TOPEKA —A Thursday night fire at a Kansas home is being blamed on the malfunctioning generator.

Just before 9:30p.m. Thursday, crews responded to the report of a fire at a home at 880 SE Rice Road in Topeka, according to Fire Marshal Todd Harrison.

First arriving crews found fire coming from a deck on the side of a single-story home. A search of the building revealed that all occupants of the structure were able to self-evacuate prior to fire department’s arrival. Firefighters contained to the area of origin and quickly extinguish the fire.

A preliminary investigation indicates the cause of the fire as accidental, more likely than not associated with the malfunction of a generator, according to Harrison.

The estimated dollar loss is $6000.00 of which $5000.00 is associated with structural loss and $1,000.00 is associated with content loss. There were no injuries reported.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1604068213786.png" alt="Thursday night fire at a home in Topeka-photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Thursday night fire at a home in Topeka-photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —A Thursday night fire at a Kansas home is being blamed on the malfunctioning generator.Just before 9:30p.m. Thursday, crews responded to the report of a fire at a home at 880 SE Rice Road in Topeka, according to Fire Marshal Todd Harrison.First arriving crews found fire coming from a deck on the side of a single-story home. A search of the building revealed that all occupants of the structure were able to self-evacuate prior to fire department’s arrival. Firefighters contained to the area of origin and quickly extinguish the fire.A preliminary investigation indicates the cause of the fire as accidental, more likely than not associated with the malfunction of a generator, according to Harrison.The estimated dollar loss is $6000.00 of which $5000.00 is associated with structural loss and $1,000.00 is associated with content loss. There were no injuries reported.

Generator malfunction blamed for Kansas house fire

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;The Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services (CMS) on Wednesday announced its plan to ensure all seniors have access to the COVID-19 vaccine once the vaccines are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

"I spoke with the Vice President this past weekend," said Congressman Roger Marshall. "He remains optimistic that we're going to have a vaccine available for the vulnerable, maybe by Thanksgiving time."

This announcement builds on previous frameworks to provide the vaccine to those in nursing homes and assisted living facilities, ensuring that millions of older Americans are protected.

"Medicare or Medicaid is going to cover the cost of the COVID vaccine 100%," said Marshall. "No out of pocket expenses."

Beyond Medicare, the interim rule also addresses vaccination coverage for Medicaid and CHIP beneficiaries. CMS has also taken action to ensure that most private health plans cover the vaccine with no cost share for both in and out-of-network providers.

"Looking at one of them right now, we hear that maybe its about three weeks from being finalized if everything goes perfect," Marshall said. "It will be a little bit of a miracle, a little bit of a moonshot, but that's what Americans do. It's going to be safe and effective as well. We are not skipping any steps at all, we're making sure that this vaccine is safe. We're just doing several steps at the same time that are typically done over years."

CMS will also be providing hospitals additional Medicare payments to support and encourage the use of innovative new COVID-19 treatments and therapies in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

By NICK GOSNELLHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;The Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services (CMS) on Wednesday announced its plan to ensure all seniors have access to the COVID-19 vaccine once the vaccines are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)."I spoke with the Vice President this past weekend," said Congressman Roger Marshall. "He remains optimistic that we're going to have a vaccine available for the vulnerable, maybe by Thanksgiving time."This announcement builds on previous frameworks to provide the vaccine to those in nursing homes and assisted living facilities, ensuring that millions of older Americans are protected."Medicare or Medicaid is going to cover the cost of the COVID vaccine 100%," said Marshall. "No out of pocket expenses."Beyond Medicare, the interim rule also addresses vaccination coverage for Medicaid and CHIP beneficiaries. CMS has also taken action to ensure that most private health plans cover the vaccine with no cost share for both in and out-of-network providers."Looking at one of them right now, we hear that maybe its about three weeks from being finalized if everything goes perfect," Marshall said. "It will be a little bit of a miracle, a little bit of a moonshot, but that's what Americans do. It's going to be safe and effective as well. We are not skipping any steps at all, we're making sure that this vaccine is safe. We're just doing several steps at the same time that are typically done over years."CMS will also be providing hospitals additional Medicare payments to support and encourage the use of innovative new COVID-19 treatments and therapies in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

Rep. Marshall: CMS prepping for vaccine rollout

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas election officials predicted Thursday that the state will see record-setting turnout for this year’s presidential election.

The Kansas Secretary of State’s office said it anticipates 70% of Kansas voters will participate in the election. It anticipates that about 1.35 million Kansans will cast a ballot.

“The 70% itself is not a record — but every number behind it is,” said Bryan Caskey, director of elections. “We will have approximately 1.94 million registered voters, which is almost 100,000 more than in 2018.”

Their projection is based in part on the record-setting turnout so far with advance mail and in-person voting. Election officials have sent 506,767 advance mail ballots to Kansas voters. As of Thursday, 346,489 advance by mail ballots have been returned to local election offices and 220,908 voters have cast in person ballots.

The return rate for mail ballots to date is around 68% and election officials anticipate tens of thousands of mail ballots will come in during the final days, based on a return rate for mail ballots in the August primary election of 83%, Caskey said.

Democrats are returning more advanced ballots for the general election, while Republicans are casting more votes at advance in-person polling locations so far.

A breakdown of party affiliation in returned mail ballots shows 231,033 were cast by Democrats, 189,845 by Republicans, 83,269 by unaffiliated voters, and 2,606 Libertarian voters.

The breakdown for advance in-person ballots shows Republicans casting 126,240 ballots, followed by 52,946 from Democrats, 39,898 from unaffiliated voters, and 1,824 by Libertarian voters.

Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab said election officials expect that “by and large” they should have the outcome of every race in the state by around 10:30 p.m. on Election Day, barring any unforeseen problems or close races.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1604060498738.png" alt="Long lines for advance voters in Wichita -photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Long lines for advance voters in Wichita -photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas election officials predicted Thursday that the state will see record-setting turnout for this year’s presidential election.The Kansas Secretary of State’s office said it anticipates 70% of Kansas voters will participate in the election. It anticipates that about 1.35 million Kansans will cast a ballot.“The 70% itself is not a record — but every number behind it is,” said Bryan Caskey, director of elections. “We will have approximately 1.94 million registered voters, which is almost 100,000 more than in 2018.”Their projection is based in part on the record-setting turnout so far with advance mail and in-person voting. Election officials have sent 506,767 advance mail ballots to Kansas voters. As of Thursday, 346,489 advance by mail ballots have been returned to local election offices and 220,908 voters have cast in person ballots.The return rate for mail ballots to date is around 68% and election officials anticipate tens of thousands of mail ballots will come in during the final days, based on a return rate for mail ballots in the August primary election of 83%, Caskey said.Democrats are returning more advanced ballots for the general election, while Republicans are casting more votes at advance in-person polling locations so far.A breakdown of party affiliation in returned mail ballots shows 231,033 were cast by Democrats, 189,845 by Republicans, 83,269 by unaffiliated voters, and 2,606 Libertarian voters.The breakdown for advance in-person ballots shows Republicans casting 126,240 ballots, followed by 52,946 from Democrats, 39,898 from unaffiliated voters, and 1,824 by Libertarian voters.Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab said election officials expect that “by and large” they should have the outcome of every race in the state by around 10:30 p.m. on Election Day, barring any unforeseen problems or close races.

Kansas expects record-setting turnout for general election

TOPEKA—The State Finance Council (SFC) Thursday unanimously approved investing up to $45 million more in COVID-19 testing across Kansas and to provide $20 million more for small businesses, according to a media release from the governor's office. “Today’s actions will bolster our Unified Testing Strategy and allow us to provide up to one million COVID-19 tests by the end of the year,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“I want to thank the State Finance Council for supporting the health priorities of our state and increasing funds for small businesses, which are essential for our economic recovery.” The $65 million approved today is from the Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF), which is part of the federal CARES Act. After receiving proposals from public and private labs across the state, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment determined it could invest up to $95 million to implement its unified testing strategy. Previously, SFC had authorized $50 million for COVID-19 testing, and with today’s actions, the Office of Recovery will have the ability to invest up to $95 million in testing. SFC approved an additional $20 million for small business grants. About $35 million has already been awarded in small business grants. Additionally, SFC approved providing the Office of Recovery the authority to redistribute any unused funds among previously approved programs. The CRF requires funds to be used by the December 30, 2020 deadline. The Office of Recovery oversees all the CRF programs and will shift dollars from program to program based on need, demand, and the ability to implement by the deadline. “With only 39 working days remaining before December 30, we need a dynamic approach, and I want to thank State Finance Council for providing us the flexibility to deliver timely investments to Kansans,”&nbsp;Executive Director Julie Lorenz said.&nbsp;“We know our state’s needs exceed the funds available, and we’re committed to leveraging these dollars to help as many Kansans as we can.” Approximately $25 million of the CRF remains in reserve. SFC will meet again next month to approve the final investments.

TOPEKA—The State Finance Council (SFC) Thursday unanimously approved investing up to $45 million more in COVID-19 testing across Kansas and to provide $20 million more for small businesses, according to a media release from the governor's office. “Today’s actions will bolster our Unified Testing Strategy and allow us to provide up to one million COVID-19 tests by the end of the year,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“I want to thank the State Finance Council for supporting the health priorities of our state and increasing funds for small businesses, which are essential for our economic recovery.” The $65 million approved today is from the Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF), which is part of the federal CARES Act. After receiving proposals from public and private labs across the state, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment determined it could invest up to $95 million to implement its unified testing strategy. Previously, SFC had authorized $50 million for COVID-19 testing, and with today’s actions, the Office of Recovery will have the ability to invest up to $95 million in testing. SFC approved an additional $20 million for small business grants. About $35 million has already been awarded in small business grants. Additionally, SFC approved providing the Office of Recovery the authority to redistribute any unused funds among previously approved programs. The CRF requires funds to be used by the December 30, 2020 deadline. The Office of Recovery oversees all the CRF programs and will shift dollars from program to program based on need, demand, and the ability to implement by the deadline. “With only 39 working days remaining before December 30, we need a dynamic approach, and I want to thank State Finance Council for providing us the flexibility to deliver timely investments to Kansans,”&nbsp;Executive Director Julie Lorenz said.&nbsp;“We know our state’s needs exceed the funds available, and we’re committed to leveraging these dollars to help as many Kansans as we can.” Approximately $25 million of the CRF remains in reserve. SFC will meet again next month to approve the final investments.

$65M approved for more COVID-19 testing in Kansas

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A Black man who was wrongly arrested when he was 15 and held for three weeks without charge will be allowed to sue the two Kansas City officers who detained him, a federal appeals court has ruled.

A three-judge panel of the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled 2-1 Wednesday that the officers violated the constitutional rights of Tyree Bell when they arrested him without probable cause on June 8, 2016.

Officers Peter Neukrich and Jonathan Munyan said they arrested Bell because he resembled another teen who had run away from officers earlier in the day, discarding a gun as he fled. Bell was walking home about a mile from where that happened when the officers stopped him.

The appeals court wrote that Bell’s only resemblance to the suspect was that he was Black, juvenile and male.

Police video showed Bell was taller, had a different hairstyle and was wearing different clothing than the original suspect. He also was breathing normally — unlike someone who had just run from police — and cooperated with the officers.

The officers argued that they watched dashcam video of the earlier event several times before arresting Bell and had reasonable belief that he was the suspect. But it wasn’t until June 29 that a detective watched the video and concluded Bell wasn't the suspect and should be released from detention.

Bell and his mother&nbsp;<a href="https://hosted.ap.org/semissourian/article/e748a624036ac6caac19dae3026a0265/12903e35dbd340c4bc1ca14b845ed130">sued</a>&nbsp;the police, plus several city and police department officials in 2017.

The lower court&nbsp;<a>dismissed&nbsp;</a>the lawsuit in March 2019 after finding the officers were entitled to qualified immunity, which protects government officials from being sued for actions in their official capacity unless they violate a legal or constitutional right.

“Given the glaring differences, there was not arguable probable cause to believe that Bell was the fleeing suspect,” Chief Judge Lavenski R. Smith wrote for the appeals court. “Bell’s right to be free from an arrest and detention under the circumstances was clearly established. It is an obvious case of insufficient probable cause.”

Bell’s lawyer, Arthur Benson, applauded the ruling in an email.

“Fifteen-year-old Black males walking home from school in the summer wearing dark shorts and a white tee shirt are not all criminal suspects to be arrested and jailed for three weeks," Benson wrote. "They do not all look alike, even though two untrained Kansas City police officers may think they do.”

Police spokesman Sgt. Jake Becchina said the department does not comment on pending litigation.

The appeals court upheld the lower court’s dismissal of all the defendants except the two officers.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A Black man who was wrongly arrested when he was 15 and held for three weeks without charge will be allowed to sue the two Kansas City officers who detained him, a federal appeals court has ruled.A three-judge panel of the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled 2-1 Wednesday that the officers violated the constitutional rights of Tyree Bell when they arrested him without probable cause on June 8, 2016.Officers Peter Neukrich and Jonathan Munyan said they arrested Bell because he resembled another teen who had run away from officers earlier in the day, discarding a gun as he fled. Bell was walking home about a mile from where that happened when the officers stopped him.The appeals court wrote that Bell’s only resemblance to the suspect was that he was Black, juvenile and male.Police video showed Bell was taller, had a different hairstyle and was wearing different clothing than the original suspect. He also was breathing normally — unlike someone who had just run from police — and cooperated with the officers.The officers argued that they watched dashcam video of the earlier event several times before arresting Bell and had reasonable belief that he was the suspect. But it wasn’t until June 29 that a detective watched the video and concluded Bell wasn't the suspect and should be released from detention.Bell and his mother&nbsp;<a href="https://hosted.ap.org/semissourian/article/e748a624036ac6caac19dae3026a0265/12903e35dbd340c4bc1ca14b845ed130">sued</a>&nbsp;the police, plus several city and police department officials in 2017.The lower court&nbsp;<a>dismissed&nbsp;</a>the lawsuit in March 2019 after finding the officers were entitled to qualified immunity, which protects government officials from being sued for actions in their official capacity unless they violate a legal or constitutional right.“Given the glaring differences, there was not arguable probable cause to believe that Bell was the fleeing suspect,” Chief Judge Lavenski R. Smith wrote for the appeals court. “Bell’s right to be free from an arrest and detention under the circumstances was clearly established. It is an obvious case of insufficient probable cause.”Bell’s lawyer, Arthur Benson, applauded the ruling in an email.“Fifteen-year-old Black males walking home from school in the summer wearing dark shorts and a white tee shirt are not all criminal suspects to be arrested and jailed for three weeks," Benson wrote. "They do not all look alike, even though two untrained Kansas City police officers may think they do.”Police spokesman Sgt. Jake Becchina said the department does not comment on pending litigation.The appeals court upheld the lower court’s dismissal of all the defendants except the two officers.

Court revives Kansas City man's lawsuit in wrongful arrest

WASHINGTON (AP) — North Carolina, yes. Pennsylvania, yes. Wisconsin, no. That’s how the Supreme Court has answered questions in recent days about an extended timeline for receiving and counting ballots in those states.

In each case, Democrats backed the extensions and Republicans opposed them. All three states have Democratic governors and legislatures controlled by the GOP.

At first blush, the difference in the outcomes at the Supreme Court seems odd because the high court typically takes up issues to harmonize the rules across the country. But elections are largely governed by states, and the rules differ from one state to the next.

A big asterisk: These cases are being dealt with on an emergency basis in which the court issues orders that either block or keep in place a lower-court ruling. But there is almost never an explanation of the majority’s rationale, though individual justices sometimes write opinions that partially explain the matter.

There also is a difference in how the justices act based on whether they are ruling on a lawsuit that began in state or federal court.

Conservative justices who hold a majority on the Supreme Court object to what they see as intrusions by federal judges who order last-minute changes to state election rules, even in the middle of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/virus-outbreak">coronavirus pandemic</a>. The power to alter absentee ballot deadlines and other voting issues rests with state legislatures, not federal courts, according to the conservative justices.

The court also is divided, but so far has been willing to allow state courts interpreting their own state constitutions to play more of a role than their federal counterparts.

Last week, four conservative justices would have put on hold a Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling allowing three additional days to receive and count mailed ballots. Three justices in Wednesday’s order about North Carolina’s absentee ballots would have blocked a six-day extension.

The justices did not finally resolve the legal issues involved, but they could do so after the election. A more thorough examination could come either in a post-election challenge that could determine the presidential winner if, for example, Pennsylvania proves critical to the national outcome, or in a less tense setting that might not affect the 2020 vote, but would apply in the future.

Even a decision that only looked ahead to future elections would be “concerning given that state courts have often been more protective of the right to vote under state constitutions then the federal courts have under the U.S. Constitution,” University of Kentucky law professor Joshua Douglas said.

One more asterisk: new Justice Amy Coney Barrett has not taken part in any of these last-minute orders, but could participate going forward.

Here are some state-specific explanations of what has taken place over the past 10 days:

Last week, before Barrett had been confirmed, the justices divided 4-4, a tie vote that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-donald-trump-campaigns-pennsylvania-elections-62bb4957766f436e27ed7de52921aab3">allowed the three-day extension ordered by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court to remain in effect</a>.

On Wednesday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-pennsylvania-amy-coney-barrett-elections-courts-57d6c7a32284071f36986006e37ee2d3">the court said it would not grant a quick, pre-election review</a>&nbsp;to a new Republican appeal to exclude absentee ballots received after Election Day in the battleground state.

But it remained unclear whether those ballots will ultimately be counted.

The court’s order left open the possibility that the justices could take up and decide after the election whether a three-day extension to receive and count absentee ballots ordered by Pennsylvania’s high court was proper.

The issue would take on enormous importance if Pennsylvania turns out to be the crucial state in next week’s election and the votes received between Nov. 3 and Nov. 6 are potentially decisive.

The Supreme Court ruled hours after Pennsylvania’s Department of State agreed to segregate ballots received in the mail after polls close on Tuesday and before 5 p.m. on Nov. 6. Without keeping those ballots separate, Pennsylvania might have risked having the state’s overall vote count called into question.

Three conservative justices signaled their interest in the court’s eventual review of the case.

The court on Wednesday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-samuel-alito-amy-coney-barrett-north-carolina-elections-4cb4c214446bcfadbd73dafca9353701">refused to block an extra six days to receive and count absentee ballots in North Carolina</a>.

The State Board of Elections lengthened the period from three to nine days because of the coronavirus pandemic, pushing back the deadline to Nov. 12. The board’s decision was part of a legal settlement with a union-affiliated group. The extension was approved by a state judge.

Lawmakers had previously set Nov. 6 as the deadline for mailed ballots because of the pandemic.

There’s no order or recommendation in North Carolina that ballots received after Nov. 6 be kept apart.

Justice Neil Gorsuch said courts should not be second-guessing the legislature. The election board and the state judge “worked together to override a carefully tailored legislative response to COVID,” Gorsuch wrote.

In Wisconsin, ballots must arrive by Election Day, Nov. 3, to be counted.

The Supreme Court on Monday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-virus-outbreak-wisconsin-elections-us-supreme-court-dcf1e115d0804e203ef2cf9887cfabff">refused to reinstate a lower-court order</a>&nbsp;that would have added six days to the deadline, identical to the extension granted primary voters in April. A federal appeals court already had blocked the additional days.

This time, it was the court’s liberals who objected. “As the COVID pandemic rages, the Court has failed to adequately protect the Nation’s voters,” Justice Elena Kagan wrote in dissent.

Again, there was nothing from the court explaining its order, but Chief Justice John Roberts, Justice Brett Kavanaugh and Gorsuch all wrote separate opinions.

“Different bodies of law and different precedents govern these two situations and require, in these particular circumstances, that we allow the modification of election rules in Pennsylvania but not Wisconsin,” Roberts wrote, before the court had acted in the North Carolina case.

Kavanaugh’s opinion drew outsized attention because he invoked the court’s Bush v. Gore case that effectively resolved the 2000 presidential election in favor of Republican George W. Bush.

The Supreme Court has never cited Bush v. Gore in an opinion of the court. In 2000, in its unsigned majority opinion the court wrote, “Our consideration is limited to the present circumstances.”

But three lawyers who worked for Bush’s cause in 2000, Roberts, Kavanaugh and now Barrett, sit on the court.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1571309298669.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — North Carolina, yes. Pennsylvania, yes. Wisconsin, no. That’s how the Supreme Court has answered questions in recent days about an extended timeline for receiving and counting ballots in those states.In each case, Democrats backed the extensions and Republicans opposed them. All three states have Democratic governors and legislatures controlled by the GOP.At first blush, the difference in the outcomes at the Supreme Court seems odd because the high court typically takes up issues to harmonize the rules across the country. But elections are largely governed by states, and the rules differ from one state to the next.A big asterisk: These cases are being dealt with on an emergency basis in which the court issues orders that either block or keep in place a lower-court ruling. But there is almost never an explanation of the majority’s rationale, though individual justices sometimes write opinions that partially explain the matter.There also is a difference in how the justices act based on whether they are ruling on a lawsuit that began in state or federal court.Conservative justices who hold a majority on the Supreme Court object to what they see as intrusions by federal judges who order last-minute changes to state election rules, even in the middle of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/virus-outbreak">coronavirus pandemic</a>. The power to alter absentee ballot deadlines and other voting issues rests with state legislatures, not federal courts, according to the conservative justices.The court also is divided, but so far has been willing to allow state courts interpreting their own state constitutions to play more of a role than their federal counterparts.Last week, four conservative justices would have put on hold a Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling allowing three additional days to receive and count mailed ballots. Three justices in Wednesday’s order about North Carolina’s absentee ballots would have blocked a six-day extension.The justices did not finally resolve the legal issues involved, but they could do so after the election. A more thorough examination could come either in a post-election challenge that could determine the presidential winner if, for example, Pennsylvania proves critical to the national outcome, or in a less tense setting that might not affect the 2020 vote, but would apply in the future.Even a decision that only looked ahead to future elections would be “concerning given that state courts have often been more protective of the right to vote under state constitutions then the federal courts have under the U.S. Constitution,” University of Kentucky law professor Joshua Douglas said.One more asterisk: new Justice Amy Coney Barrett has not taken part in any of these last-minute orders, but could participate going forward.Here are some state-specific explanations of what has taken place over the past 10 days:___PENNSYLVANIALast week, before Barrett had been confirmed, the justices divided 4-4, a tie vote that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-donald-trump-campaigns-pennsylvania-elections-62bb4957766f436e27ed7de52921aab3">allowed the three-day extension ordered by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court to remain in effect</a>.On Wednesday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-pennsylvania-amy-coney-barrett-elections-courts-57d6c7a32284071f36986006e37ee2d3">the court said it would not grant a quick, pre-election review</a>&nbsp;to a new Republican appeal to exclude absentee ballots received after Election Day in the battleground state.But it remained unclear whether those ballots will ultimately be counted.The court’s order left open the possibility that the justices could take up and decide after the election whether a three-day extension to receive and count absentee ballots ordered by Pennsylvania’s high court was proper.The issue would take on enormous importance if Pennsylvania turns out to be the crucial state in next week’s election and the votes received between Nov. 3 and Nov. 6 are potentially decisive.The Supreme Court ruled hours after Pennsylvania’s Department of State agreed to segregate ballots received in the mail after polls close on Tuesday and before 5 p.m. on Nov. 6. Without keeping those ballots separate, Pennsylvania might have risked having the state’s overall vote count called into question.Three conservative justices signaled their interest in the court’s eventual review of the case.___NORTH CAROLINAThe court on Wednesday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-samuel-alito-amy-coney-barrett-north-carolina-elections-4cb4c214446bcfadbd73dafca9353701">refused to block an extra six days to receive and count absentee ballots in North Carolina</a>.The State Board of Elections lengthened the period from three to nine days because of the coronavirus pandemic, pushing back the deadline to Nov. 12. The board’s decision was part of a legal settlement with a union-affiliated group. The extension was approved by a state judge.Lawmakers had previously set Nov. 6 as the deadline for mailed ballots because of the pandemic.There’s no order or recommendation in North Carolina that ballots received after Nov. 6 be kept apart.Justice Neil Gorsuch said courts should not be second-guessing the legislature. The election board and the state judge “worked together to override a carefully tailored legislative response to COVID,” Gorsuch wrote.___WISCONSINIn Wisconsin, ballots must arrive by Election Day, Nov. 3, to be counted.The Supreme Court on Monday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-virus-outbreak-wisconsin-elections-us-supreme-court-dcf1e115d0804e203ef2cf9887cfabff">refused to reinstate a lower-court order</a>&nbsp;that would have added six days to the deadline, identical to the extension granted primary voters in April. A federal appeals court already had blocked the additional days.This time, it was the court’s liberals who objected. “As the COVID pandemic rages, the Court has failed to adequately protect the Nation’s voters,” Justice Elena Kagan wrote in dissent.Again, there was nothing from the court explaining its order, but Chief Justice John Roberts, Justice Brett Kavanaugh and Gorsuch all wrote separate opinions.“Different bodies of law and different precedents govern these two situations and require, in these particular circumstances, that we allow the modification of election rules in Pennsylvania but not Wisconsin,” Roberts wrote, before the court had acted in the North Carolina case.Kavanaugh’s opinion drew outsized attention because he invoked the court’s Bush v. Gore case that effectively resolved the 2000 presidential election in favor of Republican George W. Bush.The Supreme Court has never cited Bush v. Gore in an opinion of the court. In 2000, in its unsigned majority opinion the court wrote, “Our consideration is limited to the present circumstances.”But three lawyers who worked for Bush’s cause in 2000, Roberts, Kavanaugh and now Barrett, sit on the court.

Supreme Court issues last-minute orders for counting ballots

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A promotion to celebrate Kansas despite the cancellation of its annual event helped the Kansas State Fair capture a top award from the International Association of Fairs and Expositions, according to a media release.

The Fair received first place in the sponsor exposure category for its state-wide tourism promotion using its new mascot, Ike the American Bison. “Ike’s Kansas Road Trip” was in partnership with Kansas Corn and its campaign, Fueled by Kansas.

“While we had to cancel the 2020 Fair, it didn’t mean we couldn’t still celebrate our great state,” said Amy Bickel, the Fair’s marketing director. “The idea of showcasing Kansas’ beauty and tourist attractions, plus the people who call Kansas home, allowed us to find a way to still provide sponsorship support to a longtime partner, Kansas Corn, and its ethanol promotion, Fueled by Kansas.”

Fueled by Kansas educates the public about mid- and premium-grade fuels made from Kansas corn. The website, FueledByKansas.com, gives customers information on the benefits of ethanol and where they can find participating stations with E15 and higher blends. Kansas Corn’s goal is to support Kansas farmers by growing their markets and creating jobs.

Officials with Kansas Corn and the Kansas State Fair came up with the concept to use Ike to tour the state in an E15-powered vehicle, said Connie Schmitt, the Fair’s industry relations and development director.

Ike was introduced as the Fair’s official mascot in June before the Fair was canceled, Schmitt said. The mascot, which represents the state mammal, as well as honors Kansas native President Dwight D. Eisenhower, is sponsored by Key Industries of Fort Scott.

Kansas Corn has been a longtime sponsor and supporter of the Fair, and we were looking for ideas to give them sponsorship exposure despite not having the 2020 Fair,” Schmitt said.

As part of the sponsorship, Ike completed several whirlