WASHINGTON —With the tragic crises and natural disasters happening around the globe, many are responding to the call to give what they can to help. The Internal Revenue Service today warned taxpayers to be wary of criminals soliciting donations and falsely posing as legitimate charities. When fake charities scam unsuspecting donors, the proceeds don’t go to those who need the help and those contributing to these fake charities can’t deduct their donations on their tax return.

“We all want to help innocent victims and their families,” said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel. “Knowing we’re trying to aid those who are suffering, criminals crawl out of the woodwork to prey on those most vulnerable – people who simply want to help. Especially during these challenging times, don’t feel pressured to immediately give to a charity you’ve never heard of. Check out the charity first and confirm it is authentic.”

Those who wish to make donations should use the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvY2hhcml0aWVzLW5vbi1wcm9maXRzL3NlYXJjaC1mb3ItdGF4LWV4ZW1wdC1vcmdhbml6YXRpb25zIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTAyMy44NDQ4MDE0MSJ9.PWrpkKjGRD11j6dNrg5h4mOCy1aayl6jcGrj1YE1Bd8/s/1558083055/br/228765097159-l" target="_blank">Tax-Exempt Organization Search (TEOS) tool</a>&nbsp;on IRS.gov to help find or verify qualified, legitimate charities.

• Verify the legitimacy of a charity • Check its eligibility to receive tax-deductible charitable contributions &nbsp; • Search for information about an organization's tax-exempt status and filings&nbsp;

In addition, the IRS urges anyone encountering a fake or suspicious charity to see the FBI’s resources on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmZiaS5nb3YvaG93LXdlLWNhbi1oZWxwLXlvdS9zYWZldHktcmVzb3VyY2VzL3NjYW1zLWFuZC1zYWZldHkvY29tbW9uLXNjYW1zLWFuZC1jcmltZXMvY2hhcml0eS1hbmQtZGlzYXN0ZXItZnJhdWQiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDIzLjg0NDgwMTQxIn0.vGnQpNz3Ygq85Wd4pA_YS-nbPdhfhsd_xCiSJ_zZJp0/s/1558083055/br/228765097159-l" target="_blank">Charity and Disaster Fraud</a>.

Criminals commonly set up bogus charities to take advantage of the public's generosity during international crises or natural disasters. Typically, they seek money and personal information, which can be used to further exploit victims through&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaWRlbnRpdHktdGhlZnQtY2VudHJhbCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzEwMjMuODQ0ODAxNDEifQ.gil6LTdq8-QCgCDY6nFULpOpCE_NlQ4ele9JUcHeH3s/s/1558083055/br/228765097159-l" target="_blank">identity theft</a>.

Fake charity promoters may use emails, fake websites, or alter or "spoof" their caller ID to make it look like a real charity is calling to solicit donations. Criminals often target seniors and groups with limited English proficiency.

Here are some tips to protect against fake charity scams:

• Verify first.&nbsp;Scammers frequently use names that sound like well-known charities to confuse people. Potential donors should ask the fundraiser for the charity's exact name, website and mailing address so they can independently confirm the information. Use&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvY2hhcml0aWVzLW5vbi1wcm9maXRzL3NlYXJjaC1mb3ItdGF4LWV4ZW1wdC1vcmdhbml6YXRpb25zIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTAyMy44NDQ4MDE0MSJ9.EnXtCTCEq1ma8Z3EydF5QNegDOyYV0FrwOhqDM0LQBo/s/1558083055/br/228765097159-l" target="_blank">TEOS</a>&nbsp;to verify if an organization is a legitimate tax-exempt charity.&nbsp;

• Don't give in to pressure. Scammers often pressure people into making an immediate payment. In contrast, legitimate charities are happy to get a donation at any time. Donors should not feel rushed.&nbsp;

• Don't give more than needed.&nbsp;Scammers are on the hunt for both money and personal information. Taxpayers should treat personal information like cash and not hand it out to just anyone.&nbsp;

• Be wary about how a donation is requested.&nbsp;Never work with charities that ask for donations by giving numbers from a gift card or by wiring money. That's a scam. It's safest to pay by credit card or check — and only after verifying the charity is real.&nbsp;

Taxpayers who give money or goods to a charity can&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1wdWJsaWNhdGlvbi01MjYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDIzLjg0NDgwMTQxIn0.G0L2BoFHFk9jMoaeE2FC3hSc1lSBbrX4oMEGScMHhQo/s/1558083055/br/228765097159-l" target="_blank">claim a deduction</a>&nbsp;if they itemize deductions, but these donations only count if they go to a qualified tax-exempt organization recognized by the IRS.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600360924825.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON —With the tragic crises and natural disasters happening around the globe, many are responding to the call to give what they can to help. The Internal Revenue Service today warned taxpayers to be wary of criminals soliciting donations and falsely posing as legitimate charities. When fake charities scam unsuspecting donors, the proceeds don’t go to those who need the help and those contributing to these fake charities can’t deduct their donations on their tax return.“We all want to help innocent victims and their families,” said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel. “Knowing we’re trying to aid those who are suffering, criminals crawl out of the woodwork to prey on those most vulnerable – people who simply want to help. Especially during these challenging times, don’t feel pressured to immediately give to a charity you’ve never heard of. Check out the charity first and confirm it is authentic.”Those who wish to make donations should use the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvY2hhcml0aWVzLW5vbi1wcm9maXRzL3NlYXJjaC1mb3ItdGF4LWV4ZW1wdC1vcmdhbml6YXRpb25zIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTAyMy44NDQ4MDE0MSJ9.PWrpkKjGRD11j6dNrg5h4mOCy1aayl6jcGrj1YE1Bd8/s/1558083055/br/228765097159-l" target="_blank">Tax-Exempt Organization Search (TEOS) tool</a>&nbsp;on IRS.gov to help find or verify qualified, legitimate charities.With the TEOS, people can:• Verify the legitimacy of a charity • Check its eligibility to receive tax-deductible charitable contributions &nbsp; • Search for information about an organization's tax-exempt status and filings&nbsp; In addition, the IRS urges anyone encountering a fake or suspicious charity to see the FBI’s resources on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmZiaS5nb3YvaG93LXdlLWNhbi1oZWxwLXlvdS9zYWZldHktcmVzb3VyY2VzL3NjYW1zLWFuZC1zYWZldHkvY29tbW9uLXNjYW1zLWFuZC1jcmltZXMvY2hhcml0eS1hbmQtZGlzYXN0ZXItZnJhdWQiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDIzLjg0NDgwMTQxIn0.vGnQpNz3Ygq85Wd4pA_YS-nbPdhfhsd_xCiSJ_zZJp0/s/1558083055/br/228765097159-l" target="_blank">Charity and Disaster Fraud</a>.Fake charitiesCriminals commonly set up bogus charities to take advantage of the public's generosity during international crises or natural disasters. Typically, they seek money and personal information, which can be used to further exploit victims through&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaWRlbnRpdHktdGhlZnQtY2VudHJhbCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzEwMjMuODQ0ODAxNDEifQ.gil6LTdq8-QCgCDY6nFULpOpCE_NlQ4ele9JUcHeH3s/s/1558083055/br/228765097159-l" target="_blank">identity theft</a>.Fake charity promoters may use emails, fake websites, or alter or "spoof" their caller ID to make it look like a real charity is calling to solicit donations. Criminals often target seniors and groups with limited English proficiency.Here are some tips to protect against fake charity scams:• Verify first.&nbsp;Scammers frequently use names that sound like well-known charities to confuse people. Potential donors should ask the fundraiser for the charity's exact name, website and mailing address so they can independently confirm the information. Use&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvY2hhcml0aWVzLW5vbi1wcm9maXRzL3NlYXJjaC1mb3ItdGF4LWV4ZW1wdC1vcmdhbml6YXRpb25zIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTAyMy44NDQ4MDE0MSJ9.EnXtCTCEq1ma8Z3EydF5QNegDOyYV0FrwOhqDM0LQBo/s/1558083055/br/228765097159-l" target="_blank">TEOS</a>&nbsp;to verify if an organization is a legitimate tax-exempt charity.&nbsp;• Don't give in to pressure. Scammers often pressure people into making an immediate payment. In contrast, legitimate charities are happy to get a donation at any time. Donors should not feel rushed.&nbsp;• Don't give more than needed.&nbsp;Scammers are on the hunt for both money and personal information. Taxpayers should treat personal information like cash and not hand it out to just anyone.&nbsp;• Be wary about how a donation is requested.&nbsp;Never work with charities that ask for donations by giving numbers from a gift card or by wiring money. That's a scam. It's safest to pay by credit card or check — and only after verifying the charity is real.&nbsp;Taxpayers who give money or goods to a charity can&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1wdWJsaWNhdGlvbi01MjYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDIzLjg0NDgwMTQxIn0.G0L2BoFHFk9jMoaeE2FC3hSc1lSBbrX4oMEGScMHhQo/s/1558083055/br/228765097159-l" target="_blank">claim a deduction</a>&nbsp;if they itemize deductions, but these donations only count if they go to a qualified tax-exempt organization recognized by the IRS.

IRS: Beware of fake charities; check before donating

LAWRENCE — For the past 50 years, standardized tests have been the norm in American schools, a method proponents say determines which schools are not performing and helps hold educators accountable. Yet for the past 20 years, it has become clear that testing has failed to improve education or hold many accountable, according to a University of Kansas researcher whose new book details its history.

“<a href="https://www.rutgersuniversitypress.org/an-age-of-accountability/9781978832275">An Age of Accountability: How Standardized Testing Came to Dominate American Schools and Compromise Education</a>” by John Rury, professor emeritus of educational leadership &amp; policy studies at KU, tells the story of how testing became a central focus of American education policy roughly from 1970 to 2020. The book details how it rose to prominence, persisted through generations of leaders and how policymakers routinely ignored evidence that the tests were not improving education for most students.&nbsp;

In the book’s introduction, Rury wrote how testing in American schools dates back to the 1840s but really took hold in the 1970s, when contemporary accountability began with a “minimum competency” high school graduation test in Florida. Other states subsequently adopted a similar approach, especially in the South.

“One of the big questions with these exams,” Rury said, “was setting cut scores. And there was really no scientific way to decide that. In Florida, they set it arbitrarily at 70% because that was the score needed to pass classes generally. The consequence of that was many kids failing, especially African American and poor students.”

The book also covers questions of race and standardized exams. Rury described how tests were called out for racial and cultural bias early on, but the assessment industry responded, and by the 1990s organizations such as the National Urban League backed testing as a way to help address the achievement gap.&nbsp;

Testing has fluctuated in how much attention it gained, and the book outlines how the 1980s became a decade of transition.

“Then testing took a back seat in reform conversations,” Rury said, “and it wasn’t until the '90s that proficiency became a political priority and testing again became a focal point.”

“An Age of Accountability,” published by Rutgers University Press in its New Directions in the History of Education series, documents how American students scored poorly on international tests, especially compared to Japanese students in the late '80s. This helped set the stage for standardized testing being used to hold teachers accountable for not educating American students to the levels of certain international peers. Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton both embraced testing in the '90s and even proposed national tests of proficiency. While both met stiff political opposition, it set the stage for No Child Left Behind, the signature education policy of President George W Bush.

The younger Bush campaigned on tales of a “Texas Miracle,” dramatic claims of improvements in schools when he was governor, despite much evidence to the contrary, Rury wrote. The national legislation that followed his arrival in D.C. required students in certain grades to show proficiency in reading and math. More than 20 years later, testing policy remains central to American education.&nbsp;

“All along, since the 1970s, many psychometricians, the people who build assessments, said, ‘Look, you can’t do this with these tests.’ On exit exams, kids will mess up, miss a couple questions below the cut line and not get a diploma, all for just a few questions on a single test. There are major consequences for that in life. My argument is that politicians consistently ignored that. Some even proposed using norm-referenced tests as gateway exams, which is ridiculous. But it all set the stage for No Child Left Behind.”

In the book’s conclusion, Rury outlines how, despite its troubled history, standardized testing continues to be the norm in American education.&nbsp;

“What accountability often does is it really compromises the validity of the test,” Rury said. “This is the underlying problem. When you have a system where people’s jobs are on the line, many are going to find a way to manipulate the assessment process.”

While there are long-standing problems with standardized testing, Rury said his hope is that readers realize there have always been those saying that standardized testing was never meant to be used in this way and to think twice before advocating returning to overreliance on these measures, such as No Child Left Behind.

“These tests are a very poor measure of what kids are doing in schools. That’s the Achilles heel, since most of the variation in scores is due to non-school factors,” Rury said. “I’d rather see measuring growth. That requires testing at the beginning of the school year and again at the end to see how much students have learned. We hear about failing schools, but even there, students often show growth when it’s examined. Saying that current tests are holding schools accountable thus can be very misleading if they’re only administered once a year. I prefer focusing on changes in achievement and using tests not to punish or stigmatize, but to help schools learn how to better serve their students.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637537733050.jpg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KU News ServiceLAWRENCE — For the past 50 years, standardized tests have been the norm in American schools, a method proponents say determines which schools are not performing and helps hold educators accountable. Yet for the past 20 years, it has become clear that testing has failed to improve education or hold many accountable, according to a University of Kansas researcher whose new book details its history.“<a href="https://www.rutgersuniversitypress.org/an-age-of-accountability/9781978832275">An Age of Accountability: How Standardized Testing Came to Dominate American Schools and Compromise Education</a>” by John Rury, professor emeritus of educational leadership &amp; policy studies at KU, tells the story of how testing became a central focus of American education policy roughly from 1970 to 2020. The book details how it rose to prominence, persisted through generations of leaders and how policymakers routinely ignored evidence that the tests were not improving education for most students.&nbsp;In the book’s introduction, Rury wrote how testing in American schools dates back to the 1840s but really took hold in the 1970s, when contemporary accountability began with a “minimum competency” high school graduation test in Florida. Other states subsequently adopted a similar approach, especially in the South.“One of the big questions with these exams,” Rury said, “was setting cut scores. And there was really no scientific way to decide that. In Florida, they set it arbitrarily at 70% because that was the score needed to pass classes generally. The consequence of that was many kids failing, especially African American and poor students.”The book also covers questions of race and standardized exams. Rury described how tests were called out for racial and cultural bias early on, but the assessment industry responded, and by the 1990s organizations such as the National Urban League backed testing as a way to help address the achievement gap.&nbsp;Testing has fluctuated in how much attention it gained, and the book outlines how the 1980s became a decade of transition.“Then testing took a back seat in reform conversations,” Rury said, “and it wasn’t until the '90s that proficiency became a political priority and testing again became a focal point.”“An Age of Accountability,” published by Rutgers University Press in its New Directions in the History of Education series, documents how American students scored poorly on international tests, especially compared to Japanese students in the late '80s. This helped set the stage for standardized testing being used to hold teachers accountable for not educating American students to the levels of certain international peers. Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton both embraced testing in the '90s and even proposed national tests of proficiency. While both met stiff political opposition, it set the stage for No Child Left Behind, the signature education policy of President George W Bush.The younger Bush campaigned on tales of a “Texas Miracle,” dramatic claims of improvements in schools when he was governor, despite much evidence to the contrary, Rury wrote. The national legislation that followed his arrival in D.C. required students in certain grades to show proficiency in reading and math. More than 20 years later, testing policy remains central to American education.&nbsp;“All along, since the 1970s, many psychometricians, the people who build assessments, said, ‘Look, you can’t do this with these tests.’ On exit exams, kids will mess up, miss a couple questions below the cut line and not get a diploma, all for just a few questions on a single test. There are major consequences for that in life. My argument is that politicians consistently ignored that. Some even proposed using norm-referenced tests as gateway exams, which is ridiculous. But it all set the stage for No Child Left Behind.”In the book’s conclusion, Rury outlines how, despite its troubled history, standardized testing continues to be the norm in American education.&nbsp;“What accountability often does is it really compromises the validity of the test,” Rury said. “This is the underlying problem. When you have a system where people’s jobs are on the line, many are going to find a way to manipulate the assessment process.”While there are long-standing problems with standardized testing, Rury said his hope is that readers realize there have always been those saying that standardized testing was never meant to be used in this way and to think twice before advocating returning to overreliance on these measures, such as No Child Left Behind.“These tests are a very poor measure of what kids are doing in schools. That’s the Achilles heel, since most of the variation in scores is due to non-school factors,” Rury said. “I’d rather see measuring growth. That requires testing at the beginning of the school year and again at the end to see how much students have learned. We hear about failing schools, but even there, students often show growth when it’s examined. Saying that current tests are holding schools accountable thus can be very misleading if they’re only administered once a year. I prefer focusing on changes in achievement and using tests not to punish or stigmatize, but to help schools learn how to better serve their students.”

KU prof: Standardized testing is the norm in schools, but fails to improve education 

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly announced&nbsp; that the Kansas Main Street program is seeking new communities to join the program in 2024. Kansas Main Street provides technical assistance and support for communities working to revitalize their downtown areas by focusing on economic vitality, design, promotion, and organization.

The Kansas Main Street program was initially launched in 1985 but was ended in 2012 under the Brownback Administration. Governor Kelly restarted the program in 2019 with support from the Kansas Legislature.&nbsp;

“The Kansas Main Street Program has been crucial to preserving and growing downtowns across the state,” Kelly said. “Downtown areas are the heartbeat and pride of most communities across Kansas, and improving these community pillars is part of how we’ll bring new jobs to the area.”&nbsp;

Communities wishing to submit applications must first attend a virtual application workshop, which will explain the Main Street Approach and the process for completing the application. Main Street Kansas will host the next virtual application workshop at 10 a.m. Monday, November 13.

Applications for the Kansas Main Street program will open on December 4 and close on January 26, 2024. Applications will be reviewed in February, with new communities announced in March.

“Eleven communities have been added since Governor Kelly brought the Kansas Main Street program back in late 2019,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said.&nbsp;“These Kansas communities now have the resources and tools needed to support economic development and breathe new life into their downtowns and historic commercial districts.”

Benefits of earning designation as a Kansas Main Street community include:&nbsp;

• Training in strategic planning, program capacity-building, and organizational management for the Main Street organization&nbsp;&nbsp;

• Individualized training for Main Street managers, boards, and other Main Street participants&nbsp;&nbsp;

• Attendance to statewide quarterly training and professional development opportunities&nbsp;&nbsp;

• Access to design services to help downtown property owners undertake effective rehabilitation, restoration, adaptive reuse, and infill projects, as well as reimagining public spaces within the district&nbsp;&nbsp;

• Access to business assistance such as recruitment and retention, succession planning, business plan development, and entrepreneurial development&nbsp;&nbsp;

• Membership in the Main Street America network&nbsp;

“The Main Street Approach is a proven economic development tool, especially for small, rural communities,”&nbsp;Kansas Main Street Director Scott Sewell said.&nbsp;“It has been a great resource for communities in Kansas, and we always encourage more participants in the program.”

Registration for the November 13 application workshop is required, which can be completed&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vdXMwMndlYi56b29tLnVzL21lZXRpbmcvcmVnaXN0ZXIvdFpNc2RlbXVxVGdxR05UajJTMzJrbVlzbjk4QllkWGN5SjEyIy9yZWdpc3RyYXRpb24iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDIwLjg0Mzc2NTUxIn0.LOVYjy7ZaBHC2SOhhT803WtOsMhfIkoJQ2DIvvFhbl4/s/1303179659/br/228665161691-l" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;

For more information on the Kansas Main Street program, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmthbnNhc2NvbW1lcmNlLmdvdi9wcm9ncmFtL2NvbW11bml0eS1wcm9ncmFtcy9tYWluLXN0cmVldC8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDIwLjg0Mzc2NTUxIn0.KD3_riW8yAVIqtKCFuUaq-ki7JMMY3ZSFs4iOS8ESVk/s/1303179659/br/228665161691-l" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;or contact Sewell at 785-230-6404 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:scott.sewell@ks.gov">scott.sewell@ks.gov</a>.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698089177042.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>Office of GovernorTOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly announced&nbsp; that the Kansas Main Street program is seeking new communities to join the program in 2024. Kansas Main Street provides technical assistance and support for communities working to revitalize their downtown areas by focusing on economic vitality, design, promotion, and organization.The Kansas Main Street program was initially launched in 1985 but was ended in 2012 under the Brownback Administration. Governor Kelly restarted the program in 2019 with support from the Kansas Legislature.&nbsp;“The Kansas Main Street Program has been crucial to preserving and growing downtowns across the state,” Kelly said. “Downtown areas are the heartbeat and pride of most communities across Kansas, and improving these community pillars is part of how we’ll bring new jobs to the area.”&nbsp;Communities wishing to submit applications must first attend a virtual application workshop, which will explain the Main Street Approach and the process for completing the application. Main Street Kansas will host the next virtual application workshop at 10 a.m. Monday, November 13.Applications for the Kansas Main Street program will open on December 4 and close on January 26, 2024. Applications will be reviewed in February, with new communities announced in March.“Eleven communities have been added since Governor Kelly brought the Kansas Main Street program back in late 2019,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said.&nbsp;“These Kansas communities now have the resources and tools needed to support economic development and breathe new life into their downtowns and historic commercial districts.”Benefits of earning designation as a Kansas Main Street community include:&nbsp;• Training in strategic planning, program capacity-building, and organizational management for the Main Street organization&nbsp;&nbsp;• Individualized training for Main Street managers, boards, and other Main Street participants&nbsp;&nbsp;• Attendance to statewide quarterly training and professional development opportunities&nbsp;&nbsp;• Access to design services to help downtown property owners undertake effective rehabilitation, restoration, adaptive reuse, and infill projects, as well as reimagining public spaces within the district&nbsp;&nbsp;• Access to business assistance such as recruitment and retention, succession planning, business plan development, and entrepreneurial development&nbsp;&nbsp;• Membership in the Main Street America network&nbsp;“The Main Street Approach is a proven economic development tool, especially for small, rural communities,”&nbsp;Kansas Main Street Director Scott Sewell said.&nbsp;“It has been a great resource for communities in Kansas, and we always encourage more participants in the program.”Registration for the November 13 application workshop is required, which can be completed&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vdXMwMndlYi56b29tLnVzL21lZXRpbmcvcmVnaXN0ZXIvdFpNc2RlbXVxVGdxR05UajJTMzJrbVlzbjk4QllkWGN5SjEyIy9yZWdpc3RyYXRpb24iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDIwLjg0Mzc2NTUxIn0.LOVYjy7ZaBHC2SOhhT803WtOsMhfIkoJQ2DIvvFhbl4/s/1303179659/br/228665161691-l" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;For more information on the Kansas Main Street program, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmthbnNhc2NvbW1lcmNlLmdvdi9wcm9ncmFtL2NvbW11bml0eS1wcm9ncmFtcy9tYWluLXN0cmVldC8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDIwLjg0Mzc2NTUxIn0.KD3_riW8yAVIqtKCFuUaq-ki7JMMY3ZSFs4iOS8ESVk/s/1303179659/br/228665161691-l" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;or contact Sewell at 785-230-6404 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:scott.sewell@ks.gov">scott.sewell@ks.gov</a>.

