Valerie Stewart, age 82, passed away on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at her home in Garden City, Kansas. She was born on November 12, 1941, in Yardell, Arkansas, the daughter of Doy &amp; Nellie Ruth Dolsby Harp. Valerie was a lifetime resident of Scott City, Kansas, and was a retired school bus driver for USD 466 for 46 years.&nbsp;

She was a member of the Gospel Fellowship Church in Shallow Water, Kansas, and the Quilt Guild of Scott City, Kansas.

On October 26, 1958, she married Guy E. Stewart in Friend, Kansas. He passed away on April 18, 2018, in Scott City, Kansas.&nbsp;

Survivors include her One Son - Edward &amp; Darci Stewart of Shallow Water, Kansas, Two Daughters - Carolyn &amp; Sheri Henry of Scott City, Kansas, Melissa &amp; Norman Tedford of Garden City, Kansas, Seven Grandchildren - Levi Heinrich of Lakin, Kansas, Tia Heinrich of Scott City, Kansas, Kayla Stewart of Shallow Water, Kansas, Kelly LaMaster of Scott City, Kansas, Courtney Gravitt of Mexico, Missouri, Evin Magaña of Great Bend, Kansas, Josh Tedford of Wichita, Kansas, and Eleven Great Grandchildren.

Valerie was preceded in death by her Parents, Husband, one great-grandson - Sibastian, Two Brothers, and Two Sisters.

Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, August 17, 2024, at Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home in Scott City, Kansas with Don Williams presiding.

In Lieu Of Flowers, memorials can be written to Pence Community Church in care of Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home, PO Box 553, Scott City, Kansas, 67871.&nbsp;

The inurnment will be at the Scott County Cemetery in Scott City, Kansas at a later date.

To order<a href="https://manage2.tukioswebsites.com/o/v2/trees/57f35597-5133-46ea-b80f-d40fe11231b4" target="_blank">memorial trees</a>&nbsp;or send flowers to the family in memory of Valerie L. Stewart, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://manage2.tukioswebsites.com/orders/v2/flowers/57f35597-5133-46ea-b80f-d40fe11231b4" target="_blank">flower store</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722281972209.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Valerie Stewart, age 82, passed away on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at her home in Garden City, Kansas. She was born on November 12, 1941, in Yardell, Arkansas, the daughter of Doy &amp; Nellie Ruth Dolsby Harp. Valerie was a lifetime resident of Scott City, Kansas, and was a retired school bus driver for USD 466 for 46 years.&nbsp;She was a member of the Gospel Fellowship Church in Shallow Water, Kansas, and the Quilt Guild of Scott City, Kansas.On October 26, 1958, she married Guy E. Stewart in Friend, Kansas. He passed away on April 18, 2018, in Scott City, Kansas.&nbsp;Survivors include her One Son - Edward &amp; Darci Stewart of Shallow Water, Kansas, Two Daughters - Carolyn &amp; Sheri Henry of Scott City, Kansas, Melissa &amp; Norman Tedford of Garden City, Kansas, Seven Grandchildren - Levi Heinrich of Lakin, Kansas, Tia Heinrich of Scott City, Kansas, Kayla Stewart of Shallow Water, Kansas, Kelly LaMaster of Scott City, Kansas, Courtney Gravitt of Mexico, Missouri, Evin Magaña of Great Bend, Kansas, Josh Tedford of Wichita, Kansas, and Eleven Great Grandchildren.Valerie was preceded in death by her Parents, Husband, one great-grandson - Sibastian, Two Brothers, and Two Sisters.Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, August 17, 2024, at Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home in Scott City, Kansas with Don Williams presiding.In Lieu Of Flowers, memorials can be written to Pence Community Church in care of Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home, PO Box 553, Scott City, Kansas, 67871.&nbsp;There will be no calling times.The inurnment will be at the Scott County Cemetery in Scott City, Kansas at a later date.To order<a href="https://manage2.tukioswebsites.com/o/v2/trees/57f35597-5133-46ea-b80f-d40fe11231b4" target="_blank">memorial trees</a>&nbsp;or send flowers to the family in memory of Valerie L. Stewart, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://manage2.tukioswebsites.com/orders/v2/flowers/57f35597-5133-46ea-b80f-d40fe11231b4" target="_blank">flower store</a>.

Valerie Stewart

Janetta Kinderknecht Heroneme, 65, Ellis, Kansas, died Saturday, July 27, 2024.

She was born, March 12, 1959 to Charles and Angela Kinderknecht. She married Alan Heroneme October 26, 1977 at St. Mary’s Church in Ellis.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Charley and Angie and in-law parents, Albert and Lela Heroneme, a sister, Charlene, a sister-in-law, Joyce, a brother-in-law, Michael, and nephews, Patrick and Daniel.

Survivors include her husband, Alan, a son, Anthony, a daughter, Adrienne, and grandchildren Noah, Norah, and Nevaeh Heroneme, Shiloh, Sophia, and Shaylie Gaschler, brothers, Charles Kinderknecht, Timothy Kinderknecht, and Cornell Kinderknecht, sisters, Cheryl Kinderknecht and Joyce Munsch.

All are invited to celebrate a Mass of Rejoice for Janetta at 10:00 am on Thursday, August 1, 2024 at St. Mary’s Church, Ellis. Inurnment will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 9:00 am until service time and recitation of the rosary will be at 9:30 am, all on Thursday at the church. Memorials are suggested to St. Mary’s School in Ellis. Services are entrusted to Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and condolences and memories of Janetta may be left for her family at www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722279525216.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Janetta Kinderknecht Heroneme, 65, Ellis, Kansas, died Saturday, July 27, 2024.She was born, March 12, 1959 to Charles and Angela Kinderknecht. She married Alan Heroneme October 26, 1977 at St. Mary’s Church in Ellis.She was preceded in death by her parents, Charley and Angie and in-law parents, Albert and Lela Heroneme, a sister, Charlene, a sister-in-law, Joyce, a brother-in-law, Michael, and nephews, Patrick and Daniel.Survivors include her husband, Alan, a son, Anthony, a daughter, Adrienne, and grandchildren Noah, Norah, and Nevaeh Heroneme, Shiloh, Sophia, and Shaylie Gaschler, brothers, Charles Kinderknecht, Timothy Kinderknecht, and Cornell Kinderknecht, sisters, Cheryl Kinderknecht and Joyce Munsch.All are invited to celebrate a Mass of Rejoice for Janetta at 10:00 am on Thursday, August 1, 2024 at St. Mary’s Church, Ellis. Inurnment will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 9:00 am until service time and recitation of the rosary will be at 9:30 am, all on Thursday at the church. Memorials are suggested to St. Mary’s School in Ellis. Services are entrusted to Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and condolences and memories of Janetta may be left for her family at www.haysmemorial.com

Janetta Kinderknecht Heroneme

Fort Hays State University will honor six exemplary alumni during Homecoming, which is scheduled for October 3-5.

“This group of individuals demonstrates the versatility of our graduates across all fields and disciplines. We couldn’t be more excited to celebrate them and acknowledge their incredible work,” said FHSU President Dr. Tisa Mason.

•&nbsp;Dr. David Bauer ’68, Kearney, Neb. •&nbsp;Dr. Dale Herl ’01, Independence, Mo. •&nbsp;Jennifer (Mardis) Kitson, ’76, ’80, ’92, Hays

•&nbsp;Donald “Don” Reif Jr. ’82, Hoisington

•&nbsp;Ernestor De La Rosa, ’12, Topeka •&nbsp;Tre’ Giles ’15, Portland, Ore.

Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.7LNxDHQVpzCjONIZ4OYIqjnQfcs-2FPVg5bO-2FQFSxaOcgtJonvrJP5ookQs1Huh7Ucm4Zu_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOvLEegdmHiOa7xtKKecs42x8Tb6SJY9B4hxTxGbY204Q3EkDp69-2B8IC1vlxqvPu8oQL-2Fwfw2jEhDV0S9Pu-2BE1-2FXG4Dr-2FnQbHPLfowQFGOFQIMDQKmLADWDuWjxwoOgXP1adBLxyU9v0aI936grEN-2Fa2yxbmeYKzpQUD6cZ6Cd4-2Fe6s6ODvioDyUNUJ7yYus-2Bzl3zLZgVMt8uG4Tl0r3bH0yR42f7iKj7dc3AuG5Dgt0szzdh0x4b6b0wEvdCFf0OG">www.FHSUhomecoming.com/awards</a>&nbsp;to learn more about the criteria by which these distinguished individuals were chosen.

Dr. David Bauer ’68, Kearney, Neb.

Though Dr. David Bauer had always loved music, it was on the campus of Fort Hays State University where he began to hone the talents that led to his lifelong success. Thanks to the mentorship from his FHSU music instructors, Dr. Donald Stout, Mr. Lyle Dilley, Dr. Leland Bartholomew, Mr. Norman Jennings, and Mr. Patrick Goeser, Bauer developed the skills needed to kickstart a career in choir direction.

After graduating from FHSU, he earned a Master of Music Education degree from the University of Missouri Conservatory of Music in Kansas City and a Doctor of Education degree from Arizona State University. Bauer taught secondary choral music across Kansas for eleven years before transitioning to instructing collegiate-level students. He helped students fine-tune their voices at the University of Nebraska-Kearney for 35 years before retiring in 2019.&nbsp;He continues to be the artistic director of the Platte River Singers, a community choir he created in 2013.

Bauer has enjoyed 56 years of marriage to his wife, Ann, who is also an FHSU alum. The couple has five children, sixteen grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. This year, the couple received the “Friends of Kearney” award from the Kearney, Nebraska, Chamber of Commerce for contributions and leadership within their community.

Dr. Dale Herl&nbsp;<a></a>’01, Independence, Mo.

Dr. Dale Herl's 11-year tenure as the Independence School District (ISD) superintendent has been marked by transformative leadership and an unwavering dedication to student success. He has propelled the district to new heights with a solid foundation that was built during his four years as ISD's Deputy Superintendent of Operations and Finance. Herl oversees 30 schools with more than 15,000 students and is driven to prepare students for college and their future careers. Under Herl’s leadership, a recent initiative has empowered students within the district and led to a surge in academic achievement. When Herl began serving as superintendent, the ISD offered six courses for college credit, which has grown to more than 90 courses, giving students a head start on their futures.

A lifelong learner, Herl earned his bachelor's degree in mathematics education from the University of Nebraska-Kearney, a Master of Science in Educational Administration from Fort Hays State University, and a doctorate from Wichita State University. Actively engaged in community service, Herl is a Rotary Club and Lions Club of Independence member and previously served on the Centerpoint Hospital Board of Directors and ISD Foundation Board.

With four children who graduated from Independence School District schools, Herl's investment in the district mirrors his professional commitment to shaping every student’s future.

Jennifer (Mardis) Kitson ’76, ’80, ’92, Hays

Jennifer Kitson grew up in Pratt, never dreaming that she would leverage her education from Fort Hays State to lead her to where she is today. She has become a recognized leader in school psychology and an expert in advocacy, school mental health, community collaboration, and sustained system change supporting child well-being outcomes.

Kitson received a bachelor's and master’s in psychology and an education specialist in school psychology degrees at Fort Hays State. She had three professional careers over 45 years, including as a school psychology practitioner and coordinator of a $3 million federal grant in Ellis County, a co-leader for a federally funded national center providing training and assistance to communities in 50 states focused on achieving positive outcomes for children and youth, and as an FHSU Department of Psychology instructor and school psychology program director. Kitson’s state and national leadership were recognized as she received the 1997 KASP School Psychologist of the Year, 1999 NASP School Psychologist of the Year, 2022 KASP Lifetime Achievement Award, and 2024 NASP Legend in School Psychology.

Kitson was pivotal in creating Ellis County’s Big Brothers Big Sisters program and coordinating county-wide parenting classes. Her commitment to developing resources like this in communities nationwide further acknowledges the lives she’s touched through her advocacy, passion, and knowledge.

