Fort Hays State University has been awarded a $74,446 CIVIC Innovation Planning Grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF). 

The grant, titled “<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.EWtdXdo3nx3t8ZlvSfKX0TBLz8pdrhQKavqD9iv7cmvL8t2dzRrt-2FuL0-2FFwxowtXvi-2FbW6tJjYvsTk-2B2iASWoOqPkMBxh5VzbDrQ8XIHZV8gdKdWtMSgWNGS9heaqdEsjMKI_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOZRwRk5tcunCivpCVDIipVGkxFrFGct-2FhcQSmvPyLycNnN-2FuOCkOCOJmN8gv5ODZ7D435ftXFRy76ssBB6CkKPD-2BlgYfGRkb-2BSDHLmxutYofTyOmgw2HSzTJh1mb3R9xQCmg0aY4lpk6n1pZk4eEz1KExOfWwjkBQ0Xiww1G9inZtfzfYEIqgeyMd36O8uY9vj1zTrfvntsHRB1hGg9cklNOERpIP3mfh2MDBVSigZIlwgDMfWTnfdLyjdb4TILTp" target="_blank">Advancing Health Equity in Western Kansas Rural Communities Affected by Gender-Based Violence: A Survivor-Centered Advocacy Approach,”</a>&nbsp;will fund a six-month research development project beginning October 2024. This project is a critical first step in preparing for a subsequent one-year implementation grant to address service gaps for underrepresented communities.

The interdisciplinary project team includes key faculty members Ziwei Qi from Criminal Justice, Rachel Dolechek from Applied Business Studies, Naishuo Sun from Social Work, and experts from the Docking Institute. 

They will collaborate with Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services (Hays and Colby) to drive the project’s initial planning phase. During this stage, the team aims to expand partnerships with additional on-campus programs, academic departments, educational institutions, and community and public health organizations.

The primary objective of the project is to enhance health equity for survivors of gender-based violence in rural western Kansas. 

The team plans to develop initiatives to create an equitable and healthy community for survivors by addressing the adaptive challenges and systemic barriers posed by resource scarcity. 

This effort will involve connecting community organizations and volunteers and preparing community leaders to bridge existing service gaps while fostering a survivor-centered advocacy approach. 

The initiatives will help community members better strategize resources, introducing new approaches to address individual needs, such as emergency housing, and systemic challenges, such as building a trauma-informed and supportive community to facilitate healing and recovery.

The project team has identified service gaps in rural communities, particularly in lack of transportation, affordable services, and care, which are crucial for the healing and recovery of victims of sexual violence.

“It’s important to note that in rural Western Kansas, there are many community members, organizations, and criminal legal sectors providing essential services to those in need,” Qi said. “Some of these services effectively address individuals’ immediate needs. However, we must also focus on long-term sustainable ways of supporting victims by addressing structural and systemic challenges.”

“I’d like us to explore how we, as a community, can tackle adaptive challenges by building stronger, connected communities.”

The NSF has recognized the importance of this work by publishing a public-facing summary of the project, which is available upon request.

To request a copy of the NSF summary, please contact Sara Kiesler,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:skiesler@nsf.gov">skiesler@nsf.gov</a>.

For more information or to request to collaborate, please contact Ziwei Qi at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:z_qi5@fhsu.edu">z_qi5@fhsu.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724268776863.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsFort Hays State University has been awarded a $74,446 CIVIC Innovation Planning Grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF). The grant, titled “<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.EWtdXdo3nx3t8ZlvSfKX0TBLz8pdrhQKavqD9iv7cmvL8t2dzRrt-2FuL0-2FFwxowtXvi-2FbW6tJjYvsTk-2B2iASWoOqPkMBxh5VzbDrQ8XIHZV8gdKdWtMSgWNGS9heaqdEsjMKI_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOZRwRk5tcunCivpCVDIipVGkxFrFGct-2FhcQSmvPyLycNnN-2FuOCkOCOJmN8gv5ODZ7D435ftXFRy76ssBB6CkKPD-2BlgYfGRkb-2BSDHLmxutYofTyOmgw2HSzTJh1mb3R9xQCmg0aY4lpk6n1pZk4eEz1KExOfWwjkBQ0Xiww1G9inZtfzfYEIqgeyMd36O8uY9vj1zTrfvntsHRB1hGg9cklNOERpIP3mfh2MDBVSigZIlwgDMfWTnfdLyjdb4TILTp" target="_blank">Advancing Health Equity in Western Kansas Rural Communities Affected by Gender-Based Violence: A Survivor-Centered Advocacy Approach,”</a>&nbsp;will fund a six-month research development project beginning October 2024. This project is a critical first step in preparing for a subsequent one-year implementation grant to address service gaps for underrepresented communities.The interdisciplinary project team includes key faculty members Ziwei Qi from Criminal Justice, Rachel Dolechek from Applied Business Studies, Naishuo Sun from Social Work, and experts from the Docking Institute. They will collaborate with Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services (Hays and Colby) to drive the project’s initial planning phase. During this stage, the team aims to expand partnerships with additional on-campus programs, academic departments, educational institutions, and community and public health organizations.The primary objective of the project is to enhance health equity for survivors of gender-based violence in rural western Kansas. The team plans to develop initiatives to create an equitable and healthy community for survivors by addressing the adaptive challenges and systemic barriers posed by resource scarcity. This effort will involve connecting community organizations and volunteers and preparing community leaders to bridge existing service gaps while fostering a survivor-centered advocacy approach. The initiatives will help community members better strategize resources, introducing new approaches to address individual needs, such as emergency housing, and systemic challenges, such as building a trauma-informed and supportive community to facilitate healing and recovery.The project team has identified service gaps in rural communities, particularly in lack of transportation, affordable services, and care, which are crucial for the healing and recovery of victims of sexual violence.“It’s important to note that in rural Western Kansas, there are many community members, organizations, and criminal legal sectors providing essential services to those in need,” Qi said. “Some of these services effectively address individuals’ immediate needs. However, we must also focus on long-term sustainable ways of supporting victims by addressing structural and systemic challenges.”“I’d like us to explore how we, as a community, can tackle adaptive challenges by building stronger, connected communities.”The NSF has recognized the importance of this work by publishing a public-facing summary of the project, which is available upon request.To request a copy of the NSF summary, please contact Sara Kiesler,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:skiesler@nsf.gov">skiesler@nsf.gov</a>.For more information or to request to collaborate, please contact Ziwei Qi at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:z_qi5@fhsu.edu">z_qi5@fhsu.edu</a>.

FHSU awarded grant for health equity of gender-based violence survivors in W Kansas

By <a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2024/08/12/kansas-foster-child-drank-too-much-foster-care-didnt-help/?utm_source=WICHITA+BEACON+EMAIL+SIGNUPS&amp;utm_campaign=d1b25961c2-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2024_02_01_08_02_COPY_01&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_term=0_-f286a863ba-%5BLIST_EMAIL_ID%5D">BLAISE MESA</a> The Beacon

A high school junior based in Salina regularly came home at night drunk.

Sometimes he passed out in the front yard of his mother’s home. Other times, he’d sleep off a night of heavy drinking in the passenger’s seat of a car.

The teen’s mother didn’t know what to do. She’d lost the boy’s father, a drinker, to liver failure. The boy didn’t see much of a problem. After all, lots of high schoolers drink.&nbsp;

The minor, who isn’t being named to protect his privacy, was in therapy — something his mother initiated.&nbsp;

But then she got a call from police that he’d been busted for underage drinking. She didn’t come pick him up.

Under Kansas law, the teenager couldn’t be forced into a drug treatment program when he was living with his mother. But if he was a ward of the state, a foster kid, he could. She hoped a short stint in foster care would get him sober. She struggled to find resources in the community and hoped this desperate effort would turn the child’s life around.

But foster care is the wrong place, experts say — so the child’s life got turned upside down.&nbsp;

This story is common. On average, 10 children a month in Kansas get left at police stations or community treatment programs because their overwhelmed parents refuse to pick them up. These parents are told to pick up the kids, but they can’t handle the stress and don’t have the resources to help these children. So the parents leave them behind.

Those children who are left by their parents aren’t technically foster kids. At least not automatically. Once left behind, it’s the job of the Kansas Department for Children and Families to find them the help and stable housing they need.&nbsp;

But their numbers, some 120 cases a year, is equal 4% of the state’s foster population. That’s on par with the number of kids who land in foster care because of a parent’s drug abuse or because of sexual abuse. It exceeds the cases stemming from a parent going to jail, caregivers hooked on meth or domestic violence.

The Beacon isn’t using the full names of anyone involved in the case to protect participants’ identities. But we talked to the child, who’s 16 now and living in a group foster home. We spoke to his mother, to an aunt who had custody for a time and to an attorney representing the child’s interests in custody matters. And we looked at court records.

The boy first entered state custody in October 2023. That’s when he was booked for underage drinking when he was&nbsp; found in the passenger seat of the car.&nbsp;

The mother didn’t come pick the child up that night.&nbsp;

St. Francis Ministries, the foster care agency running his case, didn’t find an opening with a foster family at first. So the boy spent the first few weeks at a group home in Andover, Kansas.&nbsp;

That’s when the child’s aunt stepped in and the boy went to live with her in November 2023.&nbsp;

The first few months were rocky. At one point, the boy sent a letter to the judge overseeing his case complaining about his situation.&nbsp;

“I have been borrowing and using other people’s stuff since I don’t have anything of my own,” the boy said in the letter. “I could be a normal teenager if I had some of my belongings.”

The child was short on clothes. He needed a winter coat. He wanted to apply for a job and needed his Social Security card. Eventually, he got those and other crucial items. He wanted the family dog to come with him, but that didn’t happen.&nbsp;

His aunt provided his home from November through April 2024. She had raised three boys of her own and had a spare room for a teenager. She assumed her experience raising children would make life as a foster care placement easy, but it didn’t.&nbsp;

The teenager had a lot of appointments — random drug tests, therapy appointments and other visits required by the foster care system.&nbsp;

His aunt felt like she was in a no-win situation. She missed so much work because of all the random appointments that she found herself in danger of losing her job. Still, she failed to get him to so many appointments that she got at odds with caseworkers.&nbsp;

“I’ve been a working mom of three kids for a whole lot of years,” she said. “I thought it was something I could handle and knew how to do. I was completely unprepared for the amount of time that all of those things were going to require.”&nbsp;

The aunt asked St. Francis for help with transportation to appointments. She said the private nonprofit foster agency offered options to make transportation easier. But days later, the agency decided to move him out of her home.&nbsp;

St. Francis has systems to help families make those appointments and assists families regularly.

“We remain committed to continuous improvement and delivering quality care and services,” an agency spokesperson said in an email. “Our primary focus is always on the well-being and safety of the children and families we serve.”

Failed drug tests weren’t the boy’s only issue. His mother and aunt disagreed on what medications he should take.

A court ordered the teenager to counseling and various doctor’s appointments. Those doctors prescribed medication that the aunt gave him. That upset the child’s mother, who didn’t want him taking the medications.

Parents in such cases retain a right to determine what medicines their kid takes. That meant the aunt was told one thing by the boy’s mother while a court order sent him to therapy and a therapist put him on medication.&nbsp;

This back-and-forth eventually led to a safety plan, a written plan that said to follow the mother’s wishes on things like taking him off the medication.&nbsp;

The aunt accused St. Francis of failing her and refused to sign the safety plan without a commitment of more help. St. Francis contends it was helpful and needed the aunt to promise to get him to more appointments. The mother was mad at her sister for how she was taking care of the child in general.&nbsp;

Eventually, the case managers sent the child to a new home. That upset him and he ran away. The child was found and put into a new placement — a group home in Bel Aire, Kansas.&nbsp;

The child has missed around 40% of school since the arrest that led to him leaving his mother’s home. Regular tests for substance abuse have gone well, but he’s hours away from his friends.

The relationships between the boy and his mother, with his aunt and between those two sisters grew increasingly tense. As caseworkers tried to build a plan that might eventually put him back in his mother’s home, the lawyer in this case secured a court order blocking contact with his aunt.&nbsp;

The aunt said the system has failed. If the boy had gotten help in Salina for his drinking, she contends, his chaotic path through the foster system could have been avoided. Instead, he’s living in a group home and she hasn’t had so much as a phone call with him for months.

“They took him out of a very healthy family situation where there were obvious indicators that he was being successful, and put him in a terrible situation where his options at a future are incredibly limited,” she said.

The teenager has since been moved to live with his grandparents.&nbsp;

Foster care lacks additional resources&nbsp;

The Salina case started because a mother thought foster care could get her help she couldn’t find elsewhere. Matt Stephens, vice president of foster care at St. Francis Ministries, said he’s heard that a lot.&nbsp;

“Every time I hear it,” he said, “I make sure to try to educate people that that’s just not a reality of the situation.”

DCF and the private nonprofit agencies it works with couldn’t run the foster care system without help from community counseling centers and other social service organizations that couldn’t help that mother in Salina.

Foster agencies offer some of those services, but mostly for kids in the system. The state offers some services, counseling and the like, aimed at keeping them in their families’ homes. Those services are just in short supply.

For example, the Salina teenager got counseling 160 miles from home, through the Johnson County Mental Health Center.&nbsp;

Kristalle Hedrick, vice president of FosterAdopt Connect, said foster care doesn’t have enough money to deal with everything that’s thrown at it.&nbsp;

Years ago, the Kansas Legislature passed a law that made it much harder to put minors in jail. Lawmakers reasoned that correctional facilities can’t provide the therapeutic services minors needed. But the Legislature didn’t invest enough additional funds into community support.&nbsp;

Hedrick said she’s heard stories from caseworkers who call the state corrections department looking for resources to help high-needs kids and get turned away. Caseworkers hear:&nbsp;They’re foster care kids. They’re not our responsibility.

“It’s sort of a hot-potato kind of issue,” she said.&nbsp;

The state has made gains. It&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2023-01-31/kansas-might-tighten-criminal-penalties-for-kids-after-loosening-them-six-years-ago">passed a law last year</a>&nbsp;compelling the prison system to work more closely with foster agencies to address underlying problems children in the foster care system face.

State lawmakers are considering spending more on therapy and other services to&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2024/03/07/kansas-lawmakers-proposing-million-cut-down-medical-waitlist/">whittle down waitlists that can stretch on for years</a>.

Laura Howard, secretary for the Department for Children and Families, said her agency has expanded services aimed at preventing kids from falling into foster care, added crisis hotlines and tapped into some federal programs.

For instance, she said a child behavioral intervention program brings therapists to the homes of children to work on behavioral and emotional management.

That program is also now a Medicaid service, which means families don’t need to enter foster care to get it.&nbsp;