Governor Kelly encourages communities to join Kansas Main Street Program

TOPEKA — Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt recently released the annual “Overview of the Health Insurance Market in Kansas.” 

This report details the 2024 Kansas Health Insurance Market (Marketplace). 

The report can be found <a href="https://insurance.ks.gov/documents/healthlife/health/KID-Issue-Brief.pdf">here</a>.

Open enrollment is an opportunity for Kansans to make decisions about their health insurance coverage. They can stay on their current policy, if available, or enroll in a different policy from the same company or a different company. 

“It is important for Kansans to make informed decisions when deciding which coverage is best for them and their families,” Schmidt said. “The Kansas Insurance Department is here to provide information and assist.” 

The open enrollment period for Kansans will be from November 1 until January 15. 

Kansans who would like to start their health insurance coverage effective January 1 must enroll by December 15. Health insurance purchased on the Marketplace between December 16 and January 15 will not begin coverage until February 1. 

For additional information on the 2024 Kansas Health Insurance Marketplace and open enrollment, please visit the Kansas Insurance Department’s website at <a href="https://insurance.kansas.gov/health-life/">insurance.kansas.gov/health-life.th-life</a>. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647376166763.jpeg" alt="Kansas Insurance Department&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Insurance Department&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>KS Insurance CommissionerTOPEKA — Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt recently released the annual “Overview of the Health Insurance Market in Kansas.” This report details the 2024 Kansas Health Insurance Market (Marketplace). The report can be found <a href="https://insurance.ks.gov/documents/healthlife/health/KID-Issue-Brief.pdf">here</a>. Open enrollment is an opportunity for Kansans to make decisions about their health insurance coverage. They can stay on their current policy, if available, or enroll in a different policy from the same company or a different company. “It is important for Kansans to make informed decisions when deciding which coverage is best for them and their families,” Schmidt said. “The Kansas Insurance Department is here to provide information and assist.” The open enrollment period for Kansans will be from November 1 until January 15. Kansans who would like to start their health insurance coverage effective January 1 must enroll by December 15. Health insurance purchased on the Marketplace between December 16 and January 15 will not begin coverage until February 1. For additional information on the 2024 Kansas Health Insurance Marketplace and open enrollment, please visit the Kansas Insurance Department’s website at <a href="https://insurance.kansas.gov/health-life/">insurance.kansas.gov/health-life.th-life</a>. &nbsp;

 2024 overview of Kansas Health Insurance Market released

TOPEKA –&nbsp;Governor&nbsp;Laura&nbsp;Kelly&nbsp;and&nbsp;the&nbsp;Kansas Water Office&nbsp; announced&nbsp;the launch of&nbsp;an initiative&nbsp;to&nbsp;invest at least $1.5 million through&nbsp;funding partnership opportunities&nbsp;for projects that advance&nbsp;the&nbsp;implementation of the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ292ZXJub3Iua2Fuc2FzLmdvdi93cC1jb250ZW50L3VwbG9hZHMvMjAyMy8xMC9Db21wbGV0ZV9LV1BfMjAyMi5wZGYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDIwLjg0Mzg3OTYxIn0.8OiYWWTFmxSaUH23fhT7Oxy5A3Djn8v2POQvvAYcIPA/s/1303161001/br/228678060152-l" target="_blank">2022 Kansas Water Plan</a>.&nbsp;

The plan&nbsp;is a five-year blueprint to ensure&nbsp;a reliable, quality water supply.&nbsp;Since&nbsp;2022, Kelly has fully funded the Kansas Water Plan, which previously had not happened in more than 15 years.

The Kansas Water Plan Partnership Initiative will invest State Water Plan Fund resources into projects centered around the guiding principles outlined in the 2022 State Water Plan, which include conserving and protecting the High Plains Aquifer, improving state water quality, reducing vulnerability to extreme events, and increasing awareness of Kansas water resources.

“My administration is committed to addressing our state’s water crisis," Kelly said.&nbsp;“The Kansas Water Plan Partnership Initiative provides resources to address key water quantity and quality issues at the state and regional level while protecting our water sources for future generations.”

In addition to the guiding principles, Regional Advisory Committees across the state have established water-related goals specific to their region, which applicants can cite when submitting their proposal.

“Each of the goals and recommended actions set in the Kansas Water Plan and by the Regional Advisory Committees seeks to address issues that affect the livelihood of Kansans,”&nbsp;Connie Owen, director of the Kansas Water Office, said. “This program helps organizations throughout the state to take action in addressing those issues.”

Eligible applicants include agricultural commodities, advocacy organizations, colleges/universities, conservation organizations, non-profit organizations, private sector partners, public governmental entities, and water-related districts.

KWPPI applications are encouraged to include a minimum of 50% match, a succinct project proposal, a proposed budget, and a project schedule. Applications submitted by December 29, 2023, will be considered for this initial round of funding, with submittals after this date to be evaluated pending available funds. Entities can apply via the Kansas Water Office website at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXJjZy5pcy8xQ25YVzkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDIwLjg0Mzg3OTYxIn0.8v3awTS-BNHwRg6sWEnHLLZ8jyz5vl_kSDBIaBBc3pA/s/1303161001/br/228678060152-l" target="_blank">https://arcg.is/1CnXW9</a>.

To learn more about the Kansas Water Office, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3dvLmtzLmdvdi8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDIwLjg0Mzg3OTYxIn0.PJL01p-YDlA-i6tCDOTxQO_S0AOSQyDhTkj0KSYRUt8/s/1303161001/br/228678060152-l" target="_blank">kwo.ks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698079172492.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Office of GovernorTOPEKA –&nbsp;Governor&nbsp;Laura&nbsp;Kelly&nbsp;and&nbsp;the&nbsp;Kansas Water Office&nbsp; announced&nbsp;the launch of&nbsp;an initiative&nbsp;to&nbsp;invest at least $1.5 million through&nbsp;funding partnership opportunities&nbsp;for projects that advance&nbsp;the&nbsp;implementation of the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ292ZXJub3Iua2Fuc2FzLmdvdi93cC1jb250ZW50L3VwbG9hZHMvMjAyMy8xMC9Db21wbGV0ZV9LV1BfMjAyMi5wZGYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDIwLjg0Mzg3OTYxIn0.8OiYWWTFmxSaUH23fhT7Oxy5A3Djn8v2POQvvAYcIPA/s/1303161001/br/228678060152-l" target="_blank">2022 Kansas Water Plan</a>.&nbsp;The plan&nbsp;is a five-year blueprint to ensure&nbsp;a reliable, quality water supply.&nbsp;Since&nbsp;2022, Kelly has fully funded the Kansas Water Plan, which previously had not happened in more than 15 years.The Kansas Water Plan Partnership Initiative will invest State Water Plan Fund resources into projects centered around the guiding principles outlined in the 2022 State Water Plan, which include conserving and protecting the High Plains Aquifer, improving state water quality, reducing vulnerability to extreme events, and increasing awareness of Kansas water resources.“My administration is committed to addressing our state’s water crisis," Kelly said.&nbsp;“The Kansas Water Plan Partnership Initiative provides resources to address key water quantity and quality issues at the state and regional level while protecting our water sources for future generations.”In addition to the guiding principles, Regional Advisory Committees across the state have established water-related goals specific to their region, which applicants can cite when submitting their proposal.“Each of the goals and recommended actions set in the Kansas Water Plan and by the Regional Advisory Committees seeks to address issues that affect the livelihood of Kansans,”&nbsp;Connie Owen, director of the Kansas Water Office, said. “This program helps organizations throughout the state to take action in addressing those issues.”Eligible applicants include agricultural commodities, advocacy organizations, colleges/universities, conservation organizations, non-profit organizations, private sector partners, public governmental entities, and water-related districts.KWPPI applications are encouraged to include a minimum of 50% match, a succinct project proposal, a proposed budget, and a project schedule. Applications submitted by December 29, 2023, will be considered for this initial round of funding, with submittals after this date to be evaluated pending available funds. Entities can apply via the Kansas Water Office website at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXJjZy5pcy8xQ25YVzkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDIwLjg0Mzg3OTYxIn0.8v3awTS-BNHwRg6sWEnHLLZ8jyz5vl_kSDBIaBBc3pA/s/1303161001/br/228678060152-l" target="_blank">https://arcg.is/1CnXW9</a>.To learn more about the Kansas Water Office, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3dvLmtzLmdvdi8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDIwLjg0Mzg3OTYxIn0.PJL01p-YDlA-i6tCDOTxQO_S0AOSQyDhTkj0KSYRUt8/s/1303161001/br/228678060152-l" target="_blank">kwo.ks.gov</a>.

Governor Kelly announces initiative to invest in water quantity, quality

FINNEY COUNTY — There was a large first responder presence at Garden City Community College, 801 North Campus Drive in Garden City, Thursday morning, according to a social media report from police.

Just before noon, the school reported there is no ongoing threat to the public. Local law enforcement are working with GCCC officials to ensure student and staff safety. Normal business operations, including classes, remain closed for the duration of the day.

The lockout for all schools in USD 457 was also lifted, according to a social media report from the district.&nbsp; The rest of the school day will continue as normal.&nbsp;

Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

FINNEY COUNTY — There is a large first responder presence at Garden City Community College, 801 North Campus Drive in Garden City, according to a social media report from police.

Just before 10a.m. Thursday, the school reported a combined law enforcement response continued to sweep campus. The college is following its procedures for a potential intruder. 

There continue to be no normal college operations at this time, and we continue to ask those who are off campus to not come to campus.

In addition, all schools in Garden City are on lockout, according to USD 457.&nbsp; No one will be allowed in or out of the buildings, but classes will continue as normal inside.

Check the Post for additional details as they become availavle.

FINNEY COUNTY — There was a large first responder presence at Garden City Community College, 801 North Campus Drive in Garden City, Thursday morning, according to a social media report from police.Just before noon, the school reported there is no ongoing threat to the public. Local law enforcement are working with GCCC officials to ensure student and staff safety. Normal business operations, including classes, remain closed for the duration of the day.The lockout for all schools in USD 457 was also lifted, according to a social media report from the district.&nbsp; The rest of the school day will continue as normal.&nbsp;Check the Post for additional details as they become available.----------FINNEY COUNTY — There is a large first responder presence at Garden City Community College, 801 North Campus Drive in Garden City, according to a social media report from police.Just before 10a.m. Thursday, the school reported a combined law enforcement response continued to sweep campus. The college is following its procedures for a potential intruder. There continue to be no normal college operations at this time, and we continue to ask those who are off campus to not come to campus.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGardenCityCommunityCollege%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02kBs2zJ8nNGfTY4XeXkpU7b2zB8CSyXRTcqCvmrFZPQjKtJGKgg7MAtYWkCJmz95El&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="194" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>In addition, all schools in Garden City are on lockout, according to USD 457.&nbsp; No one will be allowed in or out of the buildings, but classes will continue as normal inside.Check the Post for additional details as they become availavle.

