file a criminal obstruction of justice charge against a former central Kansas police chief over his conduct following a raid last year on his town's newspaper.In an lengthy report summarizing the findings of their investigation, the special prosecutors, Sedgwick County District Attorney Marc Bennett and Riley County Attorney Barry Wilkerson, note that the staff of the newspaper that was raided, the Marion County Record, committed no crimes.It wasn't clear whether they planned to charge former Marion Police Chief Gideon Cody with a felony or a misdemeanor, and either is possible. The prosecutors also hadn't filed their criminal case as of Monday. It could be days before they file it because they were working with the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, which stepped in at the request of its Kansas counterpart.There was no immediate response to a voicemail left at a possible cellphone number for Cody, and it wasn't clear who might be representing him in the potential criminal case. Attorneys defending Cody in federal lawsuits that were filed over the raid did not immediately reply to a message seeking comment.The prosecutors detailed events before, during and after the Aug. 11, 2023, raid on the Record and the home of its publisher, Eric Meyer. The report suggested that Marion police, who were led at the time by Cody, conducted a poor investigation that led them to “reach erroneous conclusions” that Meyer and reporter Phyllis Zorn had committed identity theft or other computer crimes.But the prosecutors concluded that they have probable cause to believe that Cody obstructed an official judicial process. They said two pages of a written statement made by a business owner following the raid were not submitted to investigators with the rest of the statement in September 2023, about six weeks after the raid. Cody had accused Meyer and Zorn of identity theft and other computer crimes related to the business owner's driving record to get warrants for the raid.The report also makes a passing reference to text messages between Cody and the business owner after the raid. The business owner has said that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-newspaper-raid-police-chief-resigns-e4ddf5a06defbb702bc23650827e53fd">Cody asked her to delete text messages</a>&nbsp;between them, fearing people could get wrong ideas about their relationship, which she said was professional and platonic.“The findings will be incorporated into charges which will be sought in Marion County District Court,” the special prosecutors wrote in their report.Bennett and Wilkerson concluded that neither Meyer nor Zorn committed any crimes in verifying information in the business owner’s driving record through a database available online from the state. Their report suggested Marion police conducted a poor investigation to “reach erroneous conclusions.”The raid sparked a national debate about press freedoms focused on Marion, a town of about of about 1,900 people set among rolling prairie hills about 150 miles (241 kilometers) southwest of Kansas City, Missouri. Cody resigned as chief in early October, weeks after officers were forced to return materials seized in the raid.Meyer's 98-year-old mother Joan Meyer, who co-owned the paper and lived with him, died the day after the raid from a heart attack. Meyer attributed her death to the stress of the raid.A felony obstruction charge could be punished by up to nine months in prison for a first-time offender, though the typical sentence would be 18 months or less on probation. A misdemeanor charge could result in up to a year in jail.

Prosecutors to charge former Kan. police chief over his conduct following newspaper raid

Lindalou Fossett, 83, of Atwood, died Thursday, August 1, 2024. She was born October 26, 1940, in San Diego, CA, to James and Nell (Flack) Guindon. The family moved around to 12 different states when Lindalou was a child.

On a train in Nebraska, Lindalou met the love of her life, Bernard “Bud” Fossett. They were married on January 2, 1961.

Lindalou was a member of the Rebekah Lodge for 50 years, was a member of the Odd Fellows and served on the Senior Center Board. She loved to crochet, craft, scrapbook and play bingo.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Nell Guindon; sister Jan Guindon and many brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

She is survived by her husband Bud; sisters, Michelle (Lee) Cody, of Branson, MO and Jameenell Guindon, St. Paul, MN; brother James “Jammie” (Laurel) Guindon, of Minnesota; sisters-in-law, Kay Brown, of Atwood and Carol (Jim) Williams, of Bird City, KS and several nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will take place at 10:30 a.m. Monday, August 12, 2024, at Baalmann Mortuary, Atwood, with inurnment in Beulah Cemetery, Colby at 2:00 p.m. Memorials may be made to the Wesleyan Church of Bird City and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701.

Lindalou Fossett, 83, of Atwood, died Thursday, August 1, 2024. She was born October 26, 1940, in San Diego, CA, to James and Nell (Flack) Guindon. The family moved around to 12 different states when Lindalou was a child.On a train in Nebraska, Lindalou met the love of her life, Bernard “Bud” Fossett. They were married on January 2, 1961.Lindalou was a member of the Rebekah Lodge for 50 years, was a member of the Odd Fellows and served on the Senior Center Board. She loved to crochet, craft, scrapbook and play bingo.She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Nell Guindon; sister Jan Guindon and many brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.She is survived by her husband Bud; sisters, Michelle (Lee) Cody, of Branson, MO and Jameenell Guindon, St. Paul, MN; brother James “Jammie” (Laurel) Guindon, of Minnesota; sisters-in-law, Kay Brown, of Atwood and Carol (Jim) Williams, of Bird City, KS and several nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.A memorial service will take place at 10:30 a.m. Monday, August 12, 2024, at Baalmann Mortuary, Atwood, with inurnment in Beulah Cemetery, Colby at 2:00 p.m. Memorials may be made to the Wesleyan Church of Bird City and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701.

Lindalou Fossett

Joan Marie VanDegrift, 89, passed away on August 2, 2024, at her home in Ness City, Kansas. &nbsp;She was born on May 20, 1935, in Ransom, Kansas, the daughter of John and Anna Mary (Haas) Wasinger.

Joan was a secretary for the ASC office in Ness City for many years. &nbsp;She was a member of the Sacred Heart Church and Altar Society in Ness City. &nbsp;Joan was active in many bowling leagues through the years. &nbsp;After retirement she enjoyed working in her yard, completing puzzles, playing cards and dice and watching the Royals on TV and listening to polka music. &nbsp;Joan was a loving a caring person and she loved having her family around her in her home. &nbsp;Joan married William Harry VanDegrift on Tuesday, October 28th, 1958, in Ness City. He preceded her in death on February 16, 2003.

Joan is survived by her three sons, Tom VanDegrift and his wife, Denise, of Luray, Todd VanDegrift and his wife, Stephanie, of Dodge City, and Troy VanDegrift, and his wife, Emy, of Ness City; son in law Donny Woods of Dodge City; 13 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, and 1 great great-grandchild. &nbsp;She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Harry; daughter, Tammy Woods; three brothers; and three sisters.

Funeral service will be on Thursday, August 8, 2024, 10:00 a.m., at the Sacred Heart Church, Ness City followed by burial in the Sacred Heart Cemetery. &nbsp;Parish Vigil will be held on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home beginning with a rosary at 6:30. Viewing will be at Fitzgerald Funeral Home on Wednesday from 1:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Sacred Heart School.

Words of sympathy and support may be left for the family by writing in the guest book.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722880122902.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Joan Marie VanDegrift, 89, passed away on August 2, 2024, at her home in Ness City, Kansas. &nbsp;She was born on May 20, 1935, in Ransom, Kansas, the daughter of John and Anna Mary (Haas) Wasinger.Joan was a secretary for the ASC office in Ness City for many years. &nbsp;She was a member of the Sacred Heart Church and Altar Society in Ness City. &nbsp;Joan was active in many bowling leagues through the years. &nbsp;After retirement she enjoyed working in her yard, completing puzzles, playing cards and dice and watching the Royals on TV and listening to polka music. &nbsp;Joan was a loving a caring person and she loved having her family around her in her home. &nbsp;Joan married William Harry VanDegrift on Tuesday, October 28th, 1958, in Ness City. He preceded her in death on February 16, 2003.Joan is survived by her three sons, Tom VanDegrift and his wife, Denise, of Luray, Todd VanDegrift and his wife, Stephanie, of Dodge City, and Troy VanDegrift, and his wife, Emy, of Ness City; son in law Donny Woods of Dodge City; 13 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, and 1 great great-grandchild. &nbsp;She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Harry; daughter, Tammy Woods; three brothers; and three sisters.Funeral service will be on Thursday, August 8, 2024, 10:00 a.m., at the Sacred Heart Church, Ness City followed by burial in the Sacred Heart Cemetery. &nbsp;Parish Vigil will be held on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home beginning with a rosary at 6:30. Viewing will be at Fitzgerald Funeral Home on Wednesday from 1:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.Memorial contributions may be given to the Sacred Heart School.Words of sympathy and support may be left for the family by writing in the guest book.

Joan Marie VanDegrift

TOPEKA — The 2024 Kansas Association of Broadcasters Station Excellence Award winners were announced Monday.

There were 903 entries this year judged by Mississippi broadcasters.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Sports Play-by-Play — 1st Place Gerard Wellbrock,&nbsp;FHSU basketball, KJLS-FM

Public Affairs Program — 2nd&nbsp; Place Cristina Janney, Options, KAYS-AM/FM Excellence In Multimedia/Digital Storytelling&nbsp; — Honorable Mention Cristina Janney, Becky Kiser,&nbsp;Hospice Care in NW Kansas, KAYS-AM/FM

Excellence In Multimedia/Digital Promotional or Commercial Announcements — 2nd Place Theresa Trapp, Cash Grab, KHAZ-FM

Morning Show - 2nd Place Jeff Leiker, The Morning Blend, KAYS AM/FM

<a href="https://mcusercontent.com/db6822f2e70d85f1e6583e62f/files/153d8c1a-b1cb-5712-b061-aa6ce744233f/2024_Station_Awards_Winners.pdf?mc_cid=80ad493739&amp;mc_eid=1848d3c4e0">View Complete List of Winners Here</a>

<a target="_blank" href="https://kab.us10.list-manage.com/track/click?u=db6822f2e70d85f1e6583e62f&amp;id=610d25d5ea&amp;e=1848d3c4e0"></a>KAB will recognize this year's winners with a Celestial Celebration at our Station Awards Dinner during the KAB Annual Convention in Wichita, October 21.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583945824619.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KABTOPEKA — The 2024 Kansas Association of Broadcasters Station Excellence Award winners were announced Monday.There were 903 entries this year judged by Mississippi broadcasters.&nbsp;Hays Eagle Media winners are:MEDIUM MARKET RADIO&nbsp;Sports Play-by-Play — 1st Place Gerard Wellbrock,&nbsp;FHSU basketball, KJLS-FMPublic Affairs Program — 2nd&nbsp; Place Cristina Janney, Options, KAYS-AM/FM Excellence In Multimedia/Digital Storytelling&nbsp; — Honorable Mention Cristina Janney, Becky Kiser,&nbsp;Hospice Care in NW Kansas, KAYS-AM/FMExcellence In Multimedia/Digital Promotional or Commercial Announcements — 2nd Place Theresa Trapp, Cash Grab, KHAZ-FMMorning Show - 2nd Place Jeff Leiker, The Morning Blend, KAYS AM/FM <a href="https://mcusercontent.com/db6822f2e70d85f1e6583e62f/files/153d8c1a-b1cb-5712-b061-aa6ce744233f/2024_Station_Awards_Winners.pdf?mc_cid=80ad493739&amp;mc_eid=1848d3c4e0">View Complete List of Winners Here</a><a target="_blank" href="https://kab.us10.list-manage.com/track/click?u=db6822f2e70d85f1e6583e62f&amp;id=610d25d5ea&amp;e=1848d3c4e0"></a>KAB will recognize this year's winners with a Celestial Celebration at our Station Awards Dinner during the KAB Annual Convention in Wichita, October 21.&nbsp;

Hays Eagle Media wins Kansas Association of Broadcasters awards for 2024

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) — A Missouri woman will spend the rest of her life in prison after admitting in court that she kidnapped and killed a pregnant Arkansas woman in what prosecutors say was an attempt to claim her baby.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arkansas-kidnapping-missouri-springfield-dc7c8e944f6d8ef9260a44c6ab38713c">Amber Waterman</a>, 44, of Pineville, Missouri, pleaded guilty this week in U.S. District Court in Springfield to one count each of kidnapping resulting in death and causing the death of a child in utero. U.S. Attorney Teresa Moore said Waterman's mandatory sentence will be life in prison without parole. Formal sentencing is Oct. 15.

In her plea, Waterman admitted that she used a false name to contact Ashley Bush of Siloam Springs, Arkansas, on Facebook. Bush, 33, was about 31 weeks pregnant at the time.

Federal prosecutors said Waterman and Bush agreed to meet at an Arkansas convenience store on Oct. 31, 2022, under the guise of Waterman helping Bush get a job. Instead, Waterman drove Bush to Waterman's home in Pineville.

Hours later, first responders were called to the home on a report that a baby was not breathing. The baby was pronounced dead. Waterman at first claimed she had given birth. In her plea, she admitted the baby was Bush's. Bush was also the mother of three other children.

Bush's body was found in a separate location. Arkansas authorities said she died from a gunshot wound, but police and prosecutors declined to provide more information on how the baby died.

Waterman’s husband, Jamie Waterman, was charged with being an accessory after the fact for allegedly helping dispose of Bush’s body. His trial is scheduled for October.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722439469260.png" alt="Waterman photo Benton Co. Jail" />
 <figcaption>Waterman photo Benton Co. Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) — A Missouri woman will spend the rest of her life in prison after admitting in court that she kidnapped and killed a pregnant Arkansas woman in what prosecutors say was an attempt to claim her baby.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arkansas-kidnapping-missouri-springfield-dc7c8e944f6d8ef9260a44c6ab38713c">Amber Waterman</a>, 44, of Pineville, Missouri, pleaded guilty this week in U.S. District Court in Springfield to one count each of kidnapping resulting in death and causing the death of a child in utero. U.S. Attorney Teresa Moore said Waterman's mandatory sentence will be life in prison without parole. Formal sentencing is Oct. 15.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722439716070.png" alt="Jamie Waterman is being held in Greene Co." />
 <figcaption>Jamie Waterman is being held in Greene Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>In her plea, Waterman admitted that she used a false name to contact Ashley Bush of Siloam Springs, Arkansas, on Facebook. Bush, 33, was about 31 weeks pregnant at the time.Federal prosecutors said Waterman and Bush agreed to meet at an Arkansas convenience store on Oct. 31, 2022, under the guise of Waterman helping Bush get a job. Instead, Waterman drove Bush to Waterman's home in Pineville.Hours later, first responders were called to the home on a report that a baby was not breathing. The baby was pronounced dead. Waterman at first claimed she had given birth. In her plea, she admitted the baby was Bush's. Bush was also the mother of three other children.Bush's body was found in a separate location. Arkansas authorities said she died from a gunshot wound, but police and prosecutors declined to provide more information on how the baby died.Waterman’s husband, Jamie Waterman, was charged with being an accessory after the fact for allegedly helping dispose of Bush’s body. His trial is scheduled for October.

Woman admits kidnapping, killing a pregnant Arkansas woman

JOHNSON COUNTY—A Kansas man on trial for child sex crimes is going to prison.

On Monday, a jury found 36-year-old Timothy Ryan Hugo guilty of two counts of aggravated indecent liberty, two counts of rape of a child under 14 and aggravated sodomy, according to the Johnson County District attorney's office.

Hugo is scheduled for sentencing October 21.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722275116463.png" alt="Hugo photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Hugo photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY—A Kansas man on trial for child sex crimes is going to prison.On Monday, a jury found 36-year-old Timothy Ryan Hugo guilty of two counts of aggravated indecent liberty, two counts of rape of a child under 14 and aggravated sodomy, according to the Johnson County District attorney's office.Hugo is scheduled for sentencing October 21.