“We have filled a lot of gaps in the system. We have more to fill. I mean, we’re not there yet,” she said. “(But) I’m definitely more optimistic today.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724172288047.png" alt="The child's aunt looks through the teen's room after he left her home. Photo by Vaughn Wheat/The Beacon" />
 <figcaption>The child's aunt looks through the teen's room after he left her home. Photo by Vaughn Wheat/The Beacon</figcaption>
 </figure>By <a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2024/08/12/kansas-foster-child-drank-too-much-foster-care-didnt-help/?utm_source=WICHITA+BEACON+EMAIL+SIGNUPS&amp;utm_campaign=d1b25961c2-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2024_02_01_08_02_COPY_01&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_term=0_-f286a863ba-%5BLIST_EMAIL_ID%5D">BLAISE MESA</a> The BeaconA high school junior based in Salina regularly came home at night drunk.Sometimes he passed out in the front yard of his mother’s home. Other times, he’d sleep off a night of heavy drinking in the passenger’s seat of a car.The teen’s mother didn’t know what to do. She’d lost the boy’s father, a drinker, to liver failure. The boy didn’t see much of a problem. After all, lots of high schoolers drink.&nbsp;The minor, who isn’t being named to protect his privacy, was in therapy — something his mother initiated.&nbsp;But then she got a call from police that he’d been busted for underage drinking. She didn’t come pick him up.Under Kansas law, the teenager couldn’t be forced into a drug treatment program when he was living with his mother. But if he was a ward of the state, a foster kid, he could. She hoped a short stint in foster care would get him sober. She struggled to find resources in the community and hoped this desperate effort would turn the child’s life around.But foster care is the wrong place, experts say — so the child’s life got turned upside down.&nbsp;This story is common. On average, 10 children a month in Kansas get left at police stations or community treatment programs because their overwhelmed parents refuse to pick them up. These parents are told to pick up the kids, but they can’t handle the stress and don’t have the resources to help these children. So the parents leave them behind.Those children who are left by their parents aren’t technically foster kids. At least not automatically. Once left behind, it’s the job of the Kansas Department for Children and Families to find them the help and stable housing they need.&nbsp;But their numbers, some 120 cases a year, is equal 4% of the state’s foster population. That’s on par with the number of kids who land in foster care because of a parent’s drug abuse or because of sexual abuse. It exceeds the cases stemming from a parent going to jail, caregivers hooked on meth or domestic violence.<h2>Details about the case</h2>The Beacon isn’t using the full names of anyone involved in the case to protect participants’ identities. But we talked to the child, who’s 16 now and living in a group foster home. We spoke to his mother, to an aunt who had custody for a time and to an attorney representing the child’s interests in custody matters. And we looked at court records.The boy first entered state custody in October 2023. That’s when he was booked for underage drinking when he was&nbsp; found in the passenger seat of the car.&nbsp;The mother didn’t come pick the child up that night.&nbsp;St. Francis Ministries, the foster care agency running his case, didn’t find an opening with a foster family at first. So the boy spent the first few weeks at a group home in Andover, Kansas.&nbsp;That’s when the child’s aunt stepped in and the boy went to live with her in November 2023.&nbsp;The first few months were rocky. At one point, the boy sent a letter to the judge overseeing his case complaining about his situation.&nbsp;“I have been borrowing and using other people’s stuff since I don’t have anything of my own,” the boy said in the letter. “I could be a normal teenager if I had some of my belongings.”The child was short on clothes. He needed a winter coat. He wanted to apply for a job and needed his Social Security card. Eventually, he got those and other crucial items. He wanted the family dog to come with him, but that didn’t happen.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724172728670.png" alt="The family dog that the teen was missing. Photo by Blaise Mesa/The Beacon" />
 <figcaption>The family dog that the teen was missing. Photo by Blaise Mesa/The Beacon</figcaption>
 </figure>His aunt provided his home from November through April 2024. She had raised three boys of her own and had a spare room for a teenager. She assumed her experience raising children would make life as a foster care placement easy, but it didn’t.&nbsp;The teenager had a lot of appointments — random drug tests, therapy appointments and other visits required by the foster care system.&nbsp;His aunt felt like she was in a no-win situation. She missed so much work because of all the random appointments that she found herself in danger of losing her job. Still, she failed to get him to so many appointments that she got at odds with caseworkers.&nbsp;“I’ve been a working mom of three kids for a whole lot of years,” she said. “I thought it was something I could handle and knew how to do. I was completely unprepared for the amount of time that all of those things were going to require.”&nbsp;The aunt asked St. Francis for help with transportation to appointments. She said the private nonprofit foster agency offered options to make transportation easier. But days later, the agency decided to move him out of her home.&nbsp;St. Francis has systems to help families make those appointments and assists families regularly.“We remain committed to continuous improvement and delivering quality care and services,” an agency spokesperson said in an email. “Our primary focus is always on the well-being and safety of the children and families we serve.”Failed drug tests weren’t the boy’s only issue. His mother and aunt disagreed on what medications he should take.A court ordered the teenager to counseling and various doctor’s appointments. Those doctors prescribed medication that the aunt gave him. That upset the child’s mother, who didn’t want him taking the medications.Parents in such cases retain a right to determine what medicines their kid takes. That meant the aunt was told one thing by the boy’s mother while a court order sent him to therapy and a therapist put him on medication.&nbsp;This back-and-forth eventually led to a safety plan, a written plan that said to follow the mother’s wishes on things like taking him off the medication.&nbsp;The aunt accused St. Francis of failing her and refused to sign the safety plan without a commitment of more help. St. Francis contends it was helpful and needed the aunt to promise to get him to more appointments. The mother was mad at her sister for how she was taking care of the child in general.&nbsp;Eventually, the case managers sent the child to a new home. That upset him and he ran away. The child was found and put into a new placement — a group home in Bel Aire, Kansas.&nbsp;The child has missed around 40% of school since the arrest that led to him leaving his mother’s home. Regular tests for substance abuse have gone well, but he’s hours away from his friends.The relationships between the boy and his mother, with his aunt and between those two sisters grew increasingly tense. As caseworkers tried to build a plan that might eventually put him back in his mother’s home, the lawyer in this case secured a court order blocking contact with his aunt.&nbsp;The aunt said the system has failed. If the boy had gotten help in Salina for his drinking, she contends, his chaotic path through the foster system could have been avoided. Instead, he’s living in a group home and she hasn’t had so much as a phone call with him for months.“They took him out of a very healthy family situation where there were obvious indicators that he was being successful, and put him in a terrible situation where his options at a future are incredibly limited,” she said.The teenager has since been moved to live with his grandparents.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724172613105.png" alt="The child’s room at his biological mothers house. Some clothes were left behind.&nbsp; Photo by Blaise Mesa/The Beacon" />
 <figcaption>The child’s room at his biological mothers house. Some clothes were left behind.&nbsp; Photo by Blaise Mesa/The Beacon</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Foster care lacks additional resources&nbsp;</h2>The Salina case started because a mother thought foster care could get her help she couldn’t find elsewhere. Matt Stephens, vice president of foster care at St. Francis Ministries, said he’s heard that a lot.&nbsp;“Every time I hear it,” he said, “I make sure to try to educate people that that’s just not a reality of the situation.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724172509979.png" alt="A sign outside the Department for Children and Families building. Courtesy the Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>A sign outside the Department for Children and Families building. Courtesy the Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>DCF and the private nonprofit agencies it works with couldn’t run the foster care system without help from community counseling centers and other social service organizations that couldn’t help that mother in Salina.Foster agencies offer some of those services, but mostly for kids in the system. The state offers some services, counseling and the like, aimed at keeping them in their families’ homes. Those services are just in short supply.For example, the Salina teenager got counseling 160 miles from home, through the Johnson County Mental Health Center.&nbsp;Kristalle Hedrick, vice president of FosterAdopt Connect, said foster care doesn’t have enough money to deal with everything that’s thrown at it.&nbsp;Years ago, the Kansas Legislature passed a law that made it much harder to put minors in jail. Lawmakers reasoned that correctional facilities can’t provide the therapeutic services minors needed. But the Legislature didn’t invest enough additional funds into community support.&nbsp;Hedrick said she’s heard stories from caseworkers who call the state corrections department looking for resources to help high-needs kids and get turned away. Caseworkers hear:&nbsp;They’re foster care kids. They’re not our responsibility.“It’s sort of a hot-potato kind of issue,” she said.&nbsp;<h2>Some possible fixes&nbsp;</h2>The state has made gains. It&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2023-01-31/kansas-might-tighten-criminal-penalties-for-kids-after-loosening-them-six-years-ago">passed a law last year</a>&nbsp;compelling the prison system to work more closely with foster agencies to address underlying problems children in the foster care system face.State lawmakers are considering spending more on therapy and other services to&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2024/03/07/kansas-lawmakers-proposing-million-cut-down-medical-waitlist/">whittle down waitlists that can stretch on for years</a>.Laura Howard, secretary for the Department for Children and Families, said her agency has expanded services aimed at preventing kids from falling into foster care, added crisis hotlines and tapped into some federal programs.For instance, she said a child behavioral intervention program brings therapists to the homes of children to work on behavioral and emotional management.That program is also now a Medicaid service, which means families don’t need to enter foster care to get it.&nbsp;“We have filled a lot of gaps in the system. We have more to fill. I mean, we’re not there yet,” she said. “(But) I’m definitely more optimistic today.”

Kansas teen handed over to state to get him sober. Now he’s in foster care

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A man accused of using online obituary postings to plan residential burglaries was convicted of all counts by a jury on Monday.

Gary Garrett, 50 of Wichita, was charged in three separate cases totaling 27 counts, including three residential burglaries, one attempted residential burglary, one business burglary and multiple counts of theft, forgery and identity theft,&nbsp;according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Victims reported losing financial documents, guns and electronics in the residential burglaries, some of which occurred while the families were at the funeral services for their deceased family members. 

Investigators from the Wichita Police Department and Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office worked together on the case, and more than 40 witnesses testified during the trial. At the time of Garrett’s arrest in November of last year in the parking lot of an East Wichita Walmart store, Garrett was found to be in possession of a driver’s license belonging to one of the deceased victims. A Wichita Police burglary detective testified at trial that a download of Garrett’s phone showed online searches of obituaries that corresponded to the burglary locations across the city from July to November of 2023.

Garrett also was convicted of using fake IDs to rent and purchase several vehicles during the same timeframe. One of the vehicles rented by Garrett had a GPS location device that placed the vehicle at the scene of several of the burglaries, according to testimony in the trial.

&nbsp;Sentencing is set for October 24, before Judge Bruce Brown, according to the district attorney's office

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724257794246.png" alt="Garrett photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Garrett photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A man accused of using online obituary postings to plan residential burglaries was convicted of all counts by a jury on Monday.Gary Garrett, 50 of Wichita, was charged in three separate cases totaling 27 counts, including three residential burglaries, one attempted residential burglary, one business burglary and multiple counts of theft, forgery and identity theft,&nbsp;according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.Victims reported losing financial documents, guns and electronics in the residential burglaries, some of which occurred while the families were at the funeral services for their deceased family members. Investigators from the Wichita Police Department and Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office worked together on the case, and more than 40 witnesses testified during the trial. At the time of Garrett’s arrest in November of last year in the parking lot of an East Wichita Walmart store, Garrett was found to be in possession of a driver’s license belonging to one of the deceased victims. A Wichita Police burglary detective testified at trial that a download of Garrett’s phone showed online searches of obituaries that corresponded to the burglary locations across the city from July to November of 2023.Garrett also was convicted of using fake IDs to rent and purchase several vehicles during the same timeframe. One of the vehicles rented by Garrett had a GPS location device that placed the vehicle at the scene of several of the burglaries, according to testimony in the trial.&nbsp;Sentencing is set for October 24, before Judge Bruce Brown, according to the district attorney's office

Kan. man planned residential burglaries after reading obituaries

Danny “Dan” Lee Studebaker, 75, of Russell, Kansas, died on Monday, August 19, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving wife and daughter.

Dan was born on October 18, 1948, in Garden City, Kansas, the son of Carl and Bernice L. (Selby) Studebaker. He grew up in Pratt, Kansas and Pryor, Oklahoma, and graduated from Pryor High School in the class of 1966. After high school he served his country and joined the United States Army. He met, fell in love, and was united in marriage to Phyllis Sidebottom on August 27, 1978, in Cope, Colorado. From this union, Dan and Phyllis were blessed with their daughter, Carlee. Dan worked as a Territory Sales Rep for Cards N’ Such for 19 years. They moved to Russell, Kansas in 2008, and attended Bible Baptist Church. He loved to play golf and was a member of the Russell Golf Course. He also enjoyed fishing, reading, watching Dallas Cowboys and Oklahoma University football, and KC Royals baseball. Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family and watching his grandchildren’s many sports activities.

Surviving family include his wife Phyllis of the home, daughter Carlee Johnson and husband Josh of Topeka, Kansas; sisters Linda Meier and husband Mike of Litchfield, Ohio and Pam Hunlock of Fenton, Michigan and four grandchildren Adam, Noah, Jax, and Ashlyn Johnson.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Gary Studebaker.

A memorial service to celebrate Dan’s life will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Friday, August 30, 2024, at the Bible Baptist Church in Russell, Kansas. Family will greet guests the day of the service at the church. Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the funeral service arrangements. Memorials can be given to the Bible Baptist Church and sent in care of the mortuary.

