TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the city of Smith Center public water supply system located in Smith County.

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:

The advisory took effect on October 8 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a line break resulting in a loss of pressure in the distribution system.&nbsp; Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.&nbsp;

Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

For consumer questions, please contact the water system at 785-282-3812, or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzQ2OC9Db25zdW1lci1JbmZvcm1hdGlvbi1SZWdhcmRpbmctYS1EaXNydXB0P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzEwMDkuODM3NzQ0NTEifQ.TK-5eWksBbhq_ye9BcJjBpto-3g6Ph8R5_UV3IXyRpo/s/1305913623/br/227618867951-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>

Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689197509660.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the city of Smith Center public water supply system located in Smith County.Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:<ul>
 <li>Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water.</li><li>Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic icemaker.</li><li>If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.</li><li>Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.</li><li>Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians.</li>
 </ul>The advisory took effect on October 8 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a line break resulting in a loss of pressure in the distribution system.&nbsp; Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.&nbsp;Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.For consumer questions, please contact the water system at 785-282-3812, or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzQ2OC9Db25zdW1lci1JbmZvcm1hdGlvbi1SZWdhcmRpbmctYS1EaXNydXB0P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzEwMDkuODM3NzQ0NTEifQ.TK-5eWksBbhq_ye9BcJjBpto-3g6Ph8R5_UV3IXyRpo/s/1305913623/br/227618867951-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.

Boil water advisory issued for Smith Center by KDHE

WASHINGTON (AP) — Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Sunday he has ordered the Ford carrier strike group to sail to the Eastern Mediterranean to be ready to assist Israel after the surprise attack by Hamas that has left more than 1,000 dead and thousands wounded on both sides.

The USS Gerald R. Ford and its approximately 5,000 sailors and deck of warplanes will be accompanied by cruisers and destroyers in a show of force that is meant to be ready to respond to anything, from possibly interdicting additional weapons from reaching Hamas and conducting surveillance.

The large deployment, which also includes a host of ships and warplanes, underscores the concern that the United States has in trying to deter the conflict from growing. The Israeli government formally declared war Sunday and gave the green light for “significant military steps” to retaliate against Hamas.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the U.S. was trying to verify reports that several Americans were killed and some were taken captive by Hamas.

Along with the Ford the U.S. is sending the cruiser USS Normandy, destroyers USS Thomas Hudner, USS Ramage, USS Carney, and USS Roosevelt and the U.S. is augmenting Air Force F-35, F-15, F-16, and A-10 fighter aircraft squadrons in the region.

“The U.S. maintains ready forces globally to further reinforce this deterrence posture if required,” Austin said in a statement.

In addition, the Biden administration “will be rapidly providing the Israel Defense Forces with additional equipment and resources, including munitions. The first security assistance will begin moving today and arriving in the coming days,” Austin said.

The Norfolk, Virginia-based carrier strike group( was already in the Mediterranean. Last week it was conducting naval exercises with Italy in the Ionian Sea. It’s the United States newest and most advanced aircraft carrier and this is its first full deployment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696803172229.png" alt="The USS Gerald R. Ford and its approximately 5,000 sailors and deck of warplanes will be accompanied by cruisers and destroyers in a show of force that is meant to be ready to respond to anything, from possibly interdicting additional weapons from reaching Hamas and conducting surveillance.-photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>The USS Gerald R. Ford and its approximately 5,000 sailors and deck of warplanes will be accompanied by cruisers and destroyers in a show of force that is meant to be ready to respond to anything, from possibly interdicting additional weapons from reaching Hamas and conducting surveillance.-photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Sunday he has ordered the Ford carrier strike group to sail to the Eastern Mediterranean to be ready to assist Israel after the surprise attack by Hamas that has left more than 1,000 dead and thousands wounded on both sides.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Strengthening our joint force posture, in addition to the materiel support—including munitions—that we will rapidly provide to Israel, underscores the United States’ ironclad support for Israel.&mdash; Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III (@SecDef) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecDef/status/1711075334827675754?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The USS Gerald R. Ford and its approximately 5,000 sailors and deck of warplanes will be accompanied by cruisers and destroyers in a show of force that is meant to be ready to respond to anything, from possibly interdicting additional weapons from reaching Hamas and conducting surveillance.The large deployment, which also includes a host of ships and warplanes, underscores the concern that the United States has in trying to deter the conflict from growing. The Israeli government formally declared war Sunday and gave the green light for “significant military steps” to retaliate against Hamas.Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the U.S. was trying to verify reports that several Americans were killed and some were taken captive by Hamas.Along with the Ford the U.S. is sending the cruiser USS Normandy, destroyers USS Thomas Hudner, USS Ramage, USS Carney, and USS Roosevelt and the U.S. is augmenting Air Force F-35, F-15, F-16, and A-10 fighter aircraft squadrons in the region.“The U.S. maintains ready forces globally to further reinforce this deterrence posture if required,” Austin said in a statement.In addition, the Biden administration “will be rapidly providing the Israel Defense Forces with additional equipment and resources, including munitions. The first security assistance will begin moving today and arriving in the coming days,” Austin said.The Norfolk, Virginia-based carrier strike group( was already in the Mediterranean. Last week it was conducting naval exercises with Italy in the Ionian Sea. It’s the United States newest and most advanced aircraft carrier and this is its first full deployment.

 US sending warships, weapons to support Israel

HaysMed proudly joins the nation in recognizing October as Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month. This month serves as a critical reminder of our collective responsibility to raise awareness about relationship abuse and support those impacted by it. President Joseph Biden's proclamation of October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month underscores the importance of this issue, emphasizing that everyone deserves a healthy relationship and there are people who can help.

At HaysMed, we believe in the power of education and specialized care to combat the effects of domestic violence. 

To this end, we are pleased to highlight our team of specially trained forensic nurses who play a vital role in addressing this pressing issue. These dedicated professionals possess the knowledge and expertise necessary to decrease the healthcare consequences of violence, improve patient recovery, and lower healthcare costs.

The Forensic Program at HaysMed is a resource for individuals and families impacted by violence in Ellis County and surrounding communities. By offering specialized care and support, our team ensures that survivors receive the compassionate and comprehensive attention they deserve. This commitment to quality care sets HaysMed apart as a trusted resource in the fight against domestic violence.

One of the key advantages of HaysMed is the accessibility of our specially trained forensic nurses. They provide critical care without the need for survivors to travel long distances for the services they require. This accessibility ensures that individuals affected by domestic violence can access the help they need right here in our community.

HaysMed recognizes that prevention through coordinated response and accountability is essential in our communities. We are firmly committed to supporting survivors and fostering an environment where everyone feels safe. In line with our dedication to education, we encourage individuals to learn more about domestic violence by visiting <a href="https://www.thehotline.org/">https://www.thehotline.org/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696348920180.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedHaysMed proudly joins the nation in recognizing October as Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month. This month serves as a critical reminder of our collective responsibility to raise awareness about relationship abuse and support those impacted by it. President Joseph Biden's proclamation of October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month underscores the importance of this issue, emphasizing that everyone deserves a healthy relationship and there are people who can help.At HaysMed, we believe in the power of education and specialized care to combat the effects of domestic violence. To this end, we are pleased to highlight our team of specially trained forensic nurses who play a vital role in addressing this pressing issue. These dedicated professionals possess the knowledge and expertise necessary to decrease the healthcare consequences of violence, improve patient recovery, and lower healthcare costs.The Forensic Program at HaysMed is a resource for individuals and families impacted by violence in Ellis County and surrounding communities. By offering specialized care and support, our team ensures that survivors receive the compassionate and comprehensive attention they deserve. This commitment to quality care sets HaysMed apart as a trusted resource in the fight against domestic violence.One of the key advantages of HaysMed is the accessibility of our specially trained forensic nurses. They provide critical care without the need for survivors to travel long distances for the services they require. This accessibility ensures that individuals affected by domestic violence can access the help they need right here in our community.HaysMed recognizes that prevention through coordinated response and accountability is essential in our communities. We are firmly committed to supporting survivors and fostering an environment where everyone feels safe. In line with our dedication to education, we encourage individuals to learn more about domestic violence by visiting <a href="https://www.thehotline.org/">https://www.thehotline.org/</a>.

HaysMed recognizes October as Domestic Violence Awareness, Prevention Month

As the calendar turns over to October it reminds me of Breast Cancer Awareness month and cooler weather. 

It is very likely that you or someone you know has been affected by breast cancer. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in the United States breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women after skin cancer. Cancer is also one of the leading causes of death in the United States, ranking second only after heart disease. One in every four deaths is due to cancer. While there are a lot of risks for cancer that are outside of our control, such as our genetics, gender, and age, there are many lifestyle choices we can make to reduce risk.

First, achieve and maintain a healthy weight. I know! Easier said than done. This is especially important as we get older. Two other choices that can help lower risk for breast cancer, as well as achieve a healthy weight, is to eat a diet rich in whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and get plenty of exercise. Avoiding alcohol or consuming one drink or less per day will also lower your risk of breast cancer. Sometimes making healthy choices can seem overwhelming, especially when life gets stressful. Start small and build on what you are able to accomplish. Perhaps just pick one thing you would like to change and work on that for a few weeks or months.

While breast cancer risk increases as we age and those over age 50 are at increased risk, there are some things that younger women can do in addition to healthy lifestyle choices listed above. Having children and breastfeeding can help protect yourself from breast cancer. When women are pregnant and breastfeeding their hormone levels are different which can reduce risk of breast cancer later on in life. There is a dose response effect as well, the longer you breastfeed, the lower your risk of breast cancer. This may be a real motivation for some women to breastfeed their children or maybe the motivation to keep going when the baby wakes up again in the middle of the night. Remembering that there are benefits for you, mom, that may help you stay strong and not give up.