Jury: Kansas man guilty of violent child sex crimes

Linda Sue Stevenson, 80, passed away peacefully July 28, 2024, at Ness County Long Term Care in Ness City, Kansas. She was born October 26, 1943, to Leland and Elma (Mai) Steinert.&nbsp;

Linda graduated high school and obtained her Certified Nurses Aide certificate. She made a lifetime career working for Central Kansas Medical Center as a CNA and Activities Director until her retirement in the early 90s. Linda was of the Lutheran faith. She was a homemaker. She loved to create beauty with cross stitching and knitting. Family could find her watching her favorite, old westerns. She was an avid Elvis Presley fan. Linda was proud of her vast array of music collections from swing bands to classic country artists on vinyl, 8-track, and cassettes that she enjoyed listening to. Linda spent her days in long term care enjoying playing pitch and bingo with her friends. The highlight of her day was the grandkids came out to visit her.&nbsp;

Survivors include Daughter; Kathleen Stevenson (husband, Billy Davis) of Kansas City. Grandchildren; Michael Ellis (wife Jenna) of Wilson Kan., Levi Ellis (wife, Amanda) of Holyrood Kan., Julie Ellis (fiancé Nicke Mettner) of Salina, Kan., Cody Davis of Kansas City, Hunter Davis of Kansas City, Son; John Stevenson (wife, Tammy) of Great Bend, Grand Children; Tasha Stevenson of Ness City Kan., Codie Stevenson of Great Bend Kan., Kayci Stevenson (Fiancé Austin Blea) Of Great Bend, Kayelan Wheeler (Curtis Rosas) of Great Bend, Kan., and Justen Pedigo (Taja) Of Great Bend, Kan.; 17 great grandchildren and many others who Linda adopted as grandchildren over the years. Grandma Linda’s house always had all the yummy goodies.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Richard Steinert.

Visitation will take place 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at Bryant Funeral Home. Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at Bryant Funeral Home with Troy Miller presiding. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park, Great Bend. Memorials have been designated to Alzheimer’s Association in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Road, Great Bend, KS

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722623229470.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Linda Sue Stevenson, 80, passed away peacefully July 28, 2024, at Ness County Long Term Care in Ness City, Kansas. She was born October 26, 1943, to Leland and Elma (Mai) Steinert.&nbsp;Linda graduated high school and obtained her Certified Nurses Aide certificate. She made a lifetime career working for Central Kansas Medical Center as a CNA and Activities Director until her retirement in the early 90s. Linda was of the Lutheran faith. She was a homemaker. She loved to create beauty with cross stitching and knitting. Family could find her watching her favorite, old westerns. She was an avid Elvis Presley fan. Linda was proud of her vast array of music collections from swing bands to classic country artists on vinyl, 8-track, and cassettes that she enjoyed listening to. Linda spent her days in long term care enjoying playing pitch and bingo with her friends. The highlight of her day was the grandkids came out to visit her.&nbsp;Survivors include Daughter; Kathleen Stevenson (husband, Billy Davis) of Kansas City. Grandchildren; Michael Ellis (wife Jenna) of Wilson Kan., Levi Ellis (wife, Amanda) of Holyrood Kan., Julie Ellis (fiancé Nicke Mettner) of Salina, Kan., Cody Davis of Kansas City, Hunter Davis of Kansas City, Son; John Stevenson (wife, Tammy) of Great Bend, Grand Children; Tasha Stevenson of Ness City Kan., Codie Stevenson of Great Bend Kan., Kayci Stevenson (Fiancé Austin Blea) Of Great Bend, Kayelan Wheeler (Curtis Rosas) of Great Bend, Kan., and Justen Pedigo (Taja) Of Great Bend, Kan.; 17 great grandchildren and many others who Linda adopted as grandchildren over the years. Grandma Linda’s house always had all the yummy goodies.She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Richard Steinert.Visitation will take place 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at Bryant Funeral Home. Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at Bryant Funeral Home with Troy Miller presiding. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park, Great Bend. Memorials have been designated to Alzheimer’s Association in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Road, Great Bend, KS

Linda Sue Stevenson

Francis J. “Frank” Degenhardt, 87, Retired Landscape Manager, died Thursday, July 4, 2024.

Visitation will be at 10:00 am, Mass at 11:00 am, Thursday, August 1, 2024, at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, Branson, MO.