Danny “Dan” Lee Studebaker, 75, of Russell, Kansas, died on Monday, August 19, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving wife and daughter.Dan was born on October 18, 1948, in Garden City, Kansas, the son of Carl and Bernice L. (Selby) Studebaker. He grew up in Pratt, Kansas and Pryor, Oklahoma, and graduated from Pryor High School in the class of 1966. After high school he served his country and joined the United States Army. He met, fell in love, and was united in marriage to Phyllis Sidebottom on August 27, 1978, in Cope, Colorado. From this union, Dan and Phyllis were blessed with their daughter, Carlee. Dan worked as a Territory Sales Rep for Cards N’ Such for 19 years. They moved to Russell, Kansas in 2008, and attended Bible Baptist Church. He loved to play golf and was a member of the Russell Golf Course. He also enjoyed fishing, reading, watching Dallas Cowboys and Oklahoma University football, and KC Royals baseball. Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family and watching his grandchildren’s many sports activities.Surviving family include his wife Phyllis of the home, daughter Carlee Johnson and husband Josh of Topeka, Kansas; sisters Linda Meier and husband Mike of Litchfield, Ohio and Pam Hunlock of Fenton, Michigan and four grandchildren Adam, Noah, Jax, and Ashlyn Johnson.He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Gary Studebaker.A memorial service to celebrate Dan’s life will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Friday, August 30, 2024, at the Bible Baptist Church in Russell, Kansas. Family will greet guests the day of the service at the church. Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the funeral service arrangements. Memorials can be given to the Bible Baptist Church and sent in care of the mortuary.

Danny Lee Studebaker

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. regulators approved&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid19-vaccinations-cdc-coronavirus-a785acb4aca8e69f21b6f1a41c021e2c">updated COVID-19 vaccines</a>&nbsp;on Thursday, shots designed to more closely target recent virus strains -- and hopefully whatever variants cause trouble this winter, too.

With the Food and Drug Administration’s clearance, Pfizer and Moderna are set to begin shipping millions of doses. A third U.S. manufacturer, Novavax, expects its updated vaccine version to be available a little later.

“We strongly encourage those who are eligible to consider receiving an updated COVID-19 vaccine to provide better protection against currently circulating variants,” said FDA vaccine chief Dr. Peter Marks.

The agency’s decision came a bit earlier than last year’s rollout of updated COVID-19 vaccines, as a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/flu-covid-19-respiratory-syncytial-virus-0000018de622d464a99fef7706610000">summer wave of the virus</a>&nbsp;continues in most of the country. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention already has recommended this fall’s shot for everyone age 6 months and older. Vaccinations could be available within days.

While most Americans have some degree of immunity from prior infections or vaccinations or both, that protection wanes.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-vaccines-shots-cdc-5bc4db844557120bcc50dc0838c0e044">Last fall’s shots</a>&nbsp;targeted a different part of the coronavirus family tree, a strain that’s no longer circulating -- and CDC data shows only about 22.5% of adults and 14% of children received it.

Skipping the new shot is “a hazardous way to go,” because even if your last infection was mild, your next might be worse or leave you with long COVID symptoms, said Dr. Robert Hopkins Jr. of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases.

This fall’s vaccine recipe is tailored to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-vaccines-updated-moderna-pfizer-novavax-72c2c5fafc46ccc9f2fd89fcda5d99df">a newer branch of omicron descendants</a>. The Pfizer and Moderna shots target a subtype called KP.2 that was common earlier this year. While additional offshoots, particularly KP.3.1.1, now are spreading, they’re closely enough related that the vaccines promise cross-protection. A Pfizer spokesman said the company submitted data to FDA showing its updated vaccine “generates a substantially improved response” against multiple virus subtypes compared to last fall’s vaccine.

The big question: How soon to get vaccinated? This summer’s wave of COVID-19 isn’t over but the inevitable winter surges tend to be worse. And while COVID-19 vaccines do a good job preventing severe disease, hospitalization and death, protection against mild infection lasts only a few months.

People who are at high risk from the virus shouldn’t wait but instead schedule vaccinations once shots are available in their area, Hopkins advised.

That includes older adults, people with weak immune systems or other serious medical problems, nursing home residents and pregnant women.

Healthy younger adults and children “can get vaccinated anytime. I don’t think there’s a real reason to wait,” Hopkins said – although it’s OK to seek the shots in the fall, when plenty of doses will have arrived at pharmacies and doctor’s offices.

The exception: The CDC says anyone who recently had COVID-19 can wait three months after they recover before getting vaccinated, until immunity from that infection begins to wane.

Hopkins, who sees patients at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, calls it vital for more youngsters to get vaccinated this year – especially with schools starting as coronavirus levels are high around the country.

“COVID does not kill many children, thank goodness, but it kills far more children than influenza does,” Hopkins said, adding that teachers, too, should quickly get up to date with the vaccine.

Health authorities say it’s fine to get a COVID-19 and flu vaccination at the same time, a convenience so people don’t have to make two trips. But while many drugstores already are advertising flu shots, the prime time for that vaccination tends to be late September through October, just before flu typically starts its cold weather climb.

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724349670448.png" alt="Photo courtesy Pfizer" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Pfizer</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;LAURAN NEERGAARDWASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. regulators approved&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid19-vaccinations-cdc-coronavirus-a785acb4aca8e69f21b6f1a41c021e2c">updated COVID-19 vaccines</a>&nbsp;on Thursday, shots designed to more closely target recent virus strains -- and hopefully whatever variants cause trouble this winter, too.With the Food and Drug Administration’s clearance, Pfizer and Moderna are set to begin shipping millions of doses. A third U.S. manufacturer, Novavax, expects its updated vaccine version to be available a little later.“We strongly encourage those who are eligible to consider receiving an updated COVID-19 vaccine to provide better protection against currently circulating variants,” said FDA vaccine chief Dr. Peter Marks.The agency’s decision came a bit earlier than last year’s rollout of updated COVID-19 vaccines, as a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/flu-covid-19-respiratory-syncytial-virus-0000018de622d464a99fef7706610000">summer wave of the virus</a>&nbsp;continues in most of the country. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention already has recommended this fall’s shot for everyone age 6 months and older. Vaccinations could be available within days.While most Americans have some degree of immunity from prior infections or vaccinations or both, that protection wanes.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-vaccines-shots-cdc-5bc4db844557120bcc50dc0838c0e044">Last fall’s shots</a>&nbsp;targeted a different part of the coronavirus family tree, a strain that’s no longer circulating -- and CDC data shows only about 22.5% of adults and 14% of children received it.Skipping the new shot is “a hazardous way to go,” because even if your last infection was mild, your next might be worse or leave you with long COVID symptoms, said Dr. Robert Hopkins Jr. of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases.This fall’s vaccine recipe is tailored to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-vaccines-updated-moderna-pfizer-novavax-72c2c5fafc46ccc9f2fd89fcda5d99df">a newer branch of omicron descendants</a>. The Pfizer and Moderna shots target a subtype called KP.2 that was common earlier this year. While additional offshoots, particularly KP.3.1.1, now are spreading, they’re closely enough related that the vaccines promise cross-protection. A Pfizer spokesman said the company submitted data to FDA showing its updated vaccine “generates a substantially improved response” against multiple virus subtypes compared to last fall’s vaccine.The big question: How soon to get vaccinated? This summer’s wave of COVID-19 isn’t over but the inevitable winter surges tend to be worse. And while COVID-19 vaccines do a good job preventing severe disease, hospitalization and death, protection against mild infection lasts only a few months.People who are at high risk from the virus shouldn’t wait but instead schedule vaccinations once shots are available in their area, Hopkins advised.That includes older adults, people with weak immune systems or other serious medical problems, nursing home residents and pregnant women.Healthy younger adults and children “can get vaccinated anytime. I don’t think there’s a real reason to wait,” Hopkins said – although it’s OK to seek the shots in the fall, when plenty of doses will have arrived at pharmacies and doctor’s offices.The exception: The CDC says anyone who recently had COVID-19 can wait three months after they recover before getting vaccinated, until immunity from that infection begins to wane.Hopkins, who sees patients at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, calls it vital for more youngsters to get vaccinated this year – especially with schools starting as coronavirus levels are high around the country.“COVID does not kill many children, thank goodness, but it kills far more children than influenza does,” Hopkins said, adding that teachers, too, should quickly get up to date with the vaccine.Health authorities say it’s fine to get a COVID-19 and flu vaccination at the same time, a convenience so people don’t have to make two trips. But while many drugstores already are advertising flu shots, the prime time for that vaccination tends to be late September through October, just before flu typically starts its cold weather climb.<h2>___</h2>The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

FDA approves updated COVID-19 vaccines

Deloris M. (Inderlied) Pianalto, 94, of Atwood, died Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at the Good Samaritan Society, Atwood. She was born on November 29, 1929, in DeWitt, NE, the third child of William and Mildred Inderlied. Deloris was baptized on December 22, 1929, and confirmed on May 9, 1943, at Trinity Lutheran Church, in DeWitt, NE. Deloris attended Country School near the family farm where she was raised. She graduated from DeWitt High School in 1948, then went to work at the Elgin Watch Factory in Lincoln, NE.

In 1952, Deloris moved to California and married a service man in the Marines. They moved to Baton Rouge, LA when he got out of the service. They were blessed in 1956, with son Glenn and another son Roy, in 1969. After they divorced in 1974, Deloris moved back to her hometown, DeWitt, NE.

Deloris met and married Lester Pianalto on May 7, 1982, in Lincoln, NE. They lived on a dairy farm in Atwood, KS until moving into the town of Atwood in 1997.

Deloris joined Sacred Heart Catholic Church, in Atwood, in October of 1994. She was a member of the Christian Mothers Altar Society, Homemakers Club, Coffee Club, Red hat Club and helped with many community projects. Deloris knew no stranger and always had a kind word and helped those in need. She loved watching football games, reading, dancing and many other hobbies.

She was preceded in death by her son Glenn in 1976; her parents; husband Lester Pianalto; sister Betty and brother Lowell.

Survivors include her son Roy Lee Harris and wife Jenn; three stepdaughters, Anita Squier, Diane Kostal and Teresa Clark; sisters, Meryl Hespin and Margie Aksamit; brother Bob Inderlied; five step-grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren and many relatives and friends.

Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m., with a Vigil at 7:00 p.m., Thursday, August 22, 2024, at Baalmann Mortuary, Atwood. Funeral Mass is 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 23, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Atwood, with burial in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Atwood. Memorials may be made to the Good Samaritan Society, Atwood or the Rawlins County Hospital and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724434469625.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Deloris M. (Inderlied) Pianalto, 94, of Atwood, died Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at the Good Samaritan Society, Atwood. She was born on November 29, 1929, in DeWitt, NE, the third child of William and Mildred Inderlied. Deloris was baptized on December 22, 1929, and confirmed on May 9, 1943, at Trinity Lutheran Church, in DeWitt, NE. Deloris attended Country School near the family farm where she was raised. She graduated from DeWitt High School in 1948, then went to work at the Elgin Watch Factory in Lincoln, NE.In 1952, Deloris moved to California and married a service man in the Marines. They moved to Baton Rouge, LA when he got out of the service. They were blessed in 1956, with son Glenn and another son Roy, in 1969. After they divorced in 1974, Deloris moved back to her hometown, DeWitt, NE.Deloris met and married Lester Pianalto on May 7, 1982, in Lincoln, NE. They lived on a dairy farm in Atwood, KS until moving into the town of Atwood in 1997.Deloris joined Sacred Heart Catholic Church, in Atwood, in October of 1994. She was a member of the Christian Mothers Altar Society, Homemakers Club, Coffee Club, Red hat Club and helped with many community projects. Deloris knew no stranger and always had a kind word and helped those in need. She loved watching football games, reading, dancing and many other hobbies.She was preceded in death by her son Glenn in 1976; her parents; husband Lester Pianalto; sister Betty and brother Lowell.Survivors include her son Roy Lee Harris and wife Jenn; three stepdaughters, Anita Squier, Diane Kostal and Teresa Clark; sisters, Meryl Hespin and Margie Aksamit; brother Bob Inderlied; five step-grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren and many relatives and friends.Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m., with a Vigil at 7:00 p.m., Thursday, August 22, 2024, at Baalmann Mortuary, Atwood. Funeral Mass is 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 23, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Atwood, with burial in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Atwood. Memorials may be made to the Good Samaritan Society, Atwood or the Rawlins County Hospital and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp;&nbsp;

Deloris M. (Inderlied) Pianalto

HAYS, Kan. - Meet the 2024 Fort Hays State Football team on Friday, August 23 at Big Creek Crossing in Hays. Coaches and&nbsp;players will be signing autographs and giving out 2024 schedule posters from 5 to 7 p.m.

Posters and sharpies for autographs will be provided. Members of the&nbsp;FHSU&nbsp;Cheer Squad and Victor E. Tiger will also be at the event. Fans can also bring their own Tiger gear to be signed.

Chance to Win Diamond Earrings from Riddle's Jewelry Attendees can enter a giveaway from Riddle's Jewelry for a pair of 1 CTW Diamond Earrings in 14 Kt Yellow Gold, a retail value of $3,285. You must be present to win and a mandatory picture will be required upon winning.

The Tigers open the season on Thursday, August 29 hosting No. 24 ranked Angelo State. The Tigers will be at home for their first two games of the season. Overall, Fort Hays State will be at home six times during its 11-game regular season schedule.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/schedule">2024 Football Schedule</a>

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/schedule"></a>2024 Home Games August 29 – Angelo State, 7 p.m. September 7 – Missouri Western, 7 p.m. September 21 – Northeastern State, 7 p.m. October 5 – Central Missouri (Homecoming), 7 p.m. October 12 – Washburn, 7 p.m. October 26 – Missouri Southern, 1 p.m.

Season Tickets Get your Tiger Football reserved season tickets by calling 785-628-4050 or by stopping by the FHSU Athletic Department (Cunningham Hall Rm 138). See season ticket packages for the 2024-25 athletic year at the following link...&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/news/2024/7/25/secure-your-2024-football-season-tickets-today.aspx">2024-25 Season Ticket Release</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724342029036.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. - Meet the 2024 Fort Hays State Football team on Friday, August 23 at Big Creek Crossing in Hays. Coaches and&nbsp;players will be signing autographs and giving out 2024 schedule posters from 5 to 7 p.m.Posters and sharpies for autographs will be provided. Members of the&nbsp;FHSU&nbsp;Cheer Squad and Victor E. Tiger will also be at the event. Fans can also bring their own Tiger gear to be signed.Chance to Win Diamond Earrings from Riddle's Jewelry Attendees can enter a giveaway from Riddle's Jewelry for a pair of 1 CTW Diamond Earrings in 14 Kt Yellow Gold, a retail value of $3,285. You must be present to win and a mandatory picture will be required upon winning.The Tigers open the season on Thursday, August 29 hosting No. 24 ranked Angelo State. The Tigers will be at home for their first two games of the season. Overall, Fort Hays State will be at home six times during its 11-game regular season schedule.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/schedule">2024 Football Schedule</a><a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/schedule"></a>2024 Home Games August 29 – Angelo State, 7 p.m. September 7 – Missouri Western, 7 p.m. September 21 – Northeastern State, 7 p.m. October 5 – Central Missouri (Homecoming), 7 p.m. October 12 – Washburn, 7 p.m. October 26 – Missouri Southern, 1 p.m.Season Tickets Get your Tiger Football reserved season tickets by calling 785-628-4050 or by stopping by the FHSU Athletic Department (Cunningham Hall Rm 138). See season ticket packages for the 2024-25 athletic year at the following link...&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/news/2024/7/25/secure-your-2024-football-season-tickets-today.aspx">2024-25 Season Ticket Release</a>

🏈 FHSU Autograph Day - Friday, August 23 - Big Creek Crossing in Hays

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Discover the creative realm of nature-inspired art at this year's Fall Art Walk featuring two artists, spanning multiple locations throughout downtown Hays.

Brenda Meder, director of the Hays Arts Council, said she is excited for Friday's annual art walk that starts at the Art Center, located at 112 E. 11th St.

"There are a lot of wonderful events and features that are part of this. We have a great lineup," she said.

The art center will showcase works by Glen Ediger from Wichita and Eric Stearns from Nebraska in this fall's exhibition that runs through October 11.

Ediger's innovative "Environmental Exposure" genre involves placing sheets of steel, copper, aluminum, or wood outdoors with materials on top, allowing them to weather for extended periods. This technique produces abstract landscapes through rust, dust and patina.

Stearns’ Raku fired ceramics draws on his interest in mathematics to create patterns that aim to evoke emotional responses. Each piece reflects his identity as both a person and an artist.

Titled "Element," the exhibit serves as the anchor of the art walk which Meder said is perfect for the works of Ediger and Stearns.

"I derive that name from its meaning, which is 'wild and powerful,' like the forces of nature," she said. "Both of our artists represent that."

Ediger is a retired Director of Design at<a href="https://www.vornado.com/"> Vornado Air LLC</a>, where he was involved in the design, engineering and development of Vornado products since 1985.

Stearns is the chairman of the art department at Doane University and also earned a Master of Fine Arts degree from Fort Hays State University.

The opening reception for "Elemental" is from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Hays Art Center and the exhibit will be on display until October 11.

You can learn more about <a href="https://stearnsceramics.com/">Eric Stearns</a> and <a href="https://www.glenedigerart.com/">Glen Ediger</a> on their websites.

The Fall Art Walk includes various downtown locations and the FHSU campus, featuring exhibitions at the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art and the Taylor Gallery.

The two campus exhibits showcase "Hypertopia" by graphic designer Sean Engler and "Base of Reasoning" sculptures by Dan Schluckbier, open from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

"One thing to remember is there's no order you have to follow things. We start campus a little early to give you a chance to catch that and make the evening even longer," Meder said.

The Hays Public Library, 1205 Main St., features "Sorting out Race," a Kansas Humanities touring exhibition with live music by Forrest McCurren.

Other locations you can explore on Friday include:

Victory Highway, now Highway 40, was constructed after World War I to connect the nation and honor returning veterans.

"It grew literally across the country," Meder said. "It's a touring exhibition that has been going around the state and region for quite some time. It's fascinating."

You can find a complete list of locations and information about displays <a href="https://img1.wsimg.com/blobby/go/916bb38b-09bf-4c28-bf9f-4da5a0b67707/downloads/Fall%20Walk%2024%20inside%208-19.pdf?ver=1724080593886">here</a>.

The Hays Art Center is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

You can find more information on the Hays Art Council's&nbsp;<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/">website&nbsp;</a>and follow them on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063746254684">Facebook</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724259676348.jpeg" alt="Small wood framed wall pieces by artist Eric Stearns. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Small wood framed wall pieces by artist Eric Stearns. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostDiscover the creative realm of nature-inspired art at this year's Fall Art Walk featuring two artists, spanning multiple locations throughout downtown Hays.Brenda Meder, director of the Hays Arts Council, said she is excited for Friday's annual art walk that starts at the Art Center, located at 112 E. 11th St."There are a lot of wonderful events and features that are part of this. We have a great lineup," she said.The art center will showcase works by Glen Ediger from Wichita and Eric Stearns from Nebraska in this fall's exhibition that runs through October 11.Ediger's innovative "Environmental Exposure" genre involves placing sheets of steel, copper, aluminum, or wood outdoors with materials on top, allowing them to weather for extended periods. This technique produces abstract landscapes through rust, dust and patina.Stearns’ Raku fired ceramics draws on his interest in mathematics to create patterns that aim to evoke emotional responses. Each piece reflects his identity as both a person and an artist.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724259728522.jpeg" alt="Small vessels by artist&nbsp;Eric Stearns. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Small vessels by artist&nbsp;Eric Stearns. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724259766433.jpeg" alt="Fractured Triptych by artist&nbsp;Glen Ediger. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Fractured Triptych by artist&nbsp;Glen Ediger. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724259808985.jpeg" alt="A small vessel by Eric Stearns. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A small vessel by Eric Stearns. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Titled "Element," the exhibit serves as the anchor of the art walk which Meder said is perfect for the works of Ediger and Stearns."I derive that name from its meaning, which is 'wild and powerful,' like the forces of nature," she said. "Both of our artists represent that."Ediger is a retired Director of Design at<a href="https://www.vornado.com/"> Vornado Air LLC</a>, where he was involved in the design, engineering and development of Vornado products since 1985.Stearns is the chairman of the art department at Doane University and also earned a Master of Fine Arts degree from Fort Hays State University.The opening reception for "Elemental" is from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Hays Art Center and the exhibit will be on display until October 11.You can learn more about <a href="https://stearnsceramics.com/">Eric Stearns</a> and <a href="https://www.glenedigerart.com/">Glen Ediger</a> on their websites.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724259902255.jpeg" alt="A small vessel by&nbsp;Eric Stearns. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A small vessel by&nbsp;Eric Stearns. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724259916781.jpeg" alt="A flared bowl by&nbsp;Eric Stearns. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A flared bowl by&nbsp;Eric Stearns. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724259931072.jpeg" alt="The High Plains by artist Glen Ediger. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The High Plains by artist Glen Ediger. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The Fall Art Walk includes various downtown locations and the FHSU campus, featuring exhibitions at the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art and the Taylor Gallery.The two campus exhibits showcase "Hypertopia" by graphic designer Sean Engler and "Base of Reasoning" sculptures by Dan Schluckbier, open from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m."One thing to remember is there's no order you have to follow things. We start campus a little early to give you a chance to catch that and make the evening even longer," Meder said.The Hays Public Library, 1205 Main St., features "Sorting out Race," a Kansas Humanities touring exhibition with live music by Forrest McCurren.Other locations you can explore on Friday include:<ol>
 <li>Ceena's Massage and Retail, 106 W. 12th St. for Crystal and Gemstone Jewelry and Suncatchers by Jessica Hughes</li><li>Catholic Charities Offices, 122 E. 12th St. for&nbsp;Painting and Collage Quilt&nbsp;by Emily Schoeppner</li><li>Custom Creations, 1107 Main St. for&nbsp;“I Want to go to Brookfield Zoo”&nbsp;creations by Lucas Albers </li><li>Paisley Pear Wine Bar &amp; Bistro, 1100 Main St. for Ink &amp; Colored Pencil Dimensional Art&nbsp;by Kari Haas with live music by Wade Richards from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.</li><li>Madd Matter Frame Shop &amp; Gallery, 112 E. 11th St. for&nbsp;“Beyond the Frame:&nbsp;Picture the Possibilities”</li><li>Fusion by Manuel, 700 Main St. for "Work by Jacob"</li><li>Ellis County Historical Society, 100 W. 7th St. for&nbsp;“Hitting the Road: 100 Years on&nbsp;the Victory Highway” touring exhibition</li>
 </ol>Victory Highway, now Highway 40, was constructed after World War I to connect the nation and honor returning veterans."It grew literally across the country," Meder said. "It's a touring exhibition that has been going around the state and region for quite some time. It's fascinating."You can find a complete list of locations and information about displays <a href="https://img1.wsimg.com/blobby/go/916bb38b-09bf-4c28-bf9f-4da5a0b67707/downloads/Fall%20Walk%2024%20inside%208-19.pdf?ver=1724080593886">here</a>.The Hays Art Center is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.You can find more information on the Hays Art Council's&nbsp;<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/">website&nbsp;</a>and follow them on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063746254684">Facebook</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hays Art Council presents the 2024 Fall Art Walk on Friday 

Goodland, KS resident and former Perham, Minnesota resident, ElVerna Doris “Sam” Carr-Teel, 81, passed away on Saturday, August 17, 2024 at the St. Anthony Hospital in Lakewood, Colorado.

Sam was born on October 18, 1942 in Perham, MN to Herman and Edna (Steeke) Wanderi. She was one of 3 children. Sam attended school in New York Mills, MN, and graduated from New York Mills High School in 1960.

Sam had a love for life. She enjoyed spending time with her family especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. When her children and grandchildren were younger, she was known as mom and grammy to all family and friends. She would sit on her patio and watch the birds for hours.

While she had a gypsy soul, her home has always been the Colorado mountains. She had a passion for gardening and baking. She was always sharing her baking with loved ones and the community. During her many different stations with her first husband, she would always bake for the other servicemen.

She had a passion for the Lord and always shared it with her loved ones and community. She was often heard saying “God has a reason.” when encouraging her loved ones through tough times. Sam and her husband, Jerry would often be found reading scripture and praying together in the evenings.

On September 12, 2009, Sam married Jerry Glenn Teel in Colorado Springs. In 2022, they moved to Goodland to be closer to family. While living in Goodland, they were members of the Emmanuel Lutheran Church.

Preceding her in death were her parents and her first husband Robert Carr.

She is survived by her husband Jerry Teel of the home in Goodland, children Simone Kern of Colorado Springs, CO, David (Theresa) Carr of Rogers, MN, Tara (Andrew Rippe) Carr of Colorado Springs, CO, Irene (Bart) Blackwelder of Hennessey, OK and Tiffany (Craig) Bernhardt of Sterling, Colorado. She is also survived by 13 grandchildren and 29 great grandchildren; as well as 2 brothers; Richard (Sue) Wanderi and Gary Wanderi all of Perham, MN.

The Celebration of Life will be Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 2:00 PM MT at the picnic ramada in Chambers Park. Those in attendance will need to bring a lawn chair, and the family asks everyone to bring a snack to share.

A family celebration of life for Sam will be held at a later date at Sam and Jerry’s property in the mountains in Park County, Colorado.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Northwest Kansas Ambulance Service and may be dropped off or sent to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735, or to the St. John’s Lutheran School, 500 W. 6th Ave SW, Perham, MN 56573.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724267617525.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Goodland, KS resident and former Perham, Minnesota resident, ElVerna Doris “Sam” Carr-Teel, 81, passed away on Saturday, August 17, 2024 at the St. Anthony Hospital in Lakewood, Colorado.Sam was born on October 18, 1942 in Perham, MN to Herman and Edna (Steeke) Wanderi. She was one of 3 children. Sam attended school in New York Mills, MN, and graduated from New York Mills High School in 1960.Sam had a love for life. She enjoyed spending time with her family especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. When her children and grandchildren were younger, she was known as mom and grammy to all family and friends. She would sit on her patio and watch the birds for hours.While she had a gypsy soul, her home has always been the Colorado mountains. She had a passion for gardening and baking. She was always sharing her baking with loved ones and the community. During her many different stations with her first husband, she would always bake for the other servicemen.She had a passion for the Lord and always shared it with her loved ones and community. She was often heard saying “God has a reason.” when encouraging her loved ones through tough times. Sam and her husband, Jerry would often be found reading scripture and praying together in the evenings.On September 12, 2009, Sam married Jerry Glenn Teel in Colorado Springs. In 2022, they moved to Goodland to be closer to family. While living in Goodland, they were members of the Emmanuel Lutheran Church.Preceding her in death were her parents and her first husband Robert Carr.She is survived by her husband Jerry Teel of the home in Goodland, children Simone Kern of Colorado Springs, CO, David (Theresa) Carr of Rogers, MN, Tara (Andrew Rippe) Carr of Colorado Springs, CO, Irene (Bart) Blackwelder of Hennessey, OK and Tiffany (Craig) Bernhardt of Sterling, Colorado. She is also survived by 13 grandchildren and 29 great grandchildren; as well as 2 brothers; Richard (Sue) Wanderi and Gary Wanderi all of Perham, MN.The Celebration of Life will be Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 2:00 PM MT at the picnic ramada in Chambers Park. Those in attendance will need to bring a lawn chair, and the family asks everyone to bring a snack to share.A family celebration of life for Sam will be held at a later date at Sam and Jerry’s property in the mountains in Park County, Colorado.Memorial contributions may be made to the Northwest Kansas Ambulance Service and may be dropped off or sent to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735, or to the St. John’s Lutheran School, 500 W. 6th Ave SW, Perham, MN 56573.

ElVerna Doris 'Sam' Carr-Teel

Sandra Sue “Sandy” Tammen, 83, Rush Center, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at Locust Grove Village, La Crosse, Kansas.

Sandy was born July 13, 1941, in La Crosse, Kansas, the daughter of Henry and Margaret (Williams) Klaus. She was a lifelong resident of Rush County, Kansas. A 1959 graduate of Bison Rural High School, Bison, Kansas, she was a beautician, homemaker and farm wife.

She was a current member of Hope Lutheran Church, Rush Center, Kansas, and a former member of the Rush County Fair Board, and Gamma Zeta Sorority. She was also a former member of Hopewell Neighbors. When Hopewell Neighbors disbanded, Sandy became a member of Prairie Pals.

Sandy enjoyed sewing, crocheting, and taking care of her flowers.

On October 13, 1959, she married Dale Tammen at the United Methodist Church, Bison, Kansas.

Survivors include: her husband, Dale Tammen, Rush Center, Kansas; one son, Kent Tammen (Mary Jo), Hays, Kansas; one daughter, Kayla Hardwick (Daryl), Hays, Kansas; six grandchildren, Ashley Perez (Tabre), Austin Tammen (Lindsey Morrissey), Tyler Hardwick, Samantha Shaffer (Phillip), Brandon Hardwick, and Courtney Carlino (Daniel); four great grandchildren; and one sister-in-law, Billie Klaus, Arizona.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one son, Kyle Tammen; and one brother, Don Klaus.

Visitation will be Friday, August 23, 2024, from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at the Janousek Funeral Home, La Crosse, Kansas.

Church visitation will be Saturday, August 24, 2024, from 9:00 A.M. to 9:50 A.M. at Hope Lutheran Church, Rush Center, Kansas.

Funeral service will be Saturday, August 24, 2024, at 10:00 A.M. at Hope Lutheran Church, Rush Center, Kansas, with Pastor Wayne Baldyga officiating. Interment will be in the La Crosse City Cemetery, La Crosse, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers or plants, the family requests memorials to the Rush County Fair Association.

Condolences or remembrances may be left for the family at www.janousekfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements were by Janousek Funeral Home, 719 Pine Street, P O Box 550, La Crosse, Kansas 67548, 785/222-2517.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724267124989.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sandra Sue “Sandy” Tammen, 83, Rush Center, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at Locust Grove Village, La Crosse, Kansas.Sandy was born July 13, 1941, in La Crosse, Kansas, the daughter of Henry and Margaret (Williams) Klaus. She was a lifelong resident of Rush County, Kansas. A 1959 graduate of Bison Rural High School, Bison, Kansas, she was a beautician, homemaker and farm wife.She was a current member of Hope Lutheran Church, Rush Center, Kansas, and a former member of the Rush County Fair Board, and Gamma Zeta Sorority. She was also a former member of Hopewell Neighbors. When Hopewell Neighbors disbanded, Sandy became a member of Prairie Pals.Sandy enjoyed sewing, crocheting, and taking care of her flowers.On October 13, 1959, she married Dale Tammen at the United Methodist Church, Bison, Kansas.Survivors include: her husband, Dale Tammen, Rush Center, Kansas; one son, Kent Tammen (Mary Jo), Hays, Kansas; one daughter, Kayla Hardwick (Daryl), Hays, Kansas; six grandchildren, Ashley Perez (Tabre), Austin Tammen (Lindsey Morrissey), Tyler Hardwick, Samantha Shaffer (Phillip), Brandon Hardwick, and Courtney Carlino (Daniel); four great grandchildren; and one sister-in-law, Billie Klaus, Arizona.She was preceded in death by her parents; one son, Kyle Tammen; and one brother, Don Klaus.Visitation will be Friday, August 23, 2024, from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at the Janousek Funeral Home, La Crosse, Kansas.Church visitation will be Saturday, August 24, 2024, from 9:00 A.M. to 9:50 A.M. at Hope Lutheran Church, Rush Center, Kansas.Funeral service will be Saturday, August 24, 2024, at 10:00 A.M. at Hope Lutheran Church, Rush Center, Kansas, with Pastor Wayne Baldyga officiating. Interment will be in the La Crosse City Cemetery, La Crosse, Kansas.In lieu of flowers or plants, the family requests memorials to the Rush County Fair Association.Condolences or remembrances may be left for the family at www.janousekfuneralhome.com.Arrangements were by Janousek Funeral Home, 719 Pine Street, P O Box 550, La Crosse, Kansas 67548, 785/222-2517.

Sandra Sue “Sandy” Tammen

Doris Bernice Jones, 101, died on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at the Main Street Manor in Russell, Kansas.

Doris was born on February 14, 1923, in Russell, Kansas, the daughter of Carl and Olinda (Krug) Kilian. She grew up in Russell and graduated from Russell High School in the class of 1941. She met, fell in love and was united in marriage to Cecil P. Jones on October 04, 1943, in Russell, Kansas. From this union Doris and Cecil were blessed with two sons Doug and Roger. Doris worked as a dedicated wife, mother and homemaker as well as for the Russell County Treasurer and a waitress. She was a lifelong member of St. John Lutheran Church and was active in many ladies’ groups and church activities. She enjoyed bingo, playing cards and watching professional basketball and University of Kansas basketball. Most of all she enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Surviving family include her sons Doug Jones and wife Penny of Ness City, Kansas, Roger Jones of Lincoln, Nebraska; brother Richard Kilian of Russell, Kansas; sisters Mary Parkhurst of Russell, Kansas and Karen Stafford of Scottsdale, Arizona; 3 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother Frank Kilian.

A celebration of Doris’ life will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Monday, August 26, 2024, at St. John Lutheran Church in Russell, Kansas. Burial will follow at the St. John Lutheran Church in Russell, Kansas. Memorials may be given to St. John Lutheran Church and sent in care of the Mortuary. Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas are in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

Doris Bernice Jones, 101, died on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at the Main Street Manor in Russell, Kansas.Doris was born on February 14, 1923, in Russell, Kansas, the daughter of Carl and Olinda (Krug) Kilian. She grew up in Russell and graduated from Russell High School in the class of 1941. She met, fell in love and was united in marriage to Cecil P. Jones on October 04, 1943, in Russell, Kansas. From this union Doris and Cecil were blessed with two sons Doug and Roger. Doris worked as a dedicated wife, mother and homemaker as well as for the Russell County Treasurer and a waitress. She was a lifelong member of St. John Lutheran Church and was active in many ladies’ groups and church activities. She enjoyed bingo, playing cards and watching professional basketball and University of Kansas basketball. Most of all she enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.Surviving family include her sons Doug Jones and wife Penny of Ness City, Kansas, Roger Jones of Lincoln, Nebraska; brother Richard Kilian of Russell, Kansas; sisters Mary Parkhurst of Russell, Kansas and Karen Stafford of Scottsdale, Arizona; 3 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her parents and brother Frank Kilian.A celebration of Doris’ life will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Monday, August 26, 2024, at St. John Lutheran Church in Russell, Kansas. Burial will follow at the St. John Lutheran Church in Russell, Kansas. Memorials may be given to St. John Lutheran Church and sent in care of the Mortuary. Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas are in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

Doris Bernice Jones

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas mother whose 2-year-old son fatally shot his 4-year-old sister has been sentenced to life in prison.

Mariann Belair, 24, won't be eligible for parole until she's served 25 years under the sentence imposed Tuesday in Shawnee County District Court, The Topeka Capital-Journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2024/08/20/topekan-gets-life-sentence-after-her-son-fatally-shoots-her-daughter/74879924007/">reported</a>. Jurors found her guilty in May of aggravated child endangerment and first-degree murder in the commission of a felony.

Belair testified at her trial that she removed a loaded 9mm handgun from her diaper bag and placed it on the couch next to her in October while she was home with her 4-year-old daughter, Lawrencia Perez-Belair, and her 2-year-old son and 1-year-old daughter.

She said she had planned to go get food with her family and was making sure she had everything she needed in the bag. She said Lawrencia then “distracted” her by asking her to shoot a cellphone photo of them together.

Deputy District Attorney Lauren Amrein told jurors that the gun sat on the couch at least 12 minutes before Belair's son, who was about to turn 3, picked it up and shot his sister. She said no reasonable person would have let the gun sit there so long with small children present.

Court records show Belair complained in a handwritten motion that her trial attorney discouraged her from taking a plea that would have resulted in her being sentenced to 10 years and three months in prison.

A new attorney assigned to the case has requested a new trial.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697371794491.png" alt="Belair photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Belair photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas mother whose 2-year-old son fatally shot his 4-year-old sister has been sentenced to life in prison.Mariann Belair, 24, won't be eligible for parole until she's served 25 years under the sentence imposed Tuesday in Shawnee County District Court, The Topeka Capital-Journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2024/08/20/topekan-gets-life-sentence-after-her-son-fatally-shoots-her-daughter/74879924007/">reported</a>. Jurors found her guilty in May of aggravated child endangerment and first-degree murder in the commission of a felony.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697687958408.jpeg" alt="Lawrencia Blair-photo Chapel Oaks Funeral Home" />
 <figcaption>Lawrencia Blair-photo Chapel Oaks Funeral Home</figcaption>
 </figure>Belair testified at her trial that she removed a loaded 9mm handgun from her diaper bag and placed it on the couch next to her in October while she was home with her 4-year-old daughter, Lawrencia Perez-Belair, and her 2-year-old son and 1-year-old daughter.She said she had planned to go get food with her family and was making sure she had everything she needed in the bag. She said Lawrencia then “distracted” her by asking her to shoot a cellphone photo of them together.Deputy District Attorney Lauren Amrein told jurors that the gun sat on the couch at least 12 minutes before Belair's son, who was about to turn 3, picked it up and shot his sister. She said no reasonable person would have let the gun sit there so long with small children present.Court records show Belair complained in a handwritten motion that her trial attorney discouraged her from taking a plea that would have resulted in her being sentenced to 10 years and three months in prison.A new attorney assigned to the case has requested a new trial.

Kansas mom sentenced after her 2-year-old fatally shot her 4-year-old

Stanley Glaum, 84, passed away at home in Manhattan, KS on August 17, 2024.

Stanley Allan Glaum was born at home in Alma, NE on October 7, 1939 as the only son of Allan Martin and Leita Irene (Lee) Glaum. They moved to Hastings, NE in 1941; when Allan was deployed to Europe with the US Army Corps of Engineers, Leita and Stanley moved to Phillipsburg, KS where Allan joined them after returning in 1946. He was baptized at the First Christian Church in Phillipsburg. Stanley attended school in Phillipsburg, graduating from Phillipsburg High School on May 23, 1958.

Stan met Letha Mae Hollingshead while they were attending Phillipsburg HS. Even though Stan was a few years older than Letha, they continued dating until she graduated, and were often accompanied by Letha’s younger sisters Edith and Merena. Stan and Letha were united in Holy Matrimony on June 25, 1961 at the First Presbyterian Church in Phillipsburg, KS. They lived in Phillipsburg after marriage and Stan worked as an electrician for the Bear Brand Roofing Company. Their sons Terry and Tony were born during this time.

Stan and Letha moved their family to Manhattan, KS where Stan attended Kansas State University. He graduated in 1971 with a Bachelor of Science in Agronomy. They added another son Tyler to their family during this period. After graduation, Stan accepted a position with the United States Department of Agriculture as a soil scientist with the Soil Conservation Service. Except for a few years working as a bank officer in Pretty Prairie, KS, Stan worked for the Soil Conservation Service until retirement in 1999. He was stationed in Cimarron, Pretty Prairie, WaKeeney, Washington, Topeka, and Salina. Following retirement, Stan and Letha once again made their home in Manhattan, KS at University Park. Stan took a position with Farmers Mutual Hail Company as a crop insurance adjustor for several years.

Stan was always very active in the community and very generous with his time and talents. During their time in Phillipsburg, he was a member of the Odd Fellow’s Lodge. While in Pretty Prairie, he served as a city clerk and as the President of the Lion’s Club. Stan liked to spend time with his sons and was a Webelo Troop Leader. In WaKeeney, he became the Summer Archery Program Leader for the Parks and Recreation Department. After retirement and their move to Manhattan, Stan continued to be very involved. He served on the Sherman Township Board, the University Park Board, and the Riley County Rural Water District. He was a Trustee for the Riley Presbyterian Church. Stan also served as a Range Safety Officer for the Fancy Creek Shooting Range in Randolph, KS.

Stan made certain his sons were accomplished and had adventurous spirits. All the boys played band instruments, piano, and were active in music in high school, college, and beyond. Stan taught them how to snow ski and swim, and spent time with them riding motorcycles, hunting, and fishing. Stan studied for and obtained his Civil Air Patrol pilot’s license in 1955 and later his private pilot license at Phillipsburg. He developed an interest in forging and built a metal shop at home where he made many knives and letter-openers; he was active with the Blacksmith Associations in Nebraska and Missouri. Stan really enjoyed his time spent at the Fancy Creek Shooting Range in Randolph, KS and made many friends there. He liked the shooting competitions which gave him an opportunity to fine-tune his reloading skills. Stan proudly taught his grandchildren how to handle guns safely and shoot accurately.

Stan loved to explore, so he and Letha travelled widely. Besides visiting many states and relatives in the US, they made a trip-of-a-lifetime to Hawaii. They also travelled to Europe to visit Terry while he was stationed at Ramstein, Germany; while there they explored Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, England, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

Stan was a blessing to all who knew him, but his greatest legacy is his family who love and adore him. He was proceeded in death by his parents, and by brothers-in-law Raymond Schick of Densmore, KS and David Rogers of Nixa, MO.

Many family members remain to miss Stan. Letha is at their home in Manhattan, KS. Son Terry, wife Heike, and grand-daughter Kelly reside in Ehweiler, Germany; Terry’s son Justin lives in Ohio with his wife and 2 daughters, daughter Ashley is in Viginia with her 2 daughters, and step-son Marco Jung lives in Germany. Son Tony and wife Deb reside in Linwood, KS; their daughter Jennifer (Joseph) Clark and son Jacob are all living in Kansas. Son Tyler and wife Julie reside in Bettendorf, IA; their son Trevor lives in Indiana and son Jonathan is in Virginia. Also remaining are sisters-in-law Edith Schick of Logan, KS and Merena Rogers (Ron) Poage of Nixa, MO.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, Aug. 24 at 10:30 a.m. in the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel with Ron Poage &amp; Pastor Harlan Nonhof officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow in the Fairview Cemetery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724188377605.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Stanley Glaum, 84, passed away at home in Manhattan, KS on August 17, 2024.Stanley Allan Glaum was born at home in Alma, NE on October 7, 1939 as the only son of Allan Martin and Leita Irene (Lee) Glaum. They moved to Hastings, NE in 1941; when Allan was deployed to Europe with the US Army Corps of Engineers, Leita and Stanley moved to Phillipsburg, KS where Allan joined them after returning in 1946. He was baptized at the First Christian Church in Phillipsburg. Stanley attended school in Phillipsburg, graduating from Phillipsburg High School on May 23, 1958.Stan met Letha Mae Hollingshead while they were attending Phillipsburg HS. Even though Stan was a few years older than Letha, they continued dating until she graduated, and were often accompanied by Letha’s younger sisters Edith and Merena. Stan and Letha were united in Holy Matrimony on June 25, 1961 at the First Presbyterian Church in Phillipsburg, KS. They lived in Phillipsburg after marriage and Stan worked as an electrician for the Bear Brand Roofing Company. Their sons Terry and Tony were born during this time.Stan and Letha moved their family to Manhattan, KS where Stan attended Kansas State University. He graduated in 1971 with a Bachelor of Science in Agronomy. They added another son Tyler to their family during this period. After graduation, Stan accepted a position with the United States Department of Agriculture as a soil scientist with the Soil Conservation Service. Except for a few years working as a bank officer in Pretty Prairie, KS, Stan worked for the Soil Conservation Service until retirement in 1999. He was stationed in Cimarron, Pretty Prairie, WaKeeney, Washington, Topeka, and Salina. Following retirement, Stan and Letha once again made their home in Manhattan, KS at University Park. Stan took a position with Farmers Mutual Hail Company as a crop insurance adjustor for several years.Stan was always very active in the community and very generous with his time and talents. During their time in Phillipsburg, he was a member of the Odd Fellow’s Lodge. While in Pretty Prairie, he served as a city clerk and as the President of the Lion’s Club. Stan liked to spend time with his sons and was a Webelo Troop Leader. In WaKeeney, he became the Summer Archery Program Leader for the Parks and Recreation Department. After retirement and their move to Manhattan, Stan continued to be very involved. He served on the Sherman Township Board, the University Park Board, and the Riley County Rural Water District. He was a Trustee for the Riley Presbyterian Church. Stan also served as a Range Safety Officer for the Fancy Creek Shooting Range in Randolph, KS.Stan made certain his sons were accomplished and had adventurous spirits. All the boys played band instruments, piano, and were active in music in high school, college, and beyond. Stan taught them how to snow ski and swim, and spent time with them riding motorcycles, hunting, and fishing. Stan studied for and obtained his Civil Air Patrol pilot’s license in 1955 and later his private pilot license at Phillipsburg. He developed an interest in forging and built a metal shop at home where he made many knives and letter-openers; he was active with the Blacksmith Associations in Nebraska and Missouri. Stan really enjoyed his time spent at the Fancy Creek Shooting Range in Randolph, KS and made many friends there. He liked the shooting competitions which gave him an opportunity to fine-tune his reloading skills. Stan proudly taught his grandchildren how to handle guns safely and shoot accurately.Stan loved to explore, so he and Letha travelled widely. Besides visiting many states and relatives in the US, they made a trip-of-a-lifetime to Hawaii. They also travelled to Europe to visit Terry while he was stationed at Ramstein, Germany; while there they explored Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, England, Belgium, and the Netherlands.Stan was a blessing to all who knew him, but his greatest legacy is his family who love and adore him. He was proceeded in death by his parents, and by brothers-in-law Raymond Schick of Densmore, KS and David Rogers of Nixa, MO.Many family members remain to miss Stan. Letha is at their home in Manhattan, KS. Son Terry, wife Heike, and grand-daughter Kelly reside in Ehweiler, Germany; Terry’s son Justin lives in Ohio with his wife and 2 daughters, daughter Ashley is in Viginia with her 2 daughters, and step-son Marco Jung lives in Germany. Son Tony and wife Deb reside in Linwood, KS; their daughter Jennifer (Joseph) Clark and son Jacob are all living in Kansas. Son Tyler and wife Julie reside in Bettendorf, IA; their son Trevor lives in Indiana and son Jonathan is in Virginia. Also remaining are sisters-in-law Edith Schick of Logan, KS and Merena Rogers (Ron) Poage of Nixa, MO.Funeral services will be held Saturday, Aug. 24 at 10:30 a.m. in the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel with Ron Poage &amp; Pastor Harlan Nonhof officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow in the Fairview Cemetery.Memorial contributions can be made in care of the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel in Phillipsburg, KS; the family intends them to go to the Fancy Creek Shooting Range where he was a lifetime member to promote youth and gun safety.