By&nbsp;SHAWNA BETHELL Kansas Reflector

I remember the first time I saw a wind turbine.

I had just come driving out of a canyon in Utah and into an open valley. There stood three massive, languidly rotating harbingers of the future. Those were the early days of wind energy, and I found the mechanical structures not only fascinating but also artistic in their clean, white, elegant forms. Today, on our own western plains, turbines have become a ubiquitous part of the landscape, and in spite of controversies such as bird mortality and sound pollution, I’m proud of Kansas for being a leader in clean energy.

However, with those plentiful turbines comes the problem of what to do with hundreds of thousands of blades when they come out of commission. Made of fiber-reinforced polymer, the blades are neither biodegradable nor recyclable. Currently, the bulk of them either end up in landfills in states with enough space to take them, or they are incinerated. Both options have adverse environmental impacts.&nbsp;

However, efforts are being made to discover innovative ways to repurpose those turbine blades, and some of that innovation is happening in Kansas.

Through a National Science Foundation grant, Enel Green Power North America, based in Lenexa and operating the Smoky Hills I and II Wind Farm located in Lincoln County, and Re-Wind, an international organization seeking alternative ways to use decommissioned blades, are partnering to&nbsp;study repurposing blades for use as utility poles.

“The fiberglass, which is much like the hull of a boat, is very light and has amazing properties for strength,” says Russell Gentry,&nbsp;associate professor of architecture and civil engineering at Georgia Tech and project leader for the studies.&nbsp;“But by nature it is difficult to separate the fibers from the resin, making it very hard to recycle.”

However, according to Gentry, the blade material can be cut and modestly reshaped, allowing for the retention of its structural viability.

A study at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.re-wind.info/">Re-Wind.info</a>&nbsp;further explains the life of a turbine blade is about 20 to 25 years before it is pulled from use. In that time, however, the durability of the fiberglass may only decrease by 10 to 20% from its original state, meaning there are second-life applications for which the material can be safely redesigned.

“Kansas is a hub of wind and renewable energy,” Gentry said. “I think that throughout the Midwest there will be a need, a demand, to connect that energy to the national grid.”

He sees the BladePole as a means to meet that need. He also explains that it is most cost effective to use the blades in the same region where they had their first life because the blades are up to 200 feet long, and long-distance transport would be extremely expensive.

“We know there is currently no silver bullet to solving these challenges,” said&nbsp;Beth Murphy, innovation analyst at Enel and project manager of the partnership with Re-Wind,&nbsp;“which is why we’re actively exploring several types of solutions for responsible handling of wind turbine blades.”

Murphy goes on to say that the state’s strong wind resource and available land enabled Enel Green Power to make significant investments in Kansas. The new&nbsp;technologies will allow the company to further invest in our sustainable economy.

With that in mind, Enel and Re-Wind are always looking for new ideas for the blades, and Gentry says that he recently met with a landowner in Lincoln county who had come up with some great ideas as to how repurposed turbine blades could be used in agriculture.

“There is a strong urge from the wind energy community to listen to their stakeholders,” Gentry said.

Within this collaboration, landowners and the state as a whole can benefit from a circular economy — one where a material’s second life has already been conceived and adapted by the time its first life ends.&nbsp;

Gentry is uncertain as to how long it will be before the BladePole might be put into circulation, because aside from structural viability, there are the complexities of risk assessments involved for carrying electrical lines. These must be completed before utility companies would be willing to sign on to using the technology, and rightly so.

However, information gathered from these studies will also be used for other Re-Wind projects, making Kansas a continued leader in the renewable energy industry and a committed participant in the move toward a sustainable, clean economy.

Through its opinion section, the Kansas Reflector works to amplify the voices of people who are affected by public policies or excluded from public debate. Find information, including how to submit your own commentary,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/submit-opinion/">here</a>.

Shawna Bethell is a freelance essayist/journalist covering the people and places of Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri. Before returning home, she wrote for several publications in the southwestern United States.

The above opinion piece is republished with permission from <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629981643531.jpeg" alt="Russell Gentry, associate professor of architecture and civil engineering at Georgia Tech, and student Yulizza Henao-Barragon set up scanning equipment on decommissioned wind turbine blades in Lincoln county. (Re-Wind)" />
 <figcaption>Russell Gentry, associate professor of architecture and civil engineering at Georgia Tech, and student Yulizza Henao-Barragon set up scanning equipment on decommissioned wind turbine blades in Lincoln county. (Re-Wind)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;SHAWNA BETHELL Kansas ReflectorI remember the first time I saw a wind turbine.I had just come driving out of a canyon in Utah and into an open valley. There stood three massive, languidly rotating harbingers of the future. Those were the early days of wind energy, and I found the mechanical structures not only fascinating but also artistic in their clean, white, elegant forms. Today, on our own western plains, turbines have become a ubiquitous part of the landscape, and in spite of controversies such as bird mortality and sound pollution, I’m proud of Kansas for being a leader in clean energy.However, with those plentiful turbines comes the problem of what to do with hundreds of thousands of blades when they come out of commission. Made of fiber-reinforced polymer, the blades are neither biodegradable nor recyclable. Currently, the bulk of them either end up in landfills in states with enough space to take them, or they are incinerated. Both options have adverse environmental impacts.&nbsp;However, efforts are being made to discover innovative ways to repurpose those turbine blades, and some of that innovation is happening in Kansas.Through a National Science Foundation grant, Enel Green Power North America, based in Lenexa and operating the Smoky Hills I and II Wind Farm located in Lincoln County, and Re-Wind, an international organization seeking alternative ways to use decommissioned blades, are partnering to&nbsp;study repurposing blades for use as utility poles.“The fiberglass, which is much like the hull of a boat, is very light and has amazing properties for strength,” says Russell Gentry,&nbsp;associate professor of architecture and civil engineering at Georgia Tech and project leader for the studies.&nbsp;“But by nature it is difficult to separate the fibers from the resin, making it very hard to recycle.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629981859209.jpeg" alt="Russell Gentry, associate professor of architecture and civil engineering at Georgia Tech, and student Chloe Kiernicki stand at the Smoky Hills Wind Farm in Lincoln County. (Re-Wind)" />
 <figcaption>Russell Gentry, associate professor of architecture and civil engineering at Georgia Tech, and student Chloe Kiernicki stand at the Smoky Hills Wind Farm in Lincoln County. (Re-Wind)</figcaption>
 </figure>However, according to Gentry, the blade material can be cut and modestly reshaped, allowing for the retention of its structural viability.A study at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.re-wind.info/">Re-Wind.info</a>&nbsp;further explains the life of a turbine blade is about 20 to 25 years before it is pulled from use. In that time, however, the durability of the fiberglass may only decrease by 10 to 20% from its original state, meaning there are second-life applications for which the material can be safely redesigned.“Kansas is a hub of wind and renewable energy,” Gentry said. “I think that throughout the Midwest there will be a need, a demand, to connect that energy to the national grid.”He sees the BladePole as a means to meet that need. He also explains that it is most cost effective to use the blades in the same region where they had their first life because the blades are up to 200 feet long, and long-distance transport would be extremely expensive.“We know there is currently no silver bullet to solving these challenges,” said&nbsp;Beth Murphy, innovation analyst at Enel and project manager of the partnership with Re-Wind,&nbsp;“which is why we’re actively exploring several types of solutions for responsible handling of wind turbine blades.”Murphy goes on to say that the state’s strong wind resource and available land enabled Enel Green Power to make significant investments in Kansas. The new&nbsp;technologies will allow the company to further invest in our sustainable economy.With that in mind, Enel and Re-Wind are always looking for new ideas for the blades, and Gentry says that he recently met with a landowner in Lincoln county who had come up with some great ideas as to how repurposed turbine blades could be used in agriculture.“There is a strong urge from the wind energy community to listen to their stakeholders,” Gentry said.Within this collaboration, landowners and the state as a whole can benefit from a circular economy — one where a material’s second life has already been conceived and adapted by the time its first life ends.&nbsp;Gentry is uncertain as to how long it will be before the BladePole might be put into circulation, because aside from structural viability, there are the complexities of risk assessments involved for carrying electrical lines. These must be completed before utility companies would be willing to sign on to using the technology, and rightly so.However, information gathered from these studies will also be used for other Re-Wind projects, making Kansas a continued leader in the renewable energy industry and a committed participant in the move toward a sustainable, clean economy.Through its opinion section, the Kansas Reflector works to amplify the voices of people who are affected by public policies or excluded from public debate. Find information, including how to submit your own commentary,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/submit-opinion/">here</a>.Shawna Bethell is a freelance essayist/journalist covering the people and places of Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri. Before returning home, she wrote for several publications in the southwestern United States.The above opinion piece is republished with permission from <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>.

OPINION: Work to repurpose wind turbine blades spotlights KS as green econ. leader