Preceded in death by his parents, Jacob and Alice Degenhardt; sisters, Rosie, Ellie, and Bernita; brother, Romauld.

Survived by his daughter, Karen (Bill) Smith of Wichita, KS; sons, Kalon (Geri) Degenhardt of Ridgedale, MO, Korey Degenhardt of Blue Eye, MO; grandchildren, Connor (Katie) Smith, Ian (Morgan) Smith, both of Rose Hill, KS, Ross (Amanda) Degenhardt of Covington, LA, Ana (Andrew) Clement of Mandeville, LA; 8 great-grandchildren; brother, Jim (Vera) Degenhardt of Kirksville, MO.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established with: Christian Action Ministries, 2400 State Hwy. 165, Branson, MO 65626.

Our dad was born and raised around Loretta, Kansas. Loretta consisted of a catholic church, baseball diamond, and a small grocery store. The community consisted of small family farms, and everyone worked together in times of need. Youngest of six siblings, dad was born July 31, 1936. His family was not wealthy, but dad always reminded us he never went hungry and was very thankful. As a boy growing up, dad loved baseball, horseshoes, and later enjoyed dancing and bowling. He attended church often and was typically the only server for the priests who said mass at the Loretta Catholic Church. He served mass for Father Emil Kapaun on many occasions who is currently being considered for Sainthood by the Catholic Church. Dad attended high school at St. Joseph's College &amp; Military Academy, Hays, Kansas and graduated May 1955. He then enlisted in the US Army and served three years from October 1956 to October 1959 including 2 years in Germany. One month later was married to Mary Ellen and three kids later, Kalon 1960, Karen 1962, &amp; Korey 1968; kept dad and mom very busy!!

Dad spent his early married years living in Wichita, Kansas working in the floor covering business. First as a salesman and later transitioned to self-employment under the business name 'Frank's Carpet Service. After many successful years in the floor covering business, the decision was made in 1992 to move to the Branson, Missouri area where he became the landscape manager for Big Cedar Lodge. A position which he truly enjoyed and held for 15 years. Dad never met a stranger and loved to visit with the guests about where they were from and usually ending with compliments on the beautiful grounds. He also received numerous employee awards for excellence in service.

During his retirement years, dad looked forward to serving his home parish 'Our Lady of the Lake' however he could. He ushered at mass, was a member of the prayer chain group, and volunteered at many parish functions. He was famous for his dancing skills at the annual spaghetti dinner, never sitting down once the music started. He also volunteered at Christian Action Ministries (CAM) once a week helping to sort and distribute food to those of need in the community.

After a lot of coaxing, dad traveled to Indonesia and Kuwait to visit Kalon and his family. There were many great times during his visits. While in Indonesia, dad hung out with all the spouses', playing cards and golf. He loved it. While in Kuwait, dad always liked to walk the beach to collect shells until security forces arrested him because they thought he was an intruder!

Korey always maintained a close relationship with dad, especially during those holidays when dad was alone. Korey would cook holiday meals and watch sports with dad.

Summertime was always special for him because his grandkids would visit and eventually great grandkids to enjoy some lake time. The family has been loving the Table Rock Lake area for four generations now. Frank was also well known in his neighborhood (Clearwater Acres), and truly loved living in the community. He always had an American Flag displayed and his yard was well-manicured. He was very proud to call the Ozarks his HOME.

It became apparent in his later years that dad was suffering from dementia. He managed to live on his own until the last couple of years. Dad was moved to Wichita for memory care which enabled Karen and dad extra time to enjoy one another's company. His nephew Paul also visited him on a regular basis, which the family will be forever grateful. Thankfully, dad recognized all his family until God called him home. He will be greatly missed and always remembered for his prayer &amp; faith in God, kindness, generosity, love of music and dancing up a storm whether he had a partner or not.

Rest in peace dad. We will always love you!