Donald “Don” Reif Jr. ’82, Hoisington

Every day, Don Reif lives and works in service to others thanks to his upbringing and Fort Hays State University education. Reif grew up in Hoisington and graduated with his bachelor's degree from Fort Hays State, double majoring in political science and history. As a student, Reif was involved with FHSU’s Young Democrats and served as a Student Government Association president and senator. These experiences inspired Reif to pursue a Juris Doctor of Law at Washburn University, where he served as a research assistant and intern for the Kansas Legislature.

Reif returned to his hometown of Hoisington after law school and founded an independent firm. Still serving after more than 35 years, Reif provides expertise to clients facing business law, criminal defense, and juvenile law cases. Throughout his career, Reif has facilitated more than 150 adoption cases, finding loving homes for neglected or abused children. He has been known to kindly represent veterans, elderly, and low-income clients pro bono on a case-by-case basis. Outside of his practice, Reif has educated aspiring lawyers as an adjunct instructor at Fort Hays State University for several years.

Sharing his expertise with students isn’t the only support he provides, though. Reif established the Don E. Reif Jr. Political Science Scholarship at Fort Hays State for pre-law political science students. In 2020, he became a Fort Hays State Wooster Society member by including the university in his estate plans. Reif’s passion and love for FHSU are demonstrated through his leadership, generosity, and the legacy he’s leaving in support of future Tigers. &nbsp;

Since graduating from Fort Hays State University, Ernestor De La Rosa has been working behind the scenes to make tangible change in the communities he has called home. As an immigrant, De La Rosa has used his own experience to show the possibilities available to others following in his footsteps. At 12 years old, De La Rosa came to the United States, faced challenges learning a new language, and experienced discrimination. He persevered through many barriers to gain an education.

Due to his status, De La Rosa did not qualify for financial assistance to attend Fort Hays State. He pushed himself to earn a bachelor’s in political science from FHSU while working two jobs. This hardworking spirit carried over to other pursuits, including earning his Master’s in Public Administration from Wichita State University and leading communities in various capacities. In 2014, he became Dodge City’s Assistant to the City Manager and spearheaded several immigration and transportation projects.

In early 2023, he became the City of Topeka’s first-ever Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer. De La Rosa transitioned out of the role in 2024, entering the private sector as a regional manager of local government and community affairs with ITC Great Plains Corp., a transmission-only utility company based in Topeka.

His service and mentorship to others, community enrichment efforts, and leadership demonstrate all that is possible for students seeking a degree in political science.

Tre’ Giles ’15, Portland, Ore.

Tre’ Giles, a Colorado native, brings passion, commitment, and joy to everything he does.

As a first-generation college student, Giles became a voice for others with different ethnic backgrounds. Guided by his faith, his ability to uplift those around him was well-recognized at FHSU, earning him both the Men of Merit and Diversity Ally awards. After graduating, Giles took the leadership skills he learned at FHSU to the Peace Corps.

In The Gambia, West Africa, Giles advocated for education and gender equality and created a group to spiritually support fellow volunteers during their service. He was led back to Hays and gravitated naturally to leadership positions at FHSU, Jana’s Campaign, and as a youth director at Celebration Community Church. His latest role as the Pastor of Justice and Mercy at the Bridgetown Church in Portland, Ore., has provided Giles a platform to share his faith in a larger capacity.

Giles empowers audiences in prisons, auditoriums, schools, and international venues to impact their communities through leadership and collaboration. When he’s not busy pastoring at Bridgetown, he cherishes family time with his wife, Carma, and their son, Saint.

Giles took the opportunities available to him at Fort Hays State University and has since proved that he can accomplish anything he sets his mind to.

Alumni Award Recipients Meet and Greet &nbsp;

If you know any of these incredible individuals, join in congratulating them at the Alumni Award Meet and Greet during homecoming on Friday, October 4, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art on campus. Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="file:///C:/Volumes/Foundation/PUBLIC/Comm%20&amp;%20Marketing/Projects/News/2024/Homecoming/Alumni%20Awards/FHSUhomecoming.com">FHSUhomecoming.com</a>&nbsp;to view a full schedule of homecoming events.

Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.7LNxDHQVpzCjONIZ4OYIqjnQfcs-2FPVg5bO-2FQFSxaOcgtJonvrJP5ookQs1Huh7UcD6Kd_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOvLEegdmHiOa7xtKKecs42x8Tb6SJY9B4hxTxGbY204Q3EkDp69-2B8IC1vlxqvPu8oQL-2Fwfw2jEhDV0S9Pu-2BE1-2FTO1jDkn9EW7RNYIQlRi4qcsZKIy-2FyT3yhmtd6gwIgTaYoYXko48gDphj55rdULOyIw-2BvC1EqxTkRKN06u3itx0j32ZnP-2F7mFejmK42VyqNNrHKHVicHX5PLbqZwRgSthONL6u6aaUgpWoRDZ-2FZZEAcf7DO7KfwSGJkIhbfLMirf">www.FHSUhomecoming.com/awards</a>&nbsp;to nominate an FHSU alumni or friend of the university you believe is worthy of recognition or to view past award recipients.

For questions, please contact the FHSU Alumni Office at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:alumni@fhsu.edu">alumni@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or 785-628-4430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721987411999.jpeg" alt="Courtesy FHSU" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AlumniFort Hays State University will honor six exemplary alumni during Homecoming, which is scheduled for October 3-5.“This group of individuals demonstrates the versatility of our graduates across all fields and disciplines. We couldn’t be more excited to celebrate them and acknowledge their incredible work,” said FHSU President Dr. Tisa Mason.Award recipients include:Alumni Achievement Award•&nbsp;Dr. David Bauer ’68, Kearney, Neb. •&nbsp;Dr. Dale Herl ’01, Independence, Mo. •&nbsp;Jennifer (Mardis) Kitson, ’76, ’80, ’92, Hays Distinguished Service Award•&nbsp;Donald “Don” Reif Jr. ’82, HoisingtonYoung Alumni Award•&nbsp;Ernestor De La Rosa, ’12, Topeka •&nbsp;Tre’ Giles ’15, Portland, Ore. Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.7LNxDHQVpzCjONIZ4OYIqjnQfcs-2FPVg5bO-2FQFSxaOcgtJonvrJP5ookQs1Huh7Ucm4Zu_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOvLEegdmHiOa7xtKKecs42x8Tb6SJY9B4hxTxGbY204Q3EkDp69-2B8IC1vlxqvPu8oQL-2Fwfw2jEhDV0S9Pu-2BE1-2FXG4Dr-2FnQbHPLfowQFGOFQIMDQKmLADWDuWjxwoOgXP1adBLxyU9v0aI936grEN-2Fa2yxbmeYKzpQUD6cZ6Cd4-2Fe6s6ODvioDyUNUJ7yYus-2Bzl3zLZgVMt8uG4Tl0r3bH0yR42f7iKj7dc3AuG5Dgt0szzdh0x4b6b0wEvdCFf0OG">www.FHSUhomecoming.com/awards</a>&nbsp;to learn more about the criteria by which these distinguished individuals were chosen.Homecoming 2024 Honoree Profiles:<h2>Alumni Achievement Award</h2>Dr. David Bauer ’68, Kearney, Neb.Though Dr. David Bauer had always loved music, it was on the campus of Fort Hays State University where he began to hone the talents that led to his lifelong success. Thanks to the mentorship from his FHSU music instructors, Dr. Donald Stout, Mr. Lyle Dilley, Dr. Leland Bartholomew, Mr. Norman Jennings, and Mr. Patrick Goeser, Bauer developed the skills needed to kickstart a career in choir direction.After graduating from FHSU, he earned a Master of Music Education degree from the University of Missouri Conservatory of Music in Kansas City and a Doctor of Education degree from Arizona State University. Bauer taught secondary choral music across Kansas for eleven years before transitioning to instructing collegiate-level students. He helped students fine-tune their voices at the University of Nebraska-Kearney for 35 years before retiring in 2019.&nbsp;He continues to be the artistic director of the Platte River Singers, a community choir he created in 2013.Bauer has enjoyed 56 years of marriage to his wife, Ann, who is also an FHSU alum. The couple has five children, sixteen grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. This year, the couple received the “Friends of Kearney” award from the Kearney, Nebraska, Chamber of Commerce for contributions and leadership within their community.Dr. Dale Herl&nbsp;<a></a>’01, Independence, Mo.Dr. Dale Herl's 11-year tenure as the Independence School District (ISD) superintendent has been marked by transformative leadership and an unwavering dedication to student success. He has propelled the district to new heights with a solid foundation that was built during his four years as ISD's Deputy Superintendent of Operations and Finance. Herl oversees 30 schools with more than 15,000 students and is driven to prepare students for college and their future careers. Under Herl’s leadership, a recent initiative has empowered students within the district and led to a surge in academic achievement. When Herl began serving as superintendent, the ISD offered six courses for college credit, which has grown to more than 90 courses, giving students a head start on their futures.A lifelong learner, Herl earned his bachelor's degree in mathematics education from the University of Nebraska-Kearney, a Master of Science in Educational Administration from Fort Hays State University, and a doctorate from Wichita State University. Actively engaged in community service, Herl is a Rotary Club and Lions Club of Independence member and previously served on the Centerpoint Hospital Board of Directors and ISD Foundation Board.With four children who graduated from Independence School District schools, Herl's investment in the district mirrors his professional commitment to shaping every student’s future.Jennifer (Mardis) Kitson ’76, ’80, ’92, HaysJennifer Kitson grew up in Pratt, never dreaming that she would leverage her education from Fort Hays State to lead her to where she is today. She has become a recognized leader in school psychology and an expert in advocacy, school mental health, community collaboration, and sustained system change supporting child well-being outcomes.Kitson received a bachelor's and master’s in psychology and an education specialist in school psychology degrees at Fort Hays State. She had three professional careers over 45 years, including as a school psychology practitioner and coordinator of a $3 million federal grant in Ellis County, a co-leader for a federally funded national center providing training and assistance to communities in 50 states focused on achieving positive outcomes for children and youth, and as an FHSU Department of Psychology instructor and school psychology program director. Kitson’s state and national leadership were recognized as she received the 1997 KASP School Psychologist of the Year, 1999 NASP School Psychologist of the Year, 2022 KASP Lifetime Achievement Award, and 2024 NASP Legend in School Psychology.Kitson was pivotal in creating Ellis County’s Big Brothers Big Sisters program and coordinating county-wide parenting classes. Her commitment to developing resources like this in communities nationwide further acknowledges the lives she’s touched through her advocacy, passion, and knowledge.<h2>Distinguished Service Award</h2>Donald “Don” Reif Jr. ’82, HoisingtonEvery day, Don Reif lives and works in service to others thanks to his upbringing and Fort Hays State University education. Reif grew up in Hoisington and graduated with his bachelor's degree from Fort Hays State, double majoring in political science and history. As a student, Reif was involved with FHSU’s Young Democrats and served as a Student Government Association president and senator. These experiences inspired Reif to pursue a Juris Doctor of Law at Washburn University, where he served as a research assistant and intern for the Kansas Legislature.Reif returned to his hometown of Hoisington after law school and founded an independent firm. Still serving after more than 35 years, Reif provides expertise to clients facing business law, criminal defense, and juvenile law cases. Throughout his career, Reif has facilitated more than 150 adoption cases, finding loving homes for neglected or abused children. He has been known to kindly represent veterans, elderly, and low-income clients pro bono on a case-by-case basis. Outside of his practice, Reif has educated aspiring lawyers as an adjunct instructor at Fort Hays State University for several years.Sharing his expertise with students isn’t the only support he provides, though. Reif established the Don E. Reif Jr. Political Science Scholarship at Fort Hays State for pre-law political science students. In 2020, he became a Fort Hays State Wooster Society member by including the university in his estate plans. Reif’s passion and love for FHSU are demonstrated through his leadership, generosity, and the legacy he’s leaving in support of future Tigers. &nbsp;<h2>Young Alumni Award</h2>Ernestor De La Rosa ’12, TopekaSince graduating from Fort Hays State University, Ernestor De La Rosa has been working behind the scenes to make tangible change in the communities he has called home. As an immigrant, De La Rosa has used his own experience to show the possibilities available to others following in his footsteps. At 12 years old, De La Rosa came to the United States, faced challenges learning a new language, and experienced discrimination. He persevered through many barriers to gain an education.Due to his status, De La Rosa did not qualify for financial assistance to attend Fort Hays State. He pushed himself to earn a bachelor’s in political science from FHSU while working two jobs. This hardworking spirit carried over to other pursuits, including earning his Master’s in Public Administration from Wichita State University and leading communities in various capacities. In 2014, he became Dodge City’s Assistant to the City Manager and spearheaded several immigration and transportation projects.In early 2023, he became the City of Topeka’s first-ever Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer. De La Rosa transitioned out of the role in 2024, entering the private sector as a regional manager of local government and community affairs with ITC Great Plains Corp., a transmission-only utility company based in Topeka.His service and mentorship to others, community enrichment efforts, and leadership demonstrate all that is possible for students seeking a degree in political science.Tre’ Giles ’15, Portland, Ore.Tre’ Giles, a Colorado native, brings passion, commitment, and joy to everything he does.As a first-generation college student, Giles became a voice for others with different ethnic backgrounds. Guided by his faith, his ability to uplift those around him was well-recognized at FHSU, earning him both the Men of Merit and Diversity Ally awards. After graduating, Giles took the leadership skills he learned at FHSU to the Peace Corps.In The Gambia, West Africa, Giles advocated for education and gender equality and created a group to spiritually support fellow volunteers during their service. He was led back to Hays and gravitated naturally to leadership positions at FHSU, Jana’s Campaign, and as a youth director at Celebration Community Church. His latest role as the Pastor of Justice and Mercy at the Bridgetown Church in Portland, Ore., has provided Giles a platform to share his faith in a larger capacity.Giles empowers audiences in prisons, auditoriums, schools, and international venues to impact their communities through leadership and collaboration. When he’s not busy pastoring at Bridgetown, he cherishes family time with his wife, Carma, and their son, Saint.Giles took the opportunities available to him at Fort Hays State University and has since proved that he can accomplish anything he sets his mind to.Alumni Award Recipients Meet and Greet &nbsp;If you know any of these incredible individuals, join in congratulating them at the Alumni Award Meet and Greet during homecoming on Friday, October 4, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art on campus. Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="file:///C:/Volumes/Foundation/PUBLIC/Comm%20&amp;%20Marketing/Projects/News/2024/Homecoming/Alumni%20Awards/FHSUhomecoming.com">FHSUhomecoming.com</a>&nbsp;to view a full schedule of homecoming events.Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.7LNxDHQVpzCjONIZ4OYIqjnQfcs-2FPVg5bO-2FQFSxaOcgtJonvrJP5ookQs1Huh7UcD6Kd_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOvLEegdmHiOa7xtKKecs42x8Tb6SJY9B4hxTxGbY204Q3EkDp69-2B8IC1vlxqvPu8oQL-2Fwfw2jEhDV0S9Pu-2BE1-2FTO1jDkn9EW7RNYIQlRi4qcsZKIy-2FyT3yhmtd6gwIgTaYoYXko48gDphj55rdULOyIw-2BvC1EqxTkRKN06u3itx0j32ZnP-2F7mFejmK42VyqNNrHKHVicHX5PLbqZwRgSthONL6u6aaUgpWoRDZ-2FZZEAcf7DO7KfwSGJkIhbfLMirf">www.FHSUhomecoming.com/awards</a>&nbsp;to nominate an FHSU alumni or friend of the university you believe is worthy of recognition or to view past award recipients.For questions, please contact the FHSU Alumni Office at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:alumni@fhsu.edu">alumni@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or 785-628-4430.