By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher

After a few months of all that summer on the farm entails, the kids have returned to school. From helping with wheat harvest, hauling meals and equipment out to fields, taking naps in the car while helping me complete parts runs, sweeping shop floors, assisting with irrigation duties and making popcorn deliveries, it’s safe to say my kids experienced a healthy dose of farm-kid living during their summer break.&nbsp; &nbsp; Secretly, my husband and I conspired and we now fully admit that some of the summer tasks were created to encourage our kids to say, “Man, I can’t wait to get back to school!” &nbsp; This school year, our family has entered a new phase. No longer am I shuttling kids to and from school on a daily basis because both are old enough to ride the school bus. &nbsp; It’s been the topic of many conversations throughout the summer. The excitement of the idea of riding a bus to and from school is something both my children have really built up over the last few months. In fact, as we have approached the start of a new school year, it wasn’t the promise of wearing new clothes, meeting new teachers, making new friends or getting to enjoy a school pizza lunch with their buddies that truly excited my kids. &nbsp; What has motivated my two children every morning has been the countdown to the first day they could ride the big, yellow bus. &nbsp; A week before the first bus ride, we decided everyone needed to get back into the morning school routine. We agreed everyone would need to get out of bed earlier. Everyone would need to be dressed and at the breakfast table by a specific time. And everyone would need to head out the door to ensure the bus would make a stop for the Baldwin children. &nbsp; Oddly, the plans to return to a morning routine were well received by both children. The excitement surrounding the school bus led to both children waking up way before they needed to every morning. They were fully dressed and at the table with plenty of time to spare. They wanted to make sure they practiced the morning routine because they wanted to get on that big, yellow bus. &nbsp; Finally, the big day arrived. The children were awake, dressed, fed and excitedly waiting at the end of our driveway for their chariot. They waved as trucks drove past. They stood in silence to listen for the bus. And finally, after offering assurances that the bus had not forgotten our stop, the big yellow bus arrived. &nbsp; Following the first day, my son realized they would travel many miles of bumpy dirt roads. His overwhelming excitement of sitting in the back of the bus was momentarily quelled that first day thanks to his tendency to get car sick. Apparently all those bumpy rural roads make for a pretty uneasy ride if you sit in the way back of the bus.&nbsp; &nbsp; However, after making a seating adjustment, my two agree that you can still enjoy a bus ride even if you sit closer to the driver. &nbsp; While my two children are not the first on or the last off the bus, they’re pretty darn close to it. Our small school district only has a few busses running the country routes. My kids ride a bus that traverses the far boundaries of the west, north and northeast parts of the school district.&nbsp; &nbsp; Catching the bus in the morning means heading out the door almost 40 minus earlier than when I would chauffeur my passengers last year. It also means you get home later.&nbsp; &nbsp; As we continue our morning routines and the newness of a new school year begins to fade, it is my hope that my two will continue to look forward to going to school every morning – even if it’s mainly because they get to traverse the bumpy rural dirt roads on a big yellow bus.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;Copyright © 2021 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573617414005.jpeg" alt="Kim Baldwin. Photo courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau" />
 <figcaption>Kim Baldwin. Photo courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau</figcaption>
 </figure>By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancherAfter a few months of all that summer on the farm entails, the kids have returned to school. From helping with wheat harvest, hauling meals and equipment out to fields, taking naps in the car while helping me complete parts runs, sweeping shop floors, assisting with irrigation duties and making popcorn deliveries, it’s safe to say my kids experienced a healthy dose of farm-kid living during their summer break.&nbsp; &nbsp; Secretly, my husband and I conspired and we now fully admit that some of the summer tasks were created to encourage our kids to say, “Man, I can’t wait to get back to school!” &nbsp; This school year, our family has entered a new phase. No longer am I shuttling kids to and from school on a daily basis because both are old enough to ride the school bus. &nbsp; It’s been the topic of many conversations throughout the summer. The excitement of the idea of riding a bus to and from school is something both my children have really built up over the last few months. In fact, as we have approached the start of a new school year, it wasn’t the promise of wearing new clothes, meeting new teachers, making new friends or getting to enjoy a school pizza lunch with their buddies that truly excited my kids. &nbsp; What has motivated my two children every morning has been the countdown to the first day they could ride the big, yellow bus. &nbsp; A week before the first bus ride, we decided everyone needed to get back into the morning school routine. We agreed everyone would need to get out of bed earlier. Everyone would need to be dressed and at the breakfast table by a specific time. And everyone would need to head out the door to ensure the bus would make a stop for the Baldwin children. &nbsp; Oddly, the plans to return to a morning routine were well received by both children. The excitement surrounding the school bus led to both children waking up way before they needed to every morning. They were fully dressed and at the table with plenty of time to spare. They wanted to make sure they practiced the morning routine because they wanted to get on that big, yellow bus. &nbsp; Finally, the big day arrived. The children were awake, dressed, fed and excitedly waiting at the end of our driveway for their chariot. They waved as trucks drove past. They stood in silence to listen for the bus. And finally, after offering assurances that the bus had not forgotten our stop, the big yellow bus arrived. &nbsp; Following the first day, my son realized they would travel many miles of bumpy dirt roads. His overwhelming excitement of sitting in the back of the bus was momentarily quelled that first day thanks to his tendency to get car sick. Apparently all those bumpy rural roads make for a pretty uneasy ride if you sit in the way back of the bus.&nbsp; &nbsp; However, after making a seating adjustment, my two agree that you can still enjoy a bus ride even if you sit closer to the driver. &nbsp; While my two children are not the first on or the last off the bus, they’re pretty darn close to it. Our small school district only has a few busses running the country routes. My kids ride a bus that traverses the far boundaries of the west, north and northeast parts of the school district.&nbsp; &nbsp; Catching the bus in the morning means heading out the door almost 40 minus earlier than when I would chauffeur my passengers last year. It also means you get home later.&nbsp; &nbsp; As we continue our morning routines and the newness of a new school year begins to fade, it is my hope that my two will continue to look forward to going to school every morning – even if it’s mainly because they get to traverse the bumpy rural dirt roads on a big yellow bus."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;Copyright © 2021 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

INSIGHT: Kids on the bus

No matter how it happens, broken trust is painful and disorienting. Every relationship, whether it’s with friends, family or a romantic partner, is built on trust. When that foundation is shaken,&nbsp;you&nbsp;are shaken. Whether you’re in the wake of a massive betrayal, or struggling with a string of small broken promises, you must choose to trust again if you want the relationship to survive.

But relationships&nbsp;can&nbsp;come back stronger than ever. I’m not talking about a bunch of warm and fuzzy emotional nonsense, though. If you wait until you&nbsp;feel&nbsp;like it, you’ll never get around to it. It’s time to get serious about rebuilding trust if you’re experiencing the following signs in your relationships:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Anxiety is an alarm that alerts you when you’re feeling disconnected, unsafe or out of control. Mistrust is a toxic cocktail of these ingredients: You’re distant, you’re open to hurt, and it’s impossible to control the other person’s behavior.&nbsp;If you feel anxious&nbsp;about your relationship, you might be lacking trust in them, yourself or both.

Being controlling is one of the telltale&nbsp;signs of a toxic relationship. You’re always monitoring, checking in, reading text and Facebook messages, or feeling fearful of what the other person is doing. You ask them where they’ve been and where they’re going. Every interaction feels like an interrogation, or an opportunity to exert power.

When you lack trust with someone, you’re often quick to suspect, blame and become angry with them. You’ve been hurt before, so you’re quick to accuse people in an effort to protect yourself.

A secret is purposefully hiding something from someone with an intent to deceive them. This is not about secretly preparing a birthday party. This is about loading up credit card debt that your partner doesn’t know about, or ending every browsing session on your computer by clearing your search history because you want to hide your web traffic.

Catastrophizing&nbsp;is the nerd word for&nbsp;assuming the worst. It’s when you expect someone to make a bad decision, to cheat, to hurt you, to show up late (again). It’s when your default setting switches from giving the benefit of the doubt to making up worst-case-scenarios.

Picture the remains of the twin towers after the 9/11 attacks. The once-beautiful buildings were reduced to ugly piles of rubble. It would’ve been absurd to try to sweep up the broken bits and pieces, glue them back together, and reconstruct the buildings with the same materials.

The same is true of a relationship that has suffered a deep violation of trust. You and your partner, sibling, friend or parent must commit to co-creating something new. Start from ground zero. Excavate everything, and commit to designing, engineering and building something meaningful.

Own up to what you did, even if it was small. If you were the person who committed the betrayal, be honest and acknowledge the damage and hurt you caused. Even if you were the one hurt, you might have played a role in the break in the relationship. Bring your hurts to the table, listen well and take ownership.

Choosing not to forgive leads to bitterness. Forgiveness is both a one-time choice, and an ongoing decision, not to hold the past against someone. Forgiveness isn’t contingent on a feeling or on someone else’s behavior. Forgiveness is a choice&nbsp;you&nbsp;make to lighten your own load. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This doesn’t mean you don’t learn lifelong lessons. It means the past is no longer a weapon. Yes, the hurt will resurface from time to time. You’ll be tempted to fall back into old patterns of mistrust. But you must choose to intentionally shift your mindset to the next chapter.

Give yourself (and the other person) plenty of time to move through things. Don’t ignore your feelings or emotions, but don’t let them dictate how you behave, either. Be patient, understanding and don’t judge the other person if they’re not healing as quickly as you.

Work to establish trust in simple things. Show up to your kid’s dance recitals. If you say you’ll do the laundry, do it. If you promise to be home for dinner, keep that promise. Be a person who is true to their word.

Trust is built through open and honest exchanges of thoughts, feelings and experiences. In other words, being vulnerable again. Yes, this means you might get hurt—again. But vulnerability is the only soil that allows relationships to grow.

Breaking someone’s trust may not have been&nbsp;intentional, but in most cases, it still wasn’t an accident. There’s a reason things deteriorated to this point, both within you and within the relationship. Are you allowing stories and voices from your past to harm your current relationships? Are you remaining in dysfunctional relationships because you’re afraid to be honest with yourself?

This is important work. If necessary,&nbsp;find a good professional therapist&nbsp;to guide you through things.

Spend lots of time together simply connecting. Get to know each other again. Have fun and be silly. Create time for serious conversations. Be specific about the kind of relationship you want.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Remember, each relationship is different. Each has a unique timeline for rebuilding trust. Sometimes, rebuilding trust takes weeks. Other times, it takes years. It’s rarely clean or simple, but it’s often transformational.

John Delony&nbsp;is a mental health expert with&nbsp;PhDs in Counselor Education &amp; Supervision and Higher Education Administration&nbsp;from Texas Tech University. Prior to joining Ramsey Solutions in 2020, John worked as a senior leader, professor, and researcher at multiple universities. He also spent two decades in crisis response, walking with people through severe trauma. Now as a Ramsey Personality, he teaches on relationships and emotional wellness.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618625696051.jpeg" alt="John Delony" />
 <figcaption>John Delony</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN DELONYIt can happen in an instant.It can also happen gradually.No matter how it happens, broken trust is painful and disorienting. Every relationship, whether it’s with friends, family or a romantic partner, is built on trust. When that foundation is shaken,&nbsp;you&nbsp;are shaken. Whether you’re in the wake of a massive betrayal, or struggling with a string of small broken promises, you must choose to trust again if you want the relationship to survive.But relationships&nbsp;can&nbsp;come back stronger than ever. I’m not talking about a bunch of warm and fuzzy emotional nonsense, though. If you wait until you&nbsp;feel&nbsp;like it, you’ll never get around to it. It’s time to get serious about rebuilding trust if you’re experiencing the following signs in your relationships:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Anxiety&nbsp;Anxiety is an alarm that alerts you when you’re feeling disconnected, unsafe or out of control. Mistrust is a toxic cocktail of these ingredients: You’re distant, you’re open to hurt, and it’s impossible to control the other person’s behavior.&nbsp;If you feel anxious&nbsp;about your relationship, you might be lacking trust in them, yourself or both.Controlling behavior&nbsp;Being controlling is one of the telltale&nbsp;signs of a toxic relationship. You’re always monitoring, checking in, reading text and Facebook messages, or feeling fearful of what the other person is doing. You ask them where they’ve been and where they’re going. Every interaction feels like an interrogation, or an opportunity to exert power.Anger and blame&nbsp;When you lack trust with someone, you’re often quick to suspect, blame and become angry with them. You’ve been hurt before, so you’re quick to accuse people in an effort to protect yourself.Keeping secrets&nbsp;A secret is purposefully hiding something from someone with an intent to deceive them. This is not about secretly preparing a birthday party. This is about loading up credit card debt that your partner doesn’t know about, or ending every browsing session on your computer by clearing your search history because you want to hide your web traffic.Catastrophizing&nbsp;Catastrophizing&nbsp;is the nerd word for&nbsp;assuming the worst. It’s when you expect someone to make a bad decision, to cheat, to hurt you, to show up late (again). It’s when your default setting switches from giving the benefit of the doubt to making up worst-case-scenarios.Rebuilding trust in 8 steps&nbsp;Picture the remains of the twin towers after the 9/11 attacks. The once-beautiful buildings were reduced to ugly piles of rubble. It would’ve been absurd to try to sweep up the broken bits and pieces, glue them back together, and reconstruct the buildings with the same materials.The same is true of a relationship that has suffered a deep violation of trust. You and your partner, sibling, friend or parent must commit to co-creating something new. Start from ground zero. Excavate everything, and commit to designing, engineering and building something meaningful.1. Take responsibility&nbsp;Own up to what you did, even if it was small. If you were the person who committed the betrayal, be honest and acknowledge the damage and hurt you caused. Even if you were the one hurt, you might have played a role in the break in the relationship. Bring your hurts to the table, listen well and take ownership.2. Practice forgiveness&nbsp;Choosing not to forgive leads to bitterness. Forgiveness is both a one-time choice, and an ongoing decision, not to hold the past against someone. Forgiveness isn’t contingent on a feeling or on someone else’s behavior. Forgiveness is a choice&nbsp;you&nbsp;make to lighten your own load. &nbsp;&nbsp;3. Leave the past in the pastThis doesn’t mean you don’t learn lifelong lessons. It means the past is no longer a weapon. Yes, the hurt will resurface from time to time. You’ll be tempted to fall back into old patterns of mistrust. But you must choose to intentionally shift your mindset to the next chapter.4. Allow time and space for grief&nbsp;Give yourself (and the other person) plenty of time to move through things. Don’t ignore your feelings or emotions, but don’t let them dictate how you behave, either. Be patient, understanding and don’t judge the other person if they’re not healing as quickly as you.5. Small things mean a lot&nbsp;Work to establish trust in simple things. Show up to your kid’s dance recitals. If you say you’ll do the laundry, do it. If you promise to be home for dinner, keep that promise. Be a person who is true to their word.6. Practice vulnerability&nbsp;Trust is built through open and honest exchanges of thoughts, feelings and experiences. In other words, being vulnerable again. Yes, this means you might get hurt—again. But vulnerability is the only soil that allows relationships to grow.7. Address the deeper issuesBreaking someone’s trust may not have been&nbsp;intentional, but in most cases, it still wasn’t an accident. There’s a reason things deteriorated to this point, both within you and within the relationship. Are you allowing stories and voices from your past to harm your current relationships? Are you remaining in dysfunctional relationships because you’re afraid to be honest with yourself?This is important work. If necessary,&nbsp;find a good professional therapist&nbsp;to guide you through things.8. Create a new futureSpend lots of time together simply connecting. Get to know each other again. Have fun and be silly. Create time for serious conversations. Be specific about the kind of relationship you want.&nbsp;&nbsp;Remember, each relationship is different. Each has a unique timeline for rebuilding trust. Sometimes, rebuilding trust takes weeks. Other times, it takes years. It’s rarely clean or simple, but it’s often transformational.John Delony&nbsp;is a mental health expert with&nbsp;PhDs in Counselor Education &amp; Supervision and Higher Education Administration&nbsp;from Texas Tech University. Prior to joining Ramsey Solutions in 2020, John worked as a senior leader, professor, and researcher at multiple universities. He also spent two decades in crisis response, walking with people through severe trauma. Now as a Ramsey Personality, he teaches on relationships and emotional wellness.