Police: Threat ends, Garden City Com. College remains closed 

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced that Vijay Ramasamy has joined the Kelly Administration to serve as special advisor for water. In this role, Ramasamy will advise Kelly on water planning and develop coordinated strategies to ensure a sustainable future for water in Kansas.&nbsp;

“I am glad Vijay has rejoined my Administration to lead our work on water projects and move conservation efforts forward,”&nbsp;said Governor Laura Kelly.&nbsp;“This new role reaffirms my commitment to preserving our remaining water supply that has powered our farming economy for decades. Vijay’s expertise will be crucial as we address the historic drought Kansas is facing.”&nbsp;

The Special Advisor for Water is a new position created by Kelly to drive progress on the state's most pressing water issues. Ramasamy will be working with state and local partners throughout Kansas and across the region to advance shared water policy goals and develop strategies addressing short- and long-term issues related to water quality and quantity.&nbsp;

“It’s such a privilege to be able to return to my home state and serve the Kelly Administration and the people of Kansas on this critical issue,”&nbsp;Ramasamy said.&nbsp;“Water is the lifeblood of our communities and our economy, and I am looking forward to working with our incredible state and local partners to support the governor’s vision of securing this precious natural resource for generations to come.”&nbsp;

Ramasamy returns to the Kelly Administration, where he first served as a Policy Coordinator and later as a Policy and Budget Advisor from 2019-2021. Ramasamy recently completed both a master of public policy and a master of science in comparative social policy as a Rhodes Scholar at the University of Oxford. He holds an undergraduate bachelor of arts degree in public health studies from Johns Hopkins University.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687794349803.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of GovernorTOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced that Vijay Ramasamy has joined the Kelly Administration to serve as special advisor for water. In this role, Ramasamy will advise Kelly on water planning and develop coordinated strategies to ensure a sustainable future for water in Kansas.&nbsp;“I am glad Vijay has rejoined my Administration to lead our work on water projects and move conservation efforts forward,”&nbsp;said Governor Laura Kelly.&nbsp;“This new role reaffirms my commitment to preserving our remaining water supply that has powered our farming economy for decades. Vijay’s expertise will be crucial as we address the historic drought Kansas is facing.”&nbsp;The Special Advisor for Water is a new position created by Kelly to drive progress on the state's most pressing water issues. Ramasamy will be working with state and local partners throughout Kansas and across the region to advance shared water policy goals and develop strategies addressing short- and long-term issues related to water quality and quantity.&nbsp;“It’s such a privilege to be able to return to my home state and serve the Kelly Administration and the people of Kansas on this critical issue,”&nbsp;Ramasamy said.&nbsp;“Water is the lifeblood of our communities and our economy, and I am looking forward to working with our incredible state and local partners to support the governor’s vision of securing this precious natural resource for generations to come.”&nbsp;Ramasamy returns to the Kelly Administration, where he first served as a Policy Coordinator and later as a Policy and Budget Advisor from 2019-2021. Ramasamy recently completed both a master of public policy and a master of science in comparative social policy as a Rhodes Scholar at the University of Oxford. He holds an undergraduate bachelor of arts degree in public health studies from Johns Hopkins University.&nbsp;

New staff member will lead Kansas water policy efforts

By BRIDGET SMALL Federal Trace Commission

October is time for cooler days, warmer drinks, and the start of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cms.gov/priorities/key-initiatives/medicare-open-enrollment-partner-resources">Medicare Open Enrollment Period</a>.

If you have Medicare, October 15 – December 7 is when you can make changes to your Medicare health and Part D prescription drug plans. About now, you’ll probably be seeing ads from plans by mail, email, phone, and on TV. You might hear from scammers, too — but how will you know?

Medicare scammers often look official. They pretend to be from or connected to Medicare, or to a business you know. Their goal? Steal your information. To avoid the scammers:

• Never give personal information to anyone who&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/features/pass-it-on/health-insurance-scams" target="_blank">contacts you out of the blue</a>. Even if the request seems to come from Medicare. They might ask for things like your Medicare, Social Security, or financial account numbers. But&nbsp;<a href="https://www.medicare.gov/basics/reporting-medicare-fraud-and-abuse#:~:text=Remember%20that%20Medicare%20will%20never,a%20member%20of%20the%20plan." target="_blank">Medicare doesn’t call people unexpectedly</a>&nbsp;and ask for your Medicare number or financial information. They won’t call you to sell insurance or health care products. Not sure that call is legitimate? Hang up and call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE.&nbsp;

• Don’t respond to anyone who seems to be from Medicare and asks for your personal info. They might reach out by phone, mail, email, social media message, or text. They might include the Medicare name. They might look or seem government-y. But as soon as they ask for your Medicare, Social Security, or financial account numbers, you know it’s a scam. The real Medicare doesn’t ask for that kind of information. Also, don’t click on links, open any attachments, or call any numbers if you get those messages. They’re probably&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-avoid-phishing-scams" target="_blank">phishing</a>&nbsp;for your personal or financial information. Throw away the mail, delete the messages, or get off the phone.&nbsp;

Get help comparing Medicare costs, coverage, and plans from the State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.shiphelp.org%2F&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2023%2F10%2Fhow-avoid-medicare-open-enrollment-scams%3Futm_source%3Dgovdelivery">SHIPs</a>) in all U.S. states and territories.&nbsp;To report someone pretending to be from Medicare, call 1-800-MEDICARE, then tell the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667744206888.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BRIDGET SMALL Federal Trace CommissionOctober is time for cooler days, warmer drinks, and the start of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cms.gov/priorities/key-initiatives/medicare-open-enrollment-partner-resources">Medicare Open Enrollment Period</a>. If you have Medicare, October 15 – December 7 is when you can make changes to your Medicare health and Part D prescription drug plans. About now, you’ll probably be seeing ads from plans by mail, email, phone, and on TV. You might hear from scammers, too — but how will you know?Medicare scammers often look official. They pretend to be from or connected to Medicare, or to a business you know. Their goal? Steal your information. To avoid the scammers:• Never give personal information to anyone who&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/features/pass-it-on/health-insurance-scams" target="_blank">contacts you out of the blue</a>. Even if the request seems to come from Medicare. They might ask for things like your Medicare, Social Security, or financial account numbers. But&nbsp;<a href="https://www.medicare.gov/basics/reporting-medicare-fraud-and-abuse#:~:text=Remember%20that%20Medicare%20will%20never,a%20member%20of%20the%20plan." target="_blank">Medicare doesn’t call people unexpectedly</a>&nbsp;and ask for your Medicare number or financial information. They won’t call you to sell insurance or health care products. Not sure that call is legitimate? Hang up and call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE.&nbsp;• Don’t respond to anyone who seems to be from Medicare and asks for your personal info. They might reach out by phone, mail, email, social media message, or text. They might include the Medicare name. They might look or seem government-y. But as soon as they ask for your Medicare, Social Security, or financial account numbers, you know it’s a scam. The real Medicare doesn’t ask for that kind of information. Also, don’t click on links, open any attachments, or call any numbers if you get those messages. They’re probably&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-avoid-phishing-scams" target="_blank">phishing</a>&nbsp;for your personal or financial information. Throw away the mail, delete the messages, or get off the phone.&nbsp;Get help comparing Medicare costs, coverage, and plans from the State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.shiphelp.org%2F&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2023%2F10%2Fhow-avoid-medicare-open-enrollment-scams%3Futm_source%3Dgovdelivery">SHIPs</a>) in all U.S. states and territories.&nbsp;To report someone pretending to be from Medicare, call 1-800-MEDICARE, then tell the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>

FTC: How to avoid Medicare Open Enrollment scams

By ROSARIO MENDEZ Federal Trade Commission

What’s worse than a bogus charity? A bogus charity with a dishonest fundraiser. 

The FTC has sued and stopped dishonest charity fundraisers that&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2020/09/spot-and-stop-dishonest-charity-fundraisers">called people</a>&nbsp;to get them to donate to fake charities. Some prey on your kindness and desire to help people impacted by weather emergencies or a disaster. But when you get a call from a charity fundraiser, how do you know the caller is telling you the truth?

Here’s some advice.&nbsp;Ask the caller specific questions:

• What is the charity’s name, phone number, or address? Write these down so you can confirm them later. Keep in mind that many charity names sound alike, and that sham charities often use names that are sound and look like names of legitimate charities. &nbsp; • How much of your donation will go directly to the programs you want to support?&nbsp; • Will your donation be tax-deductible? Not every call seeking a donation is from a charity. Some calls might be from Political Action Committees or other groups where donations are not deductible. See more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0074-giving-charity" target="_blank">questions to ask here</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp; • What is the charity’s name, phone number, or address? Write these down so you can confirm them later. Keep in mind that many charity names sound alike, and that sham charities often use names that are sound and look like names of legitimate charities.&nbsp; • How much of your donation will go directly to the programs you want to support?&nbsp; &nbsp;• Will your donation be tax-deductible? Not every call seeking a donation is from a charity. Some calls might be from Political Action Committees or other groups where donations are not deductible. See more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0074-giving-charity" target="_blank">questions to ask here</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Resist the pressure to donate on the spot. After you’ve listened to the caller, hang up the phone and think about what they said. 

Then, go online and do your own research:&nbsp;

• Search for the organization’s name and phone number, plus the word “scam” or “complaint.” What you find might help you decide if you want to make that donation.&nbsp; • Look up the organization’s name and address. Does it show up? If it doesn’t, that could be a sign the caller was lying to you. • See what these rating organizations say about the charity: BBB&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.give.org%2F&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2020%2F09%2Fspot-and-stop-dishonest-charity-fundraisers" target="_blank">Wise Giving Alliance</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.charitynavigator.org%2F&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2020%2F09%2Fspot-and-stop-dishonest-charity-fundraisers" target="_blank">Charity Navigato</a>r,&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.charitywatch.org%2F&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2020%2F09%2Fspot-and-stop-dishonest-charity-fundraisers" target="_blank">Charity Watch</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.candid.org&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2020%2F09%2Fspot-and-stop-dishonest-charity-fundraisers%3Futm_source%3Dgovdelivery" target="_blank">Candid</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp; • Search for the organization’s name and phone number, plus the word “scam” or “complaint.” What you find might help you decide if you want to make that donation.&nbsp; • Look up the organization’s name and address. Does it show up? If it doesn’t, that could be a sign the caller was lying to you.&nbsp; • See what these rating organizations say about the charity: BBB&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.give.org%2F&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2020%2F09%2Fspot-and-stop-dishonest-charity-fundraisers" target="_blank">Wise Giving Alliance</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.charitynavigator.org%2F&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2020%2F09%2Fspot-and-stop-dishonest-charity-fundraisers" target="_blank">Charity Navigato</a>r,&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.charitywatch.org%2F&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2020%2F09%2Fspot-and-stop-dishonest-charity-fundraisers" target="_blank">Charity Watch</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.candid.org&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2020%2F09%2Fspot-and-stop-dishonest-charity-fundraisers%3Futm_source%3Dgovdelivery" target="_blank">Candid</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

If you get a donation request in the mail,&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/charity">do some research online</a>&nbsp;before you donate. And if you spot a charity scam, report it to the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2020/09/www.reportfraud.ftc.gov">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

Note: This blog, originally posted on September 16, 2020, now has updated advice.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696448018024.png" alt="Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By ROSARIO MENDEZ Federal Trade CommissionWhat’s worse than a bogus charity? A bogus charity with a dishonest fundraiser. The FTC has sued and stopped dishonest charity fundraisers that&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2020/09/spot-and-stop-dishonest-charity-fundraisers">called people</a>&nbsp;to get them to donate to fake charities. Some prey on your kindness and desire to help people impacted by weather emergencies or a disaster. But when you get a call from a charity fundraiser, how do you know the caller is telling you the truth?Here’s some advice.&nbsp;Ask the caller specific questions:• What is the charity’s name, phone number, or address? Write these down so you can confirm them later. Keep in mind that many charity names sound alike, and that sham charities often use names that are sound and look like names of legitimate charities. &nbsp; • How much of your donation will go directly to the programs you want to support?&nbsp; • Will your donation be tax-deductible? Not every call seeking a donation is from a charity. Some calls might be from Political Action Committees or other groups where donations are not deductible. See more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0074-giving-charity" target="_blank">questions to ask here</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp; • What is the charity’s name, phone number, or address? Write these down so you can confirm them later. Keep in mind that many charity names sound alike, and that sham charities often use names that are sound and look like names of legitimate charities.&nbsp; • How much of your donation will go directly to the programs you want to support?&nbsp; &nbsp;• Will your donation be tax-deductible? Not every call seeking a donation is from a charity. Some calls might be from Political Action Committees or other groups where donations are not deductible. See more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0074-giving-charity" target="_blank">questions to ask here</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp; Resist the pressure to donate on the spot. After you’ve listened to the caller, hang up the phone and think about what they said. Then, go online and do your own research:&nbsp; • Search for the organization’s name and phone number, plus the word “scam” or “complaint.” What you find might help you decide if you want to make that donation.&nbsp; • Look up the organization’s name and address. Does it show up? If it doesn’t, that could be a sign the caller was lying to you. • See what these rating organizations say about the charity: BBB&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.give.org%2F&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2020%2F09%2Fspot-and-stop-dishonest-charity-fundraisers" target="_blank">Wise Giving Alliance</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.charitynavigator.org%2F&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2020%2F09%2Fspot-and-stop-dishonest-charity-fundraisers" target="_blank">Charity Navigato</a>r,&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.charitywatch.org%2F&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2020%2F09%2Fspot-and-stop-dishonest-charity-fundraisers" target="_blank">Charity Watch</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.candid.org&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2020%2F09%2Fspot-and-stop-dishonest-charity-fundraisers%3Futm_source%3Dgovdelivery" target="_blank">Candid</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp; • Search for the organization’s name and phone number, plus the word “scam” or “complaint.” What you find might help you decide if you want to make that donation.&nbsp; • Look up the organization’s name and address. Does it show up? If it doesn’t, that could be a sign the caller was lying to you.&nbsp; • See what these rating organizations say about the charity: BBB&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.give.org%2F&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2020%2F09%2Fspot-and-stop-dishonest-charity-fundraisers" target="_blank">Wise Giving Alliance</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.charitynavigator.org%2F&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2020%2F09%2Fspot-and-stop-dishonest-charity-fundraisers" target="_blank">Charity Navigato</a>r,&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.charitywatch.org%2F&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2020%2F09%2Fspot-and-stop-dishonest-charity-fundraisers" target="_blank">Charity Watch</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.candid.org&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2020%2F09%2Fspot-and-stop-dishonest-charity-fundraisers%3Futm_source%3Dgovdelivery" target="_blank">Candid</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp; If you get a donation request in the mail,&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/charity">do some research online</a>&nbsp;before you donate. And if you spot a charity scam, report it to the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2020/09/www.reportfraud.ftc.gov">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.Note: This blog, originally posted on September 16, 2020, now has updated advice.

Federal Trade Commission: Spot, stop dishonest charity fundraisers

KANSAS CITY (AP) — It's been a big year for labor organizing in the U.S. And from auto production lines in Kansas City to Hollywood,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/strikes">all eyes are on strikes</a>&nbsp;taking the world of work by storm.

The boiling point we’re seeing today comes amid soaring costs of living and rising inequality, including growing pay gaps between workers and top executives. Now, thousands of workers who were asked to make sacrifices during the pandemic even as corporate profits soared are asking for better pay and protections — and walking off the job if progress isn't made in heated contract negotiations.

At least 453,000 workers have participated in 312 strikes in the U.S. this year, according to Johnnie Kallas, a Ph.D. candidate and the project director of Cornell University’s Labor Action Tracker. This year’s work stoppages have spread across multiple industries — including transportation, entertainment and hospitality.

Here's a rundown of some of the largest strikes taking place in the U.S. today.

75,000 Kaiser Permanente workers walk off the job

In the health care sector, a major strike kicked off this week — with some 75,000 Kaiser Permanente workers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kaiser-health-care-workers-strike-b8b40ce8c082c0b8c4f1c0fb7ec38741">walking off the job</a>&nbsp;Wednesday in multiple states. Strikers include licensed vocational nurses, home health aides and ultrasound sonographers, as well as technicians in the radiology, X-ray, surgical, pharmacy and emergency departments.

The Coalition of Kaiser Permanente Unions, which represents about 85,000 of the health system’s employees nationally, approved a strike for three days in California, Colorado, Oregon and Washington, and for one day in Virginia and Washington, D.C.

Back in August, unions representing Kaiser workers asked for a $25 hourly minimum wage, as well as increases of 7% each year in the first two years and 6.25% each year in the two years afterward. Union members say understaffing is boosting the hospital system’s profits but hurting patients, and executives have been bargaining in bad faith during negotiations.

Company executive Michelle Gaskill-Hames defended Kaiser — saying its practices, compensation and retention are better than its competitors. Kaiser has proposed minimum hourly wages of between $21 and $23 next year depending on the location.

Kaiser is one of the country’s larger insurers and health care system operators, serving nearly 13 million people. The Oakland, California-based nonprofit said its 39 hospitals, including emergency rooms, will remain open during the picketing, though appointments and non-urgent procedures could be delayed. Doctors are also not participating in the strike, and Kaiser said it was bringing in thousands of temporary workers.

UAW strike nears 3-week mark, with 25,000 on the picket lines

In an unprecedented labor campaign against three major car companies,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/autoworkers-detroit-general-motors-stellantis-ford-e2c78274333bea20856b90126a6b831c">some 25,000 auto workers</a>&nbsp;have joined picket lines in recent weeks

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/united-auto-workers">United Auto Workers</a>&nbsp;' targeted strikes against General Motors, Stellantis and Ford began at select factories after the union’s contract with the companies expired in mid-September — and have grown to a total of five vehicle assembly plants and 38 parts warehouses since.

UAW President Shawn Fain has announced strike expansions on each of the past two Fridays, citing a lack of what the union says is meaningful progress, but it's unclear how much that will continue as the strike nears its 3-week mark.

A person with direct knowledge of the talks&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/auto-workers-strike-negotiations-progress-gm-stellantis-ford-4dc51e9f463022bc3794e9615d8a705b">told The Associated Press</a>&nbsp;Wednesday that progress was reported at all three companies, with some offers being exchanged. Another said there was more movement in talks with Jeep maker Stellantis and less at Ford and General Motors. Neither wanted to be identified because they aren’t authorized to speak publicly about the bargaining.

Fain will update members on the negotiations again Friday. The union is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/uaw-strike-ford-gm-stellantis-contract-offers-5dd4dee2056b7efe06d2a55433d8d13a">seeking</a>&nbsp;36% general wage increases over four years, as well as a 32-hour week with 40 hours of pay, the restoration of traditional defined-benefit pensions for new hires and a return of cost-of-living pay raises, among&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/uaw-strike-ford-stellantis-general-motors-union-58cfc129b91b257b25c0a9254b2c44ec">other benefits</a>.

The companies, however, fear that raising their labor costs could make their vehicles more expensive than those manufactured by Tesla or foreign automakers with U.S. factories where workers are paid less. Tensions have also risen amid&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/strike-auto-workers-ford-gm-stellantis-dce8eb39a1e36f2cc54a5c1e4210e1f3">layoffs</a>&nbsp;impacting thousands of workers, with the auto makers saying some factories are running short on parts because of the strike.

Striking Hollywood actors resume talks with studios

Hollywood was taken by storm this summer with a historic&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/hollywood-strikes/">dual strike</a>&nbsp;from the unions representing writers and actors — bringing much of production to a halt.

After five months on the picket lines, the writers strike was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/writers-strike-deal-hollywood-vote-actors-d3119d670a4fd3449773bf8f4026fb2b">declared over</a>&nbsp;after their union approved a contract agreement with studios last week. Meanwhile, actors are still on strike — but a shot at cutting their own deal is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/actors-strike-late-night-shows-return-negotiations-1ddcaa8c4684375f8e56d2cd2abd62ea">finally on the horizon</a>.

The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/writers-strike-ends-actors-hollywood-28316c5104765576b7259b180e15c05b">began</a>&nbsp;negotiations Monday with the same group of major studios and streaming services, the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, for the first time since they&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/actors-strike-explained-2607dd29da6c16c0a406359a7e86d7fb">joined writers</a>&nbsp;on the picket lines on July 14. The two sides resumed talks Wednesday.

With similar sticking points to the writers, actors and their employers have been divided on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/actors-strike-explained-2607dd29da6c16c0a406359a7e86d7fb">issues of pay</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/artificial-intelligence-hollywood-strikes-explained-writers-actors-e872bd63ab52c3ea9f7d6e825240a202">use of artificial intelligence</a>&nbsp;and self-taped auditions. SAG-AFTRA leaders said they would look closely at the gains and compromises of the writers' deal, but emphasized that their demands would remain the same as they were when the strike began.

The two sides said in a joint statement that “several executives” from studios would be in on the talks, without providing names.

Southern California hotel workers' rolling strikes

Thousands of hotel workers in Southern California have staged&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/los-angeles-city-workers-strike-689eaa21d729694d8fa91080ddaa01df">staggered walkouts</a>&nbsp;over recent months. Union leaders are calling for better wages, improved health care, higher pension contributions, better safety protections and less strenuous workloads, among other benefits.

Members of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unitehere11.org/">Unite Here Local 11</a>&nbsp;overwhelmingly voted in favor of authorizing a strike back in June. After contracts expired at more than 60 hotels — including properties owned by major chains such as Marriott and Hilton — cooks, room attendants, dishwashers, servers, bellmen and front desk agents began picketing outside major hotels in Los Angeles and Orange counties&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/california-hotel-workers-strike-unite-here-0858937937766b75a1bfd10e9e41525f">at the start of July.</a>

During the staggered strikes, workers have also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/taylor-swift-los-angeles-hotel-strike-ff26bbef8cbf37c82469a446ff29f919">called for solidarity</a>&nbsp;and a boycott of hotels in the Los Angeles area. According to United Here Local 11's website, the rolling walkouts surpassed the 100th strike mark last month.

While walkouts continue at dozens of hotels, two companies have made agreements with the union to date. On Friday, United Here Local 11 said that Biltmore Los Angeles had reached a tentative contract agreement — joining Westin Bonaventure Hotel &amp; Suites, which averted walkouts with a June deal promising higher pay and increased staffing levels.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695067603080.png" alt="Autoworkers on strike in Missouri photo UAW" />
 <figcaption>Autoworkers on strike in Missouri photo UAW</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — It's been a big year for labor organizing in the U.S. And from auto production lines in Kansas City to Hollywood,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/strikes">all eyes are on strikes</a>&nbsp;taking the world of work by storm.The boiling point we’re seeing today comes amid soaring costs of living and rising inequality, including growing pay gaps between workers and top executives. Now, thousands of workers who were asked to make sacrifices during the pandemic even as corporate profits soared are asking for better pay and protections — and walking off the job if progress isn't made in heated contract negotiations.At least 453,000 workers have participated in 312 strikes in the U.S. this year, according to Johnnie Kallas, a Ph.D. candidate and the project director of Cornell University’s Labor Action Tracker. This year’s work stoppages have spread across multiple industries — including transportation, entertainment and hospitality.Here's a rundown of some of the largest strikes taking place in the U.S. today.75,000 Kaiser Permanente workers walk off the jobIn the health care sector, a major strike kicked off this week — with some 75,000 Kaiser Permanente workers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kaiser-health-care-workers-strike-b8b40ce8c082c0b8c4f1c0fb7ec38741">walking off the job</a>&nbsp;Wednesday in multiple states. Strikers include licensed vocational nurses, home health aides and ultrasound sonographers, as well as technicians in the radiology, X-ray, surgical, pharmacy and emergency departments.The Coalition of Kaiser Permanente Unions, which represents about 85,000 of the health system’s employees nationally, approved a strike for three days in California, Colorado, Oregon and Washington, and for one day in Virginia and Washington, D.C.Back in August, unions representing Kaiser workers asked for a $25 hourly minimum wage, as well as increases of 7% each year in the first two years and 6.25% each year in the two years afterward. Union members say understaffing is boosting the hospital system’s profits but hurting patients, and executives have been bargaining in bad faith during negotiations.Company executive Michelle Gaskill-Hames defended Kaiser — saying its practices, compensation and retention are better than its competitors. Kaiser has proposed minimum hourly wages of between $21 and $23 next year depending on the location.Kaiser is one of the country’s larger insurers and health care system operators, serving nearly 13 million people. The Oakland, California-based nonprofit said its 39 hospitals, including emergency rooms, will remain open during the picketing, though appointments and non-urgent procedures could be delayed. Doctors are also not participating in the strike, and Kaiser said it was bringing in thousands of temporary workers.UAW strike nears 3-week mark, with 25,000 on the picket linesIn an unprecedented labor campaign against three major car companies,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/autoworkers-detroit-general-motors-stellantis-ford-e2c78274333bea20856b90126a6b831c">some 25,000 auto workers</a>&nbsp;have joined picket lines in recent weeksThe&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/united-auto-workers">United Auto Workers</a>&nbsp;' targeted strikes against General Motors, Stellantis and Ford began at select factories after the union’s contract with the companies expired in mid-September — and have grown to a total of five vehicle assembly plants and 38 parts warehouses since.UAW President Shawn Fain has announced strike expansions on each of the past two Fridays, citing a lack of what the union says is meaningful progress, but it's unclear how much that will continue as the strike nears its 3-week mark.A person with direct knowledge of the talks&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/auto-workers-strike-negotiations-progress-gm-stellantis-ford-4dc51e9f463022bc3794e9615d8a705b">told The Associated Press</a>&nbsp;Wednesday that progress was reported at all three companies, with some offers being exchanged. Another said there was more movement in talks with Jeep maker Stellantis and less at Ford and General Motors. Neither wanted to be identified because they aren’t authorized to speak publicly about the bargaining.Fain will update members on the negotiations again Friday. The union is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/uaw-strike-ford-gm-stellantis-contract-offers-5dd4dee2056b7efe06d2a55433d8d13a">seeking</a>&nbsp;36% general wage increases over four years, as well as a 32-hour week with 40 hours of pay, the restoration of traditional defined-benefit pensions for new hires and a return of cost-of-living pay raises, among&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/uaw-strike-ford-stellantis-general-motors-union-58cfc129b91b257b25c0a9254b2c44ec">other benefits</a>.The companies, however, fear that raising their labor costs could make their vehicles more expensive than those manufactured by Tesla or foreign automakers with U.S. factories where workers are paid less. Tensions have also risen amid&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/strike-auto-workers-ford-gm-stellantis-dce8eb39a1e36f2cc54a5c1e4210e1f3">layoffs</a>&nbsp;impacting thousands of workers, with the auto makers saying some factories are running short on parts because of the strike.Striking Hollywood actors resume talks with studiosHollywood was taken by storm this summer with a historic&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/hollywood-strikes/">dual strike</a>&nbsp;from the unions representing writers and actors — bringing much of production to a halt.After five months on the picket lines, the writers strike was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/writers-strike-deal-hollywood-vote-actors-d3119d670a4fd3449773bf8f4026fb2b">declared over</a>&nbsp;after their union approved a contract agreement with studios last week. Meanwhile, actors are still on strike — but a shot at cutting their own deal is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/actors-strike-late-night-shows-return-negotiations-1ddcaa8c4684375f8e56d2cd2abd62ea">finally on the horizon</a>.The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/writers-strike-ends-actors-hollywood-28316c5104765576b7259b180e15c05b">began</a>&nbsp;negotiations Monday with the same group of major studios and streaming services, the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, for the first time since they&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/actors-strike-explained-2607dd29da6c16c0a406359a7e86d7fb">joined writers</a>&nbsp;on the picket lines on July 14. The two sides resumed talks Wednesday.With similar sticking points to the writers, actors and their employers have been divided on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/actors-strike-explained-2607dd29da6c16c0a406359a7e86d7fb">issues of pay</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/artificial-intelligence-hollywood-strikes-explained-writers-actors-e872bd63ab52c3ea9f7d6e825240a202">use of artificial intelligence</a>&nbsp;and self-taped auditions. SAG-AFTRA leaders said they would look closely at the gains and compromises of the writers' deal, but emphasized that their demands would remain the same as they were when the strike began.The two sides said in a joint statement that “several executives” from studios would be in on the talks, without providing names.Southern California hotel workers' rolling strikesThousands of hotel workers in Southern California have staged&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/los-angeles-city-workers-strike-689eaa21d729694d8fa91080ddaa01df">staggered walkouts</a>&nbsp;over recent months. Union leaders are calling for better wages, improved health care, higher pension contributions, better safety protections and less strenuous workloads, among other benefits.Members of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unitehere11.org/">Unite Here Local 11</a>&nbsp;overwhelmingly voted in favor of authorizing a strike back in June. After contracts expired at more than 60 hotels — including properties owned by major chains such as Marriott and Hilton — cooks, room attendants, dishwashers, servers, bellmen and front desk agents began picketing outside major hotels in Los Angeles and Orange counties&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/california-hotel-workers-strike-unite-here-0858937937766b75a1bfd10e9e41525f">at the start of July.</a>During the staggered strikes, workers have also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/taylor-swift-los-angeles-hotel-strike-ff26bbef8cbf37c82469a446ff29f919">called for solidarity</a>&nbsp;and a boycott of hotels in the Los Angeles area. According to United Here Local 11's website, the rolling walkouts surpassed the 100th strike mark last month.While walkouts continue at dozens of hotels, two companies have made agreements with the union to date. On Friday, United Here Local 11 said that Biltmore Los Angeles had reached a tentative contract agreement — joining Westin Bonaventure Hotel &amp; Suites, which averted walkouts with a June deal promising higher pay and increased staffing levels.

Thousands are on strike. A rundown of major US work stoppages

MANHATTAN — A public hearing will be conducted at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 19, 2023, to consider the adoption of proposed regulations that govern the administration of the Kansas Seed Law. The hearing will be held in person at the Kansas Department of Agriculture at 1320 Research Park Dr. in Manhattan, as well as via video conferencing system.

KDA is proposing four new regulations along with amendments to two existing regulations, all of which implement revisions and offer clarification to the Kansas Seed Law. The new regulations define terms, set guidelines about analysis to determine violations, establish a list of restricted weed seeds, establish a list of prohibited weed seeds, and clarify rules for seed labels.

For the most part, these changes implement revisions that were made to the Kansas Seed Law during the 2022 legislative session and also make minor clarifications. The only change imposed by these regulations that has the potential to have a practical effect on the agricultural seed industry is the addition of Caucasian bluestem and yellow bluestem seeds to the list of restricted weed seeds. This addition is proposed to help safeguard the agricultural industry from the threat of invasive weeds which is part of the agency’s mission to protect plant health.

KDA welcomes public input on any portion of the proposed regulations — especially the addition of the new species, including those species of Old World Bluestem — to the list of restricted weed seeds. Input can be shared on the public comment portion of the KDA website at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cuYWdyaWN1bHR1cmUua3MuZ292L1B1YmxpY0NvbW1lbnQ_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDkyOS44MzM0NDExMSJ9.SdOYbS_Owt-XNYereI54qNcuhxudi0nNf3wzptYS_8U/s/1377890830/br/227073869448-l" target="_blank">agriculture.ks.gov/PublicComment</a>&nbsp;prior to the hearing or sent to the Kansas Department of Agriculture, 1320 Research Park Dr., Manhattan, KS 66502. A copy of the proposed regulations, as well as an expanded notice of public hearing, may be accessed on that webpage as well.

Public comment will also be possible at the public hearing both for in-person and online participants. Anyone desiring to participate via video conference must pre-register at the Public Comment webpage to be provided with a video link.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689965639199.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDAMANHATTAN — A public hearing will be conducted at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 19, 2023, to consider the adoption of proposed regulations that govern the administration of the Kansas Seed Law. The hearing will be held in person at the Kansas Department of Agriculture at 1320 Research Park Dr. in Manhattan, as well as via video conferencing system.KDA is proposing four new regulations along with amendments to two existing regulations, all of which implement revisions and offer clarification to the Kansas Seed Law. The new regulations define terms, set guidelines about analysis to determine violations, establish a list of restricted weed seeds, establish a list of prohibited weed seeds, and clarify rules for seed labels.For the most part, these changes implement revisions that were made to the Kansas Seed Law during the 2022 legislative session and also make minor clarifications. The only change imposed by these regulations that has the potential to have a practical effect on the agricultural seed industry is the addition of Caucasian bluestem and yellow bluestem seeds to the list of restricted weed seeds. This addition is proposed to help safeguard the agricultural industry from the threat of invasive weeds which is part of the agency’s mission to protect plant health.KDA welcomes public input on any portion of the proposed regulations — especially the addition of the new species, including those species of Old World Bluestem — to the list of restricted weed seeds. Input can be shared on the public comment portion of the KDA website at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cuYWdyaWN1bHR1cmUua3MuZ292L1B1YmxpY0NvbW1lbnQ_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDkyOS44MzM0NDExMSJ9.SdOYbS_Owt-XNYereI54qNcuhxudi0nNf3wzptYS_8U/s/1377890830/br/227073869448-l" target="_blank">agriculture.ks.gov/PublicComment</a>&nbsp;prior to the hearing or sent to the Kansas Department of Agriculture, 1320 Research Park Dr., Manhattan, KS 66502. A copy of the proposed regulations, as well as an expanded notice of public hearing, may be accessed on that webpage as well.Public comment will also be possible at the public hearing both for in-person and online participants. Anyone desiring to participate via video conference must pre-register at the Public Comment webpage to be provided with a video link.

New regulations under consideration for Kansas Seed Law

PRATT&nbsp;– On Nov. 1, 2023, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks will hold a public auction for surplus bison from Maxwell Wildlife Refuge and the Sandsage Bison Range. The auction will begin at 11 a.m. and take place at Maxwell Wildlife Refuge – six miles north of Canton in McPherson County. Bidding and non-bidding parties are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Maxwell Wildlife Refuge is managed specifically to preserve the area’s prairie heritage. As such, herds of bison and elk are maintained, both species that are native to Kansas grasslands. However, because the Refuge can support only a certain number of animals, surplus bison are occasionally sold at a public auction.

A combined total of 62 bison will be auctioned this year, including:

10 – Cows&nbsp; 10 – Yearling Heifers&nbsp; 12 – 2-yr-old Bulls 11 – Yearling Bulls&nbsp; 9 – Bull Calves&nbsp; 10 – Heifer Calves&nbsp;

Heifer calves older than six months will be vaccinated for brucellosis and certificates issued.

Those interested in bidding may preregister by filling out the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vY29udGVudC9kb3dubG9hZC81NjMxMi82MTE4MjIvdmVyc2lvbi8xL2ZpbGUvUmVnaXN0cmF0aW9uK0Zvcm0rRmlsbGFibGUrQmlzb24rQXVjdGlvbitSZWdpc3RyYXRpb24ucGRmIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTAwMy44MzU0Nzc5MSJ9.IcJrpXzrY_uBqsKGns2ryVqCRKp2mszxudQaEJMgHL8/s/1303161001/br/227328180713-l" target="_blank">bidder registration form</a>&nbsp;and emailing it to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sarah.navarro@ks.gov">sarah.navarro@ks.gov</a>. Registration will also be available on site.

Buyers must pick up bison on the day of the sale or make arrangements with the refuge manager prior to the sale. Animals become the buyer’s responsibility upon settlement on auction day.

Load-out assistance is available until dusk on the day of the auction. Trailers should be covered or lined, as bison transport best in dark conditions.

Cash and personal checks (if accompanied by a notarized authorization letter from the issuing bank) will be accepted.

KDWP reserves the right to reject any or all bids.

For questions regarding the auction, contact Maxwell Wildlife Refuge manager Cliff Peterson at 620-628-4592 or the KDWP Pratt Operations Office at 620- 672-0797.

For more on Maxwell Wildlife Refuge, including tour information, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vS0RXUC1JbmZvL0xvY2F0aW9ucy9XaWxkbGlmZS1BcmVhcy9Tb3V0aC1DZW50cmFsL01heHdlbGwiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDAzLjgzNTQ3NzkxIn0.OoaheellzV2QVztxV-zy0EQ02cdoMTdCYn41K73uA8k/s/1303161001/br/227328180713-l" target="_blank">HERE</a>.

For more on the Sandsage Bison Range, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly9rc291dGRvb3JzLmNvbS9LRFdQLUluZm8vTG9jYXRpb25zL1dpbGRsaWZlLUFyZWFzL1NvdXRod2VzdC9TYW5kc2FnZS1CaXNvbi1SYW5nZSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzEwMDMuODM1NDc3OTEifQ.C0SWOE4RfQA8-9Jxj3LSH5ajJvS39_9r46MWL6URb9U/s/1303161001/br/227328180713-l" target="_blank">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696428243107.png" alt="Sandsage bison (Photo by KDWP)&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Sandsage bison (Photo by KDWP)&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>KDWPPRATT&nbsp;– On Nov. 1, 2023, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks will hold a public auction for surplus bison from Maxwell Wildlife Refuge and the Sandsage Bison Range. The auction will begin at 11 a.m. and take place at Maxwell Wildlife Refuge – six miles north of Canton in McPherson County. Bidding and non-bidding parties are welcome and encouraged to attend.Maxwell Wildlife Refuge is managed specifically to preserve the area’s prairie heritage. As such, herds of bison and elk are maintained, both species that are native to Kansas grasslands. However, because the Refuge can support only a certain number of animals, surplus bison are occasionally sold at a public auction.A combined total of 62 bison will be auctioned this year, including:10 – Cows&nbsp; 10 – Yearling Heifers&nbsp; 12 – 2-yr-old Bulls 11 – Yearling Bulls&nbsp; 9 – Bull Calves&nbsp; 10 – Heifer Calves&nbsp; Heifer calves older than six months will be vaccinated for brucellosis and certificates issued.Those interested in bidding may preregister by filling out the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vY29udGVudC9kb3dubG9hZC81NjMxMi82MTE4MjIvdmVyc2lvbi8xL2ZpbGUvUmVnaXN0cmF0aW9uK0Zvcm0rRmlsbGFibGUrQmlzb24rQXVjdGlvbitSZWdpc3RyYXRpb24ucGRmIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTAwMy44MzU0Nzc5MSJ9.IcJrpXzrY_uBqsKGns2ryVqCRKp2mszxudQaEJMgHL8/s/1303161001/br/227328180713-l" target="_blank">bidder registration form</a>&nbsp;and emailing it to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sarah.navarro@ks.gov">sarah.navarro@ks.gov</a>. Registration will also be available on site.Buyers must pick up bison on the day of the sale or make arrangements with the refuge manager prior to the sale. Animals become the buyer’s responsibility upon settlement on auction day.Load-out assistance is available until dusk on the day of the auction. Trailers should be covered or lined, as bison transport best in dark conditions.Cash and personal checks (if accompanied by a notarized authorization letter from the issuing bank) will be accepted.KDWP reserves the right to reject any or all bids.For questions regarding the auction, contact Maxwell Wildlife Refuge manager Cliff Peterson at 620-628-4592 or the KDWP Pratt Operations Office at 620- 672-0797.For more on Maxwell Wildlife Refuge, including tour information, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vS0RXUC1JbmZvL0xvY2F0aW9ucy9XaWxkbGlmZS1BcmVhcy9Tb3V0aC1DZW50cmFsL01heHdlbGwiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMDAzLjgzNTQ3NzkxIn0.OoaheellzV2QVztxV-zy0EQ02cdoMTdCYn41K73uA8k/s/1303161001/br/227328180713-l" target="_blank">HERE</a>.For more on the Sandsage Bison Range, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly9rc291dGRvb3JzLmNvbS9LRFdQLUluZm8vTG9jYXRpb25zL1dpbGRsaWZlLUFyZWFzL1NvdXRod2VzdC9TYW5kc2FnZS1CaXNvbi1SYW5nZSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzEwMDMuODM1NDc3OTEifQ.C0SWOE4RfQA8-9Jxj3LSH5ajJvS39_9r46MWL6URb9U/s/1303161001/br/227328180713-l" target="_blank">HERE</a>.

Public invited to bison auction at Maxwell Wildlife Refuge on Nov 1

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The State Library of Kansas Board held its regular meeting at the Statehouse last week. Several grant applications were among the key items discussed. The board unanimously approved funding for one Statewide Courier Grant and three Talking Books Service Outreach Grants. &nbsp;

The Statewide Courier Grant in the amount of $190,000 was awarded to the Northeast Kansas Library System to subsidize costs associated with administering the courier services that provide cost-effective and convenient delivery of shared resources between participating libraries across the state.&nbsp;

Outreach Grants to promote Kansas Talking Books services were provided to the Central, Northwest, and Southeast Kansas Library Systems, each in the amount of $14,043. These funds are used by each system to increase awareness of Talking Books programming for Kansans with print disabilities in each regional system’s service area. Activities funded by this grant include patron assistance and participation in community events such as health fair booths, relevant regional meetings, and visits to service providers, including schools and assisted living facilities.

Networking and community participation ensure that every qualifying entity across Kansas is made aware of the resources available through the Talking Book program through personal and professional connection to a quality library service.

These decisions underscore the Board's commitment to improving statewide library services and ensuring efficient resource access for all Kansas residents. For more information about the Board, see <a href="https://kslib.info/board">kslib.info/board</a>.&nbsp;

About the State Library of Kansas:

The State Library of Kansas serves as the central library agency for the state, providing a wide range of support and resources to libraries across Kansas. Its mission is to promote, develop, and support library and information services to ensure the availability of knowledge and cultural resources for all Kansans. Visit <a href="https://kslib.info/1474/Discover-What-Your-State-Library-Has-To-">kslib.info/discover</a> for general information about library services, or contact library staff at <a href="http://kslib.info/ask">kslib.info/ask</a>. Talking Books resources and information can be found at <a href="https://kslib.info/talking">kslib.info/talking</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696425247642.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KS State LibraryTOPEKA&nbsp;– The State Library of Kansas Board held its regular meeting at the Statehouse last week. Several grant applications were among the key items discussed. The board unanimously approved funding for one Statewide Courier Grant and three Talking Books Service Outreach Grants. &nbsp;The Statewide Courier Grant in the amount of $190,000 was awarded to the Northeast Kansas Library System to subsidize costs associated with administering the courier services that provide cost-effective and convenient delivery of shared resources between participating libraries across the state.&nbsp;Outreach Grants to promote Kansas Talking Books services were provided to the Central, Northwest, and Southeast Kansas Library Systems, each in the amount of $14,043. These funds are used by each system to increase awareness of Talking Books programming for Kansans with print disabilities in each regional system’s service area. Activities funded by this grant include patron assistance and participation in community events such as health fair booths, relevant regional meetings, and visits to service providers, including schools and assisted living facilities. Networking and community participation ensure that every qualifying entity across Kansas is made aware of the resources available through the Talking Book program through personal and professional connection to a quality library service.These decisions underscore the Board's commitment to improving statewide library services and ensuring efficient resource access for all Kansas residents. For more information about the Board, see <a href="https://kslib.info/board">kslib.info/board</a>.&nbsp;About the State Library of Kansas: The State Library of Kansas serves as the central library agency for the state, providing a wide range of support and resources to libraries across Kansas. Its mission is to promote, develop, and support library and information services to ensure the availability of knowledge and cultural resources for all Kansans. Visit <a href="https://kslib.info/1474/Discover-What-Your-State-Library-Has-To-">kslib.info/discover</a> for general information about library services, or contact library staff at <a href="http://kslib.info/ask">kslib.info/ask</a>. Talking Books resources and information can be found at <a href="https://kslib.info/talking">kslib.info/talking</a>.

NW Kansas Library System gets state grant for Talking Books outreach service

WASHINGTON (AP) — “THIS IS A TEST:" If you have a cell phone or are watching television Wednesday that message will flash across your screen as the federal government tests its emergency alert system used to tell people about emergencies.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/practitioners/integrated-public-alert-warning-system">Integrated Public Alert and Warning System</a>&nbsp;sends out messages via the&nbsp;<a href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fema.gov%2Femergency-alert-system&amp;data=05%7C01%7CPMarcelo%40ap.org%7Ccef8e0e7fb174b82465408dbbacf9e85%7Ce442e1abfd6b4ba3abf3b020eb50df37%7C1%7C0%7C638309173128071582%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=aZXAjubdHzIm0ZbVuRKH0kEtRsXU2kwk8P92tEFOwyQ%3D&amp;reserved=0">Emergency Alert System</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/practitioners/integrated-public-alert-warning-system/public/wireless-emergency-alerts">Wireless Emergency Alerts</a>.

The Emergency Alert System is a national public warning system that's designed to allow the president to speak to the American people within ten minutes during a national emergency via specific outlets such as radio and television. And Wireless Emergency Alerts are short messages — 360 characters or less — that go to mobile phones to alert their owner to important information.

While these types of alerts are frequently used in targeted areas to alert people in the area to thing like tornadoes, Wednesday's test is being done across the country.

The test is slated to start at 2:20 p.m. Eastern Time Wednesday. Wireless phone customers in the United States whose phones are on will get a message saying: “THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed.” The incoming message will also make a noise and the phone should vibrate.

Customers whose phones are set to the Spanish language will get the message in Spanish.

The test will be conducted over a 30-minute window started at 1:20 p.m. CDT although mobile phone owners would only get the message once. If their phones are turned off at 1:20 p.m. and then turned on in the next 30 minutes, they'll get the message when they turn their phones back on. If they turn their phones on after the 30 minutes have expired they will not get the message.

People watching broadcast or cable television or listening to the radio will hear and see a message lasting one minute that says: “This is a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System, issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, covering the United States from 1:20 CDT to 1:50 hours CDT. This is only a test. No action is required by the public."

Federal law&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/senate-bill/1180">requires</a>&nbsp;the systems be tested at least once every three years. The last nationwide test was Aug. 11, 2021.

The test&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fact-check-fema-hydroxychloroquine-rand-paul-ukraine-cf1d1adb0f179593b64d92be0a5d5507">has spurred falsehoods on social media</a>&nbsp;that it's part of a plot to send a signal to cell phones nationwide in order to activate nanoparticles such as graphene oxide that have been introduced into people’s bodies. Experts and FEMA officials have dismissed those claims but some social media say they'll shut off their cellphones Wednesday.

All wireless phones should receive the message only once. The following can be expected from the nationwide WEA test:

WEA alerts are created and sent by authorized federal, state, local, tribal and territorial government agencies through IPAWS to participating wireless providers, which deliver the alerts to compatible handsets in geo-targeted areas. To help ensure that these alerts are accessible to the entire public, including people with disabilities, the alerts are accompanied by a unique tone and vibration.&nbsp;

Important information about the EAS test:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695205625537.png" alt="Photo FEMA" />
 <figcaption>Photo FEMA</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — “THIS IS A TEST:" If you have a cell phone or are watching television Wednesday that message will flash across your screen as the federal government tests its emergency alert system used to tell people about emergencies.The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/practitioners/integrated-public-alert-warning-system">Integrated Public Alert and Warning System</a>&nbsp;sends out messages via the&nbsp;<a href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fema.gov%2Femergency-alert-system&amp;data=05%7C01%7CPMarcelo%40ap.org%7Ccef8e0e7fb174b82465408dbbacf9e85%7Ce442e1abfd6b4ba3abf3b020eb50df37%7C1%7C0%7C638309173128071582%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=aZXAjubdHzIm0ZbVuRKH0kEtRsXU2kwk8P92tEFOwyQ%3D&amp;reserved=0">Emergency Alert System</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/practitioners/integrated-public-alert-warning-system/public/wireless-emergency-alerts">Wireless Emergency Alerts</a>.The Emergency Alert System is a national public warning system that's designed to allow the president to speak to the American people within ten minutes during a national emergency via specific outlets such as radio and television. And Wireless Emergency Alerts are short messages — 360 characters or less — that go to mobile phones to alert their owner to important information.While these types of alerts are frequently used in targeted areas to alert people in the area to thing like tornadoes, Wednesday's test is being done across the country.The test is slated to start at 2:20 p.m. Eastern Time Wednesday. Wireless phone customers in the United States whose phones are on will get a message saying: “THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed.” The incoming message will also make a noise and the phone should vibrate.Customers whose phones are set to the Spanish language will get the message in Spanish.The test will be conducted over a 30-minute window started at 1:20 p.m. CDT although mobile phone owners would only get the message once. If their phones are turned off at 1:20 p.m. and then turned on in the next 30 minutes, they'll get the message when they turn their phones back on. If they turn their phones on after the 30 minutes have expired they will not get the message.People watching broadcast or cable television or listening to the radio will hear and see a message lasting one minute that says: “This is a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System, issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, covering the United States from 1:20 CDT to 1:50 hours CDT. This is only a test. No action is required by the public."Federal law&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/senate-bill/1180">requires</a>&nbsp;the systems be tested at least once every three years. The last nationwide test was Aug. 11, 2021.The test&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fact-check-fema-hydroxychloroquine-rand-paul-ukraine-cf1d1adb0f179593b64d92be0a5d5507">has spurred falsehoods on social media</a>&nbsp;that it's part of a plot to send a signal to cell phones nationwide in order to activate nanoparticles such as graphene oxide that have been introduced into people’s bodies. Experts and FEMA officials have dismissed those claims but some social media say they'll shut off their cellphones Wednesday.All wireless phones should receive the message only once. The following can be expected from the nationwide WEA test:<ul>
 <li>Beginning at approximately 2:20 p.m. ET, cell towers will broadcast the test for approximately 30 minutes. During this time, WEA-compatible wireless phones that are switched on, within range of an active cell tower, and whose wireless provider participates in WEA, should be capable of receiving the test message.&nbsp;</li><li>For consumers, the message that appears on their phones will read: “THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed.”</li><li>Phones with the main menu set to Spanish will display: “ESTA ES UNA PRUEBA del Sistema Nacional de Alerta de Emergencia. No se necesita acción.”</li>
 </ul>WEA alerts are created and sent by authorized federal, state, local, tribal and territorial government agencies through IPAWS to participating wireless providers, which deliver the alerts to compatible handsets in geo-targeted areas. To help ensure that these alerts are accessible to the entire public, including people with disabilities, the alerts are accompanied by a unique tone and vibration.&nbsp;Important information about the EAS test:<ul>
 <li>The EAS portion of the test is scheduled to last approximately one minute and will be conducted with the participation of radio and television broadcasters, cable systems, satellite radio and television providers&nbsp;and wireline video providers.</li><li>The test message will be similar to the regular monthly EAS test messages with which the public is familiar. It will state: “This is a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System, issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, covering the United States from 14:20 to 14:50 hours ET. This is only a test. No action is required by the public.</li>
 </ul>

Nationwide emergency alert test today via mobile phones, radio

PHELPS COUNTY —Inmates Steven Timothy Scott and Jonathan Eugene Schmidt O'Dell both managed to escape from the jail in Phelps County, according to the FBI in Kansas City. Scott later turning himself to authorities. 

Law enforcement continue to search for33-year-old Schmidt O'Dell. He is described as a white male, 6-feet-1 inches tall and weighs approximately 200 pounds with brown hair, blue eyes and a full beard at the time of his booking. 

He may have shaved his beard to disguise his identity. He was last seen wearing a maroon-colored shirt with a Phelps County logo and brown slacks with a tan stripe.

Just after 11p.m. Friday the two inmates at the Phelps County Jail escaped by comprising the structural integrity of the cell and exiting the building. 

O'Dell is facing federal charges. According to a federal indictment O'Dell planned to travel to Texas to shoot at illegal immigrants who crossed into the U.S. from Mexico. The indictment also alleges he planned to murder officers and employees of U.S. Border Patrol who attempted to stop him.

As a reminder, anyone who aids a wanted fugitive could be subject to serious charges.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Jonathan O'Dell is asked to call 9-1-1 as soon as possible.  For non-emergency tips, please call our command post at (573) 426-3886.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696102076107.png" alt="What escaped Phelps County Jail inmate O'Dell looked like without his beard. Call 911 is you see him." />
 <figcaption>What escaped Phelps County Jail inmate O'Dell looked like without his beard. Call 911 is you see him.</figcaption>
 </figure>PHELPS COUNTY —Inmates Steven Timothy Scott and Jonathan Eugene Schmidt O'Dell both managed to escape from the jail in Phelps County, according to the FBI in Kansas City. Scott later turning himself to authorities. Law enforcement continue to search for33-year-old Schmidt O'Dell. He is described as a white male, 6-feet-1 inches tall and weighs approximately 200 pounds with brown hair, blue eyes and a full beard at the time of his booking. He may have shaved his beard to disguise his identity. He was last seen wearing a maroon-colored shirt with a Phelps County logo and brown slacks with a tan stripe.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696102787994.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 11p.m. Friday the two inmates at the Phelps County Jail escaped by comprising the structural integrity of the cell and exiting the building. O'Dell is facing federal charges. According to a federal indictment O'Dell planned to travel to Texas to shoot at illegal immigrants who crossed into the U.S. from Mexico. The indictment also alleges he planned to murder officers and employees of U.S. Border Patrol who attempted to stop him.As a reminder, anyone who aids a wanted fugitive could be subject to serious charges.Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Jonathan O'Dell is asked to call 9-1-1 as soon as possible. For non-emergency tips, please call our command post at (573) 426-3886.

FBI: Search continues for escapee from county jail in Missouri

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Starting September 25, you can order four free test kits per household through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.covid.gov/tests">COVIDtests.gov</a>.

The tests will detect the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-covid-19-and-medical-devices/sars-cov-2-viral-mutations-impact-covid-19-tests">currently circulating COVID-19 variants</a>&nbsp;and are intended for use through the end of 2023. The kits will include&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-covid-19-and-medical-devices/home-otc-covid-19-diagnostic-tests#list">instructions on how to verify extended expiration dates</a>.&nbsp;Many kits have had their expiration dates extended beyond what may be printed on the packaging.

You don’t have to pay for shipping, and you’ll never be asked for a credit card or bank account number. You only need to give a name and shipping address. If you’d like an email confirmation and delivery updates from the U.S. Postal Service, you can submit your email address.&nbsp;Anyone who asks for more information than that is a scammer.&nbsp;

• Only go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.covidtests.gov/" target="_blank">COVIDtests.gov</a>&nbsp;to order your free test kits from the federal government. When you click to order, you’ll be redirected to&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=https%3A%2F%2Fspecial.usps.com%2Ftestkits&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2022%2F01%2Fits-official-get-free-covid-test-kits-covidtestsgov" target="_blank">special.usps.com/testkits</a>. If you’re following a link from a news story, double-check the URL that shows in your browser’s address bar.&nbsp;

• No one will call, text, or email you from the federal government to ask for your information to “help” you order free kits. Don’t give out your credit card, bank account, or Social Security number. Do not respond. Instead, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/" target="_blank">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695743544779.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FTCWASHINGTON, D.C. — Starting September 25, you can order four free test kits per household through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.covid.gov/tests">COVIDtests.gov</a>.The tests will detect the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-covid-19-and-medical-devices/sars-cov-2-viral-mutations-impact-covid-19-tests">currently circulating COVID-19 variants</a>&nbsp;and are intended for use through the end of 2023. The kits will include&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-covid-19-and-medical-devices/home-otc-covid-19-diagnostic-tests#list">instructions on how to verify extended expiration dates</a>.&nbsp;Many kits have had their expiration dates extended beyond what may be printed on the packaging.You don’t have to pay for shipping, and you’ll never be asked for a credit card or bank account number. You only need to give a name and shipping address. If you’d like an email confirmation and delivery updates from the U.S. Postal Service, you can submit your email address.&nbsp;Anyone who asks for more information than that is a scammer.&nbsp;So, remember:• Only go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.covidtests.gov/" target="_blank">COVIDtests.gov</a>&nbsp;to order your free test kits from the federal government. When you click to order, you’ll be redirected to&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=https%3A%2F%2Fspecial.usps.com%2Ftestkits&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2022%2F01%2Fits-official-get-free-covid-test-kits-covidtestsgov" target="_blank">special.usps.com/testkits</a>. If you’re following a link from a news story, double-check the URL that shows in your browser’s address bar.&nbsp;• No one will call, text, or email you from the federal government to ask for your information to “help” you order free kits. Don’t give out your credit card, bank account, or Social Security number. Do not respond. Instead, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/" target="_blank">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.&nbsp;

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