My wife and I are in our 20s, and together we make about $80,000 a year. Our first baby is due in early 2022, so being debt-free has become a top priority in my mind. Right now, we have two cars. The one I drive is paid off and has a lot of miles on it, but it’s in really good shape. We still owe $30,000 on the other one, and the rest of our debt is about $90,000 in student loans. My wife puts 40,000 miles a year on the other car traveling for work. I talked to her the other day about us moving down a little in car, but she’s particular about what she drives. I even found out she has her eye on a newer vehicle that costs about $48,000. I don’t know what to do. Can you help?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Okay, let’s start slow. I’m glad you’ve seen the wisdom in getting control of your money and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/debt/debt-calculator?int_cmpgn=rscom_launchtraffic&amp;int_dept=rplus_bu&amp;int_lctn=Homepage-Smart_Moves&amp;int_fmt=text&amp;int_dscpn=Free_Tools_Debt_Calc_041221&amp;campaign_id=&amp;lead_source=Direct" target="_blank">getting out of debt</a>. That’s the first step toward financial peace.

Now, where the car thing is concerned, there’s not a chance in the world I’d do this. And honestly, I don’t give a crap what your wife is&nbsp;particular&nbsp;about. You guys are broke! You’re up to your eyeballs in debt, and now she’s talking about buying a $48,000 car—when you still owe $30,000 on one—then putting 40,000 miles a year on it and destroying its value quicker than you can say “fast.”

This whole idea and attitude is dumber than a rock. Absolutely not!&nbsp;You&nbsp;may have seen the light where your finances are concerned, but it sounds like your wife is still in the dark&nbsp;and&nbsp;needs to grow up some. You two should have a long, serious talk about things, and get on the same page financially—especially with a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/saving/cost-of-having-a-baby" target="_blank">baby on the way</a>. Your family’s future depends on it.

<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&nbsp;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 wife and I are in our 20s, and together we make about $80,000 a year. Our first baby is due in early 2022, so being debt-free has become a top priority in my mind. Right now, we have two cars. The one I drive is paid off and has a lot of miles on it, but it’s in really good shape. We still owe $30,000 on the other one, and the rest of our debt is about $90,000 in student loans. My wife puts 40,000 miles a year on the other car traveling for work. I talked to her the other day about us moving down a little in car, but she’s particular about what she drives. I even found out she has her eye on a newer vehicle that costs about $48,000. I don’t know what to do. Can you help?&nbsp;&nbsp;ZachDear Zach,Okay, let’s start slow. I’m glad you’ve seen the wisdom in getting control of your money and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/debt/debt-calculator?int_cmpgn=rscom_launchtraffic&amp;int_dept=rplus_bu&amp;int_lctn=Homepage-Smart_Moves&amp;int_fmt=text&amp;int_dscpn=Free_Tools_Debt_Calc_041221&amp;campaign_id=&amp;lead_source=Direct" target="_blank">getting out of debt</a>. That’s the first step toward financial peace.Now, where the car thing is concerned, there’s not a chance in the world I’d do this. And honestly, I don’t give a crap what your wife is&nbsp;particular&nbsp;about. You guys are broke! You’re up to your eyeballs in debt, and now she’s talking about buying a $48,000 car—when you still owe $30,000 on one—then putting 40,000 miles a year on it and destroying its value quicker than you can say “fast.”This whole idea and attitude is dumber than a rock. Absolutely not!&nbsp;You&nbsp;may have seen the light where your finances are concerned, but it sounds like your wife is still in the dark&nbsp;and&nbsp;needs to grow up some. You two should have a long, serious talk about things, and get on the same page financially—especially with a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/saving/cost-of-having-a-baby" target="_blank">baby on the way</a>. Your family’s future depends on it.I hope I wasn’t unclear.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&nbsp;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: Being on the same page is vital to your family’s future

<a href="https://www.ryanmortuary.com/obituary/Laura-Loder">Obituary for Laura Leslie (Bowen) Loder | Ryan Mortuary</a>

SALINA -&nbsp;Laura Leslie (Bowen) Loder&nbsp;died Tuesday, May 25, 2021 in Salina.&nbsp; She was born August 14, 1952 to Richard and Marilyn Bowen in Kansas City, MO.&nbsp; As a child, she lived in Kansas City, Springfield, Mo, and Beloit, KS until moving with her family to Salina in 1963.&nbsp; She graduated from Salina High School in 1970, a member of the last graduating class there.&nbsp; She lived much of her adult life in Salina but lived in Noble, OK. in the late 70s for a few years, and in 1991 she moved to the Loder family farm in Marquette, KS, in 1991 with Doug Loder.&nbsp; She lived there until his death in 2016 and then moved back to Salina. &nbsp; She had varied careers and workplaces during her adult life.&nbsp; She spent the last 25-plus years driving for Quality Driveaway delivering buses nearly everywhere in the United States.&nbsp; She is remembered by her family, coworkers and others who knew her for her wit and humor.&nbsp; She always had a listening ear and a metaphor to summarize any situation.&nbsp; She was a member of First Covenant Church in Salina and found great joy in singing along to country gospel music. &nbsp; She was preceded in death by her husband Doug Loder, her father Richard Bowen, her mother Marilyn Larson and a brother, Joe Bowen. &nbsp; &nbsp; She is survived by her son Jeremy Hopkins (Angela) of Salina, daughter Emily DeRocco (Steven) of Virginia, sisters Sue Jordan (Don) of Salina, Sally Morrison (Todd) of Olathe, and her stepfather Oscar Larson of Tescott. Her grandchildren were the greatest joy of her life and include Noah and Eli Hopkins of Salina and Laramie, Liam, Elon, Joss and Dexter DeRocco of Northern Virginia.&nbsp; She is also survived by her nephews James (Soni) and John (Casey) Jordan and nieces Melanie and Malorie Morrison.&nbsp; She will also be missed by her extended Larson family including her several stepbrothers and sisters and their spouses and children as well as her extended Loder family including all of Doug’s children and grandchildren. &nbsp; Services will be Saturday, May 29 at 10 a.m. at First Covenant Church, 2625 E. Magnolia Road in Salina. Burial will be private by family at a later date in the Franklin Cemetery, Tescott.&nbsp;

In lieu of flowers, the family would suggest donations to the Salvation Army or the First Covenant Church, Salina. Ryan Mortuary is handling arrangements.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622148847994.jpeg" alt="Laura Loder" />
 <figcaption>Laura Loder</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.ryanmortuary.com/obituary/Laura-Loder">Obituary for Laura Leslie (Bowen) Loder | Ryan Mortuary</a>August 14, 1952 ~ May 25, 2021 (age 68)SALINA -&nbsp;Laura Leslie (Bowen) Loder&nbsp;died Tuesday, May 25, 2021 in Salina.&nbsp; She was born August 14, 1952 to Richard and Marilyn Bowen in Kansas City, MO.&nbsp; As a child, she lived in Kansas City, Springfield, Mo, and Beloit, KS until moving with her family to Salina in 1963.&nbsp; She graduated from Salina High School in 1970, a member of the last graduating class there.&nbsp; She lived much of her adult life in Salina but lived in Noble, OK. in the late 70s for a few years, and in 1991 she moved to the Loder family farm in Marquette, KS, in 1991 with Doug Loder.&nbsp; She lived there until his death in 2016 and then moved back to Salina. &nbsp; She had varied careers and workplaces during her adult life.&nbsp; She spent the last 25-plus years driving for Quality Driveaway delivering buses nearly everywhere in the United States.&nbsp; She is remembered by her family, coworkers and others who knew her for her wit and humor.&nbsp; She always had a listening ear and a metaphor to summarize any situation.&nbsp; She was a member of First Covenant Church in Salina and found great joy in singing along to country gospel music. &nbsp; She was preceded in death by her husband Doug Loder, her father Richard Bowen, her mother Marilyn Larson and a brother, Joe Bowen. &nbsp; &nbsp; She is survived by her son Jeremy Hopkins (Angela) of Salina, daughter Emily DeRocco (Steven) of Virginia, sisters Sue Jordan (Don) of Salina, Sally Morrison (Todd) of Olathe, and her stepfather Oscar Larson of Tescott. Her grandchildren were the greatest joy of her life and include Noah and Eli Hopkins of Salina and Laramie, Liam, Elon, Joss and Dexter DeRocco of Northern Virginia.&nbsp; She is also survived by her nephews James (Soni) and John (Casey) Jordan and nieces Melanie and Malorie Morrison.&nbsp; She will also be missed by her extended Larson family including her several stepbrothers and sisters and their spouses and children as well as her extended Loder family including all of Doug’s children and grandchildren. &nbsp; Services will be Saturday, May 29 at 10 a.m. at First Covenant Church, 2625 E. Magnolia Road in Salina. Burial will be private by family at a later date in the Franklin Cemetery, Tescott.&nbsp;In lieu of flowers, the family would suggest donations to the Salvation Army or the First Covenant Church, Salina. Ryan Mortuary is handling arrangements.To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Laura Leslie (Bowen) Loder, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ryanmortuary.com/obituary/Laura-Loder/sympathy">floral store.</a>

Laura Loder

I can’t decide whether to sell or keep a rental property. Except for the property in question I’m debt-free, and I make $90,000 a year. I owe $20,000 on the property, and it is worth $65,000. What do you think?

You’re in pretty good shape financially, and you could probably pay off the rental property in a year or two. So really, it’s a matter of personal preference. I will say this; there’s nothing worse than&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/insurance/renting-out-a-house" target="_blank">being a landlord</a>&nbsp;if you don’t want to be one.

It’s not a bad thing to feel that way. Some folks have fun and enjoy landlording for a while, but then other things become more important. It’s your life and your feelings that matter at this point.

If you still enjoy dabbling in real estate and being a landlord, go for it. If the shine has worn off, get rid of the place. If the latter is the case, you’ll get the responsibility of being a landlord off your back&nbsp;and&nbsp;become&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/debt/7-characteristics-of-debt-free-people" target="_blank">debt-free</a>&nbsp;all at the same time!

I’ve been following your advice for about a year. I’m almost out of debt, and I live on a budget, but looking toward the future it seems like it will be very difficult to save up for a down payment on a home. I live in Chicago, and property prices are very expensive. I have a friend in Georgia who suggested I buy a less expensive property there, then fix it up and flip it to make the money I would need for a down payment. What do you think of this idea?

When you take on the kind of work you’re talking about, you need to oversee what’s happening every step of the way. You’re working out details, keeping an eye on the crew, and having to handle a dozen other issues tied to the project. Plus, you can’t just walk up to a house or see it online, buy it, and expect to come out ahead in the deal.

People who&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/real-estate/how-to-flip-a-house" target="_blank">flip houses</a>&nbsp;for a living professionally eyeball dozens, sometimes hundreds, of properties to buy just one. It’s not an easy way to make money, and it’s definitely not something I’d recommend doing from a distance. In short, I wouldn’t do it, Erik. Fixing and flipping properties is a hands-on business, and trying to do it from 700 miles away would be a nightmare.

Just keep on working&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/budgeting/what-is-a-budget" target="_blank">the budget</a>&nbsp;and save as much as you can. I’d consider getting a part-time job for a while to add to the down payment fund before I’d try to fix and flip a house that far away.

<a href="http://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&nbsp;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&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Dave Ramsey&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>You’re in good shape either way</h2>Dear Dave,I can’t decide whether to sell or keep a rental property. Except for the property in question I’m debt-free, and I make $90,000 a year. I owe $20,000 on the property, and it is worth $65,000. What do you think?GeorgeDear George,You’re in pretty good shape financially, and you could probably pay off the rental property in a year or two. So really, it’s a matter of personal preference. I will say this; there’s nothing worse than&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/insurance/renting-out-a-house" target="_blank">being a landlord</a>&nbsp;if you don’t want to be one.It’s not a bad thing to feel that way. Some folks have fun and enjoy landlording for a while, but then other things become more important. It’s your life and your feelings that matter at this point.If you still enjoy dabbling in real estate and being a landlord, go for it. If the shine has worn off, get rid of the place. If the latter is the case, you’ll get the responsibility of being a landlord off your back&nbsp;and&nbsp;become&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/debt/7-characteristics-of-debt-free-people" target="_blank">debt-free</a>&nbsp;all at the same time!Dave<h2>Long distance flip?</h2>Dear Dave,I’ve been following your advice for about a year. I’m almost out of debt, and I live on a budget, but looking toward the future it seems like it will be very difficult to save up for a down payment on a home. I live in Chicago, and property prices are very expensive. I have a friend in Georgia who suggested I buy a less expensive property there, then fix it up and flip it to make the money I would need for a down payment. What do you think of this idea?ErikDear Erik,When you take on the kind of work you’re talking about, you need to oversee what’s happening every step of the way. You’re working out details, keeping an eye on the crew, and having to handle a dozen other issues tied to the project. Plus, you can’t just walk up to a house or see it online, buy it, and expect to come out ahead in the deal.People who&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/real-estate/how-to-flip-a-house" target="_blank">flip houses</a>&nbsp;for a living professionally eyeball dozens, sometimes hundreds, of properties to buy just one. It’s not an easy way to make money, and it’s definitely not something I’d recommend doing from a distance. In short, I wouldn’t do it, Erik. Fixing and flipping properties is a hands-on business, and trying to do it from 700 miles away would be a nightmare.Just keep on working&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/budgeting/what-is-a-budget" target="_blank">the budget</a>&nbsp;and save as much as you can. I’d consider getting a part-time job for a while to add to the down payment fund before I’d try to fix and flip a house that far away.Dave<a href="http://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&nbsp;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: You’re in good shape either way; Long distance flip?

KANSAS CITY(AP) — The City Council of Kansas City on Thursday approved two new ordinances that reallocate a part of the police department's budget to a new fund that would be used to focus on new strategies for combatting violent crime.

The approval came swiftly, just hours after Mayor Quinton Lucas announced the new ordinances, which reallocate about $44 million in police department funding to a new Community Services and Prevention Fund. The city manager will negotiate with police officials over how the money is spent, with an emphasis on community engagement, prevention, mental health services and other public services.

Lucas said in a news conference the changes are also aimed at increasing police accountability in a city where elected officials have almost no say in how the police department spends it money.

The department is overseen by a Board of Police Commissioners, which includes the mayor and four members appointed by the Missouri governor. The board determines how police funds are spent.

Since social justice protests erupted last year in response to George Floyd's death in Minneapolis, residents in Kansas City have ask for several things, Lucas said.

“(They've said) we want our community to be safer, we want to have a positive relationship with law enforcement, we want them to listen to us, hear from us, we want everyone to do better,” he said. "This is us recognizing that we must do better and we can do better, as a city, as city leadership and as a police department."

Lucas said in the past the city has increased funding for the police department to hire more officers, rather than looking at more creative ways to address violent crime. The approach has not worked as the city continues to have too many murders and tragedy for too many families, he said.

The ordinances come days after Police Chief Rick Smith wrote in a blog that the department needs more funding because it is facing a serious shortage of officers. He also said if more funding is not approved, community outreach programs such as the Police Athletic League and youth programs would have to be cut so officers can be used to respond to 911 calls.

The police department received $238 million in the current year budget. In his blog, Smith asked citizens to urge the city council to allocate some of the $97.5 million the city received from the federal American Rescue Plan Act to police.

Smith also said budget problems have prevented the department from having a new police recruit class since February of 2020. The proposals introduced Thursday would include $3 million for a new class of recruits, bringing total redirected spending to almost $48 million.

Smith said in a statement Thursday that he was “disheartened” Lucas and the eight council co-sponsors had not notified the police department before announcing the ordinances, and had not mentioned them at Board of Police Commissioners meetings.

"The Mayor and the other sponsoring council members have not previously mentioned this proposal, so our discussions about it are just beginning,” Smith said.

Four city council members who represent mostly suburban Kansas City areas north of the Missouri river also said they had not been notified before Lucas held his news conference. They all voted against the ordinances, saying the city needs more, not fewer, officers. They also expressed concern that the council had not had time to vet the proposals or have public discussions on them.

Councilman Dan Fowler, who represents a part of the city in Platte County, said police already have difficulty closing cases because of a lack of officers and staff.

“I support change, we all do,” Fowler said. “I support working collaboratively to come up with creative solutions to solve complex issues, and these are complex issues. I don't support change without a plan, and that is what is happening here.”

Lucas did not respond during the council meeting to the complaints that the council members and police chief were not notified.

The ordinance reducing the police budget by $44 million gives it 20% of the city’s general fund revenue, which is the minimum required by state law.

Lucas emphasized the changes are reallocations, not a defunding of the police department, if the police board agrees to negotiate over the use of the funds. He noted the board is not under legal obligation to negotiate a contract on how the money is spent.

The city already has a contract with the police department over parking enforcement, as well as with other governmental entities, such as the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority.

In the last year, several civil rights advocates have strongly criticized Lucas, the city council and the police department — including demanding that Smith resign or be fired.

One of those critics, Gwen Grant, president and CEO of the Urban League of Kansas City, said the ordinances proposed Thursday are “a refreshing change of course” that would use tax dollars to address the root causes of violent crime and to make the city safer.

"It is time that the KCPD be held to account for their inefficient and ineffective expenditures, which have failed to substantively address the proliferation of violent crime in our community,” Grant said in a statement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621591891245.png" alt="Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas answers questions following Thursday's Council meeting. Photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas answers questions following Thursday's Council meeting. Photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY(AP) — The City Council of Kansas City on Thursday approved two new ordinances that reallocate a part of the police department's budget to a new fund that would be used to focus on new strategies for combatting violent crime.The approval came swiftly, just hours after Mayor Quinton Lucas announced the new ordinances, which reallocate about $44 million in police department funding to a new Community Services and Prevention Fund. The city manager will negotiate with police officials over how the money is spent, with an emphasis on community engagement, prevention, mental health services and other public services.Lucas said in a news conference the changes are also aimed at increasing police accountability in a city where elected officials have almost no say in how the police department spends it money.The department is overseen by a Board of Police Commissioners, which includes the mayor and four members appointed by the Missouri governor. The board determines how police funds are spent.Since social justice protests erupted last year in response to George Floyd's death in Minneapolis, residents in Kansas City have ask for several things, Lucas said.“(They've said) we want our community to be safer, we want to have a positive relationship with law enforcement, we want them to listen to us, hear from us, we want everyone to do better,” he said. "This is us recognizing that we must do better and we can do better, as a city, as city leadership and as a police department."Lucas said in the past the city has increased funding for the police department to hire more officers, rather than looking at more creative ways to address violent crime. The approach has not worked as the city continues to have too many murders and tragedy for too many families, he said.The ordinances come days after Police Chief Rick Smith wrote in a blog that the department needs more funding because it is facing a serious shortage of officers. He also said if more funding is not approved, community outreach programs such as the Police Athletic League and youth programs would have to be cut so officers can be used to respond to 911 calls.The police department received $238 million in the current year budget. In his blog, Smith asked citizens to urge the city council to allocate some of the $97.5 million the city received from the federal American Rescue Plan Act to police.Smith also said budget problems have prevented the department from having a new police recruit class since February of 2020. The proposals introduced Thursday would include $3 million for a new class of recruits, bringing total redirected spending to almost $48 million.Smith said in a statement Thursday that he was “disheartened” Lucas and the eight council co-sponsors had not notified the police department before announcing the ordinances, and had not mentioned them at Board of Police Commissioners meetings."The Mayor and the other sponsoring council members have not previously mentioned this proposal, so our discussions about it are just beginning,” Smith said.Four city council members who represent mostly suburban Kansas City areas north of the Missouri river also said they had not been notified before Lucas held his news conference. They all voted against the ordinances, saying the city needs more, not fewer, officers. They also expressed concern that the council had not had time to vet the proposals or have public discussions on them.Councilman Dan Fowler, who represents a part of the city in Platte County, said police already have difficulty closing cases because of a lack of officers and staff.“I support change, we all do,” Fowler said. “I support working collaboratively to come up with creative solutions to solve complex issues, and these are complex issues. I don't support change without a plan, and that is what is happening here.”Lucas did not respond during the council meeting to the complaints that the council members and police chief were not notified.The ordinance reducing the police budget by $44 million gives it 20% of the city’s general fund revenue, which is the minimum required by state law.Lucas emphasized the changes are reallocations, not a defunding of the police department, if the police board agrees to negotiate over the use of the funds. He noted the board is not under legal obligation to negotiate a contract on how the money is spent.The city already has a contract with the police department over parking enforcement, as well as with other governmental entities, such as the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority.In the last year, several civil rights advocates have strongly criticized Lucas, the city council and the police department — including demanding that Smith resign or be fired.One of those critics, Gwen Grant, president and CEO of the Urban League of Kansas City, said the ordinances proposed Thursday are “a refreshing change of course” that would use tax dollars to address the root causes of violent crime and to make the city safer."It is time that the KCPD be held to account for their inefficient and ineffective expenditures, which have failed to substantively address the proliferation of violent crime in our community,” Grant said in a statement.

City Council adopts controversial change to KCPD funding

<a href="https://www.ryanmortuary.com/obituary/Ronda-Saylor">Obituary for Ronda Kay (Schramek) Saylor | Ryan Mortuary</a>

SALINA -&nbsp;Ronda Kay (Schramek) Saylor&nbsp;was born October 2, 1956 to Willard and Doris (Hiserote) Schramek in Beloit, KS. She departed this life of 64 years late Sunday evening on May 16, 2021 at the Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice facility in Manhattan, KS.

Ronda was born in Beloit and attended Beloit High School and later moved to Salina, KS, where she spent most of her life. There, she met her husband, William Saylor, and they were united in marriage on June 4, 1988. To this union was born her son Cory.

Ronda was a homemaker and spent a lot of her time raising her son Cory and being with family. She enjoyed frequenting local garage sales as well as hosting them. Ronda enjoyed fishing with her husband and son on the weekends, playing bingo and listening to country music.

Ronda spent the majority of her working career in childcare and thoroughly enjoyed this. She is well known in the Salina community for her years spent at the Salina Child Care Association.

Ronda was preceded in death by her parents Willard and Doris Schramek of Beloit and brother Jerry Joe Schramek. &nbsp; Ronda is survived by her husband William Saylor of Salina; son Cory Saylor and wife Jenny of Bennington, KS; sister Roxie Hake and husband Jerry of Manhattan and their family.

There will be a private celebration of her life with family. 

Memorials may be given to Salina Child Care Association in Salina as well as to Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice in Manhattan, care of Ryan Mortuary, Salina.

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

<h2>Ronda Kay (Schramek) Saylor, Salina</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621528412437.jpeg" alt="Ronda Kay (Schramek) Saylor" />
 <figcaption>Ronda Kay (Schramek) Saylor</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.ryanmortuary.com/obituary/Ronda-Saylor">Obituary for Ronda Kay (Schramek) Saylor | Ryan Mortuary</a>October 2, 1956 ~ May 16, 2021 (age 64)SALINA -&nbsp;Ronda Kay (Schramek) Saylor&nbsp;was born October 2, 1956 to Willard and Doris (Hiserote) Schramek in Beloit, KS. She departed this life of 64 years late Sunday evening on May 16, 2021 at the Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice facility in Manhattan, KS.Ronda was born in Beloit and attended Beloit High School and later moved to Salina, KS, where she spent most of her life. There, she met her husband, William Saylor, and they were united in marriage on June 4, 1988. To this union was born her son Cory.Ronda was a homemaker and spent a lot of her time raising her son Cory and being with family. She enjoyed frequenting local garage sales as well as hosting them. Ronda enjoyed fishing with her husband and son on the weekends, playing bingo and listening to country music.Ronda spent the majority of her working career in childcare and thoroughly enjoyed this. She is well known in the Salina community for her years spent at the Salina Child Care Association.Ronda was preceded in death by her parents Willard and Doris Schramek of Beloit and brother Jerry Joe Schramek. &nbsp; Ronda is survived by her husband William Saylor of Salina; son Cory Saylor and wife Jenny of Bennington, KS; sister Roxie Hake and husband Jerry of Manhattan and their family.There will be a private celebration of her life with family. Memorials may be given to Salina Child Care Association in Salina as well as to Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice in Manhattan, care of Ryan Mortuary, Salina.To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ronda Kay (Schramek) Saylor, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ryanmortuary.com/obituary/Ronda-Saylor/sympathy">floral store.</a>

Ronda Kay (Schramek) Saylor

<a href="https://www.chaputbuoy.com/obituary/patricia-ashland">Obituary | Patricia Ann Ashland of Concordia, Kansas | Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home (chaputbuoy.com)</a>

Patricia “Pat” Ann Ashland, 66, of Concordia, left this earthly life on Monday, May 17, 2021 at Sunset Nursing Home in Concordia.&nbsp;&nbsp; She was born on September 20, 1954 in Concordia, KS to George and Annette (Cote) Ashland.

She was a 1972 graduate of Concordia High School.

Patricia worked at O.C.C.K. for five years and later in housekeeping at Mt. Joseph Senior Village and then Sunset Nursing Home all of Concordia.

Pat enjoyed puzzles, crossword puzzles, music, especially listening to Elvis.

She is survived by her brother Gary Ashland (Kathy) of Concordia, sister-in-law Carolyn of Abilene and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents George and Annette (Cote) Ashland, brother Alan Ashland, and nephew Steven Ashland.

Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life service will be held 10:30 a.m., Friday, May 21, 2021 at Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home, Concordia, with Fr. David Metz officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow at St. Concordia Cemetery.&nbsp;

Visitation will be Thursday, May 20, 2021 from 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. at Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home.

&nbsp;In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials to Alzheimer’s Association in care of the funeral home.&nbsp; 

For online condolences, please visit www.chaputbuoy.com.

<h2>Patricia Ann Ashland, Concordia</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621346066058.jpeg" alt="Patricia Ann Ashland" />
 <figcaption>Patricia Ann Ashland</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.chaputbuoy.com/obituary/patricia-ashland">Obituary | Patricia Ann Ashland of Concordia, Kansas | Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home (chaputbuoy.com)</a>September 20, 1954 - May 17, 2021Patricia “Pat” Ann Ashland, 66, of Concordia, left this earthly life on Monday, May 17, 2021 at Sunset Nursing Home in Concordia.&nbsp;&nbsp; She was born on September 20, 1954 in Concordia, KS to George and Annette (Cote) Ashland.She was a 1972 graduate of Concordia High School.Patricia worked at O.C.C.K. for five years and later in housekeeping at Mt. Joseph Senior Village and then Sunset Nursing Home all of Concordia.Pat enjoyed puzzles, crossword puzzles, music, especially listening to Elvis.She is survived by her brother Gary Ashland (Kathy) of Concordia, sister-in-law Carolyn of Abilene and many nieces and nephews.She is preceded in death by her parents George and Annette (Cote) Ashland, brother Alan Ashland, and nephew Steven Ashland.Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life service will be held 10:30 a.m., Friday, May 21, 2021 at Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home, Concordia, with Fr. David Metz officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow at St. Concordia Cemetery.&nbsp;Visitation will be Thursday, May 20, 2021 from 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. at Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home.&nbsp;In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials to Alzheimer’s Association in care of the funeral home.&nbsp; For online condolences, please visit www.chaputbuoy.com.

Patricia Ann Ashland

<a href="https://www.stockhamfamily.com/obituaries/Marilyn-Huber/#!/PhotosVideos">Marilyn Kay Huber Obituary - Visitation &amp; Funeral Information (stockhamfamily.com)</a>

Marilyn Kay Huber, 70, formerly of Galva, KS, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 3, 2021, at her home in Mesa, AZ. She was a homemaker, mother, and cosmetologist for many years, among many other occupations. She graduated from McPherson High School in 1968 and Sidney’s Hairdressing College in 1969. Marilyn was born July 11, 1950, in McPherson, KS, the daughter of Milton M. and Phyllis J. (Allen) Lawrenz. She lived in Galva, KS for 18 years before moving to Mesa, AZ. On November 28, 1970, she married LaVern A. Huber in McPherson. He preceded her in death on August 30, 2016. She loved spending time with her boys and attending all their games. She enjoyed all the memories made going to the lake and playing golf. Marilyn also loved listening to her “oldies music” and had a radio everywhere she went. She seldom watched television, unless her beloved Kansas City Chiefs were playing. Survivors include: two sons Jamie Huber (Rhonda) of Pratt, KS and Corey Huber (Jenny) of Lawrence, KS; brother Rick Lawrenz (Anita) of McPherson, KS; sister Kathy Linsner of McPherson, KS; four grandchildren Paige Huber, Hunter Huber, Riley Huber, and Gage Huber; and many extended family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and brother Danny Lawrenz. The funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m., Friday, May 21, 2021, at the First United Methodist Church, McPherson. A private burial will follow at McPherson Cemetery. Memorial donations may be given to Hospice of the Valley (Mesa, AZ) in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 N. Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Marilyn Kay Huber, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stockhamfamily.com/store/Category.aspx?CategoryId=319&amp;icn=desktop_memorial_obituary_link#chooser">Sympathy Store</a>.

<h2>Marilyn Kay Huber, Mesa, Arizona</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620233661418.jpeg" alt="Marilyn Kay Huber" />
 <figcaption>Marilyn Kay Huber</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.stockhamfamily.com/obituaries/Marilyn-Huber/#!/PhotosVideos">Marilyn Kay Huber Obituary - Visitation &amp; Funeral Information (stockhamfamily.com)</a>Marilyn Kay Huber, 70, formerly of Galva, KS, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 3, 2021, at her home in Mesa, AZ. She was a homemaker, mother, and cosmetologist for many years, among many other occupations. She graduated from McPherson High School in 1968 and Sidney’s Hairdressing College in 1969. Marilyn was born July 11, 1950, in McPherson, KS, the daughter of Milton M. and Phyllis J. (Allen) Lawrenz. She lived in Galva, KS for 18 years before moving to Mesa, AZ. On November 28, 1970, she married LaVern A. Huber in McPherson. He preceded her in death on August 30, 2016. She loved spending time with her boys and attending all their games. She enjoyed all the memories made going to the lake and playing golf. Marilyn also loved listening to her “oldies music” and had a radio everywhere she went. She seldom watched television, unless her beloved Kansas City Chiefs were playing. Survivors include: two sons Jamie Huber (Rhonda) of Pratt, KS and Corey Huber (Jenny) of Lawrence, KS; brother Rick Lawrenz (Anita) of McPherson, KS; sister Kathy Linsner of McPherson, KS; four grandchildren Paige Huber, Hunter Huber, Riley Huber, and Gage Huber; and many extended family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and brother Danny Lawrenz. The funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m., Friday, May 21, 2021, at the First United Methodist Church, McPherson. A private burial will follow at McPherson Cemetery. Memorial donations may be given to Hospice of the Valley (Mesa, AZ) in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 N. Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Marilyn Kay Huber, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stockhamfamily.com/store/Category.aspx?CategoryId=319&amp;icn=desktop_memorial_obituary_link#chooser">Sympathy Store</a>.

Marilyn Kay Huber

By DAVID CONDOS <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-05-13/meatpacking-union-fights-myths-language-barriers-in-its-push-to-vaccinate-more-kansas-workers">Kansas News Service</a>

The union that represents Kansas meatpacking workers has launched a 
nationwide push to convince more of its members to get vaccinated 
against the COVID-19 virus. The campaign teams virtual town halls with 
in-person outreach targeting Latino workers.

The first town
 hall features a one-hour conversation in Spanish between the union’s 
local district president, Martin Rosas, and two Hispanic medical 
doctors, Fabian Sandoval and José Romero, emphasizing the risks of 
remaining unvaccinated.

“The COVID vaccines offer us a 
glimmer of hope,” Rosas said. “This is why (the union) wants to make 
sure all our members know the facts.”

The United Food and 
Commercial Workers union, or UFCW, represents roughly 9,000 food workers
 in the state. That includes more than 7,000 meatpacking employees at 
Cargill and National Beef plants in Dodge City and Liberal.

In March, the state sent out 12,000 vaccine doses <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-03-04/kansas-meatpacking-workers-get-covid-19-vaccines-starting-this-week" target="_blank">specifically earmarked</a>
 for meatpacking workers. Rosas said that helped jumpstart the 
vaccination effort but that he’s seen the momentum taper off over the 
past two months.

Part of the challenge, he said, comes in finding information in Spanish with answers to specific questions.

“In the state of Kansas,” Rosas said, “access to bilingual information face-to-face is pretty limited.”

The
 union has sent extra personnel to meatpacking plants to help members 
fill out vaccine paperwork and address lingering concerns people have 
about the vaccine’s development, safety or side effects.

“Person-to-person engagement is extremely important,” Rosas said. “They hear from someone they can trust.”

Statewide, the COVID-19 virus has <a href="https://www.kff.org/coronavirus-covid-19/issue-brief/latest-data-on-covid-19-vaccinations-race-ethnicity/" target="_blank">disproportionately infected</a> Hispanic people. And yet, the <a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data" target="_blank">vaccination rate</a> among Latinos in Kansas — 266 per 1,000 people — continues to lag behind that of non-Latinos — 332 per 1,000 people.

In
 addition to language and access barriers, a lack of clear information 
about the shots and the spread of vaccine myths on social media have <a href="https://www.hppr.org/post/latino-leaders-southwestern-kansas-fight-overcome-myths-and-hesitancy-about-covid-19-vaccine" target="_blank">contributed to hesitancy</a> in Hispanic communities.

“There
 is a lot of misinformation out there about the vaccine,” said Sandoval,
 who leads the Emerson Clinical Research Institute in Washington, D.C. 
“Don’t listen to gossip. Gossip is what kills people.”

On 
top of that, some frontline food workers fear that they could lose their
 jobs if they call in sick. A study from the Economic Policy Institute 
reported that <a href="https://www.epi.org/blog/black-and-hispanic-workers-are-much-less-likely-to-be-able-to-work-from-home/" target="_blank">83% of Hispanic workers</a> can’t work remotely — that’s 15% more than non-Hispanics.

“As
 Latinos, we have it ingrained that we have to work even if we are 
sick,” said Romero, who chairs the Centers for Disease Control vaccine 
advisory panel. “Many Latinos refer to COVID-19 as just a cold. I want 
to tell you, that is not true.”

Rosas of UFCW said the 
unionized plants in Kansas have relaxed their attendance policies to 
allow employees to miss work for health reasons during the pandemic. 
Workers get 15 days of paid time-off, which they can use to stay home if
 they’re not feeling well, to take care of a loved one who is sick or to
 recover from vaccination side effects. Even if they have used up their 
paid time-off, they are allowed to miss work for COVID-related purposes 
without facing discipline.

But many workers still worry that missing work for any reason puts 
their jobs in jeopardy. Rosas said he got a phone call just this week 
from a member who was feeling ill after getting her COVID shot, and she 
didn’t know what to do.

“I told her, ‘Don’t worry, you don’t lose your job,’” Rosas said. “You just need to call in.”

Meatpacking employees perform physically demanding work in close, cold quarters. That can make it <a href="https://www.wired.com/story/why-meatpacking-plants-have-become-covid-19-hot-spots/" target="_blank">difficult to curb the spread</a> of the virus, even with updated safety protocols. And the plants have continued to <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-02-18/kansas-meatpacking-workers-faced-outbreak-after-outbreak-but-still-cant-get-a-covid-vaccine" target="_blank">stay open</a> as outbreaks spread.

That makes the push to increase vaccination numbers among employees all the more critical.

“The
 vaccine,” Rosas said, “is the best and probably the only real source of
 protection that we have now (in meatpacking plants).”

Early on, meatpacking plants were the <a href="https://www.hppr.org/post/emails-show-kansas-agencies-helped-keep-meatpacking-plants-open-despite-concerns-about" target="_blank">largest source</a>
 of COVID outbreaks in Kansas. State department of health statistics 
show the plants continue to be the third-highest source of COVID cluster
 cases, with nearly <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas" target="_blank">4,000 people</a>
 infected since last March. The state says 122 hospitalizations and 24 
deaths have stemmed from COVID outbreaks at meatpacking facilities to 
date.

But Rosas sees reason to hope. During a visit to a 
Dodge City plant this week, he said the majority of workers he spoke 
with had already gotten vaccinated. He’d like to get that number up to 
80%.

And if the vaccination campaign can succeed at the 
plants, the ripple effects could have a significant impact on the 
surrounding areas. Roughly one out of every six people in Dodge City are
 UFCW members.

“If each of our members has four family 
members of their household, just think about that number,” Rosas said. 
“Anything that we do in those plants will impact 75% of the population 
in that town.”

David Condos covers western Kansas for 
High Plains Public Radio and the Kansas News Service. You can follow him
 on Twitter @davidcondos.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620933064697.png" alt="The National Beef meatpacking plant in Dodge City. Chris Neal / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>The National Beef meatpacking plant in Dodge City. Chris Neal / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVID CONDOS <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-05-13/meatpacking-union-fights-myths-language-barriers-in-its-push-to-vaccinate-more-kansas-workers">Kansas News Service</a>The union that represents Kansas meatpacking workers has launched a 
nationwide push to convince more of its members to get vaccinated 
against the COVID-19 virus. The campaign teams virtual town halls with 
in-person outreach targeting Latino workers.The first town
 hall features a one-hour conversation in Spanish between the union’s 
local district president, Martin Rosas, and two Hispanic medical 
doctors, Fabian Sandoval and José Romero, emphasizing the risks of 
remaining unvaccinated.“The COVID vaccines offer us a 
glimmer of hope,” Rosas said. “This is why (the union) wants to make 
sure all our members know the facts.”The United Food and 
Commercial Workers union, or UFCW, represents roughly 9,000 food workers
 in the state. That includes more than 7,000 meatpacking employees at 
Cargill and National Beef plants in Dodge City and Liberal.In March, the state sent out 12,000 vaccine doses <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-03-04/kansas-meatpacking-workers-get-covid-19-vaccines-starting-this-week" target="_blank">specifically earmarked</a>
 for meatpacking workers. Rosas said that helped jumpstart the 
vaccination effort but that he’s seen the momentum taper off over the 
past two months.Part of the challenge, he said, comes in finding information in Spanish with answers to specific questions.“In the state of Kansas,” Rosas said, “access to bilingual information face-to-face is pretty limited.”The
 union has sent extra personnel to meatpacking plants to help members 
fill out vaccine paperwork and address lingering concerns people have 
about the vaccine’s development, safety or side effects.“Person-to-person engagement is extremely important,” Rosas said. “They hear from someone they can trust.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620933120313.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>‘Gossip is what kills people’</h2>Statewide, the COVID-19 virus has <a href="https://www.kff.org/coronavirus-covid-19/issue-brief/latest-data-on-covid-19-vaccinations-race-ethnicity/" target="_blank">disproportionately infected</a> Hispanic people. And yet, the <a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data" target="_blank">vaccination rate</a> among Latinos in Kansas — 266 per 1,000 people — continues to lag behind that of non-Latinos — 332 per 1,000 people.In
 addition to language and access barriers, a lack of clear information 
about the shots and the spread of vaccine myths on social media have <a href="https://www.hppr.org/post/latino-leaders-southwestern-kansas-fight-overcome-myths-and-hesitancy-about-covid-19-vaccine" target="_blank">contributed to hesitancy</a> in Hispanic communities.“There
 is a lot of misinformation out there about the vaccine,” said Sandoval,
 who leads the Emerson Clinical Research Institute in Washington, D.C. 
“Don’t listen to gossip. Gossip is what kills people.”On 
top of that, some frontline food workers fear that they could lose their
 jobs if they call in sick. A study from the Economic Policy Institute 
reported that <a href="https://www.epi.org/blog/black-and-hispanic-workers-are-much-less-likely-to-be-able-to-work-from-home/" target="_blank">83% of Hispanic workers</a> can’t work remotely — that’s 15% more than non-Hispanics.“As
 Latinos, we have it ingrained that we have to work even if we are 
sick,” said Romero, who chairs the Centers for Disease Control vaccine 
advisory panel. “Many Latinos refer to COVID-19 as just a cold. I want 
to tell you, that is not true.”Rosas of UFCW said the 
unionized plants in Kansas have relaxed their attendance policies to 
allow employees to miss work for health reasons during the pandemic. 
Workers get 15 days of paid time-off, which they can use to stay home if
 they’re not feeling well, to take care of a loved one who is sick or to
 recover from vaccination side effects. Even if they have used up their 
paid time-off, they are allowed to miss work for COVID-related purposes 
without facing discipline.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620933157762.png" alt="UFCW Local 2 President Martin Rosas, upper right, leads the union's virtual town hall with doctors José Romero, upper left, and Fabian Sandoval." />
 <figcaption>UFCW Local 2 President Martin Rosas, upper right, leads the union's virtual town hall with doctors José Romero, upper left, and Fabian Sandoval.</figcaption>
 </figure>But many workers still worry that missing work for any reason puts 
their jobs in jeopardy. Rosas said he got a phone call just this week 
from a member who was feeling ill after getting her COVID shot, and she 
didn’t know what to do.“I told her, ‘Don’t worry, you don’t lose your job,’” Rosas said. “You just need to call in.”<h2>Ripple effects</h2>Meatpacking employees perform physically demanding work in close, cold quarters. That can make it <a href="https://www.wired.com/story/why-meatpacking-plants-have-become-covid-19-hot-spots/" target="_blank">difficult to curb the spread</a> of the virus, even with updated safety protocols. And the plants have continued to <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-02-18/kansas-meatpacking-workers-faced-outbreak-after-outbreak-but-still-cant-get-a-covid-vaccine" target="_blank">stay open</a> as outbreaks spread.That makes the push to increase vaccination numbers among employees all the more critical.“The
 vaccine,” Rosas said, “is the best and probably the only real source of
 protection that we have now (in meatpacking plants).”Early on, meatpacking plants were the <a href="https://www.hppr.org/post/emails-show-kansas-agencies-helped-keep-meatpacking-plants-open-despite-concerns-about" target="_blank">largest source</a>
 of COVID outbreaks in Kansas. State department of health statistics 
show the plants continue to be the third-highest source of COVID cluster
 cases, with nearly <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas" target="_blank">4,000 people</a>
 infected since last March. The state says 122 hospitalizations and 24 
deaths have stemmed from COVID outbreaks at meatpacking facilities to 
date.But Rosas sees reason to hope. During a visit to a 
Dodge City plant this week, he said the majority of workers he spoke 
with had already gotten vaccinated. He’d like to get that number up to 
80%.And if the vaccination campaign can succeed at the 
plants, the ripple effects could have a significant impact on the 
surrounding areas. Roughly one out of every six people in Dodge City are
 UFCW members.“If each of our members has four family 
members of their household, just think about that number,” Rosas said. 
“Anything that we do in those plants will impact 75% of the population 
in that town.”David Condos covers western Kansas for 
High Plains Public Radio and the Kansas News Service. You can follow him
 on Twitter @davidcondos.

Meatpacking union fights myths, language barriers in vaccination push

My husband and I are both 29, and we have good jobs that allow us to bring home $100,000 a year combined. Recently, we began talking about starting a family. We live on a budget, but we still have about $15,000 in credit card debt and student loans we’re working hard to pay off. Do you think couples should wait until they are debt-free to have children?

You and your husband are chipping away at your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/debt/debt-to-income-ratio-calculator" target="_blank">debt</a>, and that’s a good thing. It sounds like you two are determined to get it paid off and take control of your finances. You’re also making pretty good money, so keep up the good work!

Ok, so the truth is kids can be expensive. From medical costs and diapers, to childcare and beyond, it costs money to raise a family. But here’s the thing:&nbsp;If you let money alone, or the perfect&nbsp;<a href="https://www.daveramsey.com/recommends/financial-future-term-life-insurance" target="_blank">financial situation</a>, determine whether you have kids or not, you may never have them.&nbsp;Now, would it be&nbsp;easier&nbsp;from a financial standpoint&nbsp;only&nbsp;to wait on having kids until you’re debt-free and there’s a huge pile of cash in the bank? Sure, it would. But children are worth more than any amount of money. If you love each other and want to be parents, and you’re mature adults in every other area,&nbsp;don’t let this debt stop you.&nbsp;

A child isn’t going to derail your journey to financial peace. Having kids might cause you to press pause for a while on some financial matters, or slow your pace a little bit, but as long as you both stay focused and determined to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.everydollar.com/guide-to-budgeting-dave-says" target="_blank">manage your money</a>&nbsp;wisely, chances are things will work out fine.

Just don’t make the mistake lots of parents do—especially first-time parents. Many of them think they have to run out and buy a new, "safer" car, spend a fortune on a fancy crib, or buy all things baby from some overpriced boutique. Do you get what I’m saying, Missy? Why buy a brand-new, $400 stroller, when a friend or relative has a perfectly good, barely used one they’re willing to&nbsp;give&nbsp;you?

It’s easy to get carried away&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/budgeting/money-habits-we-need-to-break" target="_blank">spending</a>&nbsp;for a baby. But children will be just fine as long as they have food, clothing, shelter—and most importantly—loving, caring parents. God bless you two!

<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/" target="_blank">Dave Ramsey</a>is a seven-time No. 1 national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of&nbsp;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 husband and I are both 29, and we have good jobs that allow us to bring home $100,000 a year combined. Recently, we began talking about starting a family. We live on a budget, but we still have about $15,000 in credit card debt and student loans we’re working hard to pay off. Do you think couples should wait until they are debt-free to have children?MissyDear Missy,You and your husband are chipping away at your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/debt/debt-to-income-ratio-calculator" target="_blank">debt</a>, and that’s a good thing. It sounds like you two are determined to get it paid off and take control of your finances. You’re also making pretty good money, so keep up the good work!Ok, so the truth is kids can be expensive. From medical costs and diapers, to childcare and beyond, it costs money to raise a family. But here’s the thing:&nbsp;If you let money alone, or the perfect&nbsp;<a href="https://www.daveramsey.com/recommends/financial-future-term-life-insurance" target="_blank">financial situation</a>, determine whether you have kids or not, you may never have them.&nbsp;Now, would it be&nbsp;easier&nbsp;from a financial standpoint&nbsp;only&nbsp;to wait on having kids until you’re debt-free and there’s a huge pile of cash in the bank? Sure, it would. But children are worth more than any amount of money. If you love each other and want to be parents, and you’re mature adults in every other area,&nbsp;don’t let this debt stop you.&nbsp;A child isn’t going to derail your journey to financial peace. Having kids might cause you to press pause for a while on some financial matters, or slow your pace a little bit, but as long as you both stay focused and determined to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.everydollar.com/guide-to-budgeting-dave-says" target="_blank">manage your money</a>&nbsp;wisely, chances are things will work out fine.Just don’t make the mistake lots of parents do—especially first-time parents. Many of them think they have to run out and buy a new, "safer" car, spend a fortune on a fancy crib, or buy all things baby from some overpriced boutique. Do you get what I’m saying, Missy? Why buy a brand-new, $400 stroller, when a friend or relative has a perfectly good, barely used one they’re willing to&nbsp;give&nbsp;you?It’s easy to get carried away&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/budgeting/money-habits-we-need-to-break" target="_blank">spending</a>&nbsp;for a baby. But children will be just fine as long as they have food, clothing, shelter—and most importantly—loving, caring parents. God bless you two!Dave<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/" target="_blank">Dave Ramsey</a>is a seven-time No. 1 national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of&nbsp;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: More than any amount of money

A plea deal was accepted and the person behind the wheel in
the drive-by shooting last August that took the life of a two-year-old St.
Joseph girl has been sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Circuit Judge Daniel Kellogg accepted the plea bargain reached
between 21-year-old Te’Avion Hawkins of Platte City and the
Buchanan County Prosecutor’s office. Kellogg sentenced Hawkins to 10 years in
prison during his hearing in a Buchanan County courtroom this afternoon.

Hawkins was the driver of the vehicle last August that pulled
up along side the car in which Raelynn Craig was a passenger. Two passengers in
Hawkins’ car, 21-year-old Marcain Kimbrough-Ballard of St. Joseph and 21-year-old Caimon
Ramone Stillman of St. Joseph, opened fire.&nbsp; They fired
14 shots into the car, wounding two adults and killing Raelynn.

The prosecutor’s office says Hawkins provided the identities
of the two shooters after police tracked down his car and arrested him.

Kimbrough-Ballard was sentenced to 26 years in prison.
Stillman received a 24-year sentence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620850690884.jpeg" alt="Te'Avion Hawkins and his attorney listen as Buchanan County Circuit Judge Daniel Kellogg pronounces sentence./Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Te'Avion Hawkins and his attorney listen as Buchanan County Circuit Judge Daniel Kellogg pronounces sentence./Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA plea deal was accepted and the person behind the wheel in
the drive-by shooting last August that took the life of a two-year-old St.
Joseph girl has been sentenced to 10 years in prison.Circuit Judge Daniel Kellogg accepted the plea bargain reached
between 21-year-old Te’Avion Hawkins of Platte City and the
Buchanan County Prosecutor’s office. Kellogg sentenced Hawkins to 10 years in
prison during his hearing in a Buchanan County courtroom this afternoon.Hawkins was the driver of the vehicle last August that pulled
up along side the car in which Raelynn Craig was a passenger. Two passengers in
Hawkins’ car, 21-year-old Marcain Kimbrough-Ballard of St. Joseph and 21-year-old Caimon
Ramone Stillman of St. Joseph, opened fire.&nbsp; They fired
14 shots into the car, wounding two adults and killing Raelynn.The prosecutor’s office says Hawkins provided the identities
of the two shooters after police tracked down his car and arrested him.Kimbrough-Ballard was sentenced to 26 years in prison.
Stillman received a 24-year sentence.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620850785947.jpeg" alt="Te'Avion Hawkins awaits his sentencing in a Buchanan County courtroom./Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Te'Avion Hawkins awaits his sentencing in a Buchanan County courtroom./Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>

Man sentenced in deadly drive-by shooting of 2-year-old 

Heading into the workforce after college and living on your own is hard enough without a global crisis messing with the job market. But listen, you can make a steady income and win with your money if you make a few smart moves starting right now.

Here are my top tips for staying in control of your money, and getting ahead in an unstable job market after graduation:

If you’re going to be making any kind of income, you need to be able to plan out how you’ll use every single dollar of it. And you can do that by making (and sticking to) a zero-based budget where your income minus your expenses equals zero.

That just means living on less money than you make, so you have some margin for saving. Don’t rent a big, fancy apartment when you could save a ton by getting a simple one-bedroom. Don’t drive a new Lexus when you can get by just fine with a used Honda. Get the picture?

This is key, especially these days, when circumstances can change at any time. You need to have some cash stored away for the stuff that always seems to happen when you’re trying to get on your feet. Start by saving a $1,000 emergency fund. Then, once you’re out of debt, save three to six months of expenses in a fully-funded emergency fund.

4. Look for jobs you wouldn’t normally take&nbsp;

Keep in mind you may have to make some sacrifices and work somewhere that wouldn’t be your “ideal” job until you can find something else. A few places really needing employees right now are restaurant/delivery services, cleaning services, factories and (weirdly enough) airlines. And of course, continue looking for your dream job on websites like Glassdoor, Indeed, FlexJobs, and LinkedIn.

If you had a good relationship with your teachers, think about reaching out to them. They might be able to connect you with people in your field who are currently hiring. Plus, they’ll probably like hearing from you).

If one stream of income isn’t enough, try virtual or in-person tutoring, nannying, dog walking, selling stuff on eBay, freelance writing, managing social media accounts for small businesses, or driving for Lyft or Uber—anything that helps you bring in extra cash. I know it’s hard to think about surviving after graduation when things still seem crazy. But if you’ll just be wise about your work and your money, I promise you’ll be more than okay—you’ll be crushing it!

For more tips on stacking your cash, dumping student loan debt, and earning extra income, check out&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/debt/how-to-pay-off-student-loans-quickly" target="_blank">this article</a>.

Anthony ONeal&nbsp;is a No. 1 national best-selling author, financial expert and host of the popular online series “The Table” on his YouTube channel. He has appeared on&nbsp;Good Morning America, The Tamron Hall Show, The Tom Joyner Show and Rachael Ray, among others.&nbsp;Since&nbsp;2015, Anthony&nbsp;has served at Ramsey Solutions,&nbsp;where&nbsp;he&nbsp;teaches young adults how to budget, live without debt, avoid student loans, and build real wealth for their future. Follow&nbsp;Anthony&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/AnthonyONeal" target="_blank">Twitter</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/anthonyoneal/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aoneal/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/anthonyoneal" target="_blank">YouTube</a>&nbsp;or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.anthonyoneal.com/" target="_blank">anthonyoneal.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597852402036.jpeg" alt="Anthony ONeal" />
 <figcaption>Anthony ONeal</figcaption>
 </figure>By ANTHONY ONEALHeading into the workforce after college and living on your own is hard enough without a global crisis messing with the job market. But listen, you can make a steady income and win with your money if you make a few smart moves starting right now.Here are my top tips for staying in control of your money, and getting ahead in an unstable job market after graduation:1. BudgetIf you’re going to be making any kind of income, you need to be able to plan out how you’ll use every single dollar of it. And you can do that by making (and sticking to) a zero-based budget where your income minus your expenses equals zero.2. Live below your meansThat just means living on less money than you make, so you have some margin for saving. Don’t rent a big, fancy apartment when you could save a ton by getting a simple one-bedroom. Don’t drive a new Lexus when you can get by just fine with a used Honda. Get the picture?3. Have an emergency fundThis is key, especially these days, when circumstances can change at any time. You need to have some cash stored away for the stuff that always seems to happen when you’re trying to get on your feet. Start by saving a $1,000 emergency fund. Then, once you’re out of debt, save three to six months of expenses in a fully-funded emergency fund.4. Look for jobs you wouldn’t normally take&nbsp;Keep in mind you may have to make some sacrifices and work somewhere that wouldn’t be your “ideal” job until you can find something else. A few places really needing employees right now are restaurant/delivery services, cleaning services, factories and (weirdly enough) airlines. And of course, continue looking for your dream job on websites like Glassdoor, Indeed, FlexJobs, and LinkedIn.5. Talk to your former teachersIf you had a good relationship with your teachers, think about reaching out to them. They might be able to connect you with people in your field who are currently hiring. Plus, they’ll probably like hearing from you).6. Get a side hustleIf one stream of income isn’t enough, try virtual or in-person tutoring, nannying, dog walking, selling stuff on eBay, freelance writing, managing social media accounts for small businesses, or driving for Lyft or Uber—anything that helps you bring in extra cash. I know it’s hard to think about surviving after graduation when things still seem crazy. But if you’ll just be wise about your work and your money, I promise you’ll be more than okay—you’ll be crushing it!For more tips on stacking your cash, dumping student loan debt, and earning extra income, check out&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/debt/how-to-pay-off-student-loans-quickly" target="_blank">this article</a>.Anthony ONeal&nbsp;is a No. 1 national best-selling author, financial expert and host of the popular online series “The Table” on his YouTube channel. He has appeared on&nbsp;Good Morning America, The Tamron Hall Show, The Tom Joyner Show and Rachael Ray, among others.&nbsp;Since&nbsp;2015, Anthony&nbsp;has served at Ramsey Solutions,&nbsp;where&nbsp;he&nbsp;teaches young adults how to budget, live without debt, avoid student loans, and build real wealth for their future. Follow&nbsp;Anthony&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/AnthonyONeal" target="_blank">Twitter</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/anthonyoneal/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aoneal/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/anthonyoneal" target="_blank">YouTube</a>&nbsp;or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.anthonyoneal.com/" target="_blank">anthonyoneal.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ONEAL: How to win with money after graduation

Following is a statement issued Wednesday afternoon by Republican State Rep. Steven Howe, Salina, concerning derogatory comments made pertaining to the ouster of U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney. Howe represents the 71st District in Kansas.

As a State Representative I rarely weigh-in on national politics. However, I believe it is time for Republicans including myself to push-back against the vitriol that has plagued our Party and political landscape. As a lifelong Republican and former staffer for two Republican members of Congress, I am appalled at the divisiveness and disrespect exhibited by our former President in his comments directed at the U.S. Representative from Wyoming. There is no reason to publicly defame someone’s character. This type of inflammatory rhetoric is childish, beneath the Office of the President, and it does nothing to further the cause of freedom, liberty, or the well-being of our country.

When I ran for office last summer, I made a commitment to listen, encourage civility, and work with others to find solutions. For the past five months I have worked with legislators from each corner of Kansas. Whether it was addressing the broken unemployment system or supporting our school kids, Republicans worked together to accomplish common sense solutions that would gain bipartisan support, and even receive the approval from our Governor who is a Democrat. More importantly than the legislative victories we accomplished, we did it civilly and without name-calling. I challenge all citizens to keep engaged in the political process by having thoughtful dialogue and avoiding personal attacks. We can do better!

U.S. House Republicans ousted&nbsp; Cheney from her post as the chamber’s No. 3 GOP leader on Wednesday, punishing her after she repeatedly rebuked former President Donald Trump for his false claims of election fraud and his role in fomenting the Jan. 6 Capitol attack, according to the Associated Press.

Today on his blog, the former president posted, "Liz Cheney is a bitter, horrible human being. I watched her yesterday and realized how bad she is for the Republican Party. She has no personality or anything good having to do with politics or our Country. She is a talking point for Democrats, whether that means the Border, the gas lines, inflation, or destroying our economy. She is a warmonger whose family stupidly pushed us into the never-ending Middle East Disaster, draining our wealth and depleting our Great Military, the worst decision in our Country’s history. I look forward to soon watching her as a Paid Contributor on CNN or MSDNC!"

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609297173904.jpeg" alt="State Rep. Steven Howe" />
 <figcaption>State Rep. Steven Howe</figcaption>
 </figure>Following is a statement issued Wednesday afternoon by Republican State Rep. Steven Howe, Salina, concerning derogatory comments made pertaining to the ouster of U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney. Howe represents the 71st District in Kansas.As a State Representative I rarely weigh-in on national politics. However, I believe it is time for Republicans including myself to push-back against the vitriol that has plagued our Party and political landscape. As a lifelong Republican and former staffer for two Republican members of Congress, I am appalled at the divisiveness and disrespect exhibited by our former President in his comments directed at the U.S. Representative from Wyoming. There is no reason to publicly defame someone’s character. This type of inflammatory rhetoric is childish, beneath the Office of the President, and it does nothing to further the cause of freedom, liberty, or the well-being of our country.When I ran for office last summer, I made a commitment to listen, encourage civility, and work with others to find solutions. For the past five months I have worked with legislators from each corner of Kansas. Whether it was addressing the broken unemployment system or supporting our school kids, Republicans worked together to accomplish common sense solutions that would gain bipartisan support, and even receive the approval from our Governor who is a Democrat. More importantly than the legislative victories we accomplished, we did it civilly and without name-calling. I challenge all citizens to keep engaged in the political process by having thoughtful dialogue and avoiding personal attacks. We can do better!U.S. House Republicans ousted&nbsp; Cheney from her post as the chamber’s No. 3 GOP leader on Wednesday, punishing her after she repeatedly rebuked former President Donald Trump for his false claims of election fraud and his role in fomenting the Jan. 6 Capitol attack, according to the Associated Press.Today on his blog, the former president posted, "Liz Cheney is a bitter, horrible human being. I watched her yesterday and realized how bad she is for the Republican Party. She has no personality or anything good having to do with politics or our Country. She is a talking point for Democrats, whether that means the Border, the gas lines, inflation, or destroying our economy. She is a warmonger whose family stupidly pushed us into the never-ending Middle East Disaster, draining our wealth and depleting our Great Military, the worst decision in our Country’s history. I look forward to soon watching her as a Paid Contributor on CNN or MSDNC!"

Howe issues statement concerning comments made about Cheney

You talk a lot about budgeting, and how important it is in getting control of your money. But don’t most people already have a good idea of what they’re spending, and how much they have in the bank, without going through all the time and trouble of developing an actual budget?

Well, if that were true, why are people paying billions in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/banking/what-is-an-overdraft-fee" target="_blank">overdraft</a>&nbsp;fees every year? Why are so many people deep in debt and living paycheck to paycheck, even without taking the effects of a pandemic into account? It’s because most people&nbsp;don’t&nbsp;really know where their money’s going each month.

Let’s start with a simple definition of&nbsp;budgeting. A budget is just a plan. It’s not a restriction on spending, it’s a strategy for what you’ll do with all your money. It’s tracking what’s coming in and what’s going out. When you budget every month, you’re giving your money purpose. You’re controlling your money, and telling it where to go, instead of scratching your head and wondering where it all went.

The word&nbsp;<a href="https://www.everydollar.com/guide-to-budgeting-dave-says" target="_blank">budget</a>&nbsp;gets a bum rap, because some people think it’ll be like putting a straitjacket on their spending and their lives. But that really isn’t true at all. Budgeting actually gives you the power to spend&nbsp;wisely&nbsp;and with purpose.&nbsp;Budgeting even causes feelings of fear, intimidation, and anger in some folks. Sure,&nbsp;it takes a little time and effort&nbsp;at first to create a budget that really works. But once you get the hang of it, and it doesn’t take long, the hard part is over.

Still, to make your cash flow plan work, you have to&nbsp;do it consistently. That means sitting down every month, and making a budget for the upcoming month. Don't let the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/personal-growth/conquering-fear" target="_blank">fear</a>&nbsp;of what you might find stop you, and don't over-complicate things. It’s easy as writing down your income and everything that requires money for the month, then doing a little basic math. And once you have a plan in place, stick to it! Too many people get lazy, or "forget" to do a monthly budget.

Give it a shot, Carter. You’ll experience a sense of freedom,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.daveramsey.com/blog/protect-yourself-from-identity-theft" target="_blank">security</a>, and accomplishment like you’ve never felt before once you’ve taken that first step toward gaining control of your money!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596845065840.jpeg" alt="Dave Ramsey" />
 <figcaption>Dave Ramsey</figcaption>
 </figure>Dear Dave,You talk a lot about budgeting, and how important it is in getting control of your money. But don’t most people already have a good idea of what they’re spending, and how much they have in the bank, without going through all the time and trouble of developing an actual budget?CarterDear Carter,Well, if that were true, why are people paying billions in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/banking/what-is-an-overdraft-fee" target="_blank">overdraft</a>&nbsp;fees every year? Why are so many people deep in debt and living paycheck to paycheck, even without taking the effects of a pandemic into account? It’s because most people&nbsp;don’t&nbsp;really know where their money’s going each month.Let’s start with a simple definition of&nbsp;budgeting. A budget is just a plan. It’s not a restriction on spending, it’s a strategy for what you’ll do with all your money. It’s tracking what’s coming in and what’s going out. When you budget every month, you’re giving your money purpose. You’re controlling your money, and telling it where to go, instead of scratching your head and wondering where it all went.The word&nbsp;<a href="https://www.everydollar.com/guide-to-budgeting-dave-says" target="_blank">budget</a>&nbsp;gets a bum rap, because some people think it’ll be like putting a straitjacket on their spending and their lives. But that really isn’t true at all. Budgeting actually gives you the power to spend&nbsp;wisely&nbsp;and with purpose.&nbsp;Budgeting even causes feelings of fear, intimidation, and anger in some folks. Sure,&nbsp;it takes a little time and effort&nbsp;at first to create a budget that really works. But once you get the hang of it, and it doesn’t take long, the hard part is over.Still, to make your cash flow plan work, you have to&nbsp;do it consistently. That means sitting down every month, and making a budget for the upcoming month. Don't let the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/personal-growth/conquering-fear" target="_blank">fear</a>&nbsp;of what you might find stop you, and don't over-complicate things. It’s easy as writing down your income and everything that requires money for the month, then doing a little basic math. And once you have a plan in place, stick to it! Too many people get lazy, or "forget" to do a monthly budget.Give it a shot, Carter. You’ll experience a sense of freedom,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.daveramsey.com/blog/protect-yourself-from-identity-theft" target="_blank">security</a>, and accomplishment like you’ve never felt before once you’ve taken that first step toward gaining control of your money!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&nbsp;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: Don’t most people already know?

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Kansas House voted for the first time Thursday to legalize medical marijuana in the state, but Republican leaders signaled the Senate wouldn’t consider the bill in the final days of the legislative session.

(Click below to listen to the medical marijuana debate)

Before the House advanced the measure on a 79-42 vote, Senate President Ty Masterson’s spokesperson, Mike Pirner, told The Associated Press that a budget bill and school funding legislation have emerged as higher priorities for the Senate this week.

Thirty-six states allow medical marijuana&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncsl.org/research/health/state-medical-marijuana-laws.aspx" target="_blank"></a>and Kansas is only one of three states without a comprehensive medical or recreational marijuana program, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncsl.org/research/health/state-medical-marijuana-laws.aspx" target="_blank">website</a>. Some Kansas lawmakers in favor of the bill said the state shouldn’t wait for the federal government to act.

“Kansans are tired of waiting on Kansas being last, or falling behind other states on major issues such as this. And it’s time we end that and we show our people that Kansas can do it better,” said Rep. Adam Thomas, an Olathe Republican.

The House vote Thursday marked the first time Kansas legislators passed a bill to legalize medical marijuana in either chamber, according to the Legislature’s research staff. Before a House panel approved the bill in March, previous proposals had failed to even pass out of committee.

The bill would allow patients and caregivers to register to get medical marijuana identification cards for a list of conditions that include cancer, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. The measure would have also set up a licensing process for growers and dispensary owners. Medical marijuana could be sold as oils, tinctures, patches or potent edibles, but not in smoking or vaping products.

During Thursday’s debate, support came mostly from Democrats and some Republican lawmakers who said many of their constituents support medical marijuana legalization. But some GOP House members expressed concern that passing the bill into law would be the first step to legalizing recreational pot, and a few others adamantly opposed the bill, calling marijuana a dangerous “gateway” drug.

Rep. Pat Proctor, a Leavenworth Republican, said he was concerned that passing the bill into law would set up the infrastructure for recreational marijuana.

“With these dispensaries, all they got to do is, you know, change your name to ‘pot store’ from ‘dispensary’ and they’re ready to go,” Proctor said.

Before the measure made its way to the House, it received pushback, mainly from law enforcement groups that say that there’s not enough evidence that marijuana can treat medical conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder and Parkinson’s disease.

During the debate, some Republican lawmakers cited that the federal government classifies marijuana as a Schedule I drug, along with heroin and LSD, with a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use.

Rep. Russ Jennings, a Republican from Lakin in southwest Kansas, said that Kansas should have waited for Congress to act on medical marijuana legalization before debating on the bill. He called passing the bill a “terrible message in a nation that is governed under the rule of law.”

But medical marijuana advocates note it’s been tough to get evidence due to pot’s legal status in the U.S. Parents of children with disabilities have testified to lawmakers that marijuana would help relieve symptoms such as seizures. Veterans pushing for the bill say marijuana has reduced trauma-induced dreams by helping them get a deep sleep.

The bill would require physicians to have a six-month relationship with a patient before recommending marijuana, with an exception for military veterans.

Local government officials would be able to ban dispensaries in their jurisdictions.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Kansas House voted for the first time Thursday to legalize medical marijuana in the state, but Republican leaders signaled the Senate wouldn’t consider the bill in the final days of the legislative session.(Click below to listen to the medical marijuana debate)<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6bA3TlV-Xug?start=9977" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Before the House advanced the measure on a 79-42 vote, Senate President Ty Masterson’s spokesperson, Mike Pirner, told The Associated Press that a budget bill and school funding legislation have emerged as higher priorities for the Senate this week.Thirty-six states allow medical marijuana&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncsl.org/research/health/state-medical-marijuana-laws.aspx" target="_blank"></a>and Kansas is only one of three states without a comprehensive medical or recreational marijuana program, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncsl.org/research/health/state-medical-marijuana-laws.aspx" target="_blank">website</a>. Some Kansas lawmakers in favor of the bill said the state shouldn’t wait for the federal government to act.“Kansans are tired of waiting on Kansas being last, or falling behind other states on major issues such as this. And it’s time we end that and we show our people that Kansas can do it better,” said Rep. Adam Thomas, an Olathe Republican.The House vote Thursday marked the first time Kansas legislators passed a bill to legalize medical marijuana in either chamber, according to the Legislature’s research staff. Before a House panel approved the bill in March, previous proposals had failed to even pass out of committee.The bill would allow patients and caregivers to register to get medical marijuana identification cards for a list of conditions that include cancer, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. The measure would have also set up a licensing process for growers and dispensary owners. Medical marijuana could be sold as oils, tinctures, patches or potent edibles, but not in smoking or vaping products.During Thursday’s debate, support came mostly from Democrats and some Republican lawmakers who said many of their constituents support medical marijuana legalization. But some GOP House members expressed concern that passing the bill into law would be the first step to legalizing recreational pot, and a few others adamantly opposed the bill, calling marijuana a dangerous “gateway” drug.Rep. Pat Proctor, a Leavenworth Republican, said he was concerned that passing the bill into law would set up the infrastructure for recreational marijuana.“With these dispensaries, all they got to do is, you know, change your name to ‘pot store’ from ‘dispensary’ and they’re ready to go,” Proctor said.Before the measure made its way to the House, it received pushback, mainly from law enforcement groups that say that there’s not enough evidence that marijuana can treat medical conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder and Parkinson’s disease.During the debate, some Republican lawmakers cited that the federal government classifies marijuana as a Schedule I drug, along with heroin and LSD, with a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use.Rep. Russ Jennings, a Republican from Lakin in southwest Kansas, said that Kansas should have waited for Congress to act on medical marijuana legalization before debating on the bill. He called passing the bill a “terrible message in a nation that is governed under the rule of law.”But medical marijuana advocates note it’s been tough to get evidence due to pot’s legal status in the U.S. Parents of children with disabilities have testified to lawmakers that marijuana would help relieve symptoms such as seizures. Veterans pushing for the bill say marijuana has reduced trauma-induced dreams by helping them get a deep sleep.The bill would require physicians to have a six-month relationship with a patient before recommending marijuana, with an exception for military veterans.Local government officials would be able to ban dispensaries in their jurisdictions.___

🎥 Kan. House approves medical marijuana; Senate won't follow

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration on Thursday detailed steps to achieve an ambitious goal to conserve nearly one-third of America’s lands and waters by 2030, relying on voluntary efforts to preserve public, private and tribal areas while also helping tackle climate change and create jobs.

<a href="https://www.doi.gov/america-the-beautiful">Click here</a>&nbsp;to read details of the plan.

<a href="https://www.doi.gov/sites/doi.gov/files/report-conserving-and-restoring-america-the-beautiful-2021.pdf" target="_blank">A report, with the lofty title “America the Beautiful,′</a>&nbsp;′ calls for a decade-long commitment on projects nationwide to make the conservation and restoration of lands and waters an urgent priority. The plan would purify drinking water, increase green space, improve access to outdoor recreation, restore healthy fisheries, reduce the risk of wildfires and recognize the “oversized contributions” of farmers, ranchers, forest owners, fishers, hunters, rural communities and tribal nations.

In the process, the effort will produce thousands of new jobs and a stronger economy while also addressing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/climate-change">climate change</a>&nbsp;and environmental justice, including expanded access by disadvantaged communities to the outdoors, the report said.

President Joe Biden has set a goal of conserving at least 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030. If successful, the plan will help slow global warming and preserve some of the nation’s most scenic lands for future generations of Americans, the report said.

About 12% of the nation’s lands and 25% of its waters are currently protected, according to research by the Center for American Progress, a left-leaning think tank. Those protected areas include not just parks but also wilderness areas, game refuges, agricultural lands, forests, ranches and other sites with conservation easements.

The plan released Thursday recommends a series of actions, including expansion of a federal grant program to create local parks, especially in cities and other “nature-deprived communities.″ The report also suggests grants for Native American tribes to support tribal conservation priorities; expansion of fish and wildlife habitats and corridors; increased access for outdoor recreation; and creation of a “civilian climate corps” to work on conservation and restoration projects nationwide.

The plan follows through on a Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-donald-trump-climate-iran-nuclear-immigration-de7b288aa2b4315b5b7fe38559a6e666">campaign promise</a>&nbsp;and builds on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-mt-state-wire-ap-top-news-legislation-politics-b05f9869fc7840fb0eb66a87ec8eeda1">Great American Outdoors Act</a>, a 2020 law passed by Congress that authorizes nearly $3 billion for conservation projects, outdoor recreation and maintenance of national parks and other public lands.

Even with that injection of federal dollars, the Biden plan relies heavily on voluntary conservation efforts by farmers, ranchers, forest owners and fishing communities. No cost estimate for the project was provided. Much of the spending could be done through department budgets, as well as the 2020 outdoors law, the 2018 farm bill and Biden’s proposed $2.3 trillion infrastructure plan, officials said.

“The president’s challenge is a call to action to support locally led conservation and restoration efforts of all kinds and all over America, wherever communities wish to safeguard the lands and waters they know and love,″ the report says. “Doing so will not only protect our lands and waters but also boost our economy and support jobs nationwide.″

The report was signed by three Cabinet members —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-cabinet-cabinets-parks-native-americans-national-parks-3e68649e5901248207480dd8503b0246">Interior Secretary Deb Haaland</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tom-vilsack-confirmed-ag-secretary-98bd9dc4a4d65b0633eec5610fb51ed3">Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gina-raimondo-confirmed-commerce-secretary-0708768537e4ffd4433ec980abe1db7b">Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo</a>&nbsp;— along with Brenda Mallory, who leads the White House Council on Environmental Quality.

“Nature plays an important role in improving resilience to climate change and creating a thriving economy,″ Haaland said at a news conference Thursday.

White House climate adviser Gina McCarthy said the Great Outdoors law, which bankrolls the popular Land and Water Conservation Fund and takes aim at a growing maintenance backlog at national parks, was a “down payment” on the conservation initiative. The law authorizes $900 million a year for that fund and an additional $1.9 billion per year on improvements at parks, forests, wildlife refuges and range lands.

“There are many tools available to us” to pay for the conservation program, McCarthy said. The report is only the “starting point″ on a path to fulfill Biden’s conservation vision, she and other officials said.

“Where this path leads over the next decade will be determined not by our agencies, but by the ideas and leadership of local communities,″ the Cabinet officials said in the report. “It is our job to listen, learn and provide support along the way to ... pass on healthy lands, waters and wildlife to the generations to come.”

Environmental and outdoors groups hailed the initiative.

“The bottom line is that healthier public lands and waters mean more opportunities for Americans to recreate outside and for communities’ economies to thrive,” said Jessica Turner, executive director of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, a coalition that represents a range of outdoor businesses.

Alex Taurel of the League of Conservation Voters added: “We are all-in to help reach and exceed” Biden’s goal “to tackle the climate crisis and expand access to nature in America the beautiful.”

Chris Wood, president of Trout Unlimited, a fisheries conservation group, said “there’s a lot to like” in Biden’s initiative, especially its emphasis on local actions. “A bunch of directives from the top won’t get us where we need to go,″ he said in an interview.

Provisions to protect landscapes and improve resiliency against drought, wildfire and floods are crucial, Wood said, noting that natural disasters “don’t respect wilderness boundaries″ or property lines. He pledged to work with the administration develop more detailed plans.

Sen. Steve Daines, R-Mont., said the report “uses vague buzz-words” and does not resolve his concern that “this is nothing but an effort to lock up lands, which will hurt Montana’s farmers and ranchers and kill jobs.″ Daines, a co-sponsor of the Great Outdoors law, accused Biden of “pushing ambiguous political ambitions motivated by headlines rather than results.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620346954555.png" alt="President Joe Biden has set a goal of conserving at least 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030.-photo courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>President Joe Biden has set a goal of conserving at least 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030.-photo courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration on Thursday detailed steps to achieve an ambitious goal to conserve nearly one-third of America’s lands and waters by 2030, relying on voluntary efforts to preserve public, private and tribal areas while also helping tackle climate change and create jobs.<a href="https://www.doi.gov/america-the-beautiful">Click here</a>&nbsp;to read details of the plan.<a href="https://www.doi.gov/sites/doi.gov/files/report-conserving-and-restoring-america-the-beautiful-2021.pdf" target="_blank">A report, with the lofty title “America the Beautiful,′</a>&nbsp;′ calls for a decade-long commitment on projects nationwide to make the conservation and restoration of lands and waters an urgent priority. The plan would purify drinking water, increase green space, improve access to outdoor recreation, restore healthy fisheries, reduce the risk of wildfires and recognize the “oversized contributions” of farmers, ranchers, forest owners, fishers, hunters, rural communities and tribal nations.In the process, the effort will produce thousands of new jobs and a stronger economy while also addressing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/climate-change">climate change</a>&nbsp;and environmental justice, including expanded access by disadvantaged communities to the outdoors, the report said.President Joe Biden has set a goal of conserving at least 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030. If successful, the plan will help slow global warming and preserve some of the nation’s most scenic lands for future generations of Americans, the report said.About 12% of the nation’s lands and 25% of its waters are currently protected, according to research by the Center for American Progress, a left-leaning think tank. Those protected areas include not just parks but also wilderness areas, game refuges, agricultural lands, forests, ranches and other sites with conservation easements.The plan released Thursday recommends a series of actions, including expansion of a federal grant program to create local parks, especially in cities and other “nature-deprived communities.″ The report also suggests grants for Native American tribes to support tribal conservation priorities; expansion of fish and wildlife habitats and corridors; increased access for outdoor recreation; and creation of a “civilian climate corps” to work on conservation and restoration projects nationwide.The plan follows through on a Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-donald-trump-climate-iran-nuclear-immigration-de7b288aa2b4315b5b7fe38559a6e666">campaign promise</a>&nbsp;and builds on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-mt-state-wire-ap-top-news-legislation-politics-b05f9869fc7840fb0eb66a87ec8eeda1">Great American Outdoors Act</a>, a 2020 law passed by Congress that authorizes nearly $3 billion for conservation projects, outdoor recreation and maintenance of national parks and other public lands.Even with that injection of federal dollars, the Biden plan relies heavily on voluntary conservation efforts by farmers, ranchers, forest owners and fishing communities. No cost estimate for the project was provided. Much of the spending could be done through department budgets, as well as the 2020 outdoors law, the 2018 farm bill and Biden’s proposed $2.3 trillion infrastructure plan, officials said.“The president’s challenge is a call to action to support locally led conservation and restoration efforts of all kinds and all over America, wherever communities wish to safeguard the lands and waters they know and love,″ the report says. “Doing so will not only protect our lands and waters but also boost our economy and support jobs nationwide.″The report was signed by three Cabinet members —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-cabinet-cabinets-parks-native-americans-national-parks-3e68649e5901248207480dd8503b0246">Interior Secretary Deb Haaland</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tom-vilsack-confirmed-ag-secretary-98bd9dc4a4d65b0633eec5610fb51ed3">Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gina-raimondo-confirmed-commerce-secretary-0708768537e4ffd4433ec980abe1db7b">Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo</a>&nbsp;— along with Brenda Mallory, who leads the White House Council on Environmental Quality.“Nature plays an important role in improving resilience to climate change and creating a thriving economy,″ Haaland said at a news conference Thursday.White House climate adviser Gina McCarthy said the Great Outdoors law, which bankrolls the popular Land and Water Conservation Fund and takes aim at a growing maintenance backlog at national parks, was a “down payment” on the conservation initiative. The law authorizes $900 million a year for that fund and an additional $1.9 billion per year on improvements at parks, forests, wildlife refuges and range lands.“There are many tools available to us” to pay for the conservation program, McCarthy said. The report is only the “starting point″ on a path to fulfill Biden’s conservation vision, she and other officials said.“Where this path leads over the next decade will be determined not by our agencies, but by the ideas and leadership of local communities,″ the Cabinet officials said in the report. “It is our job to listen, learn and provide support along the way to ... pass on healthy lands, waters and wildlife to the generations to come.”Environmental and outdoors groups hailed the initiative.“The bottom line is that healthier public lands and waters mean more opportunities for Americans to recreate outside and for communities’ economies to thrive,” said Jessica Turner, executive director of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, a coalition that represents a range of outdoor businesses.Alex Taurel of the League of Conservation Voters added: “We are all-in to help reach and exceed” Biden’s goal “to tackle the climate crisis and expand access to nature in America the beautiful.”Chris Wood, president of Trout Unlimited, a fisheries conservation group, said “there’s a lot to like” in Biden’s initiative, especially its emphasis on local actions. “A bunch of directives from the top won’t get us where we need to go,″ he said in an interview.Provisions to protect landscapes and improve resiliency against drought, wildfire and floods are crucial, Wood said, noting that natural disasters “don’t respect wilderness boundaries″ or property lines. He pledged to work with the administration develop more detailed plans.Sen. Steve Daines, R-Mont., said the report “uses vague buzz-words” and does not resolve his concern that “this is nothing but an effort to lock up lands, which will hurt Montana’s farmers and ranchers and kill jobs.″ Daines, a co-sponsor of the Great Outdoors law, accused Biden of “pushing ambiguous political ambitions motivated by headlines rather than results.”

Biden's plan would boost conservation of US lands, waters

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

During their regular meeting Monday afternoon, Salina City Commissioners officially accepted the resignation of Commissioner Rod Franz.

Last week, Franz's sons and partner submitted the letter of resignation on his behalf after Franz sustained injuries in an April 6 fall.

"Let me just begin by saying that it was with the deepest regret that we accepted the resignation of Commissioner Rod Franz. As many of you are aware, he had a fall a few weeks ago that's necessitated a long recovery period," Mayor Melissa Hodges said during the meeting.

"I think that if you polled us individually, that we function very well with the addition of Rod. He truly made a difference in how this board functions. He brought a strong finance perspective, a long history with the organization as an employee and director, and his analytical skills," Hodges continued. "I always looked forward to hearing his analysis of an issue that I thought was pretty straightforward. I didn't understand as well as I could have and Rod's analysis was always extremely helpful."

City Manager Mike Schrage said that during 31 years of his career, he has dealt with elected officials both directly and indirectly. 

"I think Rod is unsurpassed in his time, energy, and commitment," Schrage said.

"One thing I came to appreciate with Rod is even if we didn't vote the same way, we always walked out of this room as gentlemen and respected the other," Commissioner Mike Hoppock said. 

"I probably started becoming less detailed on the numbers when Rod got involved because I knew he had massaged 'em," Hoppock continued. "We all bring our strengths and weaknesses to a board and obviously Rod's strength was the financial aspect of it. I hope if his family is listening, we wish him the best. He is dearly missed and we look forward to seeing him in this room again someday and be able to tell him 'thank you' ourselves."

Hodges said that the commission had already received expressions of interest from former commissioners Joe Hay, Norm Jennings, and Kay Crawford.

The remaining four commissioners approved accepting expression of interest forms from persons willing to fill the open seat. Once the expression of interest forms are reviewed, the commissioners will appoint a person to serve until January 2022, which would complete the term Franz began.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostDuring their regular meeting Monday afternoon, Salina City Commissioners officially accepted the resignation of Commissioner Rod Franz.Last week, Franz's sons and partner submitted the letter of resignation on his behalf after Franz sustained injuries in an April 6 fall."Let me just begin by saying that it was with the deepest regret that we accepted the resignation of Commissioner Rod Franz. As many of you are aware, he had a fall a few weeks ago that's necessitated a long recovery period," Mayor Melissa Hodges said during the meeting."I think that if you polled us individually, that we function very well with the addition of Rod. He truly made a difference in how this board functions. He brought a strong finance perspective, a long history with the organization as an employee and director, and his analytical skills," Hodges continued. "I always looked forward to hearing his analysis of an issue that I thought was pretty straightforward. I didn't understand as well as I could have and Rod's analysis was always extremely helpful."City Manager Mike Schrage said that during 31 years of his career, he has dealt with elected officials both directly and indirectly. "I think Rod is unsurpassed in his time, energy, and commitment," Schrage said."One thing I came to appreciate with Rod is even if we didn't vote the same way, we always walked out of this room as gentlemen and respected the other," Commissioner Mike Hoppock said. "I probably started becoming less detailed on the numbers when Rod got involved because I knew he had massaged 'em," Hoppock continued. "We all bring our strengths and weaknesses to a board and obviously Rod's strength was the financial aspect of it. I hope if his family is listening, we wish him the best. He is dearly missed and we look forward to seeing him in this room again someday and be able to tell him 'thank you' ourselves."Hodges said that the commission had already received expressions of interest from former commissioners Joe Hay, Norm Jennings, and Kay Crawford.The remaining four commissioners approved accepting expression of interest forms from persons willing to fill the open seat. Once the expression of interest forms are reviewed, the commissioners will appoint a person to serve until January 2022, which would complete the term Franz began.Interested persons must complete and return the forms no later than 5 p.m. May 12. The form can be found on the city website at <a href="http://salina-ks.gov/boards">salina-ks.gov/boards</a>.In other business, commissioners:●Approved on second reading three ordinance related to the Saline County Jail project. Those ordinances include the following.Ordinance No. 21-11054 vacating the platted Woodland Avenue right-of-way east of N. Front Street, except the west 200 feet.Ordinance No. 21-11060 amending the Future Land Use Map designation of the proposed Saline County Jail site to Public/Semi-Public.Ordinance No. 21-11061 rezoning the proposed Saline County Jail site from I-3 to PDD Public Use-Public Facilities.●Approved on second reading an ordinance changing the zoning district classification from I-1 to I-2 on the southern and western portions of the Tony's Pizza campus in order to create a uniform zoning district for the entire campus located at 3019 Scanlan Avenue.●Approved an ordinance authorizing the execution of a loan agreement between the City of Salina and the State of Kansas for the purpose of financing improvements to the wastewater treatment plant.●Authorized Schrage to execute a license (right-of-way user's) agreement with Missouri Network Alliance, LLC, doing business as Bluebird Network to allow the installation of fiber optic and related facilities within city rights-of-way. The installation is to connect cell towers used by U.S. Cellular.●Approved resolutions for the designation of Rural Housing Incentive Districts for property north of Menards and property southeast of the intersection of S. Ohio Street and E. Schilling Road.