DELONY: It takes time, effort to rebuild trust

My husband and I have a rental property in South Carolina we want to sell. The current renters’ lease is up in December, but our property manager tells us the renters won’t let anyone in the home, not even just for photos to post online due to COVID-19. How do you think we should handle this situation?&nbsp; &nbsp;

I don’t know much about current COVID-19 restrictions in South Carolina, but this sounds suspicious to me. I’m also thinking your property manager is kind of a wuss, but I have the spiritual gift of cynicism.

I’m old school, and if I&nbsp;<a href="https://www.daveramsey.com/mortgage-payoff-calculator" target="_blank">own a house</a>, I’d like to go in it any time I want—within reason, of course—if renters are in there. They have the legal right of quiet enjoyment, meaning I don’t get to show up at all hours and harass them. But I’m not letting them stiff-arm me and use COVID-19 as an excuse. I mean, tenants thinking they have the right to give the landlord and owner zero access? Maybe places like the Socialist Republic of California allow this kind of crap, but most states have common sense, plus reasonable tenant&nbsp;and&nbsp;landlord protections. Yeah, the whole feel of this makes me think there’s something very wrong going on inside this house.

I can imagine your frustration, Tracy. It makes me angry just thinking about it. If they’ve got a sick child or adult in the home, or someone’s out of work but actively&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/career-advice/how-to-find-a-job" target="_blank">looking for a job</a>, then I’ll show a lot of compassion and back off a little. I’ll try to work with them to resolve things in a way that’s good for everyone. But if they’re just playing games or misbehaving and using COVID-19 as an excuse on top of that, I’d have no problem removing them.

I think you need to dig a little deeper on this one. Check the current laws in South Carolina, especially any laws concerning a possible eviction moratorium and get in touch with a good&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/real-estate/real-estate-trends" target="_blank">real estate</a>&nbsp;attorney. There are times when we’re called upon to be understanding and generous. But I have very little tolerance for someone who tries to take advantage of me.

<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/" target="_blank">Dave Ramsey</a>&nbsp;is a seven-time No. 1 national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of “The Ramsey Show,” heard by more than 20 million listeners each week. Hehas appeared on “Good Morning America,” “CBS This Morning,” “Today,” Fox News, CNN, Fox Business, and more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people regain control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596845065840.jpeg" alt="Dave Ramsey" />
 <figcaption>Dave Ramsey</figcaption>
 </figure>Dear Dave,My husband and I have a rental property in South Carolina we want to sell. The current renters’ lease is up in December, but our property manager tells us the renters won’t let anyone in the home, not even just for photos to post online due to COVID-19. How do you think we should handle this situation?&nbsp; &nbsp;TracyDear Tracy,I don’t know much about current COVID-19 restrictions in South Carolina, but this sounds suspicious to me. I’m also thinking your property manager is kind of a wuss, but I have the spiritual gift of cynicism.I’m old school, and if I&nbsp;<a href="https://www.daveramsey.com/mortgage-payoff-calculator" target="_blank">own a house</a>, I’d like to go in it any time I want—within reason, of course—if renters are in there. They have the legal right of quiet enjoyment, meaning I don’t get to show up at all hours and harass them. But I’m not letting them stiff-arm me and use COVID-19 as an excuse. I mean, tenants thinking they have the right to give the landlord and owner zero access? Maybe places like the Socialist Republic of California allow this kind of crap, but most states have common sense, plus reasonable tenant&nbsp;and&nbsp;landlord protections. Yeah, the whole feel of this makes me think there’s something very wrong going on inside this house.I can imagine your frustration, Tracy. It makes me angry just thinking about it. If they’ve got a sick child or adult in the home, or someone’s out of work but actively&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/career-advice/how-to-find-a-job" target="_blank">looking for a job</a>, then I’ll show a lot of compassion and back off a little. I’ll try to work with them to resolve things in a way that’s good for everyone. But if they’re just playing games or misbehaving and using COVID-19 as an excuse on top of that, I’d have no problem removing them.I think you need to dig a little deeper on this one. Check the current laws in South Carolina, especially any laws concerning a possible eviction moratorium and get in touch with a good&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/real-estate/real-estate-trends" target="_blank">real estate</a>&nbsp;attorney. There are times when we’re called upon to be understanding and generous. But I have very little tolerance for someone who tries to take advantage of me.Dave<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/" target="_blank">Dave Ramsey</a>&nbsp;is a seven-time No. 1 national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of “The Ramsey Show,” heard by more than 20 million listeners each week. Hehas appeared on “Good Morning America,” “CBS This Morning,” “Today,” Fox News, CNN, Fox Business, and more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people regain control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

DAVE SAYS: Sounds suspicious to me

MOUNDRIDGE – The Flickner Innovation Farm will host a field day event on Aug. 31,&nbsp;highlighting current work by local producers, industry members and Kansas State University researchers to conserve water use while improving water quality and soil health.&nbsp;

The in-person event will take place at the Flickner family farm in Moundridge and will feature experts speaking on a variety of subjects, including the use of various irrigation technologies as well as soil health and carbon studies. Those who attend the field day will have opportunities to ask questions and get advice about how they can apply these techniques in their own operations.&nbsp;

“We are focused on ensuring that natural resources here are utilized in a way that makes the farm not only profitable but also improves the land, air and water for future generations,” said Ray Flickner, who is the 5th generation in his family to farm the property in Moundridge. “The Innovation Farm is just an extension of that belief.”&nbsp;

The program begins at 8 a.m. and ends at 1:30 p.m. The event is free and lunch will be provided. This year’s field day is part of the Kansas Corn Association’s Summer Listening Tour. More information about registration is available online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kscorn.com/" target="_blank">www.kscorn.com</a>&nbsp;or from the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kcare.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas Center for Agricultural Resources and the Environment</a>.&nbsp;

Some of the topics and demonstrations planned during the field day include:

●Participants will have the opportunity to see demonstrations from an interseeder, a machine designed to plant cover crops and apply herbicides and fertilizer.

●K-State faculty members will discuss ongoing research projects focused on soil health and water quality.

●Organizers will demonstrate the automated drone system at the farm, which captures high-resolution imagery of fields to help farmers identify various crop conditions. Field day participants will be able to watch the drone in flight and learn how the Innovation Farm is using this new type of imagery in day-to-day decision-making.&nbsp;

The Innovation Farm is a partnership between Flickner, K-State agronomists, watershed specialists and industry leaders. Together, they are conducting studies in a large-farm setting to identify the most efficient technologies and techniques for Kansas producers to use on their own farms.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

MOUNDRIDGE – The Flickner Innovation Farm will host a field day event on Aug. 31,&nbsp;highlighting current work by local producers, industry members and Kansas State University researchers to conserve water use while improving water quality and soil health.&nbsp;The in-person event will take place at the Flickner family farm in Moundridge and will feature experts speaking on a variety of subjects, including the use of various irrigation technologies as well as soil health and carbon studies. Those who attend the field day will have opportunities to ask questions and get advice about how they can apply these techniques in their own operations.&nbsp;“We are focused on ensuring that natural resources here are utilized in a way that makes the farm not only profitable but also improves the land, air and water for future generations,” said Ray Flickner, who is the 5th generation in his family to farm the property in Moundridge. “The Innovation Farm is just an extension of that belief.”&nbsp;The program begins at 8 a.m. and ends at 1:30 p.m. The event is free and lunch will be provided. This year’s field day is part of the Kansas Corn Association’s Summer Listening Tour. More information about registration is available online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kscorn.com/" target="_blank">www.kscorn.com</a>&nbsp;or from the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kcare.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas Center for Agricultural Resources and the Environment</a>.&nbsp;Some of the topics and demonstrations planned during the field day include: ●Participants will have the opportunity to see demonstrations from an interseeder, a machine designed to plant cover crops and apply herbicides and fertilizer.●K-State faculty members will discuss ongoing research projects focused on soil health and water quality.●Organizers will demonstrate the automated drone system at the farm, which captures high-resolution imagery of fields to help farmers identify various crop conditions. Field day participants will be able to watch the drone in flight and learn how the Innovation Farm is using this new type of imagery in day-to-day decision-making.&nbsp;The Innovation Farm is a partnership between Flickner, K-State agronomists, watershed specialists and industry leaders. Together, they are conducting studies in a large-farm setting to identify the most efficient technologies and techniques for Kansas producers to use on their own farms.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Field day to feature innovative technologies, research

TOPEKA—The&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/AVHV_TN4S7S78jAGnzynIu3U4UyMehFopRhOx_0sK5k" target="_blank">12th Judicial District Nominating Commission</a>&nbsp;will convene by telephone conference at 1:30 p.m. Aug. 20, to discuss the nomination process to fill a district magistrate judge vacancy. The vacancy is created by Judge Brian Grace’s Oct. 1 retirement. The 12th Judicial District is composed of Cloud, Jewell, Lincoln, Mitchell, Republic, and Washington counties. Public access The meeting is open to the public. To listen: call 1-877-400-9499; and enter conference code 2199381974. Accommodation Any person with a disability who requires accommodation to access the nominating commission meeting should notify the judicial branch ADA coordinator as early as possible: ADA Coordinator <a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/AVHV_TN4S7S78jAGnzynIh1yXgTLTsHgJ4kT82uP1_0" target="_blank">ADA@kscourts.org</a> 785-296-2256 TTY at 711 Eligibility requirements Kansas law requires that this district magistrate judge be:

●a resident of Lincoln County at the time of taking office and while holding office;

●a graduate of a high school, a secondary school, or the equivalent; and

●either a lawyer admitted to practice in Kansas or able to pass an examination to become certified within 18 months

The nominating commission seeks nominations and then meets to interview nominees. Interviews are open to the public.&nbsp;The commission will then appoint a district magistrate judge. Term of office After serving one year in office, the magistrate judge must stand for a retention vote in the next general election to remain in the position. If retained, the incumbent will serve a four-year term. Nominating commission The 12th Judicial District Nominating Commission consists of Justice K.J. Wall as the nonvoting chair; Carol Good, Barnard; William Navis, Belleville; Dwight Daniels, Curtis Frasier, and Jerry Harrison, Beloit; Dana Brewer and J. Bradley Lowell, Concordia; Tanner Johnson, Courland; Daniel Metz, Lincoln; Darrell Miller and Roger Rightmeier, Mankato; and Bruce Meyer, Palmer.

TOPEKA—The&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/AVHV_TN4S7S78jAGnzynIu3U4UyMehFopRhOx_0sK5k" target="_blank">12th Judicial District Nominating Commission</a>&nbsp;will convene by telephone conference at 1:30 p.m. Aug. 20, to discuss the nomination process to fill a district magistrate judge vacancy. The vacancy is created by Judge Brian Grace’s Oct. 1 retirement. The 12th Judicial District is composed of Cloud, Jewell, Lincoln, Mitchell, Republic, and Washington counties. Public access The meeting is open to the public. To listen: call 1-877-400-9499; and enter conference code 2199381974. Accommodation Any person with a disability who requires accommodation to access the nominating commission meeting should notify the judicial branch ADA coordinator as early as possible: ADA Coordinator <a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/AVHV_TN4S7S78jAGnzynIh1yXgTLTsHgJ4kT82uP1_0" target="_blank">ADA@kscourts.org</a> 785-296-2256 TTY at 711 Eligibility requirements Kansas law requires that this district magistrate judge be: ●a resident of Lincoln County at the time of taking office and while holding office;●a graduate of a high school, a secondary school, or the equivalent; and●either a lawyer admitted to practice in Kansas or able to pass an examination to become certified within 18 monthsThe nominating commission seeks nominations and then meets to interview nominees. Interviews are open to the public.&nbsp;The commission will then appoint a district magistrate judge. Term of office After serving one year in office, the magistrate judge must stand for a retention vote in the next general election to remain in the position. If retained, the incumbent will serve a four-year term. Nominating commission The 12th Judicial District Nominating Commission consists of Justice K.J. Wall as the nonvoting chair; Carol Good, Barnard; William Navis, Belleville; Dwight Daniels, Curtis Frasier, and Jerry Harrison, Beloit; Dana Brewer and J. Bradley Lowell, Concordia; Tanner Johnson, Courland; Daniel Metz, Lincoln; Darrell Miller and Roger Rightmeier, Mankato; and Bruce Meyer, Palmer.

12th Judicial District Nominating Commission to meet Aug. 20

<a href="https://www.nsrfh.com/obituary/oneita-evans">Obituary | Oneita Evans | Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home (nsrfh.com)</a>

Oneita Mae Evans, 92, passed away August 13, 2021 at the Leonardville Nursing Home.

She was born on December 14, 1928 at the family farm in Clay County, the daughter of John Edward and Mildred Margie Mae (Sanneman) Musselman. She attended Idylwild School and graduated from Clay Center Community High School in 1947. After graduation she worked at Easy Pay Tire Store, Resler's Style Shope, Weimer's Drug Store and Duckwall's.

On April 15, 1955, she married Donald W. Evans in Concordia. They farmed near Fact until 1956, when they moved to the May Day community. In 1969, they moved to the Green community. Oneita moved to Clay Center in 1988 and worked at Banner 5-10 and Gibson's until her retirement in 2013.

Oneita was active in the Fancy Creek Zion United Methodist Church, the Green United Methodist Church and the Clay Center United Methodist Church. Her greatest joy was her grandchildren and spending time with her family and friends. She enjoyed listening to music, dancing and playing cards.

She was preceded in death by her husband Donald W. Evans, December 4, 1985, her parents, and her son-in-law Alfred Beichter.

She is survived by her daughter Becky Beichter of Clay Center, daughter Beverly Shivers and husband Kenneth of Clay Center, her son Bryan Evans and wife Konnie of Green, her brother Leon Musselman and wife Verna Lee of Clay Center, six grandchildren, Jason (Debra) Anderson, Lucas Shivers, Kevin (Cara) Shivers, Kathy (Conan) Mader, Jordan Evans, and Emily Evans. 6 great-grandchildren, Addie Anderson, Gage Anderson, James Shivers, Malek Harris, Zane Mader and Amilya Mader.&nbsp;

Funeral Services:&nbsp;2:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 17, 2021 at the United Methodist Church in Clay Center, KS

Officiating:&nbsp;Rev. Reuben Langat and Herb Mugler

Burial:&nbsp;Fancy Creek Cemetery, Green, Kansas

Visitation:&nbsp;3-7 p.m. Monday, August 16, 2021 at Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home

Memorials:&nbsp;&nbsp;United Methodist Church or organization of the donor’s choice c/o the funeral home

Oneita's service will livestream at 2:00 p.m. at the following link&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/nsrfuneralhome/live">https://www.facebook.com/nsrfuneralhome/live</a>.

<h2>Oneita Mae Evans</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629059368019.jpeg" alt="Oneita Mae Evans" />
 <figcaption>Oneita Mae Evans</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.nsrfh.com/obituary/oneita-evans">Obituary | Oneita Evans | Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home (nsrfh.com)</a>Decembe 14, 1928 - August 13, 2021Oneita Mae Evans, 92, passed away August 13, 2021 at the Leonardville Nursing Home.She was born on December 14, 1928 at the family farm in Clay County, the daughter of John Edward and Mildred Margie Mae (Sanneman) Musselman. She attended Idylwild School and graduated from Clay Center Community High School in 1947. After graduation she worked at Easy Pay Tire Store, Resler's Style Shope, Weimer's Drug Store and Duckwall's.On April 15, 1955, she married Donald W. Evans in Concordia. They farmed near Fact until 1956, when they moved to the May Day community. In 1969, they moved to the Green community. Oneita moved to Clay Center in 1988 and worked at Banner 5-10 and Gibson's until her retirement in 2013.Oneita was active in the Fancy Creek Zion United Methodist Church, the Green United Methodist Church and the Clay Center United Methodist Church. Her greatest joy was her grandchildren and spending time with her family and friends. She enjoyed listening to music, dancing and playing cards.She was preceded in death by her husband Donald W. Evans, December 4, 1985, her parents, and her son-in-law Alfred Beichter.She is survived by her daughter Becky Beichter of Clay Center, daughter Beverly Shivers and husband Kenneth of Clay Center, her son Bryan Evans and wife Konnie of Green, her brother Leon Musselman and wife Verna Lee of Clay Center, six grandchildren, Jason (Debra) Anderson, Lucas Shivers, Kevin (Cara) Shivers, Kathy (Conan) Mader, Jordan Evans, and Emily Evans. 6 great-grandchildren, Addie Anderson, Gage Anderson, James Shivers, Malek Harris, Zane Mader and Amilya Mader.&nbsp;Funeral Services:&nbsp;2:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 17, 2021 at the United Methodist Church in Clay Center, KSOfficiating:&nbsp;Rev. Reuben Langat and Herb MuglerBurial:&nbsp;Fancy Creek Cemetery, Green, KansasVisitation:&nbsp;3-7 p.m. Monday, August 16, 2021 at Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral HomeMemorials:&nbsp;&nbsp;United Methodist Church or organization of the donor’s choice c/o the funeral homeOneita's service will livestream at 2:00 p.m. at the following link&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/nsrfuneralhome/live">https://www.facebook.com/nsrfuneralhome/live</a>.

Oneita Mae Evans

Jamie Christine Kempke (Blackwell), Gypsum

<a href="https://www.roselawnsalina.com/obituary/jaime-kempke">Obituary | Jamie Christine Kempke of Salina, Kansas | Roselawn Mortuary and Memorial Park (roselawnsalina.com)</a>

Jamie Christine Kempke (Blackwell), 44, of Gypsum, KS passed away peacefully in Salina on August 11, 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Visitation will be held Friday, August 20, 2021 from 6 p.m. -8 p.m. Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 21, 2021 at 10 a.m. at Roselawn, 1920 E. Crawford Street, Salina, KS.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jamie had a love for her husband and boys, her sisters and family, and all her friends.&nbsp; Jamie enjoyed listening to church hymns, baking, watching the birds, tending to her flowers, and spending time with her family and friends. She also had a special love for being a preschool teacher. Many know Jamie from the work she did in ensuring our most precious little children would be more than ready for kindergarten.&nbsp; She was the founder, director, and teacher at Garden of Giggles Child Care.&nbsp; A name developed due to her love of plants and children. Both gifts of love she received from her mother. Through the years, Jamie strived to fulfill her God-given purpose for helping others.&nbsp; She was meant to give back to her community. All her work in the preschool, sports, her church, and her community provided her so much joy.

While our hearts hurt, and our time with her cut short, we are forever grateful for the years gifted. We find comfort in the knowledge that our Heavenly Father has reunited Jamie with her mother.&nbsp; We hold onto her memories and her strength.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jamie is preceded in death by her mother Judy Ann Fifer.&nbsp;

She is survived by her husband of 16 years, Darin Kempke; her two sons, Jackson and Tyler; along with her father Jack Blackwell of Enterprise; Jamie’s two sisters, Jacque Backhus (Gary, Kodee, Hannah) of Salina,&nbsp; Jody Moeschler (Mike, Hayle, Isaiah, Alexis, Ethan) of Bonner Springs; her stepdad Tom Fifer (Ann) of Bradenton, Florida; her in-laws, Danny and Peggy Kempke; and sister-in-law Renee Kempke (Connor, Kelsey, Kylie, Karter, Katie) of Kanopolis.

In lieu of flowers, a trust has been set up in Jamie’s name. The family respectfully requests that any donations be made to the "Kempke Family Fund" and checks sent to Roselawn, P.O. Box 2322, Salina, 67402

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Jamie Christine Kempke, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.roselawnsalina.com/obituary/jaime-kempke/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

<h2>Jamie Christine Kempke (Blackwell), Gypsum</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629057086619.jpeg" alt="Jamie Christine Kempke (Blackwell)" />
 <figcaption>Jamie Christine Kempke (Blackwell)</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.roselawnsalina.com/obituary/jaime-kempke">Obituary | Jamie Christine Kempke of Salina, Kansas | Roselawn Mortuary and Memorial Park (roselawnsalina.com)</a>January 1, 1977 - August 11, 2021Jamie Christine Kempke (Blackwell), 44, of Gypsum, KS passed away peacefully in Salina on August 11, 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;Visitation will be held Friday, August 20, 2021 from 6 p.m. -8 p.m. Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 21, 2021 at 10 a.m. at Roselawn, 1920 E. Crawford Street, Salina, KS.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jamie had a love for her husband and boys, her sisters and family, and all her friends.&nbsp; Jamie enjoyed listening to church hymns, baking, watching the birds, tending to her flowers, and spending time with her family and friends. She also had a special love for being a preschool teacher. Many know Jamie from the work she did in ensuring our most precious little children would be more than ready for kindergarten.&nbsp; She was the founder, director, and teacher at Garden of Giggles Child Care.&nbsp; A name developed due to her love of plants and children. Both gifts of love she received from her mother. Through the years, Jamie strived to fulfill her God-given purpose for helping others.&nbsp; She was meant to give back to her community. All her work in the preschool, sports, her church, and her community provided her so much joy.While our hearts hurt, and our time with her cut short, we are forever grateful for the years gifted. We find comfort in the knowledge that our Heavenly Father has reunited Jamie with her mother.&nbsp; We hold onto her memories and her strength.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jamie is preceded in death by her mother Judy Ann Fifer.&nbsp;She is survived by her husband of 16 years, Darin Kempke; her two sons, Jackson and Tyler; along with her father Jack Blackwell of Enterprise; Jamie’s two sisters, Jacque Backhus (Gary, Kodee, Hannah) of Salina,&nbsp; Jody Moeschler (Mike, Hayle, Isaiah, Alexis, Ethan) of Bonner Springs; her stepdad Tom Fifer (Ann) of Bradenton, Florida; her in-laws, Danny and Peggy Kempke; and sister-in-law Renee Kempke (Connor, Kelsey, Kylie, Karter, Katie) of Kanopolis.In lieu of flowers, a trust has been set up in Jamie’s name. The family respectfully requests that any donations be made to the "Kempke Family Fund" and checks sent to Roselawn, P.O. Box 2322, Salina, 67402To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Jamie Christine Kempke, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.roselawnsalina.com/obituary/jaime-kempke/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

Jamie Christine Kempke (Blackwell)

<a href="https://yazelmeglifh.com/obituaries/Alice-ConnellyKerr">Alice Kerr Obituary 2020 - Yazel - Megli Funeral Homes (yazelmeglifh.com)</a>

Alice Ann Freeman Connelly Kerr was born August 14, 1934 and passed away peacefully on November 20, 2020 surrounded by loved ones. Alice was born in Hamilton, Kansas in her parents’ farmhouse in the midst of a dust storm. This may have been the reason she was as tough as she has been for 86 years. 

Survived by daughter Megan Connelly, stepdaughter Brenda Humphrey (Dean) and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, great-great-nieces and nephews and one great-great-great nephew. 

Preceded in death by her husbands John Connelly and Earl Kerr, mother Lydia Shields Freeman, father Henry Freeman, sisters Mary Ellen Jernigan (Derald) and Martha Ames (Bob), niece Heidi Jernigan Stanbrough and nephew Jeff Jernigan. 

Alice lived in Hamilton until age 7 when she moved to Concordia, Kansas. The family thrived in Concordia where her father was mayor and they owned the town grocery store. She graduated from Concordia High School in 1952. Alice enjoyed going back to Concordia for every high school reunion up until 2018. She and her high school friends enjoyed each other and shared so many stories. 

She then went to Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri and received her diploma in nursing in 1956. She worked in St. Louis as a labor and delivery nurse. 

She married John in 1959 and moved to Denver, Colorado. She became a pediatric nurse and remained caring for kids for over 25 years. She inspired her daughter Megan to be a pediatric nurse. In 1988 they moved to Topeka, Kansas where Alice returned to labor and delivery and was a charge nurse. Several nurses and doctors comment on how much she taught and mentored them. 

John passed away in 1996 and she then married longtime friend Earl. She retired and moved back to Denver in 2000 where she stayed until she moved to Omaha to be closer to daughter Megan. 

Alice lived a joyous life. She very much enjoyed spending time with family and friends. She loved to send birthday cards to all of her family, shop with her great-nieces, go out to eat, play games, read, watch football, cheer for Creighton basketball and have an occasional cocktail of quality Scotch. In her final hours, she was able to listen to many tributes by family and friends. Her great-nephew Steve said it best when he said she was like the sunflowers she loves, always looking towards the light. She was always positive and never complained, even through a very difficult year. She will be missed by so many.

Council Grove/Dunlap United Methodist Church Saturday, August 14, 2021 1:00 p.m.

Greenwood Cemetery Saturday, August 14, 2021

<h2>Alice Connelly Kerr</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628874162615.jpeg" alt="Alice Connelly Kerr" />
 <figcaption>Alice Connelly Kerr</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://yazelmeglifh.com/obituaries/Alice-ConnellyKerr">Alice Kerr Obituary 2020 - Yazel - Megli Funeral Homes (yazelmeglifh.com)</a>August 14, 1934 - November 20, 2020Alice Ann Freeman Connelly Kerr was born August 14, 1934 and passed away peacefully on November 20, 2020 surrounded by loved ones. Alice was born in Hamilton, Kansas in her parents’ farmhouse in the midst of a dust storm. This may have been the reason she was as tough as she has been for 86 years. Survived by daughter Megan Connelly, stepdaughter Brenda Humphrey (Dean) and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, great-great-nieces and nephews and one great-great-great nephew. Preceded in death by her husbands John Connelly and Earl Kerr, mother Lydia Shields Freeman, father Henry Freeman, sisters Mary Ellen Jernigan (Derald) and Martha Ames (Bob), niece Heidi Jernigan Stanbrough and nephew Jeff Jernigan. Alice lived in Hamilton until age 7 when she moved to Concordia, Kansas. The family thrived in Concordia where her father was mayor and they owned the town grocery store. She graduated from Concordia High School in 1952. Alice enjoyed going back to Concordia for every high school reunion up until 2018. She and her high school friends enjoyed each other and shared so many stories. She then went to Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri and received her diploma in nursing in 1956. She worked in St. Louis as a labor and delivery nurse. She married John in 1959 and moved to Denver, Colorado. She became a pediatric nurse and remained caring for kids for over 25 years. She inspired her daughter Megan to be a pediatric nurse. In 1988 they moved to Topeka, Kansas where Alice returned to labor and delivery and was a charge nurse. Several nurses and doctors comment on how much she taught and mentored them. John passed away in 1996 and she then married longtime friend Earl. She retired and moved back to Denver in 2000 where she stayed until she moved to Omaha to be closer to daughter Megan. Alice lived a joyous life. She very much enjoyed spending time with family and friends. She loved to send birthday cards to all of her family, shop with her great-nieces, go out to eat, play games, read, watch football, cheer for Creighton basketball and have an occasional cocktail of quality Scotch. In her final hours, she was able to listen to many tributes by family and friends. Her great-nephew Steve said it best when he said she was like the sunflowers she loves, always looking towards the light. She was always positive and never complained, even through a very difficult year. She will be missed by so many.<h2>Celebration of Life</h2>Council Grove/Dunlap United Methodist Church Saturday, August 14, 2021 1:00 p.m.<h2>Inurnment to follow service</h2>Greenwood Cemetery Saturday, August 14, 2021

Alice Connelly Kerr

<a href="https://www.ryanmortuary.com/obituary/JeKayla-Veal">Obituary for JeKayla Marie Veal | Ryan Mortuary</a>

January 27, 2008 ~ August 10, 2021 (age 13)

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved&nbsp;JeKayla Marie Veal&nbsp;who was born on January 27, 2008. She peacefully passed away on August 10, 2021, in her sleep after a long struggle with chronic lung disease as well as other health complications. 

JeKayla was a spry student at South Middle School who did not let her cerebral palsy hold her back from doing the things she enjoyed. She loved listening to stories, especially mysteries! This probably explains why she is so delighted by a good prank and gets a tickle out of someone else's mischief! She was always the most ornery out of the bunch. 

Her favorite things were bubbles, bells, and going outside for a "bumpy" stroll on the road. She loved her "girl parties" and getting her nails painted with her favorite girls. Though she faced many challenges, JeKayla always held a smile so contagious, it would've brightened up anyone's day! She loves her family and felt the best when included in activities along with everyone. 

JeKayla was a ray of sunshine that brightened up everyone’s lives and genuinely has everyone wrapped around her fingers. A life may last just for a moment, but memories can make that moment last forever. We will dearly miss you, baby girl, you will always be in our hearts. May God wrap His loving arms around you and fill you with His peace in His kingdom of Heaven.

Survived by: mom, Marissa M. Martinez; dad, Jared Veal; her siblings, Ty, Kimara, and Adriel, Jayvion and Alayah; grandparents, Pat and Larry Burse, Aurora Salinas and Marco Martinez; aunts, Sharay Martinez and Courtney Gentry; aunt, Jackie Veal; many aunts, uncles and cousins; and caregivers, Julie Carol and Nhi Mai.

Preceded in death by: Jesse Martinez, her uncle.

Funeral service will be 11 a.m. Saturday, August 14, 2021 at Ryan Mortuary.

Memorials may be made to the family in care of Ryan Mortuary, 137 N. 8th Street, Salina KS, 67401.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of JeKayla Marie Veal, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ryanmortuary.com/obituary/JeKayla-Veal/sympathy">floral store.</a>

<h2>JeKayla Veal</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628873577435.jpeg" alt="JeKayla Veal" />
 <figcaption>JeKayla Veal</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.ryanmortuary.com/obituary/JeKayla-Veal">Obituary for JeKayla Marie Veal | Ryan Mortuary</a>January 27, 2008 ~ August 10, 2021 (age 13)It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved&nbsp;JeKayla Marie Veal&nbsp;who was born on January 27, 2008. She peacefully passed away on August 10, 2021, in her sleep after a long struggle with chronic lung disease as well as other health complications. JeKayla was a spry student at South Middle School who did not let her cerebral palsy hold her back from doing the things she enjoyed. She loved listening to stories, especially mysteries! This probably explains why she is so delighted by a good prank and gets a tickle out of someone else's mischief! She was always the most ornery out of the bunch. Her favorite things were bubbles, bells, and going outside for a "bumpy" stroll on the road. She loved her "girl parties" and getting her nails painted with her favorite girls. Though she faced many challenges, JeKayla always held a smile so contagious, it would've brightened up anyone's day! She loves her family and felt the best when included in activities along with everyone. JeKayla was a ray of sunshine that brightened up everyone’s lives and genuinely has everyone wrapped around her fingers. A life may last just for a moment, but memories can make that moment last forever. We will dearly miss you, baby girl, you will always be in our hearts. May God wrap His loving arms around you and fill you with His peace in His kingdom of Heaven.Survived by: mom, Marissa M. Martinez; dad, Jared Veal; her siblings, Ty, Kimara, and Adriel, Jayvion and Alayah; grandparents, Pat and Larry Burse, Aurora Salinas and Marco Martinez; aunts, Sharay Martinez and Courtney Gentry; aunt, Jackie Veal; many aunts, uncles and cousins; and caregivers, Julie Carol and Nhi Mai.Preceded in death by: Jesse Martinez, her uncle.Funeral service will be 11 a.m. Saturday, August 14, 2021 at Ryan Mortuary.Memorials may be made to the family in care of Ryan Mortuary, 137 N. 8th Street, Salina KS, 67401.To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of JeKayla Marie Veal, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ryanmortuary.com/obituary/JeKayla-Veal/sympathy">floral store.</a>

JeKayla Veal

Hey Chiefs fans: You can now get the training camp scoop from The Voice of The Chiefs on KINA and 99KG!

KINA (910 AM and 107.5 FM) will air Mitch Holthus' training camp reports between 5-5:30 p.m. every Monday through Friday. Additionally, the reports will air on 99KG (99.9 FM) between 6-6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The Chiefs' training camp reports are sponsored by American Ag Credit and Long McArthur Ford.

In case you missed the latest from Mitch, here's today's training camp report. Give it a listen!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627501458199.jpeg" alt="The Voice of the Chiefs Mitch Holtus. Photo courtesy Chiefs" />
 <figcaption>The Voice of the Chiefs Mitch Holtus. Photo courtesy Chiefs</figcaption>
 </figure>Hey Chiefs fans: You can now get the training camp scoop from The Voice of The Chiefs on KINA and 99KG!KINA (910 AM and 107.5 FM) will air Mitch Holthus' training camp reports between 5-5:30 p.m. every Monday through Friday. Additionally, the reports will air on 99KG (99.9 FM) between 6-6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.The Chiefs' training camp reports are sponsored by American Ag Credit and Long McArthur Ford.In case you missed the latest from Mitch, here's today's training camp report. Give it a listen!<div><iframe width="100%" height="20" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1103694313&color=%23ff5500&inverse=false&auto_play=false&show_user=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/august-11-salina-t-camp-report-1" title="August 11 Salina T Camp Report" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">August 11 Salina T Camp Report</a></div></div>

Listen to the latest Chiefs training camp report here

By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher

Customer reviews are a staple in the digital world. If you cannot see a product in person, the next best thing is reading about another person’s experience. The trust we instinctively place in each other’s opinions and observations are not limited to product reviews. Our everyday conversations leave impressions we probably never think about. Years ago, I took friends home to visit my family in Wisconsin.&nbsp; I was completely unaware of my friends’ apprehensions created by the colorful stories shared of my childhood home and adventures. I was slightly embarrassed to learn how relieved they were when we pulled into the yard of a perfectly normal country home instead of the “two double-wide trailers stacked on top of each other” they were expecting. Some self-reflection helped me to realize I was sharing only entertaining stories about the quirky habits of my family, mischievous adventures my siblings and I undertook, and my dad’s impressive levels of inventiveness and ingenuity. I never really talked about more objectively normal things. It can be so easy to forget that during everyday interactions with people we often unintentionally become the expert for what others have not experienced. Someone who has never visited your town, will likely believe whatever you say about it and may remember what you said if ever asked about it in the future. Since taking my friends home, I have become a much better advocate for my home community, and I am much more conscious of whom I choose to share the quirky but funny stories about my home. The power and obligation to influence others opinions about our community has been on my mind lately because of a conversation I had at a recent networking event. While visiting with the manager of a facility that employs several people locally, I quickly realized he was a kindred spirit. Instead of nodding politely with a blank stare when I extolled the virtues of my community, he lit-up, sharing that he had been moved here from the East and fallen in love with Kansas because of the affordable housing, high quality of life and the truly “Midwest nice” people. In fact, many of his family members had followed him here because of his praise for the area. What he told me next has been replaying in my mind ever since. He has been working to change culture within his facility; to get his employees to stop griping or saying uncomplimentary things about the area because he does not want corporate to move the facility because no one wants to live there.

Many of the people at his corporate office have never been here; they rely on the opinions of local workers often gleaned from casual conversation to form an opinion of the community. If they ever have to consider closing a facility, he wants to make sure they know how wonderful his community is and how much employees are thriving so they will want to continue doing business here. Just like with the product reviews, the opinions and observations of people living in a place are likely to be the deciding factor for someone to visit, move to or start a business there. The simple act of restraining from complaints or comparisons to other towns shows positivity. Sharing about your great community assets or the ways you and others are working to make it better creates images of a thriving community. Most outsiders aren’t going to seek out community officials to learn about your town. They are going to listen to the experts. What will you tell them?

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="Jackie Mundt. Photo courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau" />
 <figcaption>Jackie Mundt. Photo courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau</figcaption>
 </figure>By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancherCustomer reviews are a staple in the digital world. If you cannot see a product in person, the next best thing is reading about another person’s experience. The trust we instinctively place in each other’s opinions and observations are not limited to product reviews. Our everyday conversations leave impressions we probably never think about. Years ago, I took friends home to visit my family in Wisconsin.&nbsp; I was completely unaware of my friends’ apprehensions created by the colorful stories shared of my childhood home and adventures. I was slightly embarrassed to learn how relieved they were when we pulled into the yard of a perfectly normal country home instead of the “two double-wide trailers stacked on top of each other” they were expecting. Some self-reflection helped me to realize I was sharing only entertaining stories about the quirky habits of my family, mischievous adventures my siblings and I undertook, and my dad’s impressive levels of inventiveness and ingenuity. I never really talked about more objectively normal things. It can be so easy to forget that during everyday interactions with people we often unintentionally become the expert for what others have not experienced. Someone who has never visited your town, will likely believe whatever you say about it and may remember what you said if ever asked about it in the future. Since taking my friends home, I have become a much better advocate for my home community, and I am much more conscious of whom I choose to share the quirky but funny stories about my home. The power and obligation to influence others opinions about our community has been on my mind lately because of a conversation I had at a recent networking event. While visiting with the manager of a facility that employs several people locally, I quickly realized he was a kindred spirit. Instead of nodding politely with a blank stare when I extolled the virtues of my community, he lit-up, sharing that he had been moved here from the East and fallen in love with Kansas because of the affordable housing, high quality of life and the truly “Midwest nice” people. In fact, many of his family members had followed him here because of his praise for the area. What he told me next has been replaying in my mind ever since. He has been working to change culture within his facility; to get his employees to stop griping or saying uncomplimentary things about the area because he does not want corporate to move the facility because no one wants to live there. Many of the people at his corporate office have never been here; they rely on the opinions of local workers often gleaned from casual conversation to form an opinion of the community. If they ever have to consider closing a facility, he wants to make sure they know how wonderful his community is and how much employees are thriving so they will want to continue doing business here. Just like with the product reviews, the opinions and observations of people living in a place are likely to be the deciding factor for someone to visit, move to or start a business there. The simple act of restraining from complaints or comparisons to other towns shows positivity. Sharing about your great community assets or the ways you and others are working to make it better creates images of a thriving community. Most outsiders aren’t going to seek out community officials to learn about your town. They are going to listen to the experts. What will you tell them?"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;Copyright © 2021 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

INSIGHT: Hometown Reviews

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627501458199.jpeg" alt="The Voice of the Chiefs Mitch Holtus. Photo courtesy Chiefs" />
 <figcaption>The Voice of the Chiefs Mitch Holtus. Photo courtesy Chiefs</figcaption>
 </figure>Hey Chiefs fans: You can now get the training camp scoop from The Voice of The Chiefs on KINA and 99KG!KINA (910 AM and 107.5 FM) will air Mitch Holthus' training camp reports between 5-5:30 p.m. every Monday through Friday. Additionally, the reports will air on 99KG (99.9 FM) between 6-6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.The Chiefs' training camp reports are sponsored by American Ag Credit and Long McArthur Ford.In case you missed the latest from Mitch, here's today's training camp report. Give it a listen!<div><iframe width="100%" height="20" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1103693086&color=%23ff5500&inverse=false&auto_play=false&show_user=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/august-10-salina-holthus-t-camp-report" title="August 10 Salina Holthus T Camp Report" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">August 10 Salina Holthus T Camp Report</a></div>
</div>

<a href="https://www.parsonsfh.com/obituary/Fred-Vague">Obituary for Fred Robert Vague | Parson Funeral Home (parsonsfh.com)</a>

Fred Vague was a hero to his sons.&nbsp; His life was simple but complex.&nbsp; Life was difficult but he made the most of every opportunity.&nbsp; From his birth in Castleton, Kansas, to his death in Wichita he did not physically stray from his roots.&nbsp; However, that did not stop his active mind from going to far places and exploring complex things with his mind.&nbsp; This was a result of the cruel act of blindness.&nbsp;

Fred Robert Vague was born on July 31, 1925, to Frederick and Viola Mae (Dague) Vague.&nbsp; He died on August 1, 2021 at the age of 96. He was a loving husband to Cristel Erlee (Higgins) Vague and the father of Rex Robert Vague and Ron Alan Vague.&nbsp; He had two siblings, Helen Ann McClellan and Melvin Vague.&nbsp;

“Fred R” or “Zeke” as many called him, had a long and fruitful life.&nbsp; He grew up in the town of Hutchinson, Kansas, graduating from Hutchinson High School in 1943. &nbsp;He joined the Navy on September 15, 1943 during World War II.&nbsp; He advanced to the rank of Motor Machinist Mate 2c. And was honorably discharged from the Navy on May 19, 1946.&nbsp; He attended Hutchinson Junior College from 1946 to 1948.

He married Cristel Erlee Higgins on July 30, 1948.&nbsp; He attended Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas and after graduation, with a law degree, in 1951 moved to Wichita, Kansas to live.&nbsp;

Fred was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa and subsequently progressed to total blindness.&nbsp;

He worked for the Travelers Insurance Company in Wichita for 25 years as a claims attorney, and was the supervising adjustor of the claims department.&nbsp;

Fred will be remembered as an active man whom nothing seemed to bother much.&nbsp; Considering his condition and the hardships it placed on him, that outlook on life was exceptional.&nbsp; His active mind and inquisitiveness about all things served him well throughout the years.&nbsp; He bowled on the blind bowlers league in Wichita for many years. He was a ham radio operator, woodworker and loved all things mechanical.&nbsp; He was the builder, mechanic and pit crew for his sons' 10-year go-kart racing hobby.&nbsp; He had a love and passion for automobiles and books, and although finances were tight, managed to obtain several cars that are considered classic by today’s standards, as well as an extensive library. He read every day, first reading braille, then listening to talking books furnished by the Kansas State Library, and went through a prodigious number of them over the years.&nbsp; He was an avid Shocker fan, and enjoyed listening to WSU games whenever he could.&nbsp; He also enjoyed attending the drum and bugle corps competitions when they came to the Wichita area.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He and Erlee resided in the north Wichita area in the house of their dreams for 43 years.&nbsp;

Fred was an amazing man who accomplished many things even with his visual disability. Family and friends remember Fred as being sweet, tenderhearted and smart.&nbsp; He leaves a legacy of love and integrity.&nbsp; He will be greatly missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings and wife. 

Survivors include his sons Rex (Georgianna Dirga) Vaguen and Ron (Brenda) Vague; grandchildren Briana Vague, Alex (Tam) Vague, Alana Vague, Aaron (Jessica Allen) Vague; and great-grandchildren Destiny and Luna.

<a href="https://www.parsonsfh.com/obituary/Fred-Vague/1069072/memorial-tree">Plant a tree</a>&nbsp;in memory of Fred&nbsp;<a href="https://www.parsonsfh.com/obituary/Fred-Vague/1069072/memorial-tree">by clicking here</a>.

To&nbsp;<a href="https://www.parsonsfh.com/obituary/Fred-Vague/sympathy">send flowers</a>&nbsp;to Fred's family, please&nbsp;<a href="https://www.parsonsfh.com/obituary/Fred-Vague/sympathy">visit our floral store</a>.

<h2>Fred Vague, Wichita</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628634150708.jpeg" alt="Fred Vague" />
 <figcaption>Fred Vague</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.parsonsfh.com/obituary/Fred-Vague">Obituary for Fred Robert Vague | Parson Funeral Home (parsonsfh.com)</a>July 31, 1925 - August 1, 2021Fred Vague was a hero to his sons.&nbsp; His life was simple but complex.&nbsp; Life was difficult but he made the most of every opportunity.&nbsp; From his birth in Castleton, Kansas, to his death in Wichita he did not physically stray from his roots.&nbsp; However, that did not stop his active mind from going to far places and exploring complex things with his mind.&nbsp; This was a result of the cruel act of blindness.&nbsp;Fred Robert Vague was born on July 31, 1925, to Frederick and Viola Mae (Dague) Vague.&nbsp; He died on August 1, 2021 at the age of 96. He was a loving husband to Cristel Erlee (Higgins) Vague and the father of Rex Robert Vague and Ron Alan Vague.&nbsp; He had two siblings, Helen Ann McClellan and Melvin Vague.&nbsp;“Fred R” or “Zeke” as many called him, had a long and fruitful life.&nbsp; He grew up in the town of Hutchinson, Kansas, graduating from Hutchinson High School in 1943. &nbsp;He joined the Navy on September 15, 1943 during World War II.&nbsp; He advanced to the rank of Motor Machinist Mate 2c. And was honorably discharged from the Navy on May 19, 1946.&nbsp; He attended Hutchinson Junior College from 1946 to 1948.He married Cristel Erlee Higgins on July 30, 1948.&nbsp; He attended Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas and after graduation, with a law degree, in 1951 moved to Wichita, Kansas to live.&nbsp;Fred was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa and subsequently progressed to total blindness.&nbsp;He worked for the Travelers Insurance Company in Wichita for 25 years as a claims attorney, and was the supervising adjustor of the claims department.&nbsp;Fred will be remembered as an active man whom nothing seemed to bother much.&nbsp; Considering his condition and the hardships it placed on him, that outlook on life was exceptional.&nbsp; His active mind and inquisitiveness about all things served him well throughout the years.&nbsp; He bowled on the blind bowlers league in Wichita for many years. He was a ham radio operator, woodworker and loved all things mechanical.&nbsp; He was the builder, mechanic and pit crew for his sons' 10-year go-kart racing hobby.&nbsp; He had a love and passion for automobiles and books, and although finances were tight, managed to obtain several cars that are considered classic by today’s standards, as well as an extensive library. He read every day, first reading braille, then listening to talking books furnished by the Kansas State Library, and went through a prodigious number of them over the years.&nbsp; He was an avid Shocker fan, and enjoyed listening to WSU games whenever he could.&nbsp; He also enjoyed attending the drum and bugle corps competitions when they came to the Wichita area.&nbsp;&nbsp;He and Erlee resided in the north Wichita area in the house of their dreams for 43 years.&nbsp;Fred was an amazing man who accomplished many things even with his visual disability. Family and friends remember Fred as being sweet, tenderhearted and smart.&nbsp; He leaves a legacy of love and integrity.&nbsp; He will be greatly missed.He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings and wife. Survivors include his sons Rex (Georgianna Dirga) Vaguen and Ron (Brenda) Vague; grandchildren Briana Vague, Alex (Tam) Vague, Alana Vague, Aaron (Jessica Allen) Vague; and great-grandchildren Destiny and Luna.A private family service will be held.<a href="https://www.parsonsfh.com/obituary/Fred-Vague/1069072/memorial-tree">Plant a tree</a>&nbsp;in memory of Fred&nbsp;<a href="https://www.parsonsfh.com/obituary/Fred-Vague/1069072/memorial-tree">by clicking here</a>.To&nbsp;<a href="https://www.parsonsfh.com/obituary/Fred-Vague/sympathy">send flowers</a>&nbsp;to Fred's family, please&nbsp;<a href="https://www.parsonsfh.com/obituary/Fred-Vague/sympathy">visit our floral store</a>.

Fred Vague

<a href="https://www.ryanmortuary.com/obituary/Timothy-Null">Obituary for Timothy Clay Null | Ryan Mortuary</a>

Timothy Clay Null, age 65, of Salina, KS, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Friday, August 6, 2021. Tim was born on April 12, 1956 in WaKeeney, KS and is the son of Lewis “Jack” Null, Peggy Null (Hildebrand), Benjamin Koralek, and Lillian Koralek (Choitz). A 1972 graduate of Ellsworth High School, Tim went on to proudly serve in the United States Marine Corps. Tim was a lineman for KP&amp;L before retiring as a distribution systems operator for Westar Energy.

Tim married the love of his life, Carla J. Null (Kohls), on August 21, 1976 in Ellsworth, KS. Tim and Carla had two children, Erin and Andrew.

To know Tim, was to love him. Tim’s eyes sparkled with every smile and he had an infectious laugh that easily made the day better. Tim enjoyed woodworking, sewing, tinkering, being his grandkids' biggest cheerleader, joking, finishing up that “one last thing” (project he was working on), cheering on the Green Bay Packers, and loving his family. Tim never knew a stranger and told everyone who would listen about his grandkids, who are his pride and joy. Tim devoted his life to his wife, children, and grandchildren, whom he adored and cherished. Tim stood firm in his faith and lived his life for Jesus.

Tim is survived by his wife Carla of the home; his daughter Erin (Pinson) and son-in-law Chad of Lyons, KS; his son Andrew and daughter-in-law Miriam of Colorado Springs, CO; and his grandchildren: Willow, Blake, Dharma, Mallory, and Eloise. He is also survived by his brother Pat Null (Teresa); sister Lonnie Soukup (Donald); brother Chant Koralek; brother Dave Koralek (Marge); brother-in-law Scott Kohls (Barb); sister-in-law/nephew Angela and Joshua Kohls; many nieces, nephews, friends, and co-workers who were very special to him.

Tim was preceded in death by his fathe, Jack Null; his dad and mom, Ben and Lil Koralek; his mother-in-law Lois Kohls; his brother-in-law Craig Kohls; his brother Mike Null; and his sister-in-law Gladys Koralek.

Tim’s family would like to invite you to a Celebration of Life Service at 2:30 on Friday, August 13, 2021 at the Episcopal Christ Cathedral Church Fellowship Hall, located at 138 South 8th, Salina, KS. Cremation has taken place.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to Punchin’ Out Parkinsons of Central Kansas in Tim’s memory, located at 600 East Elm Street in Salina, KS.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Timothy Clay Null, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ryanmortuary.com/obituary/Timothy-Null/sympathy">floral store.</a>

<h2>Timothy Clay Null, Salina</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628632383415.jpeg" alt="Timothy Clay Null" />
 <figcaption>Timothy Clay Null</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.ryanmortuary.com/obituary/Timothy-Null">Obituary for Timothy Clay Null | Ryan Mortuary</a>April 12, 1956 ~ August 6, 2021 (age 65)Timothy Clay Null, age 65, of Salina, KS, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Friday, August 6, 2021. Tim was born on April 12, 1956 in WaKeeney, KS and is the son of Lewis “Jack” Null, Peggy Null (Hildebrand), Benjamin Koralek, and Lillian Koralek (Choitz). A 1972 graduate of Ellsworth High School, Tim went on to proudly serve in the United States Marine Corps. Tim was a lineman for KP&amp;L before retiring as a distribution systems operator for Westar Energy.Tim married the love of his life, Carla J. Null (Kohls), on August 21, 1976 in Ellsworth, KS. Tim and Carla had two children, Erin and Andrew.To know Tim, was to love him. Tim’s eyes sparkled with every smile and he had an infectious laugh that easily made the day better. Tim enjoyed woodworking, sewing, tinkering, being his grandkids' biggest cheerleader, joking, finishing up that “one last thing” (project he was working on), cheering on the Green Bay Packers, and loving his family. Tim never knew a stranger and told everyone who would listen about his grandkids, who are his pride and joy. Tim devoted his life to his wife, children, and grandchildren, whom he adored and cherished. Tim stood firm in his faith and lived his life for Jesus.Tim is survived by his wife Carla of the home; his daughter Erin (Pinson) and son-in-law Chad of Lyons, KS; his son Andrew and daughter-in-law Miriam of Colorado Springs, CO; and his grandchildren: Willow, Blake, Dharma, Mallory, and Eloise. He is also survived by his brother Pat Null (Teresa); sister Lonnie Soukup (Donald); brother Chant Koralek; brother Dave Koralek (Marge); brother-in-law Scott Kohls (Barb); sister-in-law/nephew Angela and Joshua Kohls; many nieces, nephews, friends, and co-workers who were very special to him.Tim was preceded in death by his fathe, Jack Null; his dad and mom, Ben and Lil Koralek; his mother-in-law Lois Kohls; his brother-in-law Craig Kohls; his brother Mike Null; and his sister-in-law Gladys Koralek.Tim’s family would like to invite you to a Celebration of Life Service at 2:30 on Friday, August 13, 2021 at the Episcopal Christ Cathedral Church Fellowship Hall, located at 138 South 8th, Salina, KS. Cremation has taken place.In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to Punchin’ Out Parkinsons of Central Kansas in Tim’s memory, located at 600 East Elm Street in Salina, KS.To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Timothy Clay Null, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ryanmortuary.com/obituary/Timothy-Null/sympathy">floral store.</a>

Timothy Clay Null

In case you missed the latest from Mitch, here's today's training camp report:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627501458199.jpeg" alt="Mitch Holtus. Photo courtesy Kansas City Chiefs" />
 <figcaption>Mitch Holtus. Photo courtesy Kansas City Chiefs</figcaption>
 </figure>Hey Chiefs fans: You can now get the training camp scoop from The Voice of The Chiefs on KINA and 99KG!KINA (910 AM and 107.5 FM) will air Mitch Holthus' training camp reports between 5-5:30 p.m. every Monday through Friday. Additionally, the reports will air on 99KG (99.9 FM) between 6-6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.The Chiefs' training camp reports are sponsored by American Ag Credit and Long McArthur Ford.In case you missed the latest from Mitch, here's today's training camp report:<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1103107906%3Fsecret_token%3Ds-uO4lVH1fi1t&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/mon-aug-9-chiefs-training-camp-report-with-mitch-holthus/s-uO4lVH1fi1t" title="Mon, Aug 9 Chiefs Training Camp Report with Mitch Holthus" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Mon, Aug 9 Chiefs Training Camp Report with Mitch Holthus</a></div></div>

Did you miss Mitch on air? Listen to the latest Chiefs report here

My dad passed away about a year ago, but he left my mom in really good shape financially. They never had any consumer debt, the house is paid for, and they had about $1 million in assets. Dad also left her a $500,000 trust. Mom is going to be 60 next year. She is in good health, but considering her age and financial situation, do you think she needs long-term care insurance?

I’m so sorry to hear about your dad. Losing a spouse, or a father, is tough at any age. The good news is your dad did a great job of planning to take care of your mom. He left her in fine shape money-wise, but yes, she needs long term care&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/insurance/coverage-checkup" target="_blank">insurance</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;a good estate planner. You need to help your mom do everything possible to handle her situation wisely.

I usually suggest folks wait until age 60 to buy long-term care insurance, because the likelihood of filing a claim before then is very slim.&nbsp;In fact,&nbsp;about 95% of long-term care claims are filed for people over 70. That’s why, in most cases, it doesn’t make sense to get long-term care insurance earlier than age 60.

Insurance isn’t a one-size-fits-all kind of thing, though. If someone has a family history of illness or other health issues at a younger age, they may need to get long-term care insurance earlier. But you shouldn’t buy long-term care coverage at a young age just because you’re paranoid of what&nbsp;might&nbsp;happen,&nbsp;or&nbsp;because you think you’ll&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/real-estate/saving-for-down-payment-guide" target="_blank">save money</a>. That’s just not true.

In the event your mom becomes unable to take care of herself at some point, long-term care insurance would be an absolute necessity. The cost of nursing home care these days is astronomical. Again, your mom is in a great place financially, but a prolonged stay in a nursing home somewhere down the road could eat up her&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/retirement/investment-calculator" target="_blank">nest egg</a>&nbsp;in a hurry.

Long-term care insurance is a wise part of any good asset management plan.

<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/" target="_blank">Dave Ramsey</a>&nbsp;is a seven-time No. 1 national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of The Ramsey Show, heard by more than 18 million listeners each week. He&nbsp;has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today Show, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business, and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people regain control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596845065840.jpeg" alt="Dave Ramsey" />
 <figcaption>Dave Ramsey</figcaption>
 </figure>Dear Dave,My dad passed away about a year ago, but he left my mom in really good shape financially. They never had any consumer debt, the house is paid for, and they had about $1 million in assets. Dad also left her a $500,000 trust. Mom is going to be 60 next year. She is in good health, but considering her age and financial situation, do you think she needs long-term care insurance?DarbyDear Darby,I’m so sorry to hear about your dad. Losing a spouse, or a father, is tough at any age. The good news is your dad did a great job of planning to take care of your mom. He left her in fine shape money-wise, but yes, she needs long term care&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/insurance/coverage-checkup" target="_blank">insurance</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;a good estate planner. You need to help your mom do everything possible to handle her situation wisely.I usually suggest folks wait until age 60 to buy long-term care insurance, because the likelihood of filing a claim before then is very slim.&nbsp;In fact,&nbsp;about 95% of long-term care claims are filed for people over 70. That’s why, in most cases, it doesn’t make sense to get long-term care insurance earlier than age 60.Insurance isn’t a one-size-fits-all kind of thing, though. If someone has a family history of illness or other health issues at a younger age, they may need to get long-term care insurance earlier. But you shouldn’t buy long-term care coverage at a young age just because you’re paranoid of what&nbsp;might&nbsp;happen,&nbsp;or&nbsp;because you think you’ll&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/real-estate/saving-for-down-payment-guide" target="_blank">save money</a>. That’s just not true.In the event your mom becomes unable to take care of herself at some point, long-term care insurance would be an absolute necessity. The cost of nursing home care these days is astronomical. Again, your mom is in a great place financially, but a prolonged stay in a nursing home somewhere down the road could eat up her&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/retirement/investment-calculator" target="_blank">nest egg</a>&nbsp;in a hurry.Long-term care insurance is a wise part of any good asset management plan.Dave<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/" target="_blank">Dave Ramsey</a>&nbsp;is a seven-time No. 1 national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of The Ramsey Show, heard by more than 18 million listeners each week. He&nbsp;has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today Show, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business, and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people regain control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.

DAVE SAYS: Does my mom need long-term care insurance?

WASHINGTON (AP) — Nearing decision time, senators are wrapping up work on the bipartisan infrastructure plan and talks were underway Thursday to expedite consideration of the nearly $1 trillion proposal, with votes expected in the days ahead.

A much anticipated analysis of the bill from the Congressional Budget Office concluded that the legislation would increase deficits by about $256 billion over the next decade. Senators wanted that information before votes on the package, which could start soon and push into Saturday.

It's unclear if the budget office's assessment could peel away support, particularly from Republican senators who have been wary of using what some view as gimmicks to pay for the package. But the bill's backers sprang to defend the overall package, and said it included additional savings and would boost economic growth in ways the CBO does not measure.

The top negotiators, Sens. Kyrsten Sinema, D-Ariz., and Rob Portman, R-<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/ohio">Ohio</a>, said the package is “a historic investment in our nation’s core infrastructure needs.” In a statement, they said the package is a long-term investment that will “improve economic efficiency and productivity, increase GDP, generate additional revenue, and will not increase inflation.”

The package had been on track for Senate passage, a rare accord between Republicans and Democrats joining on a shared priority that also is essential to President Joe Biden’s agenda. The Senate has processed nearly two dozen amendments to the 2,700-page bill, an unusual legislative undertaking, with more on tap. None has substantially changed the framework of the public works package, which would send money for roads, bridges, water works, broadband and other projects to virtually every corner of the nation.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said earlier Thursday, “We can bring this bill to a close very shortly.”

Once the bill clears the Senate, lawmakers will turn to the much more partisan undertaking on the next phase of Biden's agenda: a $3.5 trillion proposal for what the White House calls human infrastructure — child care support, home health care, education and other expenditures that are Democratic priorities that Republicans have pledged to reject. Debate will extend into the fall.

Schumer wants the Senate to pass both the bipartisan package and a budget blueprint for the bigger proposal before senators depart for an August recess.

Dividing lines set, senators are eager to wrap up.

“I don’t think anybody’s looking to extend this out any longer than necessary,” Sen. John Cornyn, R-<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/texas">Texas</a>, told reporters.

The budget office analysis comes as critics of the bill have voiced concerns about the impact the infrastructure spending would have on the national debt, and criticized the pay-fors cited by supporters as “squishy” or “fake.”

That’s because supporters in some cases counted savings that would have occurred regardless of whether the infrastructure bill passes.

For example, the CBO did not count the $53 billion that is expected to be saved because more than two dozen states cut off expanded unemployment compensation before the benefit was set to expire. The bipartisan negotiators had also claimed $56 billion in savings through economic growth, while the CBO did not take that into account.

Key to watch will be how many Republicans join what's expected to be all Democrats in supporting the bipartisan package as it heads toward votes.

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/kentucky">Kentucky</a>&nbsp;had promised to be “100% focused” on stopping Biden’s agenda, but when it comes to the bipartisan infrastructure plan, he's sounding like a go.

Republicans are almost certain to split over that bill, and McConnell's eventual vote will carry weight.

McConnell has been acting and voting like a lawmaker ready to set aside — for a few days, anyway — his reputation as a roadblock for one of the Democratic president's chief legislative priorities, opening the door to potentially giving his support for final passage.

“There’s an excellent chance it will be a success story for the country,” McConnell said Tuesday.

The package has much for senators to support, as they tap federal dollars for big-ticket public works projects that their states and cities are typically unable to support on their own.

In days of debate, senators backing the bipartisan package have risen to speak about it on the Senate floor.

Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/alaska">Alaska</a>, has spoken of the dire need to bring running water to rural parts of her state, particularly during the COVID-19 crisis.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628204297918.png" alt="It's unclear if the budget office's assessment could peel away support, particularly from Republican senators who have been wary of using what some view as gimmicks to pay for the package.President Biden during a White House Rose Garden ceremony Thursday afternoon-photo courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>It's unclear if the budget office's assessment could peel away support, particularly from Republican senators who have been wary of using what some view as gimmicks to pay for the package.President Biden during a White House Rose Garden ceremony Thursday afternoon-photo courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Nearing decision time, senators are wrapping up work on the bipartisan infrastructure plan and talks were underway Thursday to expedite consideration of the nearly $1 trillion proposal, with votes expected in the days ahead.A much anticipated analysis of the bill from the Congressional Budget Office concluded that the legislation would increase deficits by about $256 billion over the next decade. Senators wanted that information before votes on the package, which could start soon and push into Saturday.It's unclear if the budget office's assessment could peel away support, particularly from Republican senators who have been wary of using what some view as gimmicks to pay for the package. But the bill's backers sprang to defend the overall package, and said it included additional savings and would boost economic growth in ways the CBO does not measure.The top negotiators, Sens. Kyrsten Sinema, D-Ariz., and Rob Portman, R-<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/ohio">Ohio</a>, said the package is “a historic investment in our nation’s core infrastructure needs.” In a statement, they said the package is a long-term investment that will “improve economic efficiency and productivity, increase GDP, generate additional revenue, and will not increase inflation.”The package had been on track for Senate passage, a rare accord between Republicans and Democrats joining on a shared priority that also is essential to President Joe Biden’s agenda. The Senate has processed nearly two dozen amendments to the 2,700-page bill, an unusual legislative undertaking, with more on tap. None has substantially changed the framework of the public works package, which would send money for roads, bridges, water works, broadband and other projects to virtually every corner of the nation.Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said earlier Thursday, “We can bring this bill to a close very shortly.”Once the bill clears the Senate, lawmakers will turn to the much more partisan undertaking on the next phase of Biden's agenda: a $3.5 trillion proposal for what the White House calls human infrastructure — child care support, home health care, education and other expenditures that are Democratic priorities that Republicans have pledged to reject. Debate will extend into the fall.Schumer wants the Senate to pass both the bipartisan package and a budget blueprint for the bigger proposal before senators depart for an August recess.Dividing lines set, senators are eager to wrap up.“I don’t think anybody’s looking to extend this out any longer than necessary,” Sen. John Cornyn, R-<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/texas">Texas</a>, told reporters.The budget office analysis comes as critics of the bill have voiced concerns about the impact the infrastructure spending would have on the national debt, and criticized the pay-fors cited by supporters as “squishy” or “fake.”That’s because supporters in some cases counted savings that would have occurred regardless of whether the infrastructure bill passes.For example, the CBO did not count the $53 billion that is expected to be saved because more than two dozen states cut off expanded unemployment compensation before the benefit was set to expire. The bipartisan negotiators had also claimed $56 billion in savings through economic growth, while the CBO did not take that into account.Key to watch will be how many Republicans join what's expected to be all Democrats in supporting the bipartisan package as it heads toward votes.Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/kentucky">Kentucky</a>&nbsp;had promised to be “100% focused” on stopping Biden’s agenda, but when it comes to the bipartisan infrastructure plan, he's sounding like a go.Republicans are almost certain to split over that bill, and McConnell's eventual vote will carry weight.McConnell has been acting and voting like a lawmaker ready to set aside — for a few days, anyway — his reputation as a roadblock for one of the Democratic president's chief legislative priorities, opening the door to potentially giving his support for final passage.“There’s an excellent chance it will be a success story for the country,” McConnell said Tuesday.The package has much for senators to support, as they tap federal dollars for big-ticket public works projects that their states and cities are typically unable to support on their own.In days of debate, senators backing the bipartisan package have risen to speak about it on the Senate floor.Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/alaska">Alaska</a>, has spoken of the dire need to bring running water to rural parts of her state, particularly during the COVID-19 crisis.Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., has focused on money to curb coastal erosion in his state and elsewhere.Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., talked about how $110 billion in new money for roads and bridges would mean access to markets for farms in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/montana">Montana</a>&nbsp;such as his own.McConnell’s vote could make or break the package, serving up a victory for Biden with passage or delivering another failure by Washington to address the nation’s infrastructure needs. The Trump administration was unable to follow through on President Donald Trump's call for investing trillions of dollars in infrastructure.Republican strategist Scott Jennings, a longtime McConnell ally, said it’s easy to see how McConnell could get to “yes” on this first part of Biden's infrastructure priorities.“Just listen to what he said,” Jennings said. “He always said it should be a smaller package focused on roads bridges airports and broadband.”Politically, the votes ahead could be a win-win for McConnell and Republicans to show some bipartisanship on this first package while launching into a strictly partisan broadside against the larger plan.“I do think it gives Republicans senators a chance to say, ‘Look, they always claim we’re going to stop everything,’” Jennings said.“It does give the Republicans a chance to say, `We're for the stuff that makes sense and we’re against the stuff that doesn't.'”The Senate was expected to be quiet on Friday as many lawmakers attend funeral services for former Sen. Mike Enzi in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/wyoming">Wyoming</a>. But senators are bracing for another weekend session as they push ahead on both pieces of legislation.