Services in care of Downing &amp; Lahey Mortuary - East Chapel.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722618851096.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Francis J. “Frank” Degenhardt, 87, Retired Landscape Manager, died Thursday, July 4, 2024.Visitation will be at 10:00 am, Mass at 11:00 am, Thursday, August 1, 2024, at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, Branson, MO.Preceded in death by his parents, Jacob and Alice Degenhardt; sisters, Rosie, Ellie, and Bernita; brother, Romauld.Survived by his daughter, Karen (Bill) Smith of Wichita, KS; sons, Kalon (Geri) Degenhardt of Ridgedale, MO, Korey Degenhardt of Blue Eye, MO; grandchildren, Connor (Katie) Smith, Ian (Morgan) Smith, both of Rose Hill, KS, Ross (Amanda) Degenhardt of Covington, LA, Ana (Andrew) Clement of Mandeville, LA; 8 great-grandchildren; brother, Jim (Vera) Degenhardt of Kirksville, MO.In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established with: Christian Action Ministries, 2400 State Hwy. 165, Branson, MO 65626.From his family:Our dad was born and raised around Loretta, Kansas. Loretta consisted of a catholic church, baseball diamond, and a small grocery store. The community consisted of small family farms, and everyone worked together in times of need. Youngest of six siblings, dad was born July 31, 1936. His family was not wealthy, but dad always reminded us he never went hungry and was very thankful. As a boy growing up, dad loved baseball, horseshoes, and later enjoyed dancing and bowling. He attended church often and was typically the only server for the priests who said mass at the Loretta Catholic Church. He served mass for Father Emil Kapaun on many occasions who is currently being considered for Sainthood by the Catholic Church. Dad attended high school at St. Joseph's College &amp; Military Academy, Hays, Kansas and graduated May 1955. He then enlisted in the US Army and served three years from October 1956 to October 1959 including 2 years in Germany. One month later was married to Mary Ellen and three kids later, Kalon 1960, Karen 1962, &amp; Korey 1968; kept dad and mom very busy!!Dad spent his early married years living in Wichita, Kansas working in the floor covering business. First as a salesman and later transitioned to self-employment under the business name 'Frank's Carpet Service. After many successful years in the floor covering business, the decision was made in 1992 to move to the Branson, Missouri area where he became the landscape manager for Big Cedar Lodge. A position which he truly enjoyed and held for 15 years. Dad never met a stranger and loved to visit with the guests about where they were from and usually ending with compliments on the beautiful grounds. He also received numerous employee awards for excellence in service.During his retirement years, dad looked forward to serving his home parish 'Our Lady of the Lake' however he could. He ushered at mass, was a member of the prayer chain group, and volunteered at many parish functions. He was famous for his dancing skills at the annual spaghetti dinner, never sitting down once the music started. He also volunteered at Christian Action Ministries (CAM) once a week helping to sort and distribute food to those of need in the community.After a lot of coaxing, dad traveled to Indonesia and Kuwait to visit Kalon and his family. There were many great times during his visits. While in Indonesia, dad hung out with all the spouses', playing cards and golf. He loved it. While in Kuwait, dad always liked to walk the beach to collect shells until security forces arrested him because they thought he was an intruder!Korey always maintained a close relationship with dad, especially during those holidays when dad was alone. Korey would cook holiday meals and watch sports with dad.Summertime was always special for him because his grandkids would visit and eventually great grandkids to enjoy some lake time. The family has been loving the Table Rock Lake area for four generations now. Frank was also well known in his neighborhood (Clearwater Acres), and truly loved living in the community. He always had an American Flag displayed and his yard was well-manicured. He was very proud to call the Ozarks his HOME.It became apparent in his later years that dad was suffering from dementia. He managed to live on his own until the last couple of years. Dad was moved to Wichita for memory care which enabled Karen and dad extra time to enjoy one another's company. His nephew Paul also visited him on a regular basis, which the family will be forever grateful. Thankfully, dad recognized all his family until God called him home. He will be greatly missed and always remembered for his prayer &amp; faith in God, kindness, generosity, love of music and dancing up a storm whether he had a partner or not.Rest in peace dad. We will always love you!~ Kalon, Karen, &amp; KoreyServices in care of Downing &amp; Lahey Mortuary - East Chapel.