Here at the Cottonwood Extension District we want to give you the education and tools to help you lead a better, healthier life. We have resources and tools to share with you. We are your partner to a healthier lifestyle.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension , Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension , Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>As the calendar turns over to October it reminds me of Breast Cancer Awareness month and cooler weather. It is very likely that you or someone you know has been affected by breast cancer. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in the United States breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women after skin cancer. Cancer is also one of the leading causes of death in the United States, ranking second only after heart disease. One in every four deaths is due to cancer. While there are a lot of risks for cancer that are outside of our control, such as our genetics, gender, and age, there are many lifestyle choices we can make to reduce risk.First, achieve and maintain a healthy weight. I know! Easier said than done. This is especially important as we get older. Two other choices that can help lower risk for breast cancer, as well as achieve a healthy weight, is to eat a diet rich in whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and get plenty of exercise. Avoiding alcohol or consuming one drink or less per day will also lower your risk of breast cancer. Sometimes making healthy choices can seem overwhelming, especially when life gets stressful. Start small and build on what you are able to accomplish. Perhaps just pick one thing you would like to change and work on that for a few weeks or months.While breast cancer risk increases as we age and those over age 50 are at increased risk, there are some things that younger women can do in addition to healthy lifestyle choices listed above. Having children and breastfeeding can help protect yourself from breast cancer. When women are pregnant and breastfeeding their hormone levels are different which can reduce risk of breast cancer later on in life. There is a dose response effect as well, the longer you breastfeed, the lower your risk of breast cancer. This may be a real motivation for some women to breastfeed their children or maybe the motivation to keep going when the baby wakes up again in the middle of the night. Remembering that there are benefits for you, mom, that may help you stay strong and not give up.Here at the Cottonwood Extension District we want to give you the education and tools to help you lead a better, healthier life. We have resources and tools to share with you. We are your partner to a healthier lifestyle.

KOERNER: Breast cancer and how to lower your risk

DETROIT (AP) — Union workers at Mack Trucks went on strike Monday after voting down a tentative five-year contract agreement that negotiators had reached with the company.

The United Auto Workers said 4,000 unionized workers walked out at 7 a.m., adding to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/auto-workers-strike-ford-general-motors-stellantis-5f185f6615a1b3690af744641508c8e2">labor turmoil in the industry</a>&nbsp;that has ensnared all three big Detroit automakers.

With those workers joining picket lines, the total number of UAW members that are on strike now exceeds 30,000 across 22 states, the union said Monday.

Union President Shawn Fain said in a letter to Mack parent company Volvo Trucks that 73% of workers voted against the deal in results counted on Sunday.

The UAW represents Mack workers in Pennsylvania, Maryland and Florida. Union leaders had reached a tentative agreement on the deal on Oct. 1.

UAW Locals 171, 677, 1247, 2301, and 2420 in UAW Region 8 and Region 9 represent workers at Mack Trucks in Macungie and Middletown, Pennsylvania; Hagerstown and Baltimore, Maryland; and Jacksonville, Florida.

The deal negotiators had reached with Mack just over a week ago included a 19% pay raise over the life of the contract with 10% upon ratification. There also was a $3,500 ratification bonus, no increase in weekly health care contributions, increased annual lump sum payments for retirees and a $1,000 annual 401(k) lump sum to offset health care costs for employees who don’t get health insurance after retirement.

Fain said in his letter to Volvo Trucks' head of labor relations that employees working early Monday would exit the factories after performing tasks needed to prevent damage to company equipment.

Fain wrote that UAW members and workers across the country are seeking their fair share in wages and benefits.

The company and union are still apart on work schedules, health and safety, pensions, health care, prescription drug coverage, overtime and other issues, he wrote.

The contract may have been sunk by high expectations Fain has set in bargaining with Detroit’s three automakers. In those talks, the UAW has asked for 36% raises over four years, while Ford has offered 23% and the other two firms are at 20%.

“I’m inspired to see UAW members at Mack Trucks holding out for a better deal, and ready to stand up and walk off the job to win it,” Fain said in a prepared statement. “The members have the final say, and it’s their solidarity and organization that will win a fair contract at Mack.”

Mack Trucks President Stephen Roy said in a statement Sunday night that the company is “surprised and disappointed” that the union chose to strike. The union, he wrote, called the tentative agreement a record for the heavy truck industry. “We trust that other stakeholders also appreciate that our market, business and competitive set are very different from those of the passenger car makers,” the statement said.

Mack, he wrote, is part of the only heavy truck manufacturing group that assembles all of its vehicles and engines for North America in the U.S., competing against trucks built in lower-cost countries.

The company is committed to collective bargaining and is confident both sides will reach a deal that delivers competitive wages and benefits while safeguarding the company’s future, the statement said.

The UAW went on strike at selected factories run by automakers General Motors, Ford and Jeep maker Stellantis on Sept. 15. It started with one assembly plant for each company, then spread to 38 GM and Stellantis parts warehouses. Two additional assembly plants at Ford and GM were added later.

DETROIT (AP) — Union workers at Mack Trucks have voted down a tentative five-year contract agreement reached with the company and plan to strike at 7 a.m. Monday, the United Auto Workers union says.

The UAW represents about 4,000 Mack workers in three states. Union leaders had reached a tentative agreement on the deal on Oct. 1.

The deal included a 19% pay raise over the life of the contract with 10% upon ratification. There also was a $3,500 ratification bonus, no increase in weekly health care contributions, increased annual lump sum payments for retirees and a $1,000 annual 401(k) lump sum to offset health care costs for employees who don’t get health insurance after retirement.

Fain said in his letter to Volvo Trucks’ head of labor relations that employees working early Monday will exit the factories after performing tasks needed to prevent damage to company equipment.

The workers are in Pennsylvania, Maryland and Florida.

Fain wrote that UAW members and workers across the country are seeking their fair share in wages and benefits. “The union remains committed to exploring all options for reaching an agreement, but we clearly are not there yet.”

On Friday, the union decided not to expand the strikes to any more plants for the time being after GM agreed to bring its electric vehicle battery factories into the UAW’s national contract, assuring that they’ll be unionized. The union also reported progress with all three automakers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696847042061.png" alt="The UAW represents about 4,000 Mack workers in three states." />
 <figcaption>The UAW represents about 4,000 Mack workers in three states.</figcaption>
 </figure>DETROIT (AP) — Union workers at Mack Trucks went on strike Monday after voting down a tentative five-year contract agreement that negotiators had reached with the company.The United Auto Workers said 4,000 unionized workers walked out at 7 a.m., adding to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/auto-workers-strike-ford-general-motors-stellantis-5f185f6615a1b3690af744641508c8e2">labor turmoil in the industry</a>&nbsp;that has ensnared all three big Detroit automakers.With those workers joining picket lines, the total number of UAW members that are on strike now exceeds 30,000 across 22 states, the union said Monday.Union President Shawn Fain said in a letter to Mack parent company Volvo Trucks that 73% of workers voted against the deal in results counted on Sunday.The UAW represents Mack workers in Pennsylvania, Maryland and Florida. Union leaders had reached a tentative agreement on the deal on Oct. 1.UAW Locals 171, 677, 1247, 2301, and 2420 in UAW Region 8 and Region 9 represent workers at Mack Trucks in Macungie and Middletown, Pennsylvania; Hagerstown and Baltimore, Maryland; and Jacksonville, Florida.The deal negotiators had reached with Mack just over a week ago included a 19% pay raise over the life of the contract with 10% upon ratification. There also was a $3,500 ratification bonus, no increase in weekly health care contributions, increased annual lump sum payments for retirees and a $1,000 annual 401(k) lump sum to offset health care costs for employees who don’t get health insurance after retirement.Fain said in his letter to Volvo Trucks' head of labor relations that employees working early Monday would exit the factories after performing tasks needed to prevent damage to company equipment.Fain wrote that UAW members and workers across the country are seeking their fair share in wages and benefits.The company and union are still apart on work schedules, health and safety, pensions, health care, prescription drug coverage, overtime and other issues, he wrote.The contract may have been sunk by high expectations Fain has set in bargaining with Detroit’s three automakers. In those talks, the UAW has asked for 36% raises over four years, while Ford has offered 23% and the other two firms are at 20%.“I’m inspired to see UAW members at Mack Trucks holding out for a better deal, and ready to stand up and walk off the job to win it,” Fain said in a prepared statement. “The members have the final say, and it’s their solidarity and organization that will win a fair contract at Mack.”Mack Trucks President Stephen Roy said in a statement Sunday night that the company is “surprised and disappointed” that the union chose to strike. The union, he wrote, called the tentative agreement a record for the heavy truck industry. “We trust that other stakeholders also appreciate that our market, business and competitive set are very different from those of the passenger car makers,” the statement said.Mack, he wrote, is part of the only heavy truck manufacturing group that assembles all of its vehicles and engines for North America in the U.S., competing against trucks built in lower-cost countries.The company is committed to collective bargaining and is confident both sides will reach a deal that delivers competitive wages and benefits while safeguarding the company’s future, the statement said.The UAW went on strike at selected factories run by automakers General Motors, Ford and Jeep maker Stellantis on Sept. 15. It started with one assembly plant for each company, then spread to 38 GM and Stellantis parts warehouses. Two additional assembly plants at Ford and GM were added later.---------------DETROIT (AP) — Union workers at Mack Trucks have voted down a tentative five-year contract agreement reached with the company and plan to strike at 7 a.m. Monday, the United Auto Workers union says.Union President Shawn Fain said in a letter to Mack parent company Volvo Trucks that 73% of workers voted against the deal in results counted on Sunday.The UAW represents about 4,000 Mack workers in three states. Union leaders had reached a tentative agreement on the deal on Oct. 1.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">BREAKING: 4,000 UAW members at Mack Trucks have voted to REJECT a tentative agreement, and will STRIKE at 7 am on Monday. &quot;I&#39;m inspired to see UAW members at Mack holding out for a better deal, and ready to stand up and walk off the job to win it,&quot; said UAW President Shawn Fain. <a href="https://t.co/YFYfqikSMh">pic.twitter.com/YFYfqikSMh</a>&mdash; UAW (@UAW) <a href="https://twitter.com/UAW/status/1711186526153900080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The deal included a 19% pay raise over the life of the contract with 10% upon ratification. There also was a $3,500 ratification bonus, no increase in weekly health care contributions, increased annual lump sum payments for retirees and a $1,000 annual 401(k) lump sum to offset health care costs for employees who don’t get health insurance after retirement.Fain said in his letter to Volvo Trucks’ head of labor relations that employees working early Monday will exit the factories after performing tasks needed to prevent damage to company equipment.The workers are in Pennsylvania, Maryland and Florida.Fain wrote that UAW members and workers across the country are seeking their fair share in wages and benefits. “The union remains committed to exploring all options for reaching an agreement, but we clearly are not there yet.”The company and union are still apart on work schedules, health and safety, pensions, health care, prescription drug coverage, overtime and other issues, he wrote.The contract may have been sunk by high expectations Fain has set in bargaining with Detroit’s three automakers. In those talks, the UAW has asked for 36% raises over four years, while Ford has offered 23% and the other two firms are at 20%.Mack Trucks President Stephen Roy said in a statement Sunday night that the company is “surprised and disappointed” that the union chose to strike. The union, he wrote, called the tentative agreement a record for the heavy truck industry. “We trust that other stakeholders also appreciate that our market, business and competitive set are very different from those of the passenger car makers,” the statement said.Mack, he wrote, is part of the only heavy truck manufacturing group that assembles all of its vehicles and engines for North America in the U.S., competing against trucks built in lower-cost countries.The company is committed to collective bargaining and is confident both sides will reach a deal that delivers competitive wages and benefits while safeguarding the company’s future, the statement said.The UAW went on strike at selected factories run by automakers General Motors, Ford and Jeep maker Stellantis on Sept. 15. It started with one assembly plant for each company, then spread to 38 GM and Stellantis parts warehouses. Two additional assembly plants at Ford and GM were added later.On Friday, the union decided not to expand the strikes to any more plants for the time being after GM agreed to bring its electric vehicle battery factories into the UAW’s national contract, assuring that they’ll be unionized. The union also reported progress with all three automakers.

Workers at Mack Trucks go on strike after rejecting contract deal

WASHINGTON (AP) — Updated&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-vaccines-coronavirus-234f27c74438fb4812a014dbd98ddbde">COVID-19 vaccines</a>&nbsp;may be getting a little easier for adults to find but they’re still frustratingly scarce for young children. Health officials said Thursday the kid shots have started shipping — and reminded most everyone to get a fall flu shot too.

About 2 million Americans have gotten the new COVID-19 shot in the&nbsp; weeks since its approval despite&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-vaccine-delays-cdc-moderna-pfizer-ba66d06cbcc31ba4b22d60e93d3d5024">early barriers from insurance companies</a>&nbsp;and other glitches, according to the Department of Health and Human Services.

For the first time, the U.S. has vaccines to fight a trio of viruses that cause fall and winter misery. But health officials worry that shot fatigue and hassles in getting them will leave too many people needlessly unprotected.

“We need to use them,” Dr. Mandy Cohen, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, said Thursday. “Right now is the right time.”

A flu vaccination and that updated COVID-19 shot are urged for just about everyone, starting with babies as young as 6 months.

Also this year, a vaccine against another scary virus called RSV is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rsv-vaccine-adults-gsk-pfizer-cdc-virus-592dcd5ae36cdbec8c003511f5fd27f0">recommended for people 60 and older</a>&nbsp;and for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rsv-vaccine-infants-cdc-e30abab0c84ab22ddddc4963dad7c0ad">certain pregnant women</a>. And for babies,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rsv-babies-drug-cdc-astrazeneca-sanofi-shot-c03b72aaa51e59176cfa3feb3ceac06c">a vaccinelike medicine</a>&nbsp;to guard against that respiratory syncytial virus is expected to arrive next month.

“These vaccines may not be perfect in being able to prevent absolutely every infection with these illnesses, but they turn a wild infection into a milder one,” said Dr. William Schaffner of Vanderbilt University and the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases.

This year’s vaccine is updated to protect against newer versions of the constantly evolving coronavirus. Already there’s been a late summer jump in infections, hospitalizations and deaths. And so far the new vaccine recipe appears to be a good match to the variants currently circulating.

Protection against COVID-19, whether from vaccination or from an earlier infection, wanes over time — and most Americans haven’t had a vaccine dose in about a year. Everyone 5 and older will need just one shot this fall even if they’ve never had a prior vaccination, while younger children may need additional doses depending on their vaccination and infection history.

The rollout's start has been messy. This time the government isn't buying and distributing shots for free. Now drugstores, doctors' offices and other providers had to place their own orders, and sometimes canceled appointments if supplies didn't arrive in time. Some people had to wait for their insurance companies to update the billing codes needed to cover them or risk paying out of pocket.

Manufacturers Pfizer and Moderna have shipped millions of doses, and say there’s plenty of supply — and in recent days, more appointments have started opening, at least for people 12 and older. In a Wednesday meeting, insurance companies told HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra they've largely resolved the paperwork issues blocking some patients' vaccinations.

The shots are supposed to be provided free in-network to the insured. For the uninsured or underinsured, CDC has opened what it's calling a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/programs/bridge/index.html">“bridge”</a>&nbsp;program to provide free shots at certain sites.

WHY CAN’T PARENTS FIND COVID-19 SHOTS FOR YOUNGER KIDS?

Adult doses got shipped first, CDC’s Cohen said. Doses for the under-12 set have begun shipping, and “the supply is filling out,” she said.

Drugstore chain CVS said its doses for ages 5 and older began arriving last week, although supplies vary by location, while its MinuteClinic locations anticipate opening appointments for tots as young as 18 months in the coming days.

As for pediatricians, they’ve had to guess how many doses to buy up-front while waiting to learn how much insurance companies would reimburse them for each shot, said Dr. Jesse Hackell of the American Academy of Pediatrics. He said early parent demand is heartening but that pediatricians expect to spend lots of time this fall explaining to hesitant families how important COVID-19 vaccination is even for healthy children.

In Redmond, Washington, Ania Mitros got herself, her husband and her 13-year-old vaccinated pretty easily but despite calls to multiple pharmacies and clinics can't find anyone to tell her when shots for her 8- and 11-year-old will be available. “There need to be clear expectations,” she said.

Fewer Americans got a flu vaccine last year than before the coronavirus pandemic –- a discouraging gap that CDC hopes to reverse.

People need a flu vaccine every fall because influenza also mutates each year. Like with COVID-19, flu is most dangerous to older adults, the very young and people with weak immune systems, lung, heart or other chronic health problems, or who are pregnant.

There are multiple kinds of flu vaccines, including a nasal spray version for certain younger people. More important, three kinds are specifically recommended for seniors because they do a better job revving up an older adult’s immune system.

CAN I GET A FLU SHOT AND COVID-19 SHOT AT THE SAME TIME?

Yes, although one in each arm might be more comfortable.

RSV is a cold-like nuisance for most people, and not as well-known as the flu. But RSV packs hospitals every winter and kills several hundred tots and thousands of seniors. The CDC says already, RSV cases are rising in the Southeast.

RSV vaccines from GSK and Pfizer are approved for adults 60 and older.

Drugstores have adequate supplies but some seniors are reporting hurdles such as requirements to get a prescription. That’s because the CDC recommended that seniors talk with their doctors about the new vaccine. Cohen said it was meant just for education about a virus that people may not know much about.

“We want folks to ... get access to the vaccine as quickly as possible,” she said.

The FDA also has approved Pfizer’s RSV vaccine to be given late in pregnancy so moms-to-be pass virus-fighting antibodies to their fetuses, offering some protection at birth. The CDC is recommending that pregnancy vaccinations be offered between September and January, when RSV tends to be most common.

There's no vaccine for children but babies whose mothers didn't get vaccinated in pregnancy may get&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rsv-babies-drug-cdc-astrazeneca-sanofi-shot-c03b72aaa51e59176cfa3feb3ceac06c">an injection of lab-made antibodies</a>&nbsp;to guard against RSV. Called Beyfortus, the one-dose shot from Sanofi and AstraZeneca is different than a vaccine, which teaches the body to make its own infection-fighting antibodies, but is similarly protective. Cohen said it should be available in October.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672157207598.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Updated&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-vaccines-coronavirus-234f27c74438fb4812a014dbd98ddbde">COVID-19 vaccines</a>&nbsp;may be getting a little easier for adults to find but they’re still frustratingly scarce for young children. Health officials said Thursday the kid shots have started shipping — and reminded most everyone to get a fall flu shot too.About 2 million Americans have gotten the new COVID-19 shot in the&nbsp; weeks since its approval despite&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-vaccine-delays-cdc-moderna-pfizer-ba66d06cbcc31ba4b22d60e93d3d5024">early barriers from insurance companies</a>&nbsp;and other glitches, according to the Department of Health and Human Services.For the first time, the U.S. has vaccines to fight a trio of viruses that cause fall and winter misery. But health officials worry that shot fatigue and hassles in getting them will leave too many people needlessly unprotected.“We need to use them,” Dr. Mandy Cohen, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, said Thursday. “Right now is the right time.”A flu vaccination and that updated COVID-19 shot are urged for just about everyone, starting with babies as young as 6 months.Also this year, a vaccine against another scary virus called RSV is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rsv-vaccine-adults-gsk-pfizer-cdc-virus-592dcd5ae36cdbec8c003511f5fd27f0">recommended for people 60 and older</a>&nbsp;and for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rsv-vaccine-infants-cdc-e30abab0c84ab22ddddc4963dad7c0ad">certain pregnant women</a>. And for babies,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rsv-babies-drug-cdc-astrazeneca-sanofi-shot-c03b72aaa51e59176cfa3feb3ceac06c">a vaccinelike medicine</a>&nbsp;to guard against that respiratory syncytial virus is expected to arrive next month.“These vaccines may not be perfect in being able to prevent absolutely every infection with these illnesses, but they turn a wild infection into a milder one,” said Dr. William Schaffner of Vanderbilt University and the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases.Some things to know:WHY DO I NEED ANOTHER COVID-19 SHOT?This year’s vaccine is updated to protect against newer versions of the constantly evolving coronavirus. Already there’s been a late summer jump in infections, hospitalizations and deaths. And so far the new vaccine recipe appears to be a good match to the variants currently circulating.Protection against COVID-19, whether from vaccination or from an earlier infection, wanes over time — and most Americans haven’t had a vaccine dose in about a year. Everyone 5 and older will need just one shot this fall even if they’ve never had a prior vaccination, while younger children may need additional doses depending on their vaccination and infection history.HOW HARD IS IT TO FIND COVID-19 SHOTS?The rollout's start has been messy. This time the government isn't buying and distributing shots for free. Now drugstores, doctors' offices and other providers had to place their own orders, and sometimes canceled appointments if supplies didn't arrive in time. Some people had to wait for their insurance companies to update the billing codes needed to cover them or risk paying out of pocket.Manufacturers Pfizer and Moderna have shipped millions of doses, and say there’s plenty of supply — and in recent days, more appointments have started opening, at least for people 12 and older. In a Wednesday meeting, insurance companies told HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra they've largely resolved the paperwork issues blocking some patients' vaccinations.The shots are supposed to be provided free in-network to the insured. For the uninsured or underinsured, CDC has opened what it's calling a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/programs/bridge/index.html">“bridge”</a>&nbsp;program to provide free shots at certain sites.WHY CAN’T PARENTS FIND COVID-19 SHOTS FOR YOUNGER KIDS?Adult doses got shipped first, CDC’s Cohen said. Doses for the under-12 set have begun shipping, and “the supply is filling out,” she said.Drugstore chain CVS said its doses for ages 5 and older began arriving last week, although supplies vary by location, while its MinuteClinic locations anticipate opening appointments for tots as young as 18 months in the coming days.As for pediatricians, they’ve had to guess how many doses to buy up-front while waiting to learn how much insurance companies would reimburse them for each shot, said Dr. Jesse Hackell of the American Academy of Pediatrics. He said early parent demand is heartening but that pediatricians expect to spend lots of time this fall explaining to hesitant families how important COVID-19 vaccination is even for healthy children.In Redmond, Washington, Ania Mitros got herself, her husband and her 13-year-old vaccinated pretty easily but despite calls to multiple pharmacies and clinics can't find anyone to tell her when shots for her 8- and 11-year-old will be available. “There need to be clear expectations,” she said.WHAT ABOUT FLU VACCINE?Fewer Americans got a flu vaccine last year than before the coronavirus pandemic –- a discouraging gap that CDC hopes to reverse.People need a flu vaccine every fall because influenza also mutates each year. Like with COVID-19, flu is most dangerous to older adults, the very young and people with weak immune systems, lung, heart or other chronic health problems, or who are pregnant.There are multiple kinds of flu vaccines, including a nasal spray version for certain younger people. More important, three kinds are specifically recommended for seniors because they do a better job revving up an older adult’s immune system.CAN I GET A FLU SHOT AND COVID-19 SHOT AT THE SAME TIME?Yes, although one in each arm might be more comfortable.WHO NEEDS THE NEW RSV VACCINE?RSV is a cold-like nuisance for most people, and not as well-known as the flu. But RSV packs hospitals every winter and kills several hundred tots and thousands of seniors. The CDC says already, RSV cases are rising in the Southeast.RSV vaccines from GSK and Pfizer are approved for adults 60 and older.Drugstores have adequate supplies but some seniors are reporting hurdles such as requirements to get a prescription. That’s because the CDC recommended that seniors talk with their doctors about the new vaccine. Cohen said it was meant just for education about a virus that people may not know much about.“We want folks to ... get access to the vaccine as quickly as possible,” she said.WHAT ABOUT BABIES AND RSV?The FDA also has approved Pfizer’s RSV vaccine to be given late in pregnancy so moms-to-be pass virus-fighting antibodies to their fetuses, offering some protection at birth. The CDC is recommending that pregnancy vaccinations be offered between September and January, when RSV tends to be most common.There's no vaccine for children but babies whose mothers didn't get vaccinated in pregnancy may get&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rsv-babies-drug-cdc-astrazeneca-sanofi-shot-c03b72aaa51e59176cfa3feb3ceac06c">an injection of lab-made antibodies</a>&nbsp;to guard against RSV. Called Beyfortus, the one-dose shot from Sanofi and AstraZeneca is different than a vaccine, which teaches the body to make its own infection-fighting antibodies, but is similarly protective. Cohen said it should be available in October.___

What to know as fall vaccinations against COVID, flu and RSV underway

Dana Ruth Foss, 83, passed away October 6, 2023, at Wilson Care Center, Wilson, Kan. &nbsp;She was born November 6, 1939, in Starkville, Miss., to LeRoy and Hazel (Ragan) Orr. &nbsp;

She had married Vernon L. Kaiser, then on October 3, 1981, Dana married David Foss in Great Bend, Kan.

Previously working for the local credit bureau, Dana worked as an administrative assistant for the Barton Community College Athletic Department until her retirement in 2010. Being engaged in all aspects of the department, Dana served as the sponsor for the BCCC Cougarettes for over 30 years. &nbsp;She was a member of the Prince of Peace Parish, Altar Society, BCC Booster Club, was a facilitator for the local 3C’s Cancer Support group, and was inducted into the BCC Sports Hall of Fame in 2006. She enjoyed playing bridge with her Taco Club and spending time with her family.

Survivors include husband, David Foss, of the home; two children, Doug (Michelle) Kaiser and Lori (Alan) Crowther, all of Great Bend; seven grandchildren, Chris (Sarah) Kaiser, Kyle Kaiser, Brice Kaiser, Cal Kaiser, Allyson Kaiser, Cody (Kristin) Crowther, Alexis Crowther; and four great-grandchildren, Coleman Crowther, Conrad Crowther, Anastyn Kaiser and Wesley Kaiser. 

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Visitation will be Noon to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023, with an Altar Society Rosary at 4:00 p.m. and a vigil at 7:00 p.m., all at Bryant Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 13, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, Great Bend, with Father Prakash Kola presiding. &nbsp;Interment will follow at Great Bend Cemetery, Great Bend. 

The family has requested that guests wear Barton Community College attire in memory of Dana. &nbsp;

Memorials have been designated to Walk to End Alzheimer’s, Heartland Cancer Center or Barton Booster Club, all in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS &nbsp;67530.

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

<h2>Dana Ruth Foss</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696789702945.png" alt="Dana Ruth Foss" />
 <figcaption>Dana Ruth Foss</figcaption>
 </figure>November 6, 1939 - October 6, 2023Dana Ruth Foss, 83, passed away October 6, 2023, at Wilson Care Center, Wilson, Kan. &nbsp;She was born November 6, 1939, in Starkville, Miss., to LeRoy and Hazel (Ragan) Orr. &nbsp;She had married Vernon L. Kaiser, then on October 3, 1981, Dana married David Foss in Great Bend, Kan.Previously working for the local credit bureau, Dana worked as an administrative assistant for the Barton Community College Athletic Department until her retirement in 2010. Being engaged in all aspects of the department, Dana served as the sponsor for the BCCC Cougarettes for over 30 years. &nbsp;She was a member of the Prince of Peace Parish, Altar Society, BCC Booster Club, was a facilitator for the local 3C’s Cancer Support group, and was inducted into the BCC Sports Hall of Fame in 2006. She enjoyed playing bridge with her Taco Club and spending time with her family.Survivors include husband, David Foss, of the home; two children, Doug (Michelle) Kaiser and Lori (Alan) Crowther, all of Great Bend; seven grandchildren, Chris (Sarah) Kaiser, Kyle Kaiser, Brice Kaiser, Cal Kaiser, Allyson Kaiser, Cody (Kristin) Crowther, Alexis Crowther; and four great-grandchildren, Coleman Crowther, Conrad Crowther, Anastyn Kaiser and Wesley Kaiser. She was preceded in death by her parents.Visitation will be Noon to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023, with an Altar Society Rosary at 4:00 p.m. and a vigil at 7:00 p.m., all at Bryant Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 13, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, Great Bend, with Father Prakash Kola presiding. &nbsp;Interment will follow at Great Bend Cemetery, Great Bend. The family has requested that guests wear Barton Community College attire in memory of Dana. &nbsp;Memorials have been designated to Walk to End Alzheimer’s, Heartland Cancer Center or Barton Booster Club, all in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS &nbsp;67530.To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Dana Ruth Foss, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/dana-foss/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

Dana Ruth Foss

WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jill-biden" target="_blank">Jill Biden</a>&nbsp;is urging women to consult their doctors about getting mammograms or other cancer screenings, saying in a new public service announcement for Breast Cancer Awareness Month that early detection saves lives.

“October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and I’m asking you to put your health first,” the first lady says in the 30-second spot recorded amid flower blooms in the White House Rose Garden.

“Take a moment to talk to your doctor about whether it’s time for your mammogram or other cancer screenings,” she says in the announcement airing this week on the Lifetime cable network. “There is no one-size-fits-all approach, but we know that early detection of cancer saves lives.”

Biden’s ad is part of an annual breast cancer awareness campaign by Lifetime, according to the cable network. A separate public service announcement featuring similar messages from actor Keshia Knight Pulliam and TV correspondent Rachel Lindsay will also be broadcast by the network.

The first lady is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-cancer-skin-brain-5a441b53e825895d029d0255c10816d3" target="_blank">a longtime advocate for breast cancer education</a>&nbsp;and prevention dating to 1993, when four of her friends were diagnosed with the disease. Shortly afterward, she launched the Biden Breast Health Initiative to teach high school girls in Delaware about the importance of early detection.

In the White House, she and her husband, President Joe Biden, are driving&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/cancermoonshot/" target="_blank">efforts to prevent more than 4 million cancer deaths by 2047</a>&nbsp;and improve the experience for people who are touched by cancer, including patients, their families and their caregivers.

<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/basic_info/" target="_blank">Breast cancer is the most common cancer in U.S. women</a>&nbsp;after skin cancer, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Breast cancer deaths have declined over time but remain the second leading cause of cancer death among women overall, the CDC said.

One in eight women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.

The first lady is among the millions of people in the U.S. who have been touched by cancer.

Earlier this year,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-health-maryland-mexico-city-surgery-545cac7c3ddca1f095e84383fdf8cd2d" target="_blank">she had cancerous lesions removed</a>&nbsp;from above her right eye and her chest. In 2015, she and the president&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-d8f69eb645d74b7886387f713981b739" target="_blank">lost their 46-year-old son, Beau, to brain cancer</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696431702577.png" alt="Image from the public service announcement courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>Image from the public service announcement courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jill-biden" target="_blank">Jill Biden</a>&nbsp;is urging women to consult their doctors about getting mammograms or other cancer screenings, saying in a new public service announcement for Breast Cancer Awareness Month that early detection saves lives.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Right now, I know you’re busy taking care of everyone else, but when was the last time you took care of yourself? This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, <a href="https://twitter.com/lifetimetv?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@lifetimetv</a> and I are encouraging you to talk to a doctor about whether it’s time for your mammogram or other cancer screenings. <a href="https://t.co/pKtNLp7IRe">pic.twitter.com/pKtNLp7IRe</a>&mdash; Jill Biden (@FLOTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS/status/1709600221016076643?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and I’m asking you to put your health first,” the first lady says in the 30-second spot recorded amid flower blooms in the White House Rose Garden.“Take a moment to talk to your doctor about whether it’s time for your mammogram or other cancer screenings,” she says in the announcement airing this week on the Lifetime cable network. “There is no one-size-fits-all approach, but we know that early detection of cancer saves lives.”Biden’s ad is part of an annual breast cancer awareness campaign by Lifetime, according to the cable network. A separate public service announcement featuring similar messages from actor Keshia Knight Pulliam and TV correspondent Rachel Lindsay will also be broadcast by the network.The first lady is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-cancer-skin-brain-5a441b53e825895d029d0255c10816d3" target="_blank">a longtime advocate for breast cancer education</a>&nbsp;and prevention dating to 1993, when four of her friends were diagnosed with the disease. Shortly afterward, she launched the Biden Breast Health Initiative to teach high school girls in Delaware about the importance of early detection.In the White House, she and her husband, President Joe Biden, are driving&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/cancermoonshot/" target="_blank">efforts to prevent more than 4 million cancer deaths by 2047</a>&nbsp;and improve the experience for people who are touched by cancer, including patients, their families and their caregivers.<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/basic_info/" target="_blank">Breast cancer is the most common cancer in U.S. women</a>&nbsp;after skin cancer, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Breast cancer deaths have declined over time but remain the second leading cause of cancer death among women overall, the CDC said.One in eight women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.The first lady is among the millions of people in the U.S. who have been touched by cancer.Earlier this year,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-health-maryland-mexico-city-surgery-545cac7c3ddca1f095e84383fdf8cd2d" target="_blank">she had cancerous lesions removed</a>&nbsp;from above her right eye and her chest. In 2015, she and the president&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-d8f69eb645d74b7886387f713981b739" target="_blank">lost their 46-year-old son, Beau, to brain cancer</a>.

🎥 First lady urges breast cancer screenings: Put your health first

TOPEKA—Applicants who successfully passed the Kansas bar examination were sworn in as Kansas attorneys in an in-person ceremony October 3 in the Georgia Neese Gray Performance Hall at the Topeka Performing Arts Center.&nbsp;New attorneys can choose to be sworn in during the in-person ceremony or at another time by a state or federal judge.

Chief Justice Marla Luckert presided over the Supreme Court, and District Judge Daniel Crabtree represented the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas. Doug Shima, clerk of the Kansas appellate courts, administered the state oath, and Megan Garrett, courtroom deputy from the U.S. District Court, administered the federal oath.

Among the new attorneys sworn in was&nbsp;Stryder Dane Montgomery, Dighton.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696434140272.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KS Judicial BranchTOPEKA—Applicants who successfully passed the Kansas bar examination were sworn in as Kansas attorneys in an in-person ceremony October 3 in the Georgia Neese Gray Performance Hall at the Topeka Performing Arts Center.&nbsp;New attorneys can choose to be sworn in during the in-person ceremony or at another time by a state or federal judge.Chief Justice Marla Luckert presided over the Supreme Court, and District Judge Daniel Crabtree represented the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas. Doug Shima, clerk of the Kansas appellate courts, administered the state oath, and Megan Garrett, courtroom deputy from the U.S. District Court, administered the federal oath.Among the new attorneys sworn in was&nbsp;Stryder Dane Montgomery, Dighton.

New Dighton attorney takes state and federal oaths 

Eugenia Irene Ikenberry, age 92, of Quinter, Kansas, passed away Thursday, October 5, 2023, at Hays Medical Center, Hays, KS. 

Schmitt Funeral Home, Quinter, is handling arrangements. Please check back for full obituary and service date and times.&nbsp;

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of&nbsp;Eugenia Irene Ikenberry, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.schmittfuneral.com/obituary/eugenia-ikenberry/gifts?campaign=obituaryThemed-gifts-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

<h2>Eugenia Irene Ikenberry, Quinter</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696713547553.jpeg" alt="Eugenia Irene Ikenberry" />
 <figcaption>Eugenia Irene Ikenberry</figcaption>
 </figure>January 24, 1931 - October 5, 2023Eugenia Irene Ikenberry, age 92, of Quinter, Kansas, passed away Thursday, October 5, 2023, at Hays Medical Center, Hays, KS. Schmitt Funeral Home, Quinter, is handling arrangements. Please check back for full obituary and service date and times.&nbsp;To plant Memorial Trees in memory of&nbsp;Eugenia Irene Ikenberry, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.schmittfuneral.com/obituary/eugenia-ikenberry/gifts?campaign=obituaryThemed-gifts-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

Eugenia Irene Ikenberry

WASHINGTON (AP) — President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/10/07/statement-from-president-joe-biden-condemning-terrorist-attacks-in-israel/">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;on Saturday decried the “appalling assault" by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-gaza-hamas-rockets-airstrikes-tel-aviv-11fb98655c256d54ecb5329284fc37d2">Hamas militants</a>&nbsp;and his administration pledged to ensure Israel has “what it needs to defend itself” after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-gaza-hamas-militants-conflict-war-b6ea877aa1ee96303aa0870d741da777">surprise attack</a>&nbsp;that drew worldwide condemnation and anger from Israel's allies.

(click below to watch comments from President Biden)

Biden made clear in a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that “we stand ready to offer all appropriate means of support," according to the White House. He also called Jordan's King Abdullah II. Secretary of State Antony Blinken rushed to the White House for meetings and was phoning foreign counterparts, while Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with Israel's defense minister.

“Terrorism is never justified. Israel has a right to defend itself and its people,” Biden said in a statement that also warned “any other party hostile to Israel” against “seeking advantage in this situation.” Washington's support for “Israel’s security is rock solid and unwavering,” the president said. His Pentagon chief said the U.S. was committed to helping Israel to “protect civilians from indiscriminate violence and terrorism” and with its defense needs.

Hamas' unprecedented incursion, coming on a major Jewish holiday, was the deadliest attack in Israel in years and was threatening to spiral into a broader conflict. Israel retaliated with airstrikes in Gaza. “We are at war,” Netanyahu said.

The hostilities dealt a significant blow to U.S. efforts&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/un-israel-netanyahu-politics-4d07d9fd0413c6893d1ddfb944919ae0">to expand</a>&nbsp;the Arab-Israeli&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bahrain-israel-united-arab-emirates-middle-east-elections-7544b322a254ebea1693e387d83d9d8b">Abraham Accords</a>&nbsp;normalization agreements, not only with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-saudi-arabia-normalization-jake-sullivan-mbs-peace-deal-377e3c1e4b4732124b565ed968c5f0c8">Saudi Arabia</a>, which has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/saudi-prince-us-politics-fox-a65f1e4c39ee2d83667aa433f59b59c8">commanded most of the public attention</a>, but also with smaller Arab states.

U.S. officials say they intend to press ahead but acknowledge efforts are unlikely to bear fruit while there is an active conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.

Blinken had been planning a trip to the Middle East, with stops in Israel and Saudi Arabia, later this month, but those plans are now on hold, according to multiple U.S. officials who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss internal administration deliberations.

In the immediate term, these officials said the U.S. would work Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, among Arab partners in the region, to try to deescalate the situation. But given the scale of the Hamas attacks and Israel's military response, the officials said they were not optimistic about any short-term solution.

Like Biden, who said the U.S. “unequivocally condemns this appalling assault,” many world leaders stressed that Israel has a right to defend itself and they pledged solidarity.

“We believe that order will be restored and the terrorists will be destroyed,” Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, said in a post on his official Telegram channel. Zelenskyy, who is Jewish and had relatives who died in the Holocaust, said “Israel’s right to self-defense cannot be questioned."

European Commission President Ursula Von Der Leyen denounced the “senseless attack” by Hamas and said, “This violence is neither a political solution nor an act of bravery. It is purely terrorism.”

German Chancellor OIaf Scholz said his country stands beside Israel, a sentiment echoed by the Austrian chancellor, Karl Nehammer. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak tweeted that he was shocked by the attacks and that “Israel has an absolute right to defend itself.”

In Vienna, the Israeli flag was raised at the Austrian chancellor’s office and Foreign Ministry in a gesture of solidarity. "There is no excuse for terror,” Nehammer said in a post on X.

Mikhail Bogdanov, Russia’s deputy foreign minister and a former ambassador to Israel and Egypt, told the state Tass agency that Moscow was in touch with “all parties (of the conflict), including Arab countries” and urged “an immediate cease-fire and peace” between Hamas and Israel.

Bogdanov did not specify the Arab nations with which Russian diplomats were speaking.

Saudi Arabia called for an immediate halt to the fighting, urging both sides to protect civilians and exercise restraint.

“The kingdom recalls its repeated warnings of the dangers of the situation exploding as a result of the continued occupation, the Palestinian people being deprived of their legitimate rights and the repetition of system provocations against” them by Israel, a Saudi Foreign Ministry statement said.

But in Iran, Israel’s regional archenemy, members of parliament opened their session Saturday by chanting “Death to Israel” and “Israel will be doomed, Palestine will be the conqueror.” Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani said “today’s operation created a new page in the field of resistance and armed operation against occupiers,” the semiofficial ISNA news agency reported.

In Lebanon’s Palestinian refugee camps, hundreds took to the streets to celebrate the operation by Hamas. In the Bourj al-Barajneh camp south of Beirut, residents danced in the streets, while young men in the northern city of Tripoli distributed celebratory sweets to passersby in the streets.

In the Bekaa Valley, pro-Palestinian demonstrators blocked the roads. The country’s highest Sunni religious authority called for mosques to broadcast “God is great” over loudspeakers following afternoon prayers “in solidarity with our people in Palestine.”

WASHINGTON (AP) — President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/10/07/statement-from-president-joe-biden-condemning-terrorist-attacks-in-israel/">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;on Saturday decried the “appalling assault" by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-gaza-hamas-rockets-airstrikes-tel-aviv-11fb98655c256d54ecb5329284fc37d2">Hamas militants</a>&nbsp;and his administration pledged to ensure Israel has “what it needs to defend itself” after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-gaza-hamas-militants-conflict-war-b6ea877aa1ee96303aa0870d741da777">surprise attack</a>&nbsp;that drew worldwide condemnation and anger from Israel's allies.(click below to watch comments from President Biden)<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gixYhd8pjhw?si=4K0HnG4r2VbRUc_z&amp;start=3" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Biden made clear in a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that “we stand ready to offer all appropriate means of support," according to the White House. He also called Jordan's King Abdullah II. Secretary of State Antony Blinken rushed to the White House for meetings and was phoning foreign counterparts, while Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with Israel's defense minister.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Our hearts go out to Israel in their fight for their lives right now against the barbaric attacks on civilians at the hands of Hamas terrorist. America stands with Prime Minister Netanyahu, the Israeli people, and our unwavering commitment to their safety and security.&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1710667132088828188?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The United States stands with Israel. I fully support Israel’s right to defend themselves from these ruthless, unprovoked Hamas terrorist attacks. Join me in praying for the people of Israel as they fight to defend their freedom. 🇺🇸🇮🇱 <a href="https://t.co/Kui5ZKASx7">pic.twitter.com/Kui5ZKASx7</a>&mdash; Rep. Jake LaTurner (@RepLaTurner) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepLaTurner/status/1710658653110382634?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The world is seeing appalling images. Thousands of rockets raining down on Israeli cities. Hamas terrorists killing not only Israeli soldiers, but civilians on the streets and in their homes. It’s unconscionable. Israel has a right to defend itself – full stop.&mdash; President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1710761931399709074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“Terrorism is never justified. Israel has a right to defend itself and its people,” Biden said in a statement that also warned “any other party hostile to Israel” against “seeking advantage in this situation.” Washington's support for “Israel’s security is rock solid and unwavering,” the president said. His Pentagon chief said the U.S. was committed to helping Israel to “protect civilians from indiscriminate violence and terrorism” and with its defense needs.Hamas' unprecedented incursion, coming on a major Jewish holiday, was the deadliest attack in Israel in years and was threatening to spiral into a broader conflict. Israel retaliated with airstrikes in Gaza. “We are at war,” Netanyahu said.The hostilities dealt a significant blow to U.S. efforts&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/un-israel-netanyahu-politics-4d07d9fd0413c6893d1ddfb944919ae0">to expand</a>&nbsp;the Arab-Israeli&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bahrain-israel-united-arab-emirates-middle-east-elections-7544b322a254ebea1693e387d83d9d8b">Abraham Accords</a>&nbsp;normalization agreements, not only with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-saudi-arabia-normalization-jake-sullivan-mbs-peace-deal-377e3c1e4b4732124b565ed968c5f0c8">Saudi Arabia</a>, which has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/saudi-prince-us-politics-fox-a65f1e4c39ee2d83667aa433f59b59c8">commanded most of the public attention</a>, but also with smaller Arab states.U.S. officials say they intend to press ahead but acknowledge efforts are unlikely to bear fruit while there is an active conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.Blinken had been planning a trip to the Middle East, with stops in Israel and Saudi Arabia, later this month, but those plans are now on hold, according to multiple U.S. officials who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss internal administration deliberations.In the immediate term, these officials said the U.S. would work Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, among Arab partners in the region, to try to deescalate the situation. But given the scale of the Hamas attacks and Israel's military response, the officials said they were not optimistic about any short-term solution.Like Biden, who said the U.S. “unequivocally condemns this appalling assault,” many world leaders stressed that Israel has a right to defend itself and they pledged solidarity.“We believe that order will be restored and the terrorists will be destroyed,” Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, said in a post on his official Telegram channel. Zelenskyy, who is Jewish and had relatives who died in the Holocaust, said “Israel’s right to self-defense cannot be questioned."European Commission President Ursula Von Der Leyen denounced the “senseless attack” by Hamas and said, “This violence is neither a political solution nor an act of bravery. It is purely terrorism.”German Chancellor OIaf Scholz said his country stands beside Israel, a sentiment echoed by the Austrian chancellor, Karl Nehammer. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak tweeted that he was shocked by the attacks and that “Israel has an absolute right to defend itself.”In Vienna, the Israeli flag was raised at the Austrian chancellor’s office and Foreign Ministry in a gesture of solidarity. "There is no excuse for terror,” Nehammer said in a post on X.Mikhail Bogdanov, Russia’s deputy foreign minister and a former ambassador to Israel and Egypt, told the state Tass agency that Moscow was in touch with “all parties (of the conflict), including Arab countries” and urged “an immediate cease-fire and peace” between Hamas and Israel.Bogdanov did not specify the Arab nations with which Russian diplomats were speaking.Saudi Arabia called for an immediate halt to the fighting, urging both sides to protect civilians and exercise restraint.“The kingdom recalls its repeated warnings of the dangers of the situation exploding as a result of the continued occupation, the Palestinian people being deprived of their legitimate rights and the repetition of system provocations against” them by Israel, a Saudi Foreign Ministry statement said.But in Iran, Israel’s regional archenemy, members of parliament opened their session Saturday by chanting “Death to Israel” and “Israel will be doomed, Palestine will be the conqueror.” Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani said “today’s operation created a new page in the field of resistance and armed operation against occupiers,” the semiofficial ISNA news agency reported.In Lebanon’s Palestinian refugee camps, hundreds took to the streets to celebrate the operation by Hamas. In the Bourj al-Barajneh camp south of Beirut, residents danced in the streets, while young men in the northern city of Tripoli distributed celebratory sweets to passersby in the streets.In the Bekaa Valley, pro-Palestinian demonstrators blocked the roads. The country’s highest Sunni religious authority called for mosques to broadcast “God is great” over loudspeakers following afternoon prayers “in solidarity with our people in Palestine.”___

🎥Biden, Kan. lawmakers condemn “appalling assault" on Israel 

LARNED - Scott Taylor Keast, 73, passed away peacefully at his home in Larned, KS on October 5, 2023 from complication brought on by multiple sclerosis. &nbsp;He was born July 28, 1950 in Great Bend, Kansas; first of eight children born to Donald and Virgina Keast.

Scott was a graduate of Larned High School and attended Ft. Hays State College. &nbsp;He also served in the local National Guard unit and spent his life doing what he loved most which was farming.

Scott is survived by seven brothers and sisters: Mary Bryant (Jim), Becky Traylor (Mike), Sarah Culver (Cal); all of Rogers, AR; Bob Keast (Debbie), Mike Keast (Yvonne), Jim Keast, all of Larned, KS; Duane Keast (Angie) Salina, KS; daughters Jennifer Gillespie (Rusty) St. John, KS; Julie Schooler (Jeremy) Manhattan, KS; Jacque Kneebone (Kelly) DeSoto, KS; Ryan Keast, Winnemucca, NV; stepson Michael Ashley (Jessica), San Diego, CA; grandchildren Taylor Casper, Braxton Schooler, Carsyn Schooler, Max Kneebone, Jamie Kneebone, Gabby Kneebone, Tanner Kneebone, Holden Ashley; great-grandchild Chloe Casper. He is also survived by the mother of his children Terry Bauer, Pawnee Rock and former wife Belinda Bagby, Hutchinson, KS.

At Scott’s request, cremation has taken place and no services are planned. &nbsp;Friends may sign the register from 9:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, October 13, 2023 at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned. &nbsp;A private gathering will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the charity of your choice in care of Beckwith Mortuary, P.O .Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550.&nbsp;

Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com &nbsp;or Jim Keast, 1744 Q Rd., Larned, KS 67550.

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

<h2>Scott Taylor Keast, Larned</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696703955459.jpeg" alt="Scott Taylor Keast" />
 <figcaption>Scott Taylor Keast</figcaption>
 </figure>July 28, 1950 - October 5, 2023LARNED - Scott Taylor Keast, 73, passed away peacefully at his home in Larned, KS on October 5, 2023 from complication brought on by multiple sclerosis. &nbsp;He was born July 28, 1950 in Great Bend, Kansas; first of eight children born to Donald and Virgina Keast.Scott was a graduate of Larned High School and attended Ft. Hays State College. &nbsp;He also served in the local National Guard unit and spent his life doing what he loved most which was farming.Scott is survived by seven brothers and sisters: Mary Bryant (Jim), Becky Traylor (Mike), Sarah Culver (Cal); all of Rogers, AR; Bob Keast (Debbie), Mike Keast (Yvonne), Jim Keast, all of Larned, KS; Duane Keast (Angie) Salina, KS; daughters Jennifer Gillespie (Rusty) St. John, KS; Julie Schooler (Jeremy) Manhattan, KS; Jacque Kneebone (Kelly) DeSoto, KS; Ryan Keast, Winnemucca, NV; stepson Michael Ashley (Jessica), San Diego, CA; grandchildren Taylor Casper, Braxton Schooler, Carsyn Schooler, Max Kneebone, Jamie Kneebone, Gabby Kneebone, Tanner Kneebone, Holden Ashley; great-grandchild Chloe Casper. He is also survived by the mother of his children Terry Bauer, Pawnee Rock and former wife Belinda Bagby, Hutchinson, KS.At Scott’s request, cremation has taken place and no services are planned. &nbsp;Friends may sign the register from 9:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, October 13, 2023 at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned. &nbsp;A private gathering will be held at a later date.In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the charity of your choice in care of Beckwith Mortuary, P.O .Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550.&nbsp;Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com &nbsp;or Jim Keast, 1744 Q Rd., Larned, KS 67550.To plant Memorial Trees in memory of&nbsp;Scott Taylor Keast, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.beckwithmortuary.com/obituary/scott-keast/gifts?campaign=obituaryInline-gifts-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

Scott Taylor Keast

SALINA - The Hays High girls cross country team left&nbsp;Bill Burke Park as team champions Saturday at the Salina Invitational. They finished 10 points better than Salina South and 19 better than Western Athletic Conference member Dodge City.

Arely Maldonado (18:57.30) and Brynn Kinderknecht (20:32.06) paced Hays in fifth and sixth place finished respectively.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Brenlynn Albers medaled in 12th and Julia Zadina was 16th.&nbsp;

Coming off a win in Junction City's meet the prior week, Elijah McCullough placed second for the HHS boys with a time of 16:22.42. Taevin Maupin finished 19th.

The cross country teams will be in Great Bend on Thursday for the Western Athletic Conference meet. The regional meet is coming up on Saturday, October 21st.

Hays PostSALINA - The Hays High girls cross country team left&nbsp;Bill Burke Park as team champions Saturday at the Salina Invitational. They finished 10 points better than Salina South and 19 better than Western Athletic Conference member Dodge City.Arely Maldonado (18:57.30) and Brynn Kinderknecht (20:32.06) paced Hays in fifth and sixth place finished respectively.&nbsp;&nbsp;Brenlynn Albers medaled in 12th and Julia Zadina was 16th.&nbsp;Coming off a win in Junction City's meet the prior week, Elijah McCullough placed second for the HHS boys with a time of 16:22.42. Taevin Maupin finished 19th.The Hays boys were sixth as a team.The cross country teams will be in Great Bend on Thursday for the Western Athletic Conference meet. The regional meet is coming up on Saturday, October 21st.

🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ Hays girls champs; McCullough runner-up in Salina

Fort Hays State (3-2, 2-2 MIAA) at Missouri Southern (3-2, 3-2 MIAA) Saturday, October 7 - 2:00 p.m. Joplin, Mo. - Fred G. Hughes Stadium Radio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video:&nbsp;The MIAA Network&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

Fort Hays State Football returns to MIAA play on Saturday at Missouri Southern in Joplin. The Tigers and Lions both enter the contest at 3-2 overall. FHSU played its lone non-conference game of the season last week, a 71-3 win over Lincoln University on Homecoming. The Tigers enter Saturday at 2-2 in the MIAA, while all five of the Lions' contests have been in MIAA play. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. at Hughes Stadium.

Fort Hays State owns an 18-14-1 advantage in the all-time series between the teams, including a 10-4 mark in MIAA play that began back in 2006. The Tigers held an eight-game win streak in the series until it was snapped last year in Hays with a Missouri Southern victory by a score of 25-24. FHSU still owns a five-game win streak against MSSU in Joplin, which goes back to 2009. Missouri Southern's only win in MIAA play against FHSU in Joplin occurred during the 2007 season in a low-scoring 6-0 battle.

Fort Hays State is coming off a win over Lincoln University last week in Hays, while Missouri Southern is coming off a three-point loss at Central Oklahoma. Four of Missouri Southern's five games this year have been decided by seven points or less, with its only outlier being a 42-0 win over Northeastern State. FHSU also shutout Northeastern State to open the season by a score of 56-0.

Both teams have shown strong defense this season. FHSU leads the MIAA in scoring defense, allowing just 15.4 points per game. The Lions are also holding opponents to less than 20 per game at 19.4 points per game. FHSU ranks second in the MIAA in total defense, allowing 270.8 yards per game, while the Lions are third at 317.4 per game. MSSU allowed at least 30 points in both of its losses this season. FHSU held opponents under 10 points in each of its wins this season. This game features the top three tacklers in the MIAA so far this season, including Colton Winder (45 tackles) and Halid Djibril (42 tackles) of Missouri Southern and John Johnson&nbsp;(37 tackles) of Fort Hays State.

FHSU quarterback Jack Dawson&nbsp;ranks third in the MIAA in passing yards (1,280), passing touchdowns (13), and passing yards per game (256.0). Tiger receiver Jayden Horace&nbsp;ranks fourth in the conference in receiving yards (334), receiving yards per game (66.8), and fourth in receiving touchdowns (5).&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696530802660.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Fort Hays State (3-2, 2-2 MIAA) at Missouri Southern (3-2, 3-2 MIAA) Saturday, October 7 - 2:00 p.m. Joplin, Mo. - Fred G. Hughes Stadium Radio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video:&nbsp;The MIAA Network&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>Fort Hays State Football returns to MIAA play on Saturday at Missouri Southern in Joplin. The Tigers and Lions both enter the contest at 3-2 overall. FHSU played its lone non-conference game of the season last week, a 71-3 win over Lincoln University on Homecoming. The Tigers enter Saturday at 2-2 in the MIAA, while all five of the Lions' contests have been in MIAA play. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. at Hughes Stadium.Fort Hays State owns an 18-14-1 advantage in the all-time series between the teams, including a 10-4 mark in MIAA play that began back in 2006. The Tigers held an eight-game win streak in the series until it was snapped last year in Hays with a Missouri Southern victory by a score of 25-24. FHSU still owns a five-game win streak against MSSU in Joplin, which goes back to 2009. Missouri Southern's only win in MIAA play against FHSU in Joplin occurred during the 2007 season in a low-scoring 6-0 battle.Fort Hays State is coming off a win over Lincoln University last week in Hays, while Missouri Southern is coming off a three-point loss at Central Oklahoma. Four of Missouri Southern's five games this year have been decided by seven points or less, with its only outlier being a 42-0 win over Northeastern State. FHSU also shutout Northeastern State to open the season by a score of 56-0.Both teams have shown strong defense this season. FHSU leads the MIAA in scoring defense, allowing just 15.4 points per game. The Lions are also holding opponents to less than 20 per game at 19.4 points per game. FHSU ranks second in the MIAA in total defense, allowing 270.8 yards per game, while the Lions are third at 317.4 per game. MSSU allowed at least 30 points in both of its losses this season. FHSU held opponents under 10 points in each of its wins this season. This game features the top three tacklers in the MIAA so far this season, including Colton Winder (45 tackles) and Halid Djibril (42 tackles) of Missouri Southern and John Johnson&nbsp;(37 tackles) of Fort Hays State.FHSU quarterback Jack Dawson&nbsp;ranks third in the MIAA in passing yards (1,280), passing touchdowns (13), and passing yards per game (256.0). Tiger receiver Jayden Horace&nbsp;ranks fourth in the conference in receiving yards (334), receiving yards per game (66.8), and fourth in receiving touchdowns (5).&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏈🎙️ LISTEN - Tigers and Lions square off in key week 6 game in Joplin

Stanley “Stan” George Marcotte was born on October 19, 1957, a very much beloved and devoted husband and father passed away September 27, 2023, after more than two years of a valiant fight against cancer. 

Stan was known as being very kind and always willing to help anyone and will be terribly missed.

Stan was a devoted family man and wonderful husband. He enjoyed Boy Scouts, hunting, fishing, sailing, gardening with his wife, and raising rescue Labradors and Miniature Dachshunds. He was heavily involved with scouts, served as assistant scout leader for two of his sons’ troops, helping teach and guide both boys towards earning their Eagle Scout Awards. 

Stan was a widely respected environmental scientist for KDHE Bureau of Remediation for 41 years.

Left behind to mourn his loss are his wife, Marjorie “Maggie” Marcotte; sons, Matthew Mundinger (Emy), Brett Mundinger, and Justin Marcotte (Lauren); sisters, Marilyn Traffas and Michelle Marcotte; brothers, Michael Marcotte (Holly), Steven Marcotte (Shirley), Walter Marcotte (Barb), many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews; best friends, Kyle Austin and Kyle Parker. 

Preceding him in death are his parents, Lawrence and Ruth Marcotte and brother-in-law, Brian Traffas.

Memorials have been established with: Caring Hands Humane Society, 1400 SE 3rd Street, Newton, KS 67114; American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741; Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, P.O. Box 9257, Missoula, MT 59807.

Services in care of Downing &amp; Lahey West Mortuary.

Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 3, 2023, at Downing &amp; Lahey West Mortuary, Wichita. Funeral service will be at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 4, 2023, at Covenant Presbyterian Church, Wichita. 

<h2>Stanley Marcotte</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696275454700.png" alt="Stanley Marcotte" />
 <figcaption>Stanley Marcotte</figcaption>
 </figure>Stanley “Stan” George Marcotte was born on October 19, 1957, a very much beloved and devoted husband and father passed away September 27, 2023, after more than two years of a valiant fight against cancer. Stan was known as being very kind and always willing to help anyone and will be terribly missed.Stan was a devoted family man and wonderful husband. He enjoyed Boy Scouts, hunting, fishing, sailing, gardening with his wife, and raising rescue Labradors and Miniature Dachshunds. He was heavily involved with scouts, served as assistant scout leader for two of his sons’ troops, helping teach and guide both boys towards earning their Eagle Scout Awards. Stan was a widely respected environmental scientist for KDHE Bureau of Remediation for 41 years.Left behind to mourn his loss are his wife, Marjorie “Maggie” Marcotte; sons, Matthew Mundinger (Emy), Brett Mundinger, and Justin Marcotte (Lauren); sisters, Marilyn Traffas and Michelle Marcotte; brothers, Michael Marcotte (Holly), Steven Marcotte (Shirley), Walter Marcotte (Barb), many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews; best friends, Kyle Austin and Kyle Parker. Preceding him in death are his parents, Lawrence and Ruth Marcotte and brother-in-law, Brian Traffas.Memorials have been established with: Caring Hands Humane Society, 1400 SE 3rd Street, Newton, KS 67114; American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741; Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, P.O. Box 9257, Missoula, MT 59807.Services in care of Downing &amp; Lahey West Mortuary.Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 3, 2023, at Downing &amp; Lahey West Mortuary, Wichita. Funeral service will be at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 4, 2023, at Covenant Presbyterian Church, Wichita.

Stanley Marcotte

War: Surprise attack stuns Israel and leaves hundreds dead

LENORA — Join Nex-Gen as we celebrate 10 years in serving northwest and north central Kansas youth, schools, and communities.

Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth Inc. funds, promotes, and supports educational projects, career development, and community programs focused on the youths in northwest and central Kansas. We educate students about local career opportunities, as well as offer programs in career development, entrepreneurship, and internship. 

Through these efforts, we have fostered a positive sense of community and encouraged many of our youths to remain in the region or return home to prosper. 

This year marks the organization’s 10th anniversary of operation. That is a decade of impacting almost thousands of youths, teens, and college students across our service areas with life changing skills and knowledge. This milestone has enabled us to reflect on our past and look forward to the future with optimism. 

Join us on the evening of Saturday, October 21 for the Night with Nex-Generation Gala. 

The event is the perfect opportunity to explore Young AmeriTowne, learn more about Nex-Gen Internships and our other wonderful programs, eat a terrific meal, connect with youth stakeholders, and make a lasting impact through our silent auction. (Lots of great items are already pouring in!) 

RSVPs are needed by September 29 for our meal count, but will be accepted through the day of the event.&nbsp;

If you can't attend, but would like to donate or contribute an item to the silent auction (and for all other inquiries), please contact Nex-Generation Executive Director Jacque Beckman at jbeckman@nexgeneration.org or call 785-567-3222. 

Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth Inc. was established in 2013 as a charitable, non-profit organization designed to fund, promote, and support educational projects, career development, and community programs focused on youth. Our vision is to be the premier youth engagement organization, working with all youth and partners to advance and sustain rural economies, taking students from the classroom to a career. 

We serve the following counties in northwest/north central Kansas: Barton, Cheyenne, Cloud, Decatur, Ellis, Ellsworth, Gove, Graham, Jewell, Lincoln, Logan, Mitchell, Norton, Osborne, Ottawa, Phillips, Rawlins, Republic, Rooks, Rush, Russell, Saline, Sheridan, Sherman, Smith, Thomas, Trego, and Wallace.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695918587784.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedLENORA — Join Nex-Gen as we celebrate 10 years in serving northwest and north central Kansas youth, schools, and communities.Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth Inc. funds, promotes, and supports educational projects, career development, and community programs focused on the youths in northwest and central Kansas. We educate students about local career opportunities, as well as offer programs in career development, entrepreneurship, and internship. Through these efforts, we have fostered a positive sense of community and encouraged many of our youths to remain in the region or return home to prosper. This year marks the organization’s 10th anniversary of operation. That is a decade of impacting almost thousands of youths, teens, and college students across our service areas with life changing skills and knowledge. This milestone has enabled us to reflect on our past and look forward to the future with optimism. Join us on the evening of Saturday, October 21 for the Night with Nex-Generation Gala. The event is the perfect opportunity to explore Young AmeriTowne, learn more about Nex-Gen Internships and our other wonderful programs, eat a terrific meal, connect with youth stakeholders, and make a lasting impact through our silent auction. (Lots of great items are already pouring in!) RSVPs are needed by September 29 for our meal count, but will be accepted through the day of the event.&nbsp;If you can't attend, but would like to donate or contribute an item to the silent auction (and for all other inquiries), please contact Nex-Generation Executive Director Jacque Beckman at jbeckman@nexgeneration.org or call 785-567-3222. Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth Inc. was established in 2013 as a charitable, non-profit organization designed to fund, promote, and support educational projects, career development, and community programs focused on youth. Our vision is to be the premier youth engagement organization, working with all youth and partners to advance and sustain rural economies, taking students from the classroom to a career. We serve the following counties in northwest/north central Kansas: Barton, Cheyenne, Cloud, Decatur, Ellis, Ellsworth, Gove, Graham, Jewell, Lincoln, Logan, Mitchell, Norton, Osborne, Ottawa, Phillips, Rawlins, Republic, Rooks, Rush, Russell, Saline, Sheridan, Sherman, Smith, Thomas, Trego, and Wallace.&nbsp;

Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth marks 10th year with Gala Night

HAYS, Kan. - The Fort Hays State volleyball team dropped a three-set match against Northwest Missouri State on Friday (Oct. 6), 25-15, 25-18, 25-18. The Tigers are now 7-10 overall and 1-7 in conference play, while the Bearcats move to 9-6 on the year and 4-3 in MIAA action.

The Bearcats jumped out in front to start, scoring the first six points. Kills from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/claire-olson/7499">Claire Olson</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/riley-tinder/7504">Riley Tinder</a>&nbsp;helped the Tigers close within four, 8-4, before the visitors regained control en route to a 25-15 first-set win.

After totaling eight kills in the first set, the Tigers upped that total to 12 in the second frame, just two short of NWMSU's 14 second-set kills. The Bearcats managed to pick up the win, however, due to five NWMSU blocks in the frame. FHSU trailed by midway through the frame, 16-14, before a 9-4 run gave the green and white a 25-18 victory.

Another Olson kill helped FHSU pull within 16-14 again in the third set, but another big Bearcat run helped NWMSU complete the sweep.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/taylor-hawkins/7497">Taylor Hawkins</a>&nbsp;led the Tigers with eight kills and one solo block, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/mya-vandrovec/7505">Mya Vandrovec</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/emily-ellis/7495">Emily Ellis</a>&nbsp;each recorded three kills and three block assists.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/brooke-hyland/7498">Brooke Hyland</a>&nbsp;racked up 14 digs on the back row, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/caiya-stucky/7503">Caiya Stucky</a>&nbsp;distributed 13 assists.

Fort Hays State will return to the court on Tuesday (Oct. 10) when the Tigers host No. 9 Nebraska-Kearney beginning at 6 p.m. inside Gross Memorial Coliseum.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696646203358.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State's Taylor Hawkins attempts a shot in an NCAA volleyball match against Northwest Missouri State in Hays, Kan. on Friday, October 6, 2023. (FHSU Athletics photo/Coryn Hahn)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State's Taylor Hawkins attempts a shot in an NCAA volleyball match against Northwest Missouri State in Hays, Kan. on Friday, October 6, 2023. (FHSU Athletics photo/Coryn Hahn)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. - The Fort Hays State volleyball team dropped a three-set match against Northwest Missouri State on Friday (Oct. 6), 25-15, 25-18, 25-18. The Tigers are now 7-10 overall and 1-7 in conference play, while the Bearcats move to 9-6 on the year and 4-3 in MIAA action.The Bearcats jumped out in front to start, scoring the first six points. Kills from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/claire-olson/7499">Claire Olson</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/riley-tinder/7504">Riley Tinder</a>&nbsp;helped the Tigers close within four, 8-4, before the visitors regained control en route to a 25-15 first-set win.After totaling eight kills in the first set, the Tigers upped that total to 12 in the second frame, just two short of NWMSU's 14 second-set kills. The Bearcats managed to pick up the win, however, due to five NWMSU blocks in the frame. FHSU trailed by midway through the frame, 16-14, before a 9-4 run gave the green and white a 25-18 victory.Another Olson kill helped FHSU pull within 16-14 again in the third set, but another big Bearcat run helped NWMSU complete the sweep.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/taylor-hawkins/7497">Taylor Hawkins</a>&nbsp;led the Tigers with eight kills and one solo block, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/mya-vandrovec/7505">Mya Vandrovec</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/emily-ellis/7495">Emily Ellis</a>&nbsp;each recorded three kills and three block assists.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/brooke-hyland/7498">Brooke Hyland</a>&nbsp;racked up 14 digs on the back row, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/caiya-stucky/7503">Caiya Stucky</a>&nbsp;distributed 13 assists.Fort Hays State will return to the court on Tuesday (Oct. 10) when the Tigers host No. 9 Nebraska-Kearney beginning at 6 p.m. inside Gross Memorial Coliseum.

🏐 Tigers come up short against NW Missouri State

HAYS, Kan. – The Fort Hays State women's soccer team came alive in the second period to notch their seventh win on the season, topping Newman. The win helps improve the Tigers to 7-1-3 overall and 3-0-1 in conference play, while the Jets dropped to 2-8-1 on the year, 1-3-0 in MIAA contests

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696646459974.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State's Montserrat DIaz brings the ball up the pitch in an NCAA soccer match against Newman in Hays, Kan. on Friday, October 6, 2023. (FHSU Athletics photo/Coryn Hahn)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State's Montserrat DIaz brings the ball up the pitch in an NCAA soccer match against Newman in Hays, Kan. on Friday, October 6, 2023. (FHSU Athletics photo/Coryn Hahn)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. – The Fort Hays State women's soccer team came alive in the second period to notch their seventh win on the season, topping Newman. The win helps improve the Tigers to 7-1-3 overall and 3-0-1 in conference play, while the Jets dropped to 2-8-1 on the year, 1-3-0 in MIAA contests.The first period of the match was filled with shots taken by both offenses, but the goalies for each team had answers for every single one on goal.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/isabel-robben/7297">Isabel Robben</a>&nbsp;tied a single game high five saves just in the first 45 minutes of action. Jordan Webster for Newman also record five saves in the first period. Fort Hays outshot Newman 9-7 in the first frame.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/allison-worley/7605">Allison Worley</a>&nbsp;led the attack in the first with two shots, both on goal. Fort Hays State received two free kick opportunities just outside the box, but both were unsuccessful.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/emily-hutchings/7286">Emily Hutchings</a>&nbsp;delivered a missile on one of the tries, but the Jets goalie tipped the shot out of play.The Tigers came out of the halftime break with intensity, controlling the ball for great chunk of the first 20 minutes of the second period. Fort Hays State was finally able to break through and snap the tie off a goal from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/montserrat-diaz/7282">Montserrat Diaz</a>. Diaz's fourth goal of the year came with 27:06 left on the clock and was assisted by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/alex-hutton/7287">Alex Hutton</a>. Shortly after the first goal,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/hannah-mares/7293">Hannah Mares</a>&nbsp;capitalized off of a free ball that rattled around within the box, knocking it home to give the Tigers a 2-0 advantage. From that point on the Tiger defense was able to stay flawless to secure their sixth shutout of the season.Fort Hays State rattled off 21 shots, nine on goal in the conference win.The Tiger will have one day off before another MIAA contest against Central Oklahoma on Sunday (Oct. 8) with kickoff at 2 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;