FHSU unveils 2024 Alumni Award recipients

C. Yvonne Lane, 76, passed away on July 23, 2024 at her home in Larned, Kansas, surrounded by loving family.

Yvonne was born on April 2, 1948 in Richland Center, Wisconsin, the daughter of Lawrence and Bernadine (Schmitz) McKenzie.

A Larned resident for over 50 years, Yvonne began her career as a music therapist at Larned State Hospital, and ended as a computer and internet technician with the Larned School District until her retirement. She loved all things computer-related, and was the “go-to” technology expert for the family.

She was of the Catholic faith. In addition to her love of technology, Yvonne was an accomplished pianist and organist, as well as an incredible seamstress and cook. In her younger years, she was a competitive ballroom dancer with her first husband, George, as her dance partner. Her silver dancing shoes were a favorite amongst her four daughters.

On August 17, 1974, she married George Strobel in Great Bend, Kansas. He passed away on February 6, 2001. She later married Loren D. Lane on October 18, 2008 in Rozel, Kansas. He survives.

Other survivors include four daughters: Heather (Britt) Ewy, Great Bend, KS; Tracy (Bill) Strobel, Spartanburg, SC; Anna (Evan) Cooper, Larned, KS; Lori (Graham Duthie) Strobel, Auckland, New Zealand; three stepsons: Nathan Lane, El Paso, TX; David Lane; Sam Lane, Larned, KS; five brothers: William (Prudence) McKenzie, Rockford, IL; Edward McKenzie, Potosi, WI; Jerome McKenzie, Green Bay, WI; Raymond (Sue) McKenzie, Zumbro Falls, MN; Leonard McKenzie, Sun Prairie, WI; one sister, Diane (Ron) Fogo, Richland Center, WI; five grandchildren: Cole Ewy, Ivan Strobel, Camden Cooper, McKenzie Cooper, and Elise Cooper; one step-grandchild, Clare (Dakota) Hood; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers (Michael McKenzie, Richard McKenzie, and Leo McKenzie), and three sisters (twin sister Yvette McKenzie, Cheryl Scheuerman, and Mary Tadder).

Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, July 31, with family to greet friends from 4 to 5 p.m. at the funeral home.

Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, August 1, 2024, at Beckwith Mortuary, with Rev. Jack Singer presiding. Graveside inurnment service will immediately follow at the Larned Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Memorial Children’s Research Hospital in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, KS 67550. Condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722027575800.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>C. Yvonne Lane, 76, passed away on July 23, 2024 at her home in Larned, Kansas, surrounded by loving family.Yvonne was born on April 2, 1948 in Richland Center, Wisconsin, the daughter of Lawrence and Bernadine (Schmitz) McKenzie.A Larned resident for over 50 years, Yvonne began her career as a music therapist at Larned State Hospital, and ended as a computer and internet technician with the Larned School District until her retirement. She loved all things computer-related, and was the “go-to” technology expert for the family.She was of the Catholic faith. In addition to her love of technology, Yvonne was an accomplished pianist and organist, as well as an incredible seamstress and cook. In her younger years, she was a competitive ballroom dancer with her first husband, George, as her dance partner. Her silver dancing shoes were a favorite amongst her four daughters.On August 17, 1974, she married George Strobel in Great Bend, Kansas. He passed away on February 6, 2001. She later married Loren D. Lane on October 18, 2008 in Rozel, Kansas. He survives.Other survivors include four daughters: Heather (Britt) Ewy, Great Bend, KS; Tracy (Bill) Strobel, Spartanburg, SC; Anna (Evan) Cooper, Larned, KS; Lori (Graham Duthie) Strobel, Auckland, New Zealand; three stepsons: Nathan Lane, El Paso, TX; David Lane; Sam Lane, Larned, KS; five brothers: William (Prudence) McKenzie, Rockford, IL; Edward McKenzie, Potosi, WI; Jerome McKenzie, Green Bay, WI; Raymond (Sue) McKenzie, Zumbro Falls, MN; Leonard McKenzie, Sun Prairie, WI; one sister, Diane (Ron) Fogo, Richland Center, WI; five grandchildren: Cole Ewy, Ivan Strobel, Camden Cooper, McKenzie Cooper, and Elise Cooper; one step-grandchild, Clare (Dakota) Hood; and numerous nieces and nephews.She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers (Michael McKenzie, Richard McKenzie, and Leo McKenzie), and three sisters (twin sister Yvette McKenzie, Cheryl Scheuerman, and Mary Tadder).Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, July 31, with family to greet friends from 4 to 5 p.m. at the funeral home.Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, August 1, 2024, at Beckwith Mortuary, with Rev. Jack Singer presiding. Graveside inurnment service will immediately follow at the Larned Cemetery.Memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Memorial Children’s Research Hospital in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, KS 67550. Condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

C. Yvonne Lane

At HaysMed, we proudly highlight Pre-Admission Coordinator and Operating Room Scheduler/Circulator Brian Feldt, BSN, RN for his outstanding contributions and representation on key state and nursing practice platforms.

In October 2023, Feldt was appointed to the Kansas State Board of Nursing (KSBN) Practice Committee. This committee, composed of KSBN Board Members and nursing professionals, reviews and recommends revisions to nursing statutes and regulations. They provide guidance on nursing and mental health technician practices and address evolving needs through research and education.

In November 2023, Feldt joined the inaugural cohort of the Association of Operating Room Nurse’s (AORN) Journal Peer Reviewer Academy. This program equips dedicated nurses to review scholarly, evidence-based articles, ensuring the quality and relevance of content published in the AORN Journal. Their work supports the advancement of perioperative nursing practices and patient care.

Feldt's active involvement reflect HaysMed’s commitment to excellence in healthcare. His leadership enhances nursing standards and patient care at both the state and national levels.

Join us in congratulating Brian Feldt for his accomplishments and continued representation of HaysMed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721851073688.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedAt HaysMed, we proudly highlight Pre-Admission Coordinator and Operating Room Scheduler/Circulator Brian Feldt, BSN, RN for his outstanding contributions and representation on key state and nursing practice platforms.In October 2023, Feldt was appointed to the Kansas State Board of Nursing (KSBN) Practice Committee. This committee, composed of KSBN Board Members and nursing professionals, reviews and recommends revisions to nursing statutes and regulations. They provide guidance on nursing and mental health technician practices and address evolving needs through research and education.In November 2023, Feldt joined the inaugural cohort of the Association of Operating Room Nurse’s (AORN) Journal Peer Reviewer Academy. This program equips dedicated nurses to review scholarly, evidence-based articles, ensuring the quality and relevance of content published in the AORN Journal. Their work supports the advancement of perioperative nursing practices and patient care.Feldt's active involvement reflect HaysMed’s commitment to excellence in healthcare. His leadership enhances nursing standards and patient care at both the state and national levels.Join us in congratulating Brian Feldt for his accomplishments and continued representation of HaysMed.

Feldt appointed to state board and peer reviewer

Donald K. McClain, passed away Saturday, July 20, 2024 on his 89th birthday at Topside Manor in Goodland.

Don was born July 20, 1935, to Donald Dennis and Nellie Elizabeth (James) McClain in Clinton, Missouri. His family moved to the OK Ranch near Ruleton, Kansas in 1943, he grew up and went to school in Ruleton and Goodland. In October 1955 he married Lois Jane Helton. He worked in the seismic field most of his life while Lois stayed home raising the children, he enjoyed witching for oil and gas. Don was of the Christian belief, a doer of good deeds, a believer of the Golden Rule, an ultimate storyteller (you never knew if he was pulling your leg or not) and he loved his wife and family fiercely.

He was preceded in death by his wife Lois (Helton) McClain, daughter Beth McClain, and sister Mary Gotchall. Don is survived by 5 children Brenda (Bob) Regan of Pueblo, CO, Becky Hedgecoke of Goodland, KS, Darin McClain of McCook, NE, Amy (Mike) Byers of Junction City, KS, Ryan McClain of McCook, NE, sister-in-law Carol Lisowski of Las Vegas, NV; many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins as well as many friends.

Funeral service will be Friday, July 26, 2024 at 1 p.m. MT at Bateman Funeral Home, 211 East 11th Street, Goodland. Interment following the service in the Goodland Cemetery, North Main Street. Visitation will be Friday prior to the service from 12 to 1 p.m. MT at Bateman Funeral Home. Memorials may be designated to Don McClain Memorial Fund and sent in care of Bateman Funeral Home, PO Box 278, Goodland, Kansas 67735. Information and condolences at&nbsp;www.batemanfuneral.com.

To&nbsp;<a href="https://www.batemanfuneral.com/obituary/Donald-McClain/sympathy-landing">send flowers</a>&nbsp;to the family or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.batemanfuneral.com/obituary/Donald-McClain/1069737/memorial-tree">plant a tree</a>&nbsp;in memory of Donald Keith McClain, please&nbsp;<a href="https://www.batemanfuneral.com/obituary/Donald-McClain/sympathy-landing">visit our floral store.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721851962383.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Donald K. McClain, passed away Saturday, July 20, 2024 on his 89th birthday at Topside Manor in Goodland.Don was born July 20, 1935, to Donald Dennis and Nellie Elizabeth (James) McClain in Clinton, Missouri. His family moved to the OK Ranch near Ruleton, Kansas in 1943, he grew up and went to school in Ruleton and Goodland. In October 1955 he married Lois Jane Helton. He worked in the seismic field most of his life while Lois stayed home raising the children, he enjoyed witching for oil and gas. Don was of the Christian belief, a doer of good deeds, a believer of the Golden Rule, an ultimate storyteller (you never knew if he was pulling your leg or not) and he loved his wife and family fiercely.He was preceded in death by his wife Lois (Helton) McClain, daughter Beth McClain, and sister Mary Gotchall. Don is survived by 5 children Brenda (Bob) Regan of Pueblo, CO, Becky Hedgecoke of Goodland, KS, Darin McClain of McCook, NE, Amy (Mike) Byers of Junction City, KS, Ryan McClain of McCook, NE, sister-in-law Carol Lisowski of Las Vegas, NV; many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins as well as many friends.Funeral service will be Friday, July 26, 2024 at 1 p.m. MT at Bateman Funeral Home, 211 East 11th Street, Goodland. Interment following the service in the Goodland Cemetery, North Main Street. Visitation will be Friday prior to the service from 12 to 1 p.m. MT at Bateman Funeral Home. Memorials may be designated to Don McClain Memorial Fund and sent in care of Bateman Funeral Home, PO Box 278, Goodland, Kansas 67735. Information and condolences at&nbsp;www.batemanfuneral.com.To&nbsp;<a href="https://www.batemanfuneral.com/obituary/Donald-McClain/sympathy-landing">send flowers</a>&nbsp;to the family or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.batemanfuneral.com/obituary/Donald-McClain/1069737/memorial-tree">plant a tree</a>&nbsp;in memory of Donald Keith McClain, please&nbsp;<a href="https://www.batemanfuneral.com/obituary/Donald-McClain/sympathy-landing">visit our floral store.</a>

Donald K. McClain

Jimmie Carrol Gillespie was born to Delmar James and Wilma Jean (Roberts) Gillespie on August 1, 1949, at the Gove County Hospital in Quinter, KS. He died on July 18, 2024, at age 74 in the hospital in Colorado Springs, CO. He was preceded in death by his mother and father. He married Lora Lou Marshall, in Yakima, Washington, on August 14, 1971. He met Lora while working on Wagons Ho of Quinter, KS, as a teamster, in 1968. They had two wonderful children. Colleen Renee Louise was born on June 1, 1977, and Justin Marshall James was born on October 5, 1980. He is survived by his daughter, Colleen Rathbone, her husband, Larry, and sons, Eric Marshall Rathbone, and Basil Jimmie Davis Rathbone and his son Justin Gillespie, his wife, Bree-Anne, and son, James Justin Gillespie. He’s also survived by his brother, Kirby and his wife, Donna, of Quinter, KS; his sister, Brenda Traugott, of Wichita, KS; his sister Gladys Billinger and her husband, Keith, of Victoria, KS; his brother Mitchell and his wife, Carlene, of Grainfield, KS; his brother, Michael and his wife, Theresa, of Grainfield, KS; his sister, Connie Weber, of Quinter, KS; and his sister, Sharon Beougher, and her husband, Joel, of Hays, KS. He’s also survived by a multitude of nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.

Jimmie graduated from Grainfield High School in 1967 and graduated from Kansas State University in 1972. He worked in credit unions for 35 years. He started his career at the Quinter Coop Federal Credit Union. During those years Jimmie earned the designation of Certified Credit Union Executive from the Credit Union National Association and was honored with the Significant Accomplishment Award by the Colorado Credit Union Association. After retiring, he worked with special needs students, as a para and later volunteered at Head Start.

Viewing and services will be held at the Schmitt Funeral Home in Quinter, KS on Aug. 1 from 10 a.m. to noon. Masonic rituals will be performed by Hoxie Lodge #348 and the song Amazing Grace will be performed on the bagpipes.

His ashes will be interred at the Grainfield Kansas cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to&nbsp;<a href="https://secure.qgiv.com/for/pulfibfou/">The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation</a>. Feel free to donate online using the provided link, or send contributions to Schmitt Funeral Home, 901 South Main Street, Quinter, KS 67752. &nbsp;

Memories and words of support may be left for the family by writing in the guestbook at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.schmittfuneral.com/">www.schmittfuneral.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721850814776.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jimmie Carrol Gillespie was born to Delmar James and Wilma Jean (Roberts) Gillespie on August 1, 1949, at the Gove County Hospital in Quinter, KS. He died on July 18, 2024, at age 74 in the hospital in Colorado Springs, CO. He was preceded in death by his mother and father. He married Lora Lou Marshall, in Yakima, Washington, on August 14, 1971. He met Lora while working on Wagons Ho of Quinter, KS, as a teamster, in 1968. They had two wonderful children. Colleen Renee Louise was born on June 1, 1977, and Justin Marshall James was born on October 5, 1980. He is survived by his daughter, Colleen Rathbone, her husband, Larry, and sons, Eric Marshall Rathbone, and Basil Jimmie Davis Rathbone and his son Justin Gillespie, his wife, Bree-Anne, and son, James Justin Gillespie. He’s also survived by his brother, Kirby and his wife, Donna, of Quinter, KS; his sister, Brenda Traugott, of Wichita, KS; his sister Gladys Billinger and her husband, Keith, of Victoria, KS; his brother Mitchell and his wife, Carlene, of Grainfield, KS; his brother, Michael and his wife, Theresa, of Grainfield, KS; his sister, Connie Weber, of Quinter, KS; and his sister, Sharon Beougher, and her husband, Joel, of Hays, KS. He’s also survived by a multitude of nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.Jimmie graduated from Grainfield High School in 1967 and graduated from Kansas State University in 1972. He worked in credit unions for 35 years. He started his career at the Quinter Coop Federal Credit Union. During those years Jimmie earned the designation of Certified Credit Union Executive from the Credit Union National Association and was honored with the Significant Accomplishment Award by the Colorado Credit Union Association. After retiring, he worked with special needs students, as a para and later volunteered at Head Start.Viewing and services will be held at the Schmitt Funeral Home in Quinter, KS on Aug. 1 from 10 a.m. to noon. Masonic rituals will be performed by Hoxie Lodge #348 and the song Amazing Grace will be performed on the bagpipes.His ashes will be interred at the Grainfield Kansas cemetery at a later date.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to&nbsp;<a href="https://secure.qgiv.com/for/pulfibfou/">The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation</a>. Feel free to donate online using the provided link, or send contributions to Schmitt Funeral Home, 901 South Main Street, Quinter, KS 67752. &nbsp;Memories and words of support may be left for the family by writing in the guestbook at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.schmittfuneral.com/">www.schmittfuneral.com</a>.

Jimmie Carrol Gillespie

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics
Association released its 2024 Preseason Polls for football on Tuesday, July 23
at its annual Football Media Day in Kansas City. The Tigers were picked fifth
in both the in the Coaches Poll and Media Poll. Central Missouri, co-champion
of the MIAA in 2023, was picked first in both polls.

FHSU tied for fifth in the MIAA standings in 2023, finishing
with an overall record of 7-4. All of the Tigers' losses in 2023 were to the
teams that finished in front of them in the conference standings. The Tigers
had a strong bounce-back season from a tough 2022, reaching the seven-win mark
in a season for the seventh time under head coach Chris Brown.

The conference will consist of only 10 teams in 2024 after
Lincoln's departure to the Great Lakes Valley Conference and Northeastern State
electing to play as an independent in football. The Tigers will have two
non-conference games on their schedule this year, which includes a solid Angelo
State team for the season opener in Hays in late August and then a meeting with
Northeastern State in mid-September in Hays. Angelo State was an NCAA Playoffs
team in 2021 and 2022 and finished 7-3 in 2023.

Both polls were nearly the same, with the only difference
being Emporia State picked fourth in the coaches poll and sixth in the media
poll, while Missouri Western was picked fourth in the media poll and sixth in
the coaches poll. Central Missouri (1st), Pittsburg State (2nd), and Northwest
Missouri State (3rd) were the top three teams in both polls. Central Missouri
and Pittsburg State tied for the MIAA regular season title last year and both
played in the NCAA Playoffs.

The Tigers return 20 of their 22 starters from the 2023
season, which includes all 11 on offense and nine on defense. The Tigers also
boast 16 of their 17 all-conference players returning from a season ago. John
Johnson, Myles Menges, Mason Perez, Kobe Rome, Parrish Terry, Makel Williams,
Trevion Mitchell, and Sam Brandt were all-conference performers for the Tigers
on the defensive side of the ball, while offensive players earning selections
included Trevor Watts, Jack Dawson, Josh Shaw, Jayden Horace, Cale Cormaney,
Dawson Reynolds, and Kofi Karikari. All-conference kicker Carson Arndt also
returns.

Fort Hays State had the second-best total defense (300.1
yards per game) and third-best scoring defense (21.5 points per game) among
MIAA teams in 2023. On the flip side, the Tigers had the fourth-best total
offense average (420.2 yards per game) among conference teams.

Fort Hays State plays at home six times in 2024, which
includes their two non-conference opponents mentioned above. The first MIAA
opponent of the 2024 season for FHSU will be Missouri Western on September 7 in
Hays. The Tigers will also host defending MIAA co-champion Central Missouri in
Hays for Homecoming on October 5, Washburn on October 12, and Missouri Southern
on October 26.

Get your season tickets today by contacting the FHSU
Athletic Department at (785) 628-4050 or drop by the office in person.

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

See the MIAA preseason polls below.

2024 MIAA FOOTBALL PRESEASON COACHES POLL 1. Central Missouri [8] - 80 points 2. Pittsburg State [2] - 73 points 3. Northwest Missouri - 58 points 4. Emporia State - 56 points 5. Fort Hays State - 55 points 6. Missouri Western - 42 points 7. Central Oklahoma - 31 points 8. Missouri Southern - 24 points 9. Washburn - 16 points 10. Nebraska Kearney - 15 points [#] - Number of First-Place Votes

2024 MIAA FOOTBALL PRESEASON MEDIA POLL 1. Central Missouri [20] - 254 points 2. Pittsburg State [6] - 231 points 3. Northwest Missouri - 199 points 4. Missouri Western - 158 points 5. Fort Hays State - 155 points 6. Emporia State - 145 points 7. Central Oklahoma - 94 points 8. Missouri Southern - 81 points 9. Washburn - 60 points 10. Nebraska Kearney - 53 points [#] - Number of First-Place Votes

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721747076450.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics
Association released its 2024 Preseason Polls for football on Tuesday, July 23
at its annual Football Media Day in Kansas City. The Tigers were picked fifth
in both the in the Coaches Poll and Media Poll. Central Missouri, co-champion
of the MIAA in 2023, was picked first in both polls.FHSU tied for fifth in the MIAA standings in 2023, finishing
with an overall record of 7-4. All of the Tigers' losses in 2023 were to the
teams that finished in front of them in the conference standings. The Tigers
had a strong bounce-back season from a tough 2022, reaching the seven-win mark
in a season for the seventh time under head coach Chris Brown.The conference will consist of only 10 teams in 2024 after
Lincoln's departure to the Great Lakes Valley Conference and Northeastern State
electing to play as an independent in football. The Tigers will have two
non-conference games on their schedule this year, which includes a solid Angelo
State team for the season opener in Hays in late August and then a meeting with
Northeastern State in mid-September in Hays. Angelo State was an NCAA Playoffs
team in 2021 and 2022 and finished 7-3 in 2023.Both polls were nearly the same, with the only difference
being Emporia State picked fourth in the coaches poll and sixth in the media
poll, while Missouri Western was picked fourth in the media poll and sixth in
the coaches poll. Central Missouri (1st), Pittsburg State (2nd), and Northwest
Missouri State (3rd) were the top three teams in both polls. Central Missouri
and Pittsburg State tied for the MIAA regular season title last year and both
played in the NCAA Playoffs.The Tigers return 20 of their 22 starters from the 2023
season, which includes all 11 on offense and nine on defense. The Tigers also
boast 16 of their 17 all-conference players returning from a season ago. John
Johnson, Myles Menges, Mason Perez, Kobe Rome, Parrish Terry, Makel Williams,
Trevion Mitchell, and Sam Brandt were all-conference performers for the Tigers
on the defensive side of the ball, while offensive players earning selections
included Trevor Watts, Jack Dawson, Josh Shaw, Jayden Horace, Cale Cormaney,
Dawson Reynolds, and Kofi Karikari. All-conference kicker Carson Arndt also
returns.Fort Hays State had the second-best total defense (300.1
yards per game) and third-best scoring defense (21.5 points per game) among
MIAA teams in 2023. On the flip side, the Tigers had the fourth-best total
offense average (420.2 yards per game) among conference teams.Fort Hays State plays at home six times in 2024, which
includes their two non-conference opponents mentioned above. The first MIAA
opponent of the 2024 season for FHSU will be Missouri Western on September 7 in
Hays. The Tigers will also host defending MIAA co-champion Central Missouri in
Hays for Homecoming on October 5, Washburn on October 12, and Missouri Southern
on October 26.Get your season tickets today by contacting the FHSU
Athletic Department at (785) 628-4050 or drop by the office in person.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/schedule">2024 Fort Hays State Football Schedule</a>See the MIAA preseason polls below.2024 MIAA FOOTBALL PRESEASON COACHES POLL 1. Central Missouri [8] - 80 points 2. Pittsburg State [2] - 73 points 3. Northwest Missouri - 58 points 4. Emporia State - 56 points 5. Fort Hays State - 55 points 6. Missouri Western - 42 points 7. Central Oklahoma - 31 points 8. Missouri Southern - 24 points 9. Washburn - 16 points 10. Nebraska Kearney - 15 points [#] - Number of First-Place Votes2024 MIAA FOOTBALL PRESEASON MEDIA POLL 1. Central Missouri [20] - 254 points 2. Pittsburg State [6] - 231 points 3. Northwest Missouri - 199 points 4. Missouri Western - 158 points 5. Fort Hays State - 155 points 6. Emporia State - 145 points 7. Central Oklahoma - 94 points 8. Missouri Southern - 81 points 9. Washburn - 60 points 10. Nebraska Kearney - 53 points [#] - Number of First-Place Votes

🏈Tigers Picked Fifth in 2024 MIAA Football Preseason Polls

Karol Ann (Kruse) Swart, 79, of Grinnell, passed away Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at home with her family by her side, after battling dementia. She was born at 12:32 a.m. on October 15, 1944, in Colby, KS, to Ralph and Armella (Lintel) Kruse and weighed in at 9lbs 2oz. Karol received her first haircut at six weeks old, so her mom could mail it to her dad who was serving in the Navy. She grew up on a farm southwest of Oakley and was the oldest of eight kids. Karol graduated from Oakley High School and attended Fort Hays State University.

On January 29, 1964, Karol married the love of her life, Terry Swart, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, in Oakley. They met at the Dairy King, where Karol worked in high school. They lived a wonderful life together on the Swart Ranch, located 20 miles south of Grinnell. There they raised their two children, Amy and Terrall, who were Karol’s pride and joy.

Through the years they raised pigs, a cow and calf herd, horses, bucket calves, dogs, cats, rabbits and ran a fat cattle feedlot. Terry and Karol made their dream house plans become a reality when their new house was built in 1975, smack dab in the middle of their pasture. Terry calls it “God’s Country”. 

Karol said she always wanted to live in town, but when the opportunity arose, she fought to stay on the ranch.

After the kids were older, Karol went to work in Oakley. She worked at Mitten’s Skelly Truck Stop as a cook and Amy joined her there as a waitress. Later they both worked together at the Colonial Steakhouse. Karol also worked at the Oakley School Cafeteria and later she and Terry worked together at Warren’s IGA. Karol had a gift to cook!

After her kids were grown, Karol attended the Liberal Truck Driving School. Upon graduating, her and Terry team drove a semi, for Barnett Trucking, all over the country, coast to coast. They called themselves “Paid Snowbirds”. This allowed them to travel and see many states.

Karol’s kids were her pride and joy, but then came her first grandchild, Jason. It was love at first sight; she enjoyed every minute with him! Seven years later she was doubly blessed with twin granddaughters, Ashley and Emily. She couldn’t get enough of the three of them and spent lots of time babysitting. Karol was a fun grandma, spoiling them rotten and taking them on many adventures as they grew up. Being a grandma was great, but then came her four great grandkids: Mia and Chelsey Reyes and Baylor and Eli Chartier. All four were perfect in her eyes. Together they carried on the grandkid adventures with fun on the ranch riding 4-wheelers, sledding, climbing the bluffs, painting, coloring and putting together puzzles. They took road trips to swimming pools, water slides, zoos and the lake. Her kids, grandkids and great grandkids were blessed with a life full of fun and love with her. Memories that will be cherished forever.

Karol lived the best life with her husband Terry by her side through all of it. She enjoyed farm life, caring for her kids and farm animals, cooking and gardening. Through the years she enjoyed various hobbies: crafting, taking pictures, scrapbooking, ceramic and tole painting, sewing, quilting, coloring, puzzles, puzzle books, wildflowers and bird watching. Karol was an avid Elvis fan, believing someday he would come for her. She was also a huge Billy Ray Cyrus fan, dragging Terry and family to various states to attend his concerts.

Karol is survived by her husband of 60 years, Terry Swart; children, Amy (Larry) Smith, of Dodge City and Terrall (Stephanie) Swart of Hays; grandchildren, Jason Swart, Ashley (Josh) Chartier and Emily (Gustavo) Reyes, all of Hays and great grandchildren, Baylor and Eli Chartier and Mia and Chelsey Reyes. Upon Terrall’s marriage to Stephanie, she gained more grandchildren, Chelsea (Ryder) Eakin, of Hays, and Paige (Alex) Nuss, of Hutchison, and great grandchildren, Callie, Carson and Caylor Eakin and Easton and Beckett Nuss. She is also survived by her siblings and in-laws, Lanny Hockersmith, Rodney (Mary Lou) Kruse, Butch (Cheri) Kruse, Connie Evans, Berny (Missy) Kruse, Janice Wilkening, and Robert (Chan) Kruse; her aunts, Geraldine Swart and Dixie Lintel and 25 nieces and nephews and their families. She loved family get togethers and loved all the kids.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Herman and Mary Lintel and Ben and Carrie Kruse; her parents, Ralph and Armella Kruse; in-laws, Leonard and Elizabeth Swart; sister, Marilyn Hockersmith; sister-in-law Connie (Dennis) Dawson; brother-in-law Rod Wilkening; aunts and uncles, Marietta Coats, Elaine Hammerschmidt, Eunice Weber, LaVerna Robben, Lila Heier and Donnie Lintel; an infant son Paul and her cat Lilly.

A celebration of life will take place at 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 19, 2024, at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Oakley. Karol would have requested that everyone dress casually for the service. Memorials may be made to NWKareS Hospice (to help provide medical equipment for patients) and may be sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp;&nbsp;

Karol Ann (Kruse) Swart, 79, of Grinnell, passed away Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at home with her family by her side, after battling dementia. She was born at 12:32 a.m. on October 15, 1944, in Colby, KS, to Ralph and Armella (Lintel) Kruse and weighed in at 9lbs 2oz. Karol received her first haircut at six weeks old, so her mom could mail it to her dad who was serving in the Navy. She grew up on a farm southwest of Oakley and was the oldest of eight kids. Karol graduated from Oakley High School and attended Fort Hays State University.On January 29, 1964, Karol married the love of her life, Terry Swart, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, in Oakley. They met at the Dairy King, where Karol worked in high school. They lived a wonderful life together on the Swart Ranch, located 20 miles south of Grinnell. There they raised their two children, Amy and Terrall, who were Karol’s pride and joy.Through the years they raised pigs, a cow and calf herd, horses, bucket calves, dogs, cats, rabbits and ran a fat cattle feedlot. Terry and Karol made their dream house plans become a reality when their new house was built in 1975, smack dab in the middle of their pasture. Terry calls it “God’s Country”. Karol said she always wanted to live in town, but when the opportunity arose, she fought to stay on the ranch.After the kids were older, Karol went to work in Oakley. She worked at Mitten’s Skelly Truck Stop as a cook and Amy joined her there as a waitress. Later they both worked together at the Colonial Steakhouse. Karol also worked at the Oakley School Cafeteria and later she and Terry worked together at Warren’s IGA. Karol had a gift to cook!After her kids were grown, Karol attended the Liberal Truck Driving School. Upon graduating, her and Terry team drove a semi, for Barnett Trucking, all over the country, coast to coast. They called themselves “Paid Snowbirds”. This allowed them to travel and see many states.Karol’s kids were her pride and joy, but then came her first grandchild, Jason. It was love at first sight; she enjoyed every minute with him! Seven years later she was doubly blessed with twin granddaughters, Ashley and Emily. She couldn’t get enough of the three of them and spent lots of time babysitting. Karol was a fun grandma, spoiling them rotten and taking them on many adventures as they grew up. Being a grandma was great, but then came her four great grandkids: Mia and Chelsey Reyes and Baylor and Eli Chartier. All four were perfect in her eyes. Together they carried on the grandkid adventures with fun on the ranch riding 4-wheelers, sledding, climbing the bluffs, painting, coloring and putting together puzzles. They took road trips to swimming pools, water slides, zoos and the lake. Her kids, grandkids and great grandkids were blessed with a life full of fun and love with her. Memories that will be cherished forever.Karol lived the best life with her husband Terry by her side through all of it. She enjoyed farm life, caring for her kids and farm animals, cooking and gardening. Through the years she enjoyed various hobbies: crafting, taking pictures, scrapbooking, ceramic and tole painting, sewing, quilting, coloring, puzzles, puzzle books, wildflowers and bird watching. Karol was an avid Elvis fan, believing someday he would come for her. She was also a huge Billy Ray Cyrus fan, dragging Terry and family to various states to attend his concerts.Karol is survived by her husband of 60 years, Terry Swart; children, Amy (Larry) Smith, of Dodge City and Terrall (Stephanie) Swart of Hays; grandchildren, Jason Swart, Ashley (Josh) Chartier and Emily (Gustavo) Reyes, all of Hays and great grandchildren, Baylor and Eli Chartier and Mia and Chelsey Reyes. Upon Terrall’s marriage to Stephanie, she gained more grandchildren, Chelsea (Ryder) Eakin, of Hays, and Paige (Alex) Nuss, of Hutchison, and great grandchildren, Callie, Carson and Caylor Eakin and Easton and Beckett Nuss. She is also survived by her siblings and in-laws, Lanny Hockersmith, Rodney (Mary Lou) Kruse, Butch (Cheri) Kruse, Connie Evans, Berny (Missy) Kruse, Janice Wilkening, and Robert (Chan) Kruse; her aunts, Geraldine Swart and Dixie Lintel and 25 nieces and nephews and their families. She loved family get togethers and loved all the kids.She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Herman and Mary Lintel and Ben and Carrie Kruse; her parents, Ralph and Armella Kruse; in-laws, Leonard and Elizabeth Swart; sister, Marilyn Hockersmith; sister-in-law Connie (Dennis) Dawson; brother-in-law Rod Wilkening; aunts and uncles, Marietta Coats, Elaine Hammerschmidt, Eunice Weber, LaVerna Robben, Lila Heier and Donnie Lintel; an infant son Paul and her cat Lilly.A celebration of life will take place at 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 19, 2024, at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Oakley. Karol would have requested that everyone dress casually for the service. Memorials may be made to NWKareS Hospice (to help provide medical equipment for patients) and may be sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp;&nbsp;

Karol Ann (Kruse) Swart

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. military-built pier to carry humanitarian aid to Gaza will be dismantled and brought home, ending a mission that has been fraught with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-gaza-aid-pier-project-dea570c577272f945cdcbfffab0ac34c">repeated weather and security problems</a>&nbsp;that limited how much food and other supplies could get to starving Palestinians.

Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, deputy commander at U.S. Central Command, told reporters in a Pentagon briefing on Wednesday that the pier achieved its intended effect in what he called an “unprecedented operation.”

As the U.S. military steps away from the sea route for humanitarian aid, questions swirl about Israel’s new plan to use the port at Ashdod as a substitute. There are few details on how it will work and lingering concerns about whether aid groups will have enough viable land crossings to get assistance into the territory besieged by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">war between Israel and Hamas</a>. But Cooper said the Ashdod corridor will be more sustainable.

Critics call the pier a $230 million boondoggle that failed to bring in the level of aid needed to stem a looming famine. The U.S. military, however, has maintained that it&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-gaza-pier-us-military-aid-hunger-1dedd321e2a4e5fdba5a26cbbc51df77">served as the best hope</a>&nbsp;as aid only trickled in during a critical time of near-famine in Gaza and that it got close to 20 million pounds (9 million kilograms) of desperately needed supplies to the Palestinians.

President Joe Biden, who announced the building of the pier during his State of the Union speech in March, expressed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/military-pier-gaza-israel-humanitarian-aid-c4d464cb01bdf86e71c38519fb635cde">disappointment that it didn’t do as well as hoped</a>.

“I’ve been disappointed that some of the things that I put forward have not succeeded as well — like the port we attached from Cyprus,” Biden, a Democrat, said during a news conference last week. “I was hopeful that would be more successful.”

Planned as a temporary fix to get aid to starving Palestinians, the project was panned from the start by aid groups that condemned it as a waste of time and money. While U.S. defense officials acknowledged that the weather was worse than expected and limited the days the pier could operate, they also expressed frustration with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pier-humanitarian-aid-gaza-israel-un-2465291ca9308f9d97e3cc51a8cab6c7">humanitarian groups for being unable and unwilling</a>&nbsp;to distribute the aid that got through the system, only to have it pile up onshore.

A critical element that neither the aid groups nor the U.S. military could control, however, was the Israeli defense forces whose military operation into Gaza put humanitarian workers in persistent danger and in a number of cases&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/world-central-kitchen-jose-andres-gaza-israel-a21b62edbfa1150d0eb78ed5597a03c8">cost them their lives</a>.

As a result, the pier operated for fewer than 25 days after its installation May 16, and aid agencies used it only about half that time due to security concerns.

Stuck in the middle were the more than 1,000 U.S. soldiers and sailors who largely lived on boats off the Gaza shore and struggled to keep the pier working but spent many days repairing it or detaching it, moving it and reinstalling it due to the bad weather.

The tensions played out until the final moments, as senior Biden administration officials signaled the end of the pier project days ago but U.S. Central Command balked,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-latest-07-09-2024-15ff481cbd52e8cbe1ffa17dc78e094f">holding out hope the military could reinstall it</a>&nbsp;one last time to move any final pallets of aid ashore.

Most would agree that use of the maritime route and what is known as the Army’s Joint Logistics Over the Shore capability, or JLOTS, fell short of early expectations. Even at the start, officials warned of challenges because the sea is shallow, the weather is unpredictable and it was an active war zone.

The U.S. also had to train Israeli troops and others on how to anchor the pier to the shore because no U.S. troops could step foot on Gaza soil, a condition Biden has had since the beginning of the Hamas-Israel conflict in October.

However, enough aid to feed 450,000 people for a month flowed through the pier, according to the United States Agency for International Development, which coordinated with the United Nations and others to get supplies to people in need. As important, humanitarian leaders say, the pier operation laid the groundwork for a coordination system with the Israeli government and military that they can expand on.

The one place where deconfliction with the Israeli military worked well was at the pier, which came online at a time of some of the greatest despair and food shortages, USAID Administrator&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-gaza-war-power-usaid-humanitarian-afc82e5a17d939bd284194b0b64289d5">Samantha Power</a>&nbsp;said. She said Israel and the military have now agreed to extend that coordination plan to “all of Gaza.”

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said Tuesday that a new Pier 28 will soon be established at Israel’s Ashdod port for delivering aid to the Gaza Strip as a replacement for the U.S. military-built pier. He did not say when it would start operating.

Other aid groups, however, slammed the U.S. military pier as a distraction, saying the U.S. should have instead pressured Israel to open more land crossings and allow the aid to flow more quickly and efficiently through them.

Everyone has agreed all along that land crossings are the most productive way to get aid into Gaza, but the Israeli military routinely has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-gaza-rafah-aid-us-senators-2bc2a3c5e5f8af8e2d3f0b7242c1a885">blocked routes and slowed deliveries</a>&nbsp;due to inspections. Aid groups also were terrorized by attacks, from Hamas,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cyprus-israel-gaza-aid-0925eb0de9a5a315b9c21e045d1e3a95">gunmen who stripped convoys of supplies</a>&nbsp;and the Israeli military. More than 278 workers have been killed in the conflict, Power said.

As the Pentagon and the Army take stock of how the pier did, questions will loom about whether officials underestimated the persistent weather challenges and security hurdles that hindered the operation.

The system is run by the Army's 7th Transportation Brigade (Expeditionary) at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Virginia. And it's like a huge LEGO system — an array of 40-foot-long (12-meter-long) pieces of steel that can be locked together to form a pier and causeway.

It's unclear if U.S. forces were adequately prepared for the unpredictable and turbulent weather in the Gaza region. Nine days after the pier was installed on the Gaza shore, bad weather broke it, forcing troops to dismantle it and take it to the Israeli port at Ashdod for more than two weeks for repairs.

Weather forced troops to detach the pier from the shore two more times and move it to Ashdod. It was detached for the final time on June 28, and poor weather prevented the U.S. from reinstalling it.

Aid groups struggled to distribute the supplies from the pier into Gaza, and their efforts came to an abrupt halt after a June 8 Israeli military raid that rescued four hostages but killed hundreds of Palestinians.

Troops used an area near the pier to land a helicopter and fly out the hostages. To have even a small part of an Israeli military operation so close to the pier creates problems for aid groups who rely on being independent and separate from troops to remain safe.

As a result, the U.N. suspended all World Food Program deliveries while it conducted a review, which has not been released. WFP personnel have not distributed aid from the pier since but hired contractors to move aid that piled up on shore to warehouses so it would not spoil.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717793045172.png" alt="Photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>Photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>By LOLITA C. BALDOR and TARA COPP&nbsp;WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. military-built pier to carry humanitarian aid to Gaza will be dismantled and brought home, ending a mission that has been fraught with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-gaza-aid-pier-project-dea570c577272f945cdcbfffab0ac34c">repeated weather and security problems</a>&nbsp;that limited how much food and other supplies could get to starving Palestinians.Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, deputy commander at U.S. Central Command, told reporters in a Pentagon briefing on Wednesday that the pier achieved its intended effect in what he called an “unprecedented operation.”As the U.S. military steps away from the sea route for humanitarian aid, questions swirl about Israel’s new plan to use the port at Ashdod as a substitute. There are few details on how it will work and lingering concerns about whether aid groups will have enough viable land crossings to get assistance into the territory besieged by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">war between Israel and Hamas</a>. But Cooper said the Ashdod corridor will be more sustainable.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714471004272.png" alt="Photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>Photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>Critics call the pier a $230 million boondoggle that failed to bring in the level of aid needed to stem a looming famine. The U.S. military, however, has maintained that it&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-gaza-pier-us-military-aid-hunger-1dedd321e2a4e5fdba5a26cbbc51df77">served as the best hope</a>&nbsp;as aid only trickled in during a critical time of near-famine in Gaza and that it got close to 20 million pounds (9 million kilograms) of desperately needed supplies to the Palestinians.President Joe Biden, who announced the building of the pier during his State of the Union speech in March, expressed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/military-pier-gaza-israel-humanitarian-aid-c4d464cb01bdf86e71c38519fb635cde">disappointment that it didn’t do as well as hoped</a>.“I’ve been disappointed that some of the things that I put forward have not succeeded as well — like the port we attached from Cyprus,” Biden, a Democrat, said during a news conference last week. “I was hopeful that would be more successful.”Planned as a temporary fix to get aid to starving Palestinians, the project was panned from the start by aid groups that condemned it as a waste of time and money. While U.S. defense officials acknowledged that the weather was worse than expected and limited the days the pier could operate, they also expressed frustration with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pier-humanitarian-aid-gaza-israel-un-2465291ca9308f9d97e3cc51a8cab6c7">humanitarian groups for being unable and unwilling</a>&nbsp;to distribute the aid that got through the system, only to have it pile up onshore.A critical element that neither the aid groups nor the U.S. military could control, however, was the Israeli defense forces whose military operation into Gaza put humanitarian workers in persistent danger and in a number of cases&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/world-central-kitchen-jose-andres-gaza-israel-a21b62edbfa1150d0eb78ed5597a03c8">cost them their lives</a>.As a result, the pier operated for fewer than 25 days after its installation May 16, and aid agencies used it only about half that time due to security concerns.Stuck in the middle were the more than 1,000 U.S. soldiers and sailors who largely lived on boats off the Gaza shore and struggled to keep the pier working but spent many days repairing it or detaching it, moving it and reinstalling it due to the bad weather.The tensions played out until the final moments, as senior Biden administration officials signaled the end of the pier project days ago but U.S. Central Command balked,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-latest-07-09-2024-15ff481cbd52e8cbe1ffa17dc78e094f">holding out hope the military could reinstall it</a>&nbsp;one last time to move any final pallets of aid ashore.Most would agree that use of the maritime route and what is known as the Army’s Joint Logistics Over the Shore capability, or JLOTS, fell short of early expectations. Even at the start, officials warned of challenges because the sea is shallow, the weather is unpredictable and it was an active war zone.The U.S. also had to train Israeli troops and others on how to anchor the pier to the shore because no U.S. troops could step foot on Gaza soil, a condition Biden has had since the beginning of the Hamas-Israel conflict in October.However, enough aid to feed 450,000 people for a month flowed through the pier, according to the United States Agency for International Development, which coordinated with the United Nations and others to get supplies to people in need. As important, humanitarian leaders say, the pier operation laid the groundwork for a coordination system with the Israeli government and military that they can expand on.The one place where deconfliction with the Israeli military worked well was at the pier, which came online at a time of some of the greatest despair and food shortages, USAID Administrator&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-gaza-war-power-usaid-humanitarian-afc82e5a17d939bd284194b0b64289d5">Samantha Power</a>&nbsp;said. She said Israel and the military have now agreed to extend that coordination plan to “all of Gaza.”Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said Tuesday that a new Pier 28 will soon be established at Israel’s Ashdod port for delivering aid to the Gaza Strip as a replacement for the U.S. military-built pier. He did not say when it would start operating.Other aid groups, however, slammed the U.S. military pier as a distraction, saying the U.S. should have instead pressured Israel to open more land crossings and allow the aid to flow more quickly and efficiently through them.Everyone has agreed all along that land crossings are the most productive way to get aid into Gaza, but the Israeli military routinely has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-gaza-rafah-aid-us-senators-2bc2a3c5e5f8af8e2d3f0b7242c1a885">blocked routes and slowed deliveries</a>&nbsp;due to inspections. Aid groups also were terrorized by attacks, from Hamas,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cyprus-israel-gaza-aid-0925eb0de9a5a315b9c21e045d1e3a95">gunmen who stripped convoys of supplies</a>&nbsp;and the Israeli military. More than 278 workers have been killed in the conflict, Power said.As the Pentagon and the Army take stock of how the pier did, questions will loom about whether officials underestimated the persistent weather challenges and security hurdles that hindered the operation.The system is run by the Army's 7th Transportation Brigade (Expeditionary) at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Virginia. And it's like a huge LEGO system — an array of 40-foot-long (12-meter-long) pieces of steel that can be locked together to form a pier and causeway.It's unclear if U.S. forces were adequately prepared for the unpredictable and turbulent weather in the Gaza region. Nine days after the pier was installed on the Gaza shore, bad weather broke it, forcing troops to dismantle it and take it to the Israeli port at Ashdod for more than two weeks for repairs.Weather forced troops to detach the pier from the shore two more times and move it to Ashdod. It was detached for the final time on June 28, and poor weather prevented the U.S. from reinstalling it.Aid groups struggled to distribute the supplies from the pier into Gaza, and their efforts came to an abrupt halt after a June 8 Israeli military raid that rescued four hostages but killed hundreds of Palestinians.Troops used an area near the pier to land a helicopter and fly out the hostages. To have even a small part of an Israeli military operation so close to the pier creates problems for aid groups who rely on being independent and separate from troops to remain safe.As a result, the U.N. suspended all World Food Program deliveries while it conducted a review, which has not been released. WFP personnel have not distributed aid from the pier since but hired contractors to move aid that piled up on shore to warehouses so it would not spoil.

 $230M U.S. military built Gaza pier is permanently shut down

Sunday, October 15th, 1944-Tuesday, July 16th, 2024

<a href="https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/karol--swart/5460673/index.php#details">Service details can be found by clicking here.</a>

<h2>Karol Ann Swart (Kruse)</h2>Sunday, October 15th, 1944-Tuesday, July 16th, 2024<a href="https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/karol--swart/5460673/index.php#details">Service details can be found by clicking here.</a>

Karol Ann Swart (Kruse)

Carolyn Sue Hunt, 79, passed away July 15, 2024 at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital, Larned.

She was born February 16, 1945 in Larned, the daughter of Raymond and Margaret Wagaman Swartz.

A longtime area resident Carolyn was a daycare provider and later a mental health aide at Larned State Hospital. She was a member of First Christian Church and a volunteer at Pawnee County Humane Society, Larned Greenhouse, Christian Women Thrift Store, Larned State Hospital Greenhouse, and took pets to visit the nursing home. She was a longtime super fan of the KU Jayhawks and liked gardening, flowers, and animals. Carolyn loved spending time with her grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. She was known for always remembering birthdays with a card. She could often be found walking her dog at the pond or on her porch with friends. She was truly a devoted and loving wife, mom, grandma, sister, aunt, and friend.

On October 20, 1963 she married Dennis James Hunt at Macksville; he preceded her in death on January 10, 1992.

Survivors include: two sons, Michael Hunt, Garfield, Mark Hunt, Larned; daughter, Jamie (Mike) Mehl, Olathe; two brothers, Bob Swartz, Dodge City, Ron (Sarah) Swartz, Philippines; two grandchildren, Christopher (Allie) Mehl, Roeland Park, Garrett Mehl, Olathe; her dog, Precious, her cat, Princess, and her great grand dogs, Caboose and Ladle.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Dennis R. (Denny) Hunt; three brothers, J.R. Swartz, Dick Swartz, Billy Swartz; two sisters, Virginia Shearrer and Betty Hood.

Memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 20, 2024 at First Christian Church, Larned, with Pastor Damon Bradley presiding. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, July 19, 2024 at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned, with family present from 5-8 p.m. Following the service, inurnment will be in Larned Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to Pawnee County Humane Society in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550. Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721240296962.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Carolyn Sue Hunt, 79, passed away July 15, 2024 at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital, Larned.She was born February 16, 1945 in Larned, the daughter of Raymond and Margaret Wagaman Swartz.A longtime area resident Carolyn was a daycare provider and later a mental health aide at Larned State Hospital. She was a member of First Christian Church and a volunteer at Pawnee County Humane Society, Larned Greenhouse, Christian Women Thrift Store, Larned State Hospital Greenhouse, and took pets to visit the nursing home. She was a longtime super fan of the KU Jayhawks and liked gardening, flowers, and animals. Carolyn loved spending time with her grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. She was known for always remembering birthdays with a card. She could often be found walking her dog at the pond or on her porch with friends. She was truly a devoted and loving wife, mom, grandma, sister, aunt, and friend.On October 20, 1963 she married Dennis James Hunt at Macksville; he preceded her in death on January 10, 1992.Survivors include: two sons, Michael Hunt, Garfield, Mark Hunt, Larned; daughter, Jamie (Mike) Mehl, Olathe; two brothers, Bob Swartz, Dodge City, Ron (Sarah) Swartz, Philippines; two grandchildren, Christopher (Allie) Mehl, Roeland Park, Garrett Mehl, Olathe; her dog, Precious, her cat, Princess, and her great grand dogs, Caboose and Ladle.She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Dennis R. (Denny) Hunt; three brothers, J.R. Swartz, Dick Swartz, Billy Swartz; two sisters, Virginia Shearrer and Betty Hood.Memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 20, 2024 at First Christian Church, Larned, with Pastor Damon Bradley presiding. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, July 19, 2024 at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned, with family present from 5-8 p.m. Following the service, inurnment will be in Larned Cemetery.Memorials may be given to Pawnee County Humane Society in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550. Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

Carolyn Sue Hunt

Edythe Breeding, age 100, of Hays, Kansas passed away peacefully Thursday, July 4, 2024, at Homestead Assisted Living of Hays.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Edythe was born December 13, 1923, in Hugoton, Kansas to Roscoe E. and Ethel V. (Light) Floyd.&nbsp; She was the second born of twins.&nbsp; Her twin brother, Ernest Wayne and&nbsp; Edythe were welcomed home by 3 sisters and 9 brothers.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Edythe grew up in Rolla and was a graduate of Rolla High School.&nbsp; While growing up, she worked at the Rolla drug store and then at the Rolla post office.&nbsp; After graduation, Edythe and two of her girlfriends traveled by train to Long Beach, California where they worked for the war effort in an airplane factory for a couple of years.&nbsp; They were “Rosie the Riveters”.&nbsp; Edythe’s boyfriend Ralph Edward Breeding served as a Navy Hell fighter pilot and a flight instructor.&nbsp; In 1944, Ralph and Edythe were married in Liberal, Kansas on October 31, while Ralph was on leave. When World War II was over, Edythe and Ralph returned to Morton County, Kansas to farm.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ralph passed away in 1975. Edythe moved to Garden City in 1985 and married Harlow Brown on June 17, 1987. Edythe and Harlow moved to Sun City West, Arizona a few years later.&nbsp; Edythe was an avid golfer and played at least three times per week at Briarwood Country Club in Sun City West.&nbsp; She also loved to travel going on 7 cruises.&nbsp; In 2019, Edythe moved to Hays, Kansas to be near her daughter Susan.&nbsp; She lived at Garden Terrace independent living until she moved to Homestead Assisted Living in June 2024.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Edythe is survived by her daughter, Susan Rymph and husband, Bill, Ellis, KS; grandchildren, Kimberly Simmons; Kristina Cagle; Ryan Woods; Troy Rymph and wife, Savannah; Brett Shaffer and wife, Stephanie; 4 great grandchildren and several nephews and nieces.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;She was preceded in death by her parents, Roscoe and Ethel Floyd; her first husband, Ralph Edward Breeding; her second husband, Harlow Brown; her children, Ernie; Wayne; and Jana; her siblings, Marie; Maymie; Merle; Clarence; Clifford; Opal; Claude; Carter; Arthur; Roy; Raymond; Ralph, and her twin, Ernest Wayne.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A celebration of Life service will be held at 1:00 P.M. Monday, July 22, 2024, at&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays with Reverend Christine Wagner officiating.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Family will receive friends from 12:30 P.M. Monday, until service time.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;A graveside service and inurnment will be held later at the Rolla Cemetery, Rolla, Kansas.

&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;The family suggests memorials to the Rolla Cemetery in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd&nbsp;Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Condolences can be sent via e-mail to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com">clineschapels@gmail.com</a>&nbsp;or can be left at guestbook at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720283297813.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Edythe Breeding, age 100, of Hays, Kansas passed away peacefully Thursday, July 4, 2024, at Homestead Assisted Living of Hays.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Edythe was born December 13, 1923, in Hugoton, Kansas to Roscoe E. and Ethel V. (Light) Floyd.&nbsp; She was the second born of twins.&nbsp; Her twin brother, Ernest Wayne and&nbsp; Edythe were welcomed home by 3 sisters and 9 brothers.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Edythe grew up in Rolla and was a graduate of Rolla High School.&nbsp; While growing up, she worked at the Rolla drug store and then at the Rolla post office.&nbsp; After graduation, Edythe and two of her girlfriends traveled by train to Long Beach, California where they worked for the war effort in an airplane factory for a couple of years.&nbsp; They were “Rosie the Riveters”.&nbsp; Edythe’s boyfriend Ralph Edward Breeding served as a Navy Hell fighter pilot and a flight instructor.&nbsp; In 1944, Ralph and Edythe were married in Liberal, Kansas on October 31, while Ralph was on leave. When World War II was over, Edythe and Ralph returned to Morton County, Kansas to farm.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ralph passed away in 1975. Edythe moved to Garden City in 1985 and married Harlow Brown on June 17, 1987. Edythe and Harlow moved to Sun City West, Arizona a few years later.&nbsp; Edythe was an avid golfer and played at least three times per week at Briarwood Country Club in Sun City West.&nbsp; She also loved to travel going on 7 cruises.&nbsp; In 2019, Edythe moved to Hays, Kansas to be near her daughter Susan.&nbsp; She lived at Garden Terrace independent living until she moved to Homestead Assisted Living in June 2024.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Edythe is survived by her daughter, Susan Rymph and husband, Bill, Ellis, KS; grandchildren, Kimberly Simmons; Kristina Cagle; Ryan Woods; Troy Rymph and wife, Savannah; Brett Shaffer and wife, Stephanie; 4 great grandchildren and several nephews and nieces.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;She was preceded in death by her parents, Roscoe and Ethel Floyd; her first husband, Ralph Edward Breeding; her second husband, Harlow Brown; her children, Ernie; Wayne; and Jana; her siblings, Marie; Maymie; Merle; Clarence; Clifford; Opal; Claude; Carter; Arthur; Roy; Raymond; Ralph, and her twin, Ernest Wayne.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A celebration of Life service will be held at 1:00 P.M. Monday, July 22, 2024, at&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays with Reverend Christine Wagner officiating.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Family will receive friends from 12:30 P.M. Monday, until service time.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;A graveside service and inurnment will be held later at the Rolla Cemetery, Rolla, Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;The family suggests memorials to the Rolla Cemetery in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd&nbsp;Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Condolences can be sent via e-mail to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com">clineschapels@gmail.com</a>&nbsp;or can be left at guestbook at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Edythe Irene Breeding

Edoline Jane Greene age 89 of Scottsdale, Arizona passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, at the home of her daughter on Monday, June 10, 2024.&nbsp; She was born October 12, 1934, to Edward and Madoline Martin.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Edoline was best known for her devotion to family and having a witty personality.&nbsp; She always knew her friends by “whoever laughs at my jokes”. Though her personality was laughable and fun, she was a very deep, spiritual woman. &nbsp;Her love for the Word crossed over in her love for the French language, always reciting the Bible in French.

