BOSTON (AP) — Six Dr. Seuss books — including “And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street” and “If I Ran the Zoo” — will stop being published because of racist and insensitive imagery, the business that preserves and protects the author’s legacy said Tuesday.

“These books portray people in ways that are hurtful and wrong,”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.seussville.com/" target="_blank">Dr. Seuss Enterprises</a>&nbsp;told The Associated Press in a statement that coincided with the late author and illustrator’s birthday.

“Ceasing sales of these books is only part of our commitment and our broader plan to ensure Dr. Seuss Enterprises’ catalog represents and supports all communities and families,” it said.

The other books affected are “McElligot’s Pool,” “On Beyond Zebra!,” “Scrambled Eggs Super!,” and “The Cat’s Quizzer.”

The decision to cease publication and sales of the books was made last year after months of discussion, the company told AP.

“Dr. Seuss Enterprises listened and took feedback from our audiences including teachers, academics and specialists in the field as part of our review process. We then worked with a panel of experts, including educators, to review our catalog of titles,” it said.

Books by Dr. Seuss — who was born Theodor Seuss Geisel in Springfield, Massachusetts, on March 2, 1904 —- have been translated into dozens of languages as well as in braille and are sold in more than 100 countries. He died in 1991.

He remains popular, earning an estimated $33 million before taxes in 2020, up from just $9.5 million five years ago, the company said. Forbes listed him No. 2 on its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/maddieberg/2020/11/13/the-highest-paid-dead-celebrities-of-2020/?sh=34ac0ff63b4b" target="_blank">highest-paid dead celebrities</a>&nbsp;of 2020, behind only the late pop star Michael Jackson.

As adored as Dr. Seuss is by millions around the world for the positive values in many of his works, including environmentalism and tolerance, there has been increasing criticism in recent years over the way Blacks, Asians and others are drawn in some of his most beloved children’s books, as well as in his earlier advertising and propaganda illustrations.

The National Education Association, which founded Read Across America Day in 1998 and deliberately aligned it with Geisel’s birthday, has for several years deemphasized Seuss and encouraged a more diverse reading list for children.

School districts across the country have also moved away from Dr. Seuss, prompting Loudoun County, Virginia, schools just outside Washington, D.C., to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lcps.org/site/default.aspx?PageType=3&amp;ModuleInstanceID=321579&amp;ViewID=7b97f7ed-8e5e-4120-848f-a8b4987d588f&amp;RenderLoc=0&amp;FlexDataID=401331&amp;PageID=235586" target="_blank">douse</a>&nbsp;rumors last month that they were banning the books entirely.

“Research in recent years has revealed strong racial undertones in many books written/illustrated by Dr. Seuss,” the school district said in a statement.

In 2017, a school librarian in Cambridge, Massachusetts,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hbook.com/?detailStory=dear-mrs-trump" target="_blank">criticized</a>&nbsp;a gift of 10 Seuss books from first lady Melania Trump, saying many of his works were “steeped in racist propaganda, caricatures, and harmful stereotypes.”

In 2018, a Dr. Seuss museum in his hometown of Springfield&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/99a4c5d6dd8b4c9f9b91a4c2ab8af54d">removed a mural</a>&nbsp;that included an Asian stereotype.

“The Cat in the Hat,” one of Seuss’ most popular books, has received criticism, too, but will continue to be published for now.

Dr. Seuss Enterprises, however, said it is “committed to listening and learning and will continue to review our entire portfolio.”

Numerous other popular children’s series have been criticized in recent years for alleged racism.

In the 2007 book, “Should We Burn Babar?,” the author and educator Herbert R. Kohl contended that the “Babar the Elephant” books were celebrations of colonialism because of how the title character leaves the jungle and later returns to “civilize” his fellow animals.

One of the books, “Babar’s Travels,” was removed from the shelves of a British library in 2012 because of its alleged stereotypes of Africans. Critics also have faulted the “Curious George” books for their premise of a white man bringing home a monkey from Africa.

And Laura Ingalls Wilder’s portrayals of Native Americans in her “Little House On the Prairie” novels have been faulted so often that the American Library Association removed her name in 2018 from a lifetime achievement award it gives out each year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614690497408.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BOSTON (AP) — Six Dr. Seuss books — including “And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street” and “If I Ran the Zoo” — will stop being published because of racist and insensitive imagery, the business that preserves and protects the author’s legacy said Tuesday.“These books portray people in ways that are hurtful and wrong,”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.seussville.com/" target="_blank">Dr. Seuss Enterprises</a>&nbsp;told The Associated Press in a statement that coincided with the late author and illustrator’s birthday.“Ceasing sales of these books is only part of our commitment and our broader plan to ensure Dr. Seuss Enterprises’ catalog represents and supports all communities and families,” it said.The other books affected are “McElligot’s Pool,” “On Beyond Zebra!,” “Scrambled Eggs Super!,” and “The Cat’s Quizzer.”The decision to cease publication and sales of the books was made last year after months of discussion, the company told AP.“Dr. Seuss Enterprises listened and took feedback from our audiences including teachers, academics and specialists in the field as part of our review process. We then worked with a panel of experts, including educators, to review our catalog of titles,” it said.Books by Dr. Seuss — who was born Theodor Seuss Geisel in Springfield, Massachusetts, on March 2, 1904 —- have been translated into dozens of languages as well as in braille and are sold in more than 100 countries. He died in 1991.He remains popular, earning an estimated $33 million before taxes in 2020, up from just $9.5 million five years ago, the company said. Forbes listed him No. 2 on its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/maddieberg/2020/11/13/the-highest-paid-dead-celebrities-of-2020/?sh=34ac0ff63b4b" target="_blank">highest-paid dead celebrities</a>&nbsp;of 2020, behind only the late pop star Michael Jackson.As adored as Dr. Seuss is by millions around the world for the positive values in many of his works, including environmentalism and tolerance, there has been increasing criticism in recent years over the way Blacks, Asians and others are drawn in some of his most beloved children’s books, as well as in his earlier advertising and propaganda illustrations.The National Education Association, which founded Read Across America Day in 1998 and deliberately aligned it with Geisel’s birthday, has for several years deemphasized Seuss and encouraged a more diverse reading list for children.School districts across the country have also moved away from Dr. Seuss, prompting Loudoun County, Virginia, schools just outside Washington, D.C., to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lcps.org/site/default.aspx?PageType=3&amp;ModuleInstanceID=321579&amp;ViewID=7b97f7ed-8e5e-4120-848f-a8b4987d588f&amp;RenderLoc=0&amp;FlexDataID=401331&amp;PageID=235586" target="_blank">douse</a>&nbsp;rumors last month that they were banning the books entirely.“Research in recent years has revealed strong racial undertones in many books written/illustrated by Dr. Seuss,” the school district said in a statement.In 2017, a school librarian in Cambridge, Massachusetts,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hbook.com/?detailStory=dear-mrs-trump" target="_blank">criticized</a>&nbsp;a gift of 10 Seuss books from first lady Melania Trump, saying many of his works were “steeped in racist propaganda, caricatures, and harmful stereotypes.”In 2018, a Dr. Seuss museum in his hometown of Springfield&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/99a4c5d6dd8b4c9f9b91a4c2ab8af54d">removed a mural</a>&nbsp;that included an Asian stereotype.“The Cat in the Hat,” one of Seuss’ most popular books, has received criticism, too, but will continue to be published for now.Dr. Seuss Enterprises, however, said it is “committed to listening and learning and will continue to review our entire portfolio.”Numerous other popular children’s series have been criticized in recent years for alleged racism.In the 2007 book, “Should We Burn Babar?,” the author and educator Herbert R. Kohl contended that the “Babar the Elephant” books were celebrations of colonialism because of how the title character leaves the jungle and later returns to “civilize” his fellow animals.One of the books, “Babar’s Travels,” was removed from the shelves of a British library in 2012 because of its alleged stereotypes of Africans. Critics also have faulted the “Curious George” books for their premise of a white man bringing home a monkey from Africa.And Laura Ingalls Wilder’s portrayals of Native Americans in her “Little House On the Prairie” novels have been faulted so often that the American Library Association removed her name in 2018 from a lifetime achievement award it gives out each year.___

Racist images: Why Dr. Seuss Enterprises shelved 6 books 

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Conservative Kansas legislators, still smarting over actions Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly took early in the coronavirus pandemic, pushed Monday to prevent the state from restricting religious gatherings or keeping abortion providers open during emergencies.

But Republicans are deeply split over how much to limit the power of state and local officials during future pandemics. Kelly kept a statewide stay-at-home order in place for five weeks last spring to check COVID-19′s spread. But the GOP-controlled Legislature later forced her to accept local control over mask mandates and the restriction of businesses and public gatherings to keep a state of emergency in place under a law that expires March 31.

Legislators are considering permanent changes in Kansas emergency management laws, and the state Senate passed,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210301170526_808210/" target="_blank">27-12,</a><a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/supp_note_sb273_01_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a bill</a>&nbsp;that would go further in restricting the power of the governor, the state health department’s director and local officials during public health emergencies. The House Judiciary Committee approved&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/hb2416_00_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a narrower measure</a>&nbsp;aimed at giving legislative leaders a bigger role in managing disasters.

Kelly criticized the Senate’s bill, saying that it would jeopardize the state’s ability to respond quickly and effectively.

“I won’t hesitate to veto any bill that slows or undermines my ability to respond to a crisis and save lives,” she said in a statement.

The final version of the bill is likely to be drafted by negotiators for the House and Senate later this month after their chambers approve their own legislation. Some GOP lawmakers have complained that rank-and-file legislators were largely bystanders for much of the time after COVID-19 first reached the state in March 2020, particularly early on.

“Our voices were silenced,” said Rep. Mark Samsel, a Wellsville Republican. “We were told what to do, and we weren’t allowed to do anything about it or have a voice at the table for two months that we’ll never get back.”

The Legislature’s debate over emergency management laws comes after weeks of criticism from Republican lawmakers that the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines has been too slow. The state health department reported Monday that almost 394,000 people had received at least one of two required doses of vaccines made by Pfizer or Moderna, or 13.5% of the state’s 2.9 million residents.

Kansas expects to receive 23,400 doses of Johnson &amp; Johnson’s one-shot vaccine that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/johnson-johnson-1-shot-dose-cleared-f13611719ad8d1655ed7b354af75a9a9">cleared for use&nbsp;</a>Saturday. The state health department said 584,000 doses of Pfizer or Moderna vaccines have been administered, or 72.5% of the 805,000 doses received.

Kansas saw an average of 370 new confirmed and probable COVID-19 cases a day during the seven days ending Monday, the lowest rolling seven-day average since early July 2020, according to health department data. The state added 639 cases since Friday, bringing its total for the pandemic to 294,302, or one in every 10 residents.

The state added another eight COVID-19 deaths since Friday, taking its toll to 4,743. The state averaged 14 additional deaths a day for the seven days ending Monday.

The ongoing decline in new cases has led some Republican lawmakers to argue that the state of emergency for the pandemic could be allowed to expire at the end of this month. Public health officials are worried about last month’s arrival in Kansas of a new, more contagious coronavirus variant first identified in the United Kingdom, and the state health department said eight new cases have been identified in the Wichita area, bringing the reported total in Kansas to 10.

The Senate’s emergency-management bill contains provisions that would prevent state and local officials from taking “any action” to limit religious gatherings during a public health emergency. It also would require officials to shut down abortion providers if other “business or commercial activity” is stopped.

Rep. Jesse Burris, a Mulvane Republican, attempted to add the same provisions to the House Judiciary Committee’s bill during a debate Monday, but GOP committee members split over it. His attempt failed on an 11-5 vote.

A cluster of coronavirus cases tied to religious gatherings prompted Kelly to attempt&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/9caef129077a14d98db069366487905b">to limit indoor worship&nbsp;</a>to 10 participants just before last Easter. She was forced&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/1ec624a15ae111e72a20dd6818d64451">to back off</a>&nbsp;after two churches filed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/46be1e677522a12871e6c834070a93a4">a federal lawsuit</a>&nbsp;and a judge ruled in their favor.

Also in April, the Sedgwick County Commission and GOP lawmakers urged Kelly to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/04f200dd64a3fba9e56ccb461012f21c">prevent abortion providers from terminating pregnancies</a>&nbsp;at a time when other health care providers were delaying or considering delays in elective procedures. The governor refused, declaring “reproductive health” an “essential need” during the statewide stay-at-home order.

“We put our stake in the ground and say, ‘No, we don’t believe abortion is essential,’” said Republican Rep. Stephen Owens, of Hesston.

But Rachel Sweet, a lobbyist for abortion provider Planned Parenthood Great Plains, called abortion “essential, time-sensitive health care.”

“It shouldn’t be treated like going to the gym or eating in a restaurant,” she said

By JOHN HANNATOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Conservative Kansas legislators, still smarting over actions Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly took early in the coronavirus pandemic, pushed Monday to prevent the state from restricting religious gatherings or keeping abortion providers open during emergencies.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vWcjfh6TpzQ?start=18495" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>But Republicans are deeply split over how much to limit the power of state and local officials during future pandemics. Kelly kept a statewide stay-at-home order in place for five weeks last spring to check COVID-19′s spread. But the GOP-controlled Legislature later forced her to accept local control over mask mandates and the restriction of businesses and public gatherings to keep a state of emergency in place under a law that expires March 31.Legislators are considering permanent changes in Kansas emergency management laws, and the state Senate passed,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210301170526_808210/" target="_blank">27-12,</a><a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/supp_note_sb273_01_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a bill</a>&nbsp;that would go further in restricting the power of the governor, the state health department’s director and local officials during public health emergencies. The House Judiciary Committee approved&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/hb2416_00_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a narrower measure</a>&nbsp;aimed at giving legislative leaders a bigger role in managing disasters.Kelly criticized the Senate’s bill, saying that it would jeopardize the state’s ability to respond quickly and effectively.“I won’t hesitate to veto any bill that slows or undermines my ability to respond to a crisis and save lives,” she said in a statement.The final version of the bill is likely to be drafted by negotiators for the House and Senate later this month after their chambers approve their own legislation. Some GOP lawmakers have complained that rank-and-file legislators were largely bystanders for much of the time after COVID-19 first reached the state in March 2020, particularly early on.“Our voices were silenced,” said Rep. Mark Samsel, a Wellsville Republican. “We were told what to do, and we weren’t allowed to do anything about it or have a voice at the table for two months that we’ll never get back.”The Legislature’s debate over emergency management laws comes after weeks of criticism from Republican lawmakers that the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines has been too slow. The state health department reported Monday that almost 394,000 people had received at least one of two required doses of vaccines made by Pfizer or Moderna, or 13.5% of the state’s 2.9 million residents.Kansas expects to receive 23,400 doses of Johnson &amp; Johnson’s one-shot vaccine that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/johnson-johnson-1-shot-dose-cleared-f13611719ad8d1655ed7b354af75a9a9">cleared for use&nbsp;</a>Saturday. The state health department said 584,000 doses of Pfizer or Moderna vaccines have been administered, or 72.5% of the 805,000 doses received.Kansas saw an average of 370 new confirmed and probable COVID-19 cases a day during the seven days ending Monday, the lowest rolling seven-day average since early July 2020, according to health department data. The state added 639 cases since Friday, bringing its total for the pandemic to 294,302, or one in every 10 residents.The state added another eight COVID-19 deaths since Friday, taking its toll to 4,743. The state averaged 14 additional deaths a day for the seven days ending Monday.The ongoing decline in new cases has led some Republican lawmakers to argue that the state of emergency for the pandemic could be allowed to expire at the end of this month. Public health officials are worried about last month’s arrival in Kansas of a new, more contagious coronavirus variant first identified in the United Kingdom, and the state health department said eight new cases have been identified in the Wichita area, bringing the reported total in Kansas to 10.The Senate’s emergency-management bill contains provisions that would prevent state and local officials from taking “any action” to limit religious gatherings during a public health emergency. It also would require officials to shut down abortion providers if other “business or commercial activity” is stopped.Rep. Jesse Burris, a Mulvane Republican, attempted to add the same provisions to the House Judiciary Committee’s bill during a debate Monday, but GOP committee members split over it. His attempt failed on an 11-5 vote.A cluster of coronavirus cases tied to religious gatherings prompted Kelly to attempt&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/9caef129077a14d98db069366487905b">to limit indoor worship&nbsp;</a>to 10 participants just before last Easter. She was forced&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/1ec624a15ae111e72a20dd6818d64451">to back off</a>&nbsp;after two churches filed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/46be1e677522a12871e6c834070a93a4">a federal lawsuit</a>&nbsp;and a judge ruled in their favor.Also in April, the Sedgwick County Commission and GOP lawmakers urged Kelly to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/04f200dd64a3fba9e56ccb461012f21c">prevent abortion providers from terminating pregnancies</a>&nbsp;at a time when other health care providers were delaying or considering delays in elective procedures. The governor refused, declaring “reproductive health” an “essential need” during the statewide stay-at-home order.“We put our stake in the ground and say, ‘No, we don’t believe abortion is essential,’” said Republican Rep. Stephen Owens, of Hesston.But Rachel Sweet, a lobbyist for abortion provider Planned Parenthood Great Plains, called abortion “essential, time-sensitive health care.”“It shouldn’t be treated like going to the gym or eating in a restaurant,” she said

🎥 Kan. Senate takes action to limit governor's power in emergencies 

BENTON COUNTY — Authorities investigating the bodies found in rural Benton County, Missouri have confirmed they are 4-year-old Kaiden Peak, 3-year-old Mayson Peak and their father Darrell Peak, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop A.

Darrell Peak had not been seen since leaving his southwest Missouri home with his two sons last week and was charged Monday with two counts of parental kidnapping.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Benton County is located 2 hours southeast of Kansas City.

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) — A father who hasn't been seen since leaving his southwest Missouri home with his two young sons last week was charged Monday with two counts of parental kidnapping.

Greene County’s prosecutor charged Darrell Peak, who left his home in Pleasant Hope on Thursday with Mayson Peak, 3, and Kaiden Peak, 4.

Greene County investigators said they do not believe Peak plans to return to the Springfield area.

The Greene County Sheriff's office said the children and their father were last seen around 7 p.m. Thursday in Warsaw after they left their home a few hours earlier.

A deputy thought she spotted them walking along Missouri 65 Thursday evening but they were gone when she turned around to check on them, the department said.

Earlier Thursday, a Missouri State Highway Patrol Trooper stopped to assist Peak on Missouri 65, also north of Warsaw, but he declined help. The children were with him and appeared to be fine, the trooper reported.

Darrell Peak suffers from depression and has made suicidal statements in the past, the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614689032350.png" alt=" Kaiden and Mayson Peak-photo Missouri State Highway Patrol" />
 <figcaption> Kaiden and Mayson Peak-photo Missouri State Highway Patrol</figcaption>
 </figure>BENTON COUNTY — Authorities investigating the bodies found in rural Benton County, Missouri have confirmed they are 4-year-old Kaiden Peak, 3-year-old Mayson Peak and their father Darrell Peak, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop A.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614653104800.png" alt="Peak photo Greene Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Peak photo Greene Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>Darrell Peak had not been seen since leaving his southwest Missouri home with his two sons last week and was charged Monday with two counts of parental kidnapping.&nbsp;&nbsp;Benton County is located 2 hours southeast of Kansas City.------SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) — A father who hasn't been seen since leaving his southwest Missouri home with his two young sons last week was charged Monday with two counts of parental kidnapping.Greene County’s prosecutor charged Darrell Peak, who left his home in Pleasant Hope on Thursday with Mayson Peak, 3, and Kaiden Peak, 4.Greene County investigators said they do not believe Peak plans to return to the Springfield area.The Greene County Sheriff's office said the children and their father were last seen around 7 p.m. Thursday in Warsaw after they left their home a few hours earlier.A deputy thought she spotted them walking along Missouri 65 Thursday evening but they were gone when she turned around to check on them, the department said.Earlier Thursday, a Missouri State Highway Patrol Trooper stopped to assist Peak on Missouri 65, also north of Warsaw, but he declined help. The children were with him and appeared to be fine, the trooper reported.Darrell Peak suffers from depression and has made suicidal statements in the past, the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

MSHP: Bodies found are father, 2 sons reported missing last week

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Meatpacking workers across the country have started receiving coronavirus vaccines and thousands more will have a chance to get their shots this week, offering some peace of mind in an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/83ef6383e6a437aae20962e3c9de8855" target="_blank">industry that was ravaged by COVID-19</a>&nbsp;a year ago.

"There's a level of relief to know they are finally getting the vaccination, and maybe we can start taking steps back to normal -- not just at the work site but just in their life in general," said Mark Lauritsen, who was meeting with workers at a Tyson Foods plant in Waterloo, Iowa, Monday about their chance to get the vaccine this week.

Lauritsen, who is the United Food and Commercial Workers union's vice president of food processing and meatpacking, said that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lobbying-coronavirus-pandemic-995fdcf74f5b14026931a77ec0e83b10" target="_blank">interest in the vaccine</a>&nbsp;is high among workers after the industry took such a heavy toll from the virus. He expects - based on a union survey and the experience at the first couple plants where vaccines were offered - that roughly 70% of workers who get the chance to be vaccinated will get a shot.

Last spring,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/3245fe475b5552e493cfeb288ce04131" target="_blank">major outbreaks at a number of meatpacking plants&nbsp;</a>- where workers often stand should-to-shoulder on production lines - forced them to close temporarily because of the number of illnesses and to install additional safety measures. Across the industry, production fell as low at 60% of capacity in April at the height of the plant closures before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/7cc88f4efe5d162fdba6a9f275a60dff" target="_blank">rebounding to near normal levels</a>&nbsp;over the summer.

The UFCW union, which represents roughly 80% of the nation's beef and pork workers and 33% of its poultry workers, estimates that at least 22,000 meatpacking workers have been infected or exposed, and 132 have died of COVID-19.

The major meatpacking companies - JBS, Cargill, Tyson Foods and Smithfield Foods - say a number of states plan to begin vaccinating meat plant workers this week, including in Iowa, Colorado, Nebraska, Kansas, North Carolina, Missouri, Kentucky and Michigan. In some of those states, only workers aged 65 or older are able to receive the vaccine at this point but several of those states are conducting mass vaccination events at plants.

Company officials and the union have been encouraging workers to get the shots.

"We have been focused on doing everything we can to prioritize our essential workforce in state vaccination plans across the country," JBS CEO Andre Nogueira said.

Illinois was one of the first places to offer the vaccines to entire plants of workers last month. JBS and Tyson said workers at two of their plants in that state are due to receive their second required shots of the vaccine soon.

Tyson said many of its 13,000 workers in Iowa will have a chance to get vaccinated this week when the shots are delivered in Columbus Junction, Council Bluffs, Independence, Perry, Sioux City, Storm Lake and Waterloo.

JBS and Pilgrim's Pride said roughly 8,500 of their workers in eight states will have the chance to get the vaccine this week. One of the biggest vaccination clinics will be held at the end of this week at a major JBS beef plant near the company's headquarters in Greeley, Colorado, where more than 3,000 people work.

That Greeley plant was one of the early hot spots during the pandemic. Six deaths and nearly 500 cases of COVID-19 have been linked to the plant since last March, according to Kim Cordova, president of the local UFCW union that represents the plant's workers.

"They have been on the front lines since day one and now they will finally have the opportunity to access the vaccine," Cordova said.

Even after the vaccinations, meat companies will have to continue to rely on the safety measures they took since last spring. After the outbreaks began, meat producers tried to protect workers by instituting temperature checks and wellness screening, installing plastic dividers between workstations, increasing plant sanitization, conducting random virus testing, and requiring masks and other protective gear. In some cases, companies upgraded their plant ventilation systems.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608590848237.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Meatpacking workers across the country have started receiving coronavirus vaccines and thousands more will have a chance to get their shots this week, offering some peace of mind in an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/83ef6383e6a437aae20962e3c9de8855" target="_blank">industry that was ravaged by COVID-19</a>&nbsp;a year ago."There's a level of relief to know they are finally getting the vaccination, and maybe we can start taking steps back to normal -- not just at the work site but just in their life in general," said Mark Lauritsen, who was meeting with workers at a Tyson Foods plant in Waterloo, Iowa, Monday about their chance to get the vaccine this week.Lauritsen, who is the United Food and Commercial Workers union's vice president of food processing and meatpacking, said that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lobbying-coronavirus-pandemic-995fdcf74f5b14026931a77ec0e83b10" target="_blank">interest in the vaccine</a>&nbsp;is high among workers after the industry took such a heavy toll from the virus. He expects - based on a union survey and the experience at the first couple plants where vaccines were offered - that roughly 70% of workers who get the chance to be vaccinated will get a shot.Last spring,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/3245fe475b5552e493cfeb288ce04131" target="_blank">major outbreaks at a number of meatpacking plants&nbsp;</a>- where workers often stand should-to-shoulder on production lines - forced them to close temporarily because of the number of illnesses and to install additional safety measures. Across the industry, production fell as low at 60% of capacity in April at the height of the plant closures before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/7cc88f4efe5d162fdba6a9f275a60dff" target="_blank">rebounding to near normal levels</a>&nbsp;over the summer.The UFCW union, which represents roughly 80% of the nation's beef and pork workers and 33% of its poultry workers, estimates that at least 22,000 meatpacking workers have been infected or exposed, and 132 have died of COVID-19.The major meatpacking companies - JBS, Cargill, Tyson Foods and Smithfield Foods - say a number of states plan to begin vaccinating meat plant workers this week, including in Iowa, Colorado, Nebraska, Kansas, North Carolina, Missouri, Kentucky and Michigan. In some of those states, only workers aged 65 or older are able to receive the vaccine at this point but several of those states are conducting mass vaccination events at plants.Company officials and the union have been encouraging workers to get the shots."We have been focused on doing everything we can to prioritize our essential workforce in state vaccination plans across the country," JBS CEO Andre Nogueira said.Illinois was one of the first places to offer the vaccines to entire plants of workers last month. JBS and Tyson said workers at two of their plants in that state are due to receive their second required shots of the vaccine soon.Tyson said many of its 13,000 workers in Iowa will have a chance to get vaccinated this week when the shots are delivered in Columbus Junction, Council Bluffs, Independence, Perry, Sioux City, Storm Lake and Waterloo.JBS and Pilgrim's Pride said roughly 8,500 of their workers in eight states will have the chance to get the vaccine this week. One of the biggest vaccination clinics will be held at the end of this week at a major JBS beef plant near the company's headquarters in Greeley, Colorado, where more than 3,000 people work.That Greeley plant was one of the early hot spots during the pandemic. Six deaths and nearly 500 cases of COVID-19 have been linked to the plant since last March, according to Kim Cordova, president of the local UFCW union that represents the plant's workers."They have been on the front lines since day one and now they will finally have the opportunity to access the vaccine," Cordova said.Even after the vaccinations, meat companies will have to continue to rely on the safety measures they took since last spring. After the outbreaks began, meat producers tried to protect workers by instituting temperature checks and wellness screening, installing plastic dividers between workstations, increasing plant sanitization, conducting random virus testing, and requiring masks and other protective gear. In some cases, companies upgraded their plant ventilation systems.

Thousands of meatpacking workers to be vaccinated this week

The Silver Alert issued Monday for 74-year-old Robert Whitfield was canceled just before 10:30a.m. Monday.&nbsp; He is home and safe, according to officer Trevor Macy with the Wichita Police Department.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities need help locating 74-year-old Robert Whitfield.

He was last seen leaving his residence in the 1900 block of North Keith Ct. in in Wichita at 10:30a.m. Monday to go to his son's house but never arrived. 

Robert is diagnosed with diabetes and his diabetes is not well controlled.

Robert is 5-foot-9 and weighs 150 pounds. He has grey hair that is thin on top and was last seen wearing blue jeans, a blue polo shirt, blue shoes and a green jacket.

He was last known to be driving a red 2018 Ford pickup truck with Kansas tag 947AC. If you see him, or you know where he is, please call 911.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614683801483.png" alt="Robert Whitfield-photo Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Robert Whitfield-photo Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>The Silver Alert issued Monday for 74-year-old Robert Whitfield was canceled just before 10:30a.m. Monday.&nbsp; He is home and safe, according to officer Trevor Macy with the Wichita Police Department.---------SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities need help locating 74-year-old Robert Whitfield.He was last seen leaving his residence in the 1900 block of North Keith Ct. in in Wichita at 10:30a.m. Monday to go to his son's house but never arrived. Robert is diagnosed with diabetes and his diabetes is not well controlled.Robert is 5-foot-9 and weighs 150 pounds. He has grey hair that is thin on top and was last seen wearing blue jeans, a blue polo shirt, blue shoes and a green jacket.He was last known to be driving a red 2018 Ford pickup truck with Kansas tag 947AC. If you see him, or you know where he is, please call 911.

Silver Alert canceled: Missing Kansas man is home

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is launching three mobile testing units for COVID-19 in order to expand testing access across the state and provide rapid response in the event of an outbreak, according to a media release from the agency.

“Ramping up testing capabilities in Kansas has been critical to identify COVID-19 in our state and stop the spread,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “We must remain vigilant and continue following proven public health measures. I urge you to utilize the free testing locations in your area.”

The mobile testing will target areas that are not easily served by fixed testing sites and will also target at-risk communities. The mobile vans are self-contained, leveraging KDHE staff, supplies, resulting technology and customer service.

Beginning in March, the mobile testing units will be in Butler, Douglas and Sumner counties weekly throughout the month.

Baldwin City Public Library, 800 7th Street, Baldwin City every Monday in March between 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Cowley College, Sumner Campus Community Room, 2208 Davis-White Loop in Wellington every Tuesday in March between 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Andover Police Department, 909 N Andover Road, Andover every Wednesday in March between 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Testing is free and available to anyone and insurance is not required. Results are generally available within two days.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614618511328.png" alt="photo KDHE" />
 <figcaption>photo KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is launching three mobile testing units for COVID-19 in order to expand testing access across the state and provide rapid response in the event of an outbreak, according to a media release from the agency.“Ramping up testing capabilities in Kansas has been critical to identify COVID-19 in our state and stop the spread,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “We must remain vigilant and continue following proven public health measures. I urge you to utilize the free testing locations in your area.”The mobile testing will target areas that are not easily served by fixed testing sites and will also target at-risk communities. The mobile vans are self-contained, leveraging KDHE staff, supplies, resulting technology and customer service.Beginning in March, the mobile testing units will be in Butler, Douglas and Sumner counties weekly throughout the month.Douglas CountyBaldwin City Public Library, 800 7th Street, Baldwin City every Monday in March between 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.Sumner CountyCowley College, Sumner Campus Community Room, 2208 Davis-White Loop in Wellington every Tuesday in March between 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.Butler CountyAndover Police Department, 909 N Andover Road, Andover every Wednesday in March between 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.Testing is free and available to anyone and insurance is not required. Results are generally available within two days.

KDHE launches 3 mobile COVID-19 testing units

KANSAS CITY– A Kansas City area registered sex offender was sentenced in federal court Friday for receiving child pornography over the internet.

Joseph L. Smith, 48, Raytown, Missouri was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Brian C. Wimes to 15 years in federal prison without parole., according to the United State's Attorney.

The court also sentenced Smith to spend the rest of his life on supervised release following incarceration. Smith must pay $33,000 in restitution to his victims.

Smith is a registered sex offender who was convicted in 1992 for forcible oral sodomy of an 8-year-old female. Smith was also convicted of failure to register as a sex offender in 2001.

On Oct. 15, 2020, Smith pleaded guilty to receiving child pornography over the internet. Smith admitted to participating in chat rooms and to receiving various links which included images and videos that depicted child pornography.

On March 15, 2018, investigators obtained a search warrant to seize Smith’s laptop and hard drive. A forensic analysis disclosed a total of approximately 13,036 suspected child pornography files on the laptop and hard drive. Of those files, 11,205 were still images and 1,831 were videos. Approximately 1,327 images and 428 videos depicted infants, toddlers, and prepubescent children. Approximately nine images and 52 videos depicted minor children subjected to bondage, torture, sadomasochistic behaviors, or other violence. Approximately 10 images and eight videos depicted minor children engaged in bestiality or sexual acts involving animals.

The investigation began on March 20, 2017, when the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received a tip from Dropbox, Inc., regarding 49 files of child pornography uploaded into Smith’s account. Additionally, on June 8, 2017, the Toronto, Canada, Police Service executed a criminal code search warrant on the residence of an individual in Scarborough, Canada. During the search, the individual’s computers were examined and hundreds of images of child pornography were discovered. The police also reviewed approximately 30,000 Kik chats and identified Smith as one of a number of suspects whom the individual either sent to or received child pornography from.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614371614463.png" alt="Smith-photo Sex Offender Registry" />
 <figcaption>Smith-photo Sex Offender Registry</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY– A Kansas City area registered sex offender was sentenced in federal court Friday for receiving child pornography over the internet.Joseph L. Smith, 48, Raytown, Missouri was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Brian C. Wimes to 15 years in federal prison without parole., according to the United State's Attorney.The court also sentenced Smith to spend the rest of his life on supervised release following incarceration. Smith must pay $33,000 in restitution to his victims.Smith is a registered sex offender who was convicted in 1992 for forcible oral sodomy of an 8-year-old female. Smith was also convicted of failure to register as a sex offender in 2001.On Oct. 15, 2020, Smith pleaded guilty to receiving child pornography over the internet. Smith admitted to participating in chat rooms and to receiving various links which included images and videos that depicted child pornography.On March 15, 2018, investigators obtained a search warrant to seize Smith’s laptop and hard drive. A forensic analysis disclosed a total of approximately 13,036 suspected child pornography files on the laptop and hard drive. Of those files, 11,205 were still images and 1,831 were videos. Approximately 1,327 images and 428 videos depicted infants, toddlers, and prepubescent children. Approximately nine images and 52 videos depicted minor children subjected to bondage, torture, sadomasochistic behaviors, or other violence. Approximately 10 images and eight videos depicted minor children engaged in bestiality or sexual acts involving animals.The investigation began on March 20, 2017, when the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received a tip from Dropbox, Inc., regarding 49 files of child pornography uploaded into Smith’s account. Additionally, on June 8, 2017, the Toronto, Canada, Police Service executed a criminal code search warrant on the residence of an individual in Scarborough, Canada. During the search, the individual’s computers were examined and hundreds of images of child pornography were discovered. The police also reviewed approximately 30,000 Kik chats and identified Smith as one of a number of suspects whom the individual either sent to or received child pornography from.

Canadian investigation leads to arrest of KC-area sex offender 

SEDGWICK COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 2:30a.m. Monday in Sedgwick County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Dodge Charger driven by Luis Fernando&nbsp;Ramos-Tafolla, 28, Wichita, was southbound on Interstate 135 in the right lane. The car rear-ended a 1999 Toyota Camry driven by Jessie Lee Johnson, 60, Wichita.

The Dodge left the road to the right, struck the KDOT barrier, a light pole, vaulted over the edge of Interstate 135 and struck the on ramp from 13th Street to I-135 before landing under I-135.

The Toyota spun around, struck the right KDOT barrier and came to rest in the left lane.

Johnson was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to the Sedgwick County Forensics Center. EMS transported&nbsp;Ramos-Tafolla and&nbsp; passengers in the Toyota Brady Lee Davis, 62, and Sherry Elaine Baker, 52, both of Wichita to local hospitals. Baker was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.&nbsp; The agency did not have details on Baker's seat belt usage.

The crash shut down a stretch of Interstate 135 for several hours early Monday.

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Police say one person has died and three others were injured in a two-vehicle crash in northeastern Wichita that shut down a stretch of Interstate 135 for several hours. 

The crash happened around 2:30 a.m. Monday at Interstate 135 and 13th Street.

 Investigators determined that one car rear-ended another, sending that car over a guardrail of the elevated interstate to the ground below. Police say a person in the car that remained on the interstate died and two others were injured. Police said the driver of that vehicle sent over the side of the interstate is being treated at a hospital.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614612762681.png" alt="Kandrive-Wichway camera view of the crash scene just after 5a.m. Monday" />
 <figcaption>Kandrive-Wichway camera view of the crash scene just after 5a.m. Monday</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 2:30a.m. Monday in Sedgwick County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Dodge Charger driven by Luis Fernando&nbsp;Ramos-Tafolla, 28, Wichita, was southbound on Interstate 135 in the right lane. The car rear-ended a 1999 Toyota Camry driven by Jessie Lee Johnson, 60, Wichita.The Dodge left the road to the right, struck the KDOT barrier, a light pole, vaulted over the edge of Interstate 135 and struck the on ramp from 13th Street to I-135 before landing under I-135.The Toyota spun around, struck the right KDOT barrier and came to rest in the left lane.Johnson was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to the Sedgwick County Forensics Center. EMS transported&nbsp;Ramos-Tafolla and&nbsp; passengers in the Toyota Brady Lee Davis, 62, and Sherry Elaine Baker, 52, both of Wichita to local hospitals. Baker was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.&nbsp; The agency did not have details on Baker's seat belt usage.The crash shut down a stretch of Interstate 135 for several hours early Monday.----------WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Police say one person has died and three others were injured in a two-vehicle crash in northeastern Wichita that shut down a stretch of Interstate 135 for several hours. The crash happened around 2:30 a.m. Monday at Interstate 135 and 13th Street. Investigators determined that one car rear-ended another, sending that car over a guardrail of the elevated interstate to the ground below. Police say a person in the car that remained on the interstate died and two others were injured. Police said the driver of that vehicle sent over the side of the interstate is being treated at a hospital.

Police ID Kansas man who died in violent rear-end crash

SALINE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man for the beating death of his father in Salina.

Just before 9p.m. Saturday, police and EMS were dispatched to the 900 block of Mellinger Drive for the report of a domestic violence battery, according to a media release.

At the scene, investigators determined that 48-year-old Chad Eric Jones&nbsp; had battered his 79-year-old father, Carlton Jones, and his 78-year-old mother before leaving the scene.

EMS personnel determined that Carlton Jones had serious life-threatening injuries and immediately transported him to Salina Regional Health Center, where he was admitted and placed in the intensive care unit.

Officers located and stopped Chad&nbsp; Jones who was operating a motor vehicle near the crime scene. At that point, he was arrested in connection to the battery of his parents in the 900 block of Mellinger Drive.

On Sunday afternoon, Carlton Jones died at the hospital, according to police.

Chad Jones is being held on requested charges of Murder in the 1st degree, Mistreatment of a dependent adult and Domestic battery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614628047971.jpeg" alt="Jones photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Jones photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man for the beating death of his father in Salina.Just before 9p.m. Saturday, police and EMS were dispatched to the 900 block of Mellinger Drive for the report of a domestic violence battery, according to a media release.At the scene, investigators determined that 48-year-old Chad Eric Jones&nbsp; had battered his 79-year-old father, Carlton Jones, and his 78-year-old mother before leaving the scene.EMS personnel determined that Carlton Jones had serious life-threatening injuries and immediately transported him to Salina Regional Health Center, where he was admitted and placed in the intensive care unit.Officers located and stopped Chad&nbsp; Jones who was operating a motor vehicle near the crime scene. At that point, he was arrested in connection to the battery of his parents in the 900 block of Mellinger Drive.On Sunday afternoon, Carlton Jones died at the hospital, according to police.Chad Jones is being held on requested charges of Murder in the 1st degree, Mistreatment of a dependent adult and Domestic battery.

Police: Kansas man accused in the beating death of his father

JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman on drug charges after a traffic stop.

Just after 2:30p.m. February 27, a sheriff’s deputy stopped a 2017 Chevy Cruze near 174th and U.S. Hwy 75 for a traffic infraction, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 Further investigation led to the arrest of the driver, Amanda Dawn Monser, 45, of Horton, on requested charges of&nbsp; possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving without a license. Monser is being held in the Jackson County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614646501075.png" alt="Monser photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Monser photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman on drug charges after a traffic stop.Just after 2:30p.m. February 27, a sheriff’s deputy stopped a 2017 Chevy Cruze near 174th and U.S. Hwy 75 for a traffic infraction, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. Further investigation led to the arrest of the driver, Amanda Dawn Monser, 45, of Horton, on requested charges of&nbsp; possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving without a license. Monser is being held in the Jackson County Jail.

Sheriff: 45-year-old Kansas woman had meth in her car

BLUE SPRINGS, Mo. (AP) — Two men have been arrested in the shooting death last week of another man in suburban Kansas City, police there said.

Police are investigating the Friday afternoon shooting death of Gregory Marchand, 46, of Blue Springs.

 The shooting happened along NW Missouri 7 in Blue Springs among a strip of fast-food restaurants and businesses, police said. Officers said Marchand was found just before 3 p.m. Friday with a gunshot wound and died at a hospital.

Officers arrested Zaylen Smith and Donavan Jordan, both 21 and of Kansas City, on suspicion of second-degree murder and armed criminal action, police said. Investigators said Jordan also faces charges of unlawful use of a weapon and fleeing police. Police report they are also seeking a third suspect in the killing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614612006818.png" alt="Zaylen Smith" />
 <figcaption>Zaylen Smith</figcaption>
 </figure>BLUE SPRINGS, Mo. (AP) — Two men have been arrested in the shooting death last week of another man in suburban Kansas City, police there said.Police are investigating the Friday afternoon shooting death of Gregory Marchand, 46, of Blue Springs. The shooting happened along NW Missouri 7 in Blue Springs among a strip of fast-food restaurants and businesses, police said. Officers said Marchand was found just before 3 p.m. Friday with a gunshot wound and died at a hospital.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614612136446.png" alt="Jordan" />
 <figcaption>Jordan</figcaption>
 </figure>Officers arrested Zaylen Smith and Donavan Jordan, both 21 and of Kansas City, on suspicion of second-degree murder and armed criminal action, police said. Investigators said Jordan also faces charges of unlawful use of a weapon and fleeing police. Police report they are also seeking a third suspect in the killing.

Police: 2 arrested for suburban Kansas City killing

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas’ total tax collections for February performed better than the estimate and better than the same month of Fiscal Year 2020. Total tax collections for the month were $455.9 million, according to a media release from the State Department of Revenue.

That is $19.8 million, or 4.5%, more than the estimate and $7.6 million, or 1.7%, better than last February.

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.wxui5noaT7zbTshiQoAI_vvdp-YH71TkmzgIVw09IWg/s/1303160919/br/98513938459-l" target="_blank">Click here to find the revenue numbers</a>

“Though tax receipt numbers continue to look encouraging, we must maintain fiscally-responsible, prudent practices as the economic impacts of the pandemic continue to take shape,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.

To assist states in COVID-19 recover efforts, over the weekend, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a stimulus bill that will provide $1,400 in direct payments to Kansans, increase the child tax credit, financial relief for schools and local governments, and further the administration of COVID-19 vaccinations.

The new proposal allocates aid based on a state’s unemployed population rather than its actual population. Governor Kelly was one of 22 governors who signed on to a letter opposing the move.

“I urge Congress to reconsider the current bill’s approach and distribute aid to states equitably, based on population,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“Receiving our fair share of federal support will continue to be key to protecting Kansans’ health and safety, keeping businesses open, and getting our kids back in school as quickly as possible.”

Individual income tax collections were $193.7 million. That is up 7.6%, or $13.7 million, for the month. Those collections are $22.3 million, or 13.0%, more than the same month of last fiscal year. Corporate income tax collections were up $3.2 million, or 63.5%, for the month with a collection of $8.2 million. That is $1.0 million, or 14.3%, more than February of Fiscal Year 2020.

The state collected $4.3 million, or 2.4%, more than the estimate in retail sales taxes with $179.3 million collected. That is a 0.8%, or $1.4 million, increase from the previous February. Compensating use tax collections were down $3.3 million, or 7.9%, for the month with $38.7 million collected. Those collections are $215,168, or 0.6%, less than last February. The last time the state missed its compensating use tax estimate was August 2019.

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas’ total tax collections for February performed better than the estimate and better than the same month of Fiscal Year 2020. Total tax collections for the month were $455.9 million, according to a media release from the State Department of Revenue.That is $19.8 million, or 4.5%, more than the estimate and $7.6 million, or 1.7%, better than last February.<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMDEuMzYxNjA4NTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2djYzAyLnNhZmVsaW5rcy5wcm90ZWN0aW9uLm91dGxvb2suY29tLz91cmw9aHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZnb3Zlcm5vci5rYW5zYXMuZ292JTJGd3AtY29udGVudCUyRnVwbG9hZHMlMkYyMDIxJTJGMDMlMkYwOF9GZWJydWFyeV9SZXZlbnVlX0ZZMjAyMV8wMy0wMS0yMDIxX0ZpbmFsLnBkZiZkYXRhPTA0JTdDMDElN0NSYXluYS5LYXJzdCU0MGtzLmdvdiU3Q2NmODJkYTVhZTMzOTQzNDBhNzlhMDhkOGRkMDE5NGZkJTdDZGNhZTgxMDFjOTJkNDgwY2JjNDNjNjc2MWNjY2NjNWElN0MwJTdDMCU3QzYzNzUwMjM0NjE1Mjk4MjcxNSU3Q1Vua25vd24lN0NUV0ZwYkdac2IzZDhleUpXSWpvaU1DNHdMakF3TURBaUxDSlFJam9pVjJsdU16SWlMQ0pCVGlJNklrMWhhV3dpTENKWFZDSTZNbjAlM0QlN0MxMDAwJnNkYXRhPThxY3NMYkpoU1NseGJCRXFRR08wYXZsSXA3OCUyRk9EN1NRU1Y4M1B4RVZLMCUzRCZyZXNlcnZlZD0wIn0.wxui5noaT7zbTshiQoAI_vvdp-YH71TkmzgIVw09IWg/s/1303160919/br/98513938459-l" target="_blank">Click here to find the revenue numbers</a>“Though tax receipt numbers continue to look encouraging, we must maintain fiscally-responsible, prudent practices as the economic impacts of the pandemic continue to take shape,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.To assist states in COVID-19 recover efforts, over the weekend, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a stimulus bill that will provide $1,400 in direct payments to Kansans, increase the child tax credit, financial relief for schools and local governments, and further the administration of COVID-19 vaccinations.The new proposal allocates aid based on a state’s unemployed population rather than its actual population. Governor Kelly was one of 22 governors who signed on to a letter opposing the move.“I urge Congress to reconsider the current bill’s approach and distribute aid to states equitably, based on population,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“Receiving our fair share of federal support will continue to be key to protecting Kansans’ health and safety, keeping businesses open, and getting our kids back in school as quickly as possible.”Individual income tax collections were $193.7 million. That is up 7.6%, or $13.7 million, for the month. Those collections are $22.3 million, or 13.0%, more than the same month of last fiscal year. Corporate income tax collections were up $3.2 million, or 63.5%, for the month with a collection of $8.2 million. That is $1.0 million, or 14.3%, more than February of Fiscal Year 2020.The state collected $4.3 million, or 2.4%, more than the estimate in retail sales taxes with $179.3 million collected. That is a 0.8%, or $1.4 million, increase from the previous February. Compensating use tax collections were down $3.3 million, or 7.9%, for the month with $38.7 million collected. Those collections are $215,168, or 0.6%, less than last February. The last time the state missed its compensating use tax estimate was August 2019.

February total tax collections in Kansas outperform estimate 

TOPEKA – Eight new cases of the United Kingdom, or UK, variant known as B.1.1.7, have been identified in Kansas, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Health.

 These cases were identified in individuals all living in the same household in Sedgwick County and do not appear to be connected to earlier cases in Kansas. A case investigation is being conducted and close contacts notified. Further details concerning the patients, including demographics, will not be released.

The total of UK identified variants in Kansas is now at 10. The first case was identified in February in Ellis County, followed by a second case in Sedgwick County. The initial two cases are believed to have been exposed through separate, out-of-state travel. &nbsp;

The variant was determined through the whole genome sequencing (WGS) conducted through the laboratories at the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE).

“We continue to encourage people to take the appropriate precautions. This includes wearing a mask that fits snuggly around the nose and face and has multiple layers of fabric or layering thinner masks with an additional cloth face mask to improve the fit,” Dr. Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “Kansans should also follow isolation and quarantine recommendations, practice physical distancing, good hygiene, staying home if ill and getting the vaccine if you are able to, once the supply is sufficient.”

“In addition to following these healthy behaviors, this finding also shows the importance of getting tested for COVID-19,” Adrienne Byrne, Sedgwick County Health Director, adds.

Testing is available and free for all Kansans. To find a location near you, visit: www.gogettested.com/kansas. This variant was first reported in the U.S. at the end of December 2020.

Evidence from the UK indicates that this variant spreads much more quickly through the population and, given that fact, may rapidly increase the number of hospitalizations and deaths. More studies are needed to confirm this finding.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608566572342.png" alt="VIrus variant image courtesy GISAID" />
 <figcaption>VIrus variant image courtesy GISAID</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – Eight new cases of the United Kingdom, or UK, variant known as B.1.1.7, have been identified in Kansas, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Health. These cases were identified in individuals all living in the same household in Sedgwick County and do not appear to be connected to earlier cases in Kansas. A case investigation is being conducted and close contacts notified. Further details concerning the patients, including demographics, will not be released.The total of UK identified variants in Kansas is now at 10. The first case was identified in February in Ellis County, followed by a second case in Sedgwick County. The initial two cases are believed to have been exposed through separate, out-of-state travel. &nbsp;The variant was determined through the whole genome sequencing (WGS) conducted through the laboratories at the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE).“We continue to encourage people to take the appropriate precautions. This includes wearing a mask that fits snuggly around the nose and face and has multiple layers of fabric or layering thinner masks with an additional cloth face mask to improve the fit,” Dr. Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “Kansans should also follow isolation and quarantine recommendations, practice physical distancing, good hygiene, staying home if ill and getting the vaccine if you are able to, once the supply is sufficient.”“In addition to following these healthy behaviors, this finding also shows the importance of getting tested for COVID-19,” Adrienne Byrne, Sedgwick County Health Director, adds.Testing is available and free for all Kansans. To find a location near you, visit: www.gogettested.com/kansas. This variant was first reported in the U.S. at the end of December 2020.Evidence from the UK indicates that this variant spreads much more quickly through the population and, given that fact, may rapidly increase the number of hospitalizations and deaths. More studies are needed to confirm this finding.

Additional UK virus variant cases identified in Kansas

SALINA—Law enforcement authorities investigating the murder of a woman in Salina have one suspect in custody and continue to search for an additional suspect.

On Monday, police reported the arrest of Clarence Darnyl Brown, 34, of Salina, in connection with the February 23, shooting death of 36-year-old Courtney Ann Hoffman.&nbsp;

Police are still searching for a second suspect 35-year-old Nelson Gerrod Hull.

Hull is described as a black male, 6-foot-3, 200 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. A tattoo on the right side of his neck is "Mi Familia."

Brown is being held on requested charges of Aiding and abetting first degree murder, Criminal solicitation and Interference with law enforcement.

On Saturday, police identified HulI as a suspect in the murder. The Saline County District Court issued a warrant for his arrest.&nbsp; During the course of the investigation, detectives developed information that Brown aided Hull after the commission of the homicide, according to police.

Hull should be considered armed and dangerous. Police encourages anyone with information on Hull's current location to contact 911 immediately.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614434238089.jpeg" alt="Brown photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Brown photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINA—Law enforcement authorities investigating the murder of a woman in Salina have one suspect in custody and continue to search for an additional suspect.On Monday, police reported the arrest of Clarence Darnyl Brown, 34, of Salina, in connection with the February 23, shooting death of 36-year-old Courtney Ann Hoffman.&nbsp;Police are still searching for a second suspect 35-year-old Nelson Gerrod Hull.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614442513506.png" alt="Hull photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Hull photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>Hull is described as a black male, 6-foot-3, 200 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. A tattoo on the right side of his neck is "Mi Familia."Brown is being held on requested charges of Aiding and abetting first degree murder, Criminal solicitation and Interference with law enforcement.On Saturday, police identified HulI as a suspect in the murder. The Saline County District Court issued a warrant for his arrest.&nbsp; During the course of the investigation, detectives developed information that Brown aided Hull after the commission of the homicide, according to police.Hull should be considered armed and dangerous. Police encourages anyone with information on Hull's current location to contact 911 immediately.

Police arrest suspect in connection with murder in Salina

PARK CITY, Kan. (AP) — After years of legal battles, the Wyandotte Nation plans to open a casino near Park City this week.

The Crosswinds Casino will open Tuesday in Park City after operating for several months out of a small temporary facility. The 20,000-square-foot casino offers 500 slots, 200 video gaming machines, a bar, cafe and a high-limit lounge.

The state has objected to the project for decades, arguing the tribe doesn’t have the legal authority to build a casino on a 10-acre plot. Last August, the state&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lawsuits-kansas-topeka-oklahoma-derek-schmidt-bb1215b8b296ef37c272bf75bd6b1f37">asked a federal court&nbsp;</a>to set aside a decision to allow construction of the casino.

The legal issue centers on whether federal law overrides Kansas’ prohibition on certain types of gaming.

The Crosswinds Casino is about 30 miles from the Kansas Star casino in Mulvane. Sumner County and the city of Mulvane joined the state’s lawsuit, as did the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and the Sac and Fox Nation of Missouri in Kansas and Nebraska.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614118922367.png" alt="Dividers on the slot machines photo courtesy Crosswinds Casino" />
 <figcaption>Dividers on the slot machines photo courtesy Crosswinds Casino</figcaption>
 </figure>PARK CITY, Kan. (AP) — After years of legal battles, the Wyandotte Nation plans to open a casino near Park City this week.The Crosswinds Casino will open Tuesday in Park City after operating for several months out of a small temporary facility. The 20,000-square-foot casino offers 500 slots, 200 video gaming machines, a bar, cafe and a high-limit lounge.The state has objected to the project for decades, arguing the tribe doesn’t have the legal authority to build a casino on a 10-acre plot. Last August, the state&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lawsuits-kansas-topeka-oklahoma-derek-schmidt-bb1215b8b296ef37c272bf75bd6b1f37">asked a federal court&nbsp;</a>to set aside a decision to allow construction of the casino.The legal issue centers on whether federal law overrides Kansas’ prohibition on certain types of gaming.The Crosswinds Casino is about 30 miles from the Kansas Star casino in Mulvane. Sumner County and the city of Mulvane joined the state’s lawsuit, as did the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and the Sac and Fox Nation of Missouri in Kansas and Nebraska.

Wyandotte Nation set to open new casino in Kansas this week

News Release Gov. Henry McMaster, R-South Carolina

COLUMBIA, 
S.C. — Led by South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster, 22 Governors have 
released a joint statement opposing the new standard in President Joe 
Biden’s stimulus bill for how federal funds would be allocated to 
states: “Unlike all previous federal funding packages, the new 
stimulus proposal allocates aid based on a state’s unemployed population
 rather than its actual population, which punishes states that took a 
measured approach to the pandemic and entered the crisis with healthy 
state budgets and strong economies. "A state’s ability to keep 
businesses open and people employed should not be a penalizing factor 
when distributing funds. If Congress is going to provide aid to states, 
it should be on an equitable population basis.” Governors who 
joined the statement include Kay Ivey (R-AL), Mike Dunleavy (R-AK), Doug
 Ducey (R-AZ), Ron DeSantis (R-FL), Brian Kemp (R-GA), Brad Little 
(R-ID), Eric Holcomb (R-IN), Kim Reynolds (R-IA), Laura Kelly (D-KS), 
Tate Reeves (R-MS), Mike Parson (R-MO), Greg Gianforte (R-MT), Pete 
Ricketts (R-NE), Chris Sununu (R-NH), Doug Burgum (R-ND), Mike DeWine 
(R-OH), Kevin Stitt (R-OK), Henry McMaster (R-SC), Kristi Noem (R-SD), 
Bill Lee (R-TN), Spencer Cox (R-UT) and Mark Gordon (R-WY). The 
33 states expected to lose funding under this proposal, which was 
adopted by the U.S. House of Representatives this morning, include the 
following: &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Alabama &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Alaska &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Arkansas &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Delaware &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Florida &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Georgia &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Idaho &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Indiana &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Iowa &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Kansas &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Kentucky &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Maine &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Minnesota &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Mississippi &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Missouri &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Montana &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Nebraska &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; New Hampshire &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; North Carolina &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; North Dakota &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Ohio &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Oklahoma &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Oregon &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; South Carolina &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; South Dakota &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Tennessee &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Utah &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Vermont &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Virginia &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Washington &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; West Virginia &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Wisconsin &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Wyoming

News Release Gov. Henry McMaster, R-South CarolinaCOLUMBIA, 
S.C. — Led by South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster, 22 Governors have 
released a joint statement opposing the new standard in President Joe 
Biden’s stimulus bill for how federal funds would be allocated to 
states: “Unlike all previous federal funding packages, the new 
stimulus proposal allocates aid based on a state’s unemployed population
 rather than its actual population, which punishes states that took a 
measured approach to the pandemic and entered the crisis with healthy 
state budgets and strong economies. "A state’s ability to keep 
businesses open and people employed should not be a penalizing factor 
when distributing funds. If Congress is going to provide aid to states, 
it should be on an equitable population basis.” Governors who 
joined the statement include Kay Ivey (R-AL), Mike Dunleavy (R-AK), Doug
 Ducey (R-AZ), Ron DeSantis (R-FL), Brian Kemp (R-GA), Brad Little 
(R-ID), Eric Holcomb (R-IN), Kim Reynolds (R-IA), Laura Kelly (D-KS), 
Tate Reeves (R-MS), Mike Parson (R-MO), Greg Gianforte (R-MT), Pete 
Ricketts (R-NE), Chris Sununu (R-NH), Doug Burgum (R-ND), Mike DeWine 
(R-OH), Kevin Stitt (R-OK), Henry McMaster (R-SC), Kristi Noem (R-SD), 
Bill Lee (R-TN), Spencer Cox (R-UT) and Mark Gordon (R-WY). The 
33 states expected to lose funding under this proposal, which was 
adopted by the U.S. House of Representatives this morning, include the 
following: &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Alabama &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Alaska &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Arkansas &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Delaware &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Florida &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Georgia &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Idaho &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Indiana &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Iowa &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Kansas &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Kentucky &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Maine &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Minnesota &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Mississippi &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Missouri &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Montana &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Nebraska &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; New Hampshire &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; North Carolina &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; North Dakota &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Ohio &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Oklahoma &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Oregon &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; South Carolina &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; South Dakota &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Tennessee &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Utah &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Vermont &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Virginia &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Washington &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; West Virginia &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Wisconsin &nbsp; *&nbsp;&nbsp; Wyoming

Kelly opposes 'biased fund allocation' in stimulus bill

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 639 to a total of 294,302, the state health department reported Monday afternoon.&nbsp;

Coronavirus deaths were reported at 4743 an increase of 8.

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.

<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 639 to a total of 294,302, the state health department reported Monday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 4743 an increase of 8.<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614621901544.png" alt="Monday March 1, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Monday March 1, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — A 21-year-old Kansas man has been charged with attempted murder after allegedly driving a vehicle into Lone Star Lake with his mother inside.

Jeremy S. Williams of Lawrence made his first court appearance Friday where he was formally charged with second-degree attempted murder. The judge says he faces as much as 20 years in prison if convicted.

District Attorney Suzanne Valdez told the judge that prosecutors believe he poses a threat to the community because of mental health concerns and has refused to cooperate with authorities.

Judge James George set a $250,000 bond. William’s next court appearance is Wednesday.

The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call about a vehicle appearing to have driven into the lake. The caller reported that a woman was a passenger in the vehicle and appeared unable get out of the vehicle because of a broken leg, said Jenn Hethcoat, a spokeswoman for the sheriff’s office,

When responders arrived, they learned the caller had helped the 54-year-old woman from the vehicle. She was taken to the hospital with serious injuries and cold exposure, Hethcoat said.

Williams was arrested Thursday evening on a county road along the lake’s eastern bank.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614442117521.png" alt="Williams-photo Douglas County" />
 <figcaption>Williams-photo Douglas County</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — A 21-year-old Kansas man has been charged with attempted murder after allegedly driving a vehicle into Lone Star Lake with his mother inside.Jeremy S. Williams of Lawrence made his first court appearance Friday where he was formally charged with second-degree attempted murder. The judge says he faces as much as 20 years in prison if convicted.District Attorney Suzanne Valdez told the judge that prosecutors believe he poses a threat to the community because of mental health concerns and has refused to cooperate with authorities.Judge James George set a $250,000 bond. William’s next court appearance is Wednesday.The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call about a vehicle appearing to have driven into the lake. The caller reported that a woman was a passenger in the vehicle and appeared unable get out of the vehicle because of a broken leg, said Jenn Hethcoat, a spokeswoman for the sheriff’s office,When responders arrived, they learned the caller had helped the 54-year-old woman from the vehicle. She was taken to the hospital with serious injuries and cold exposure, Hethcoat said.Williams was arrested Thursday evening on a county road along the lake’s eastern bank.

Attempted murder charge after driving into Kan. lake with his mother

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged theft by deception scam in Manhattan.

Just after 1:30p.m.&nbsp; Friday, officers filed a report for theft by deception in the 1000 block of Houston Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

An 80-year-old man reported an unknown suspect scammed them by pretending to work for the lottery. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $2,900.00, according to the RCPD.

Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.00.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1570025383250.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged theft by deception scam in Manhattan.Just after 1:30p.m.&nbsp; Friday, officers filed a report for theft by deception in the 1000 block of Houston Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.An 80-year-old man reported an unknown suspect scammed them by pretending to work for the lottery. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $2,900.00, according to the RCPD.Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.00.

Police: Kan. suspect pretended to work for the lottery in scam

WASHINGTON (AP) — Just five weeks ago, Los Angeles County was conducting more than 350,000 weekly coronavirus tests, including at a massive drive-thru site at Dodger Stadium, as health workers raced to contain the worst COVID-19 hotspot in the U.S.

<a href="https://www.gogettested.com/kansas">Click here </a>for testing locations in Kansas.

Now, county officials say testing has nearly collapsed. More than 180 government-supported sites are operating at only a third of their capacity.

“It’s shocking how quickly we’ve gone from moving at 100 miles an hour to about 25,” said Dr. Clemens Hong, who leads the county’s testing operation.

After a year of struggling to boost testing, communities across the country are seeing plummeting demand, shuttering testing sites or even trying to return supplies.

The drop in screening comes at a significant moment in the outbreak: Experts are cautiously optimistic that COVID-19 is receding after killing more than 500,000 people in the U.S. but concerned that emerging variants could prolong the epidemic.

“Everyone is hopeful for rapid, widespread vaccinations, but I don’t think we’re at a point where we can drop our guard just yet,” said Hong. “We just don’t have enough people who are immune to rule out another surge.”

U.S. testing hit a peak on Jan. 15, when the country was averaging more than 2 million tests per day. Since then, the average number of daily tests has fallen more than 28%. The drop mirrors declines across all major virus measures since January, including new cases, hospitalizations and deaths.

Officials say those encouraging trends, together with harsh winter weather, the end of the holiday travel season, pandemic fatigue and a growing focus on vaccinations are sapping interest in testing.

“When you combine all those together you see this decrease,” said Dr. Richard Pescatore of the health department in Delaware, where daily testing has fallen more than 40% since the January peak. “People just aren’t going to go out to testing sites.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591208066312.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Just five weeks ago, Los Angeles County was conducting more than 350,000 weekly coronavirus tests, including at a massive drive-thru site at Dodger Stadium, as health workers raced to contain the worst COVID-19 hotspot in the U.S.<a href="https://www.gogettested.com/kansas">Click here </a>for testing locations in Kansas.Now, county officials say testing has nearly collapsed. More than 180 government-supported sites are operating at only a third of their capacity.“It’s shocking how quickly we’ve gone from moving at 100 miles an hour to about 25,” said Dr. Clemens Hong, who leads the county’s testing operation.After a year of struggling to boost testing, communities across the country are seeing plummeting demand, shuttering testing sites or even trying to return supplies.The drop in screening comes at a significant moment in the outbreak: Experts are cautiously optimistic that COVID-19 is receding after killing more than 500,000 people in the U.S. but concerned that emerging variants could prolong the epidemic.“Everyone is hopeful for rapid, widespread vaccinations, but I don’t think we’re at a point where we can drop our guard just yet,” said Hong. “We just don’t have enough people who are immune to rule out another surge.”U.S. testing hit a peak on Jan. 15, when the country was averaging more than 2 million tests per day. Since then, the average number of daily tests has fallen more than 28%. The drop mirrors declines across all major virus measures since January, including new cases, hospitalizations and deaths.Officials say those encouraging trends, together with harsh winter weather, the end of the holiday travel season, pandemic fatigue and a growing focus on vaccinations are sapping interest in testing.“When you combine all those together you see this decrease,” said Dr. Richard Pescatore of the health department in Delaware, where daily testing has fallen more than 40% since the January peak. “People just aren’t going to go out to testing sites.”But testing remains important for tracking and containing the outbreak.L.A. County is opening more testing options near public transportation, schools and offices to make it more convenient. And officials in Santa Clara County are urging residents to “continue getting tested regularly,” highlighting new mobile testing buses and pop-up sites.President Joe Biden has promised to revamp the nation’s testing system by investing billions more in supplies and government coordination. But with demand falling fast, the country may soon have a glut of unused supplies. The U.S. will be able to conduct nearly 1 billion monthly tests by June, according to projections from researchers at Arizona State University. That’s more than 25 times the country’s current rate of about 40 million tests reported per month.With more than 150 million new vaccine doses due for delivery by late March, testing is likely to fall further as local governments shift staff and resources to giving shots.“You have to pick your battles here,” said Dr. Jeffrey Engel of the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists. “Everyone would agree that if you have one public health nurse, you’re going to use that person for vaccination, not testing.”Some experts say the country must double down on testing to avoid flare-ups from coronavirus variants that have taken hold in the U.K., South Africa and other places.“We need to use testing to continue the downward trend,” said Dr. Jonathan Quick of the Rockefeller Foundation, which has been advising Biden officials. “We need to have it there to catch surges from the variants.”Last week, Minnesota began urging families to get tested every two weeks through the end of the school year as more students return to the classroom.“To protect this progress, we need to use all the tools at our disposal,” said Dan Huff, an assistant state health commissioner.But some of the most vocal testing proponents are less worried about the declines in screening. From a public health viewpoint, testing is effective if it helps to quickly find the infected, trace their contacts and isolate them to stop the spread. In most parts of the U.S., that never happened.Over the holiday season, many Americans still had to wait days to receive test results, rendering them largely useless. That’s led to testing fatigue and dwindling interest, said Dr. Michael Mina of Harvard University.“It doesn’t exactly give you a lot of gratifying, immediate feedback,” Mina said. “So people’s willingness or interest in getting tested starts to go down.”Still, U.S. test manufacturers continue ramping up production, with another 110 million rapid and home-based tests expected to hit the market next month.Government officials long assumed this growing arsenal of cheap, 15-minute tests would be used to regularly screen millions of students and teachers as in-person classes resume. But recent guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention don’t emphasize testing, describing it as an “additional layer” of protection, behind basic measures like masking and social distancing.Even without strong federal backing, educational leaders say testing programs will be important for marshaling public confidence needed to fully reopen schools, including in the fall when cases are expected to rise again.“Schools have asked themselves, justifiably, ‘Is the juice worth the squeeze to set up a big testing effort?’” said Mike Magee, CEO of Chiefs for Change, a nonprofit that advises districts in more than 25 states. “Our message to the school systems we work with is: ‘Yes, you need to stand up comprehensive testing because you’re going to need it.’”___