In addition, Edoline (Eddie) had a great love for ALL music, poetry and writing songs, Camelback Mountain, swimming and “the beach!”

&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She is survived by her three children, Andrew Greene; David Greene; and Teresa Pavelonis and husband, Joel; her grandchildren, Marci; Hunter; Madeline; &nbsp;Anna (Tanner); Audrey (Austin); Elle (Brendan); her great grandchildren, Anessa; Oliver; and Rhodes.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Madoline Martin; her sister, Madoline Stack; and daughter-in-law, Maxine Greene.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Visitation will be held from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. Saturday, July 20, 2024, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1912 East 22nd, Hays, Kansas 67601.&nbsp; Graveside service will immediately follow at St. Fidelis Cemetery, Victoria, Kansas with Father Curtis Carlson O.F.M. Cap. Officiating.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stvincentdepaul.net/give/donate">https://www.stvincentdepaul.net/give/donate</a>&nbsp;or in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Condolences can be left by guestbook at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>&nbsp;or can be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:clineschaples@gmail.com">clineschaples@gmail.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720472824906.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Edoline Jane Greene age 89 of Scottsdale, Arizona passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, at the home of her daughter on Monday, June 10, 2024.&nbsp; She was born October 12, 1934, to Edward and Madoline Martin.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Edoline was best known for her devotion to family and having a witty personality.&nbsp; She always knew her friends by “whoever laughs at my jokes”. Though her personality was laughable and fun, she was a very deep, spiritual woman. &nbsp;Her love for the Word crossed over in her love for the French language, always reciting the Bible in French.In addition, Edoline (Eddie) had a great love for ALL music, poetry and writing songs, Camelback Mountain, swimming and “the beach!”&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She is survived by her three children, Andrew Greene; David Greene; and Teresa Pavelonis and husband, Joel; her grandchildren, Marci; Hunter; Madeline; &nbsp;Anna (Tanner); Audrey (Austin); Elle (Brendan); her great grandchildren, Anessa; Oliver; and Rhodes.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Madoline Martin; her sister, Madoline Stack; and daughter-in-law, Maxine Greene.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Visitation will be held from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. Saturday, July 20, 2024, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1912 East 22nd, Hays, Kansas 67601.&nbsp; Graveside service will immediately follow at St. Fidelis Cemetery, Victoria, Kansas with Father Curtis Carlson O.F.M. Cap. Officiating.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stvincentdepaul.net/give/donate">https://www.stvincentdepaul.net/give/donate</a>&nbsp;or in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Condolences can be left by guestbook at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>&nbsp;or can be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:clineschaples@gmail.com">clineschaples@gmail.com</a>

Edoline Jane Greene

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

Cottonwood Extension District brought the diabetes education program Dining with Diabetes to Ellis County for the first time in June. Monique Koerner and Karissa Winkel, Family and Community Wellness Agents were trained in 2023 and introduced the program to Hays last month.

Dining with Diabetes is a national extension program provided to Kansans by K-State Research and Extension Family and Consumer Sciences professionals and community health partners. The program is a series of four, 2-hour classes that are held once a week. Classes consist of a presentation on diabetes self-care or healthful food choices; presentations on tasty, healthy familiar foods, sampling foods, and demonstrations of cooking techniques using artificial sweeteners, reduced-fat foods, herbs, and spices.

The class in Hays had 8 attendees which was a really nice size for our first group of participants. Some of the participants knew each other and others met for the first time. However, they all had something in common. They were dealing with diabetes management for themselves or with a loved one.

In addition to the education aspect of the program, the group cooked together which really helped them get to know each other. Hopefully by actually cooking meals that are designed specifically for diabetics they got the hands-on practice that gave them the confidence to try more healthy meals at home. Participants received a book of recipes that have been created for diabetics. One participant noted how much better she felt after eating the healthy recipes. Another participant was surprised to find out she could still eat foods she thought were taboo or felt she had to eliminate from her diet.

Another aspect of diabetes that isn’t often discussed are the feelings around being diagnosed and managing diabetes. Sometimes it can be overwhelming. However, one of the participants felt that being able to share feelings with other diabetics was helpful. She felt supported which in turn helped her to make changes in her nutritional life and motivated to start taking better care of herself.

Extension also partners with local agencies such as health departments, hospitals, and dieticians to answer questions that may require a health care provider knowledge. In June, we had Kalee Lundmark, Registered Dietician, serve as our expert guest speaker. Kalee provided more specific information around nutrition, resources, and medications.

Part of the Dining with Diabetes program includes a 3 month follow up class for participants to share about their progress and challenges since taking the class. That class is planned for the first part of October.

Cottonwood Extension District will be offering Dining with Diabetes later this year in Barton County. Watch for details this fall.

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension DistrictCottonwood Extension District brought the diabetes education program Dining with Diabetes to Ellis County for the first time in June. Monique Koerner and Karissa Winkel, Family and Community Wellness Agents were trained in 2023 and introduced the program to Hays last month.Dining with Diabetes is a national extension program provided to Kansans by K-State Research and Extension Family and Consumer Sciences professionals and community health partners. The program is a series of four, 2-hour classes that are held once a week. Classes consist of a presentation on diabetes self-care or healthful food choices; presentations on tasty, healthy familiar foods, sampling foods, and demonstrations of cooking techniques using artificial sweeteners, reduced-fat foods, herbs, and spices.The class in Hays had 8 attendees which was a really nice size for our first group of participants. Some of the participants knew each other and others met for the first time. However, they all had something in common. They were dealing with diabetes management for themselves or with a loved one.In addition to the education aspect of the program, the group cooked together which really helped them get to know each other. Hopefully by actually cooking meals that are designed specifically for diabetics they got the hands-on practice that gave them the confidence to try more healthy meals at home. Participants received a book of recipes that have been created for diabetics. One participant noted how much better she felt after eating the healthy recipes. Another participant was surprised to find out she could still eat foods she thought were taboo or felt she had to eliminate from her diet.Another aspect of diabetes that isn’t often discussed are the feelings around being diagnosed and managing diabetes. Sometimes it can be overwhelming. However, one of the participants felt that being able to share feelings with other diabetics was helpful. She felt supported which in turn helped her to make changes in her nutritional life and motivated to start taking better care of herself.Extension also partners with local agencies such as health departments, hospitals, and dieticians to answer questions that may require a health care provider knowledge. In June, we had Kalee Lundmark, Registered Dietician, serve as our expert guest speaker. Kalee provided more specific information around nutrition, resources, and medications.Part of the Dining with Diabetes program includes a 3 month follow up class for participants to share about their progress and challenges since taking the class. That class is planned for the first part of October.Cottonwood Extension District will be offering Dining with Diabetes later this year in Barton County. Watch for details this fall.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu

KOERNER: Dining with Diabetes wrap up

BUTLER COUNTY —A Kansas man man is going to prison for a road-rage beating death of of a man in 2023.&nbsp;

On July 10, Ashton McCoy, 24, was sentenced to 21-years in prison, according to&nbsp;Butler County Attorney's office. In May McCoy pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and aggravated assault.&nbsp;

Just after 1 p.m. October 8, police responded to a reported battery at the Jump Start convenience store in the 1600 block of West Central in El Dorado, according to a media release. First responders found 74-year-old&nbsp; Alton Algrim of Leon, Kansas, with injuries in connection with a road rage incident. EMS transported the victim to a Wichita hospital.&nbsp;

Following an investigation, officers arrested McCoy initially on a requested charge of aggravated battery. The charge against McCoy were amended to first-degree murder following Algrim's death.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720798380228.png" alt="McCoy photo Butler Co." />
 <figcaption>McCoy photo Butler Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BUTLER COUNTY —A Kansas man man is going to prison for a road-rage beating death of of a man in 2023.&nbsp;On July 10, Ashton McCoy, 24, was sentenced to 21-years in prison, according to&nbsp;Butler County Attorney's office. In May McCoy pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and aggravated assault.&nbsp;Just after 1 p.m. October 8, police responded to a reported battery at the Jump Start convenience store in the 1600 block of West Central in El Dorado, according to a media release. First responders found 74-year-old&nbsp; Alton Algrim of Leon, Kansas, with injuries in connection with a road rage incident. EMS transported the victim to a Wichita hospital.&nbsp;Following an investigation, officers arrested McCoy initially on a requested charge of aggravated battery. The charge against McCoy were amended to first-degree murder following Algrim's death.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prison for road-rage beating death of 74-year-old Kansas man

Sharon Kay Bowers, 83, passed away
July 15, 2024, at Hospice House of Reno County, Hutchinson, Kansas. She was
born on October 23, 1940, in Kansas City, Missouri, and raised in Abilene,
Kansas, by Paul LeRoy and Mae Mary (Morgan) Fisher. On April 26, 1959, she
married James Shelley Bowers in Abilene, Kansas. He passed on January 22, 2017.

A Great Bend resident from 1962 coming
from Oberlin, Sharon worked as a RN, sharing her gift with patients at Central
Kansas Medical Center, Cherry Village, and Larned State Hospital prior to her
retirement. She was an active member of St. Mark Lutheran Church, serving as
president of the St. Mark WELCA, along with other roles. Sharon was a Camp Fire
Leader, Boy Scout Den Mother, and the president of the Resident Council at
River Bend Assisted Living. She enjoyed quilting, crocheting – especially baby
blankets, and jigsaw puzzles.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721149453863.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sharon Kay Bowers, 83, passed away
July 15, 2024, at Hospice House of Reno County, Hutchinson, Kansas. She was
born on October 23, 1940, in Kansas City, Missouri, and raised in Abilene,
Kansas, by Paul LeRoy and Mae Mary (Morgan) Fisher. On April 26, 1959, she
married James Shelley Bowers in Abilene, Kansas. He passed on January 22, 2017.A Great Bend resident from 1962 coming
from Oberlin, Sharon worked as a RN, sharing her gift with patients at Central
Kansas Medical Center, Cherry Village, and Larned State Hospital prior to her
retirement. She was an active member of St. Mark Lutheran Church, serving as
president of the St. Mark WELCA, along with other roles. Sharon was a Camp Fire
Leader, Boy Scout Den Mother, and the president of the Resident Council at
River Bend Assisted Living. She enjoyed quilting, crocheting – especially baby
blankets, and jigsaw puzzles.Survivors include three sons, Barry
Bowers and wife Monica of Great Bend, Robert Bowers and wife Jane of Ottawa,
and Mark Bowers and wife Shirley of Great Bend; one daughter, Shelley Chrivia
and husband Joe of Lupton, Michigan; nine grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.She is preceded in death by her
husband, James; her parents; and brother, Karl Fisher.There will be no visitation as
cremation has taken place. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday,
July 19, 2024, at St. Mark Lutheran Church in Great Bend with Reverend Adam
Wutka presiding. Inurnment will follow at Great Bend Cemetery North, Great
Bend. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been designated to St. Mark Lutheran
Church or River Bend Assisted Living, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425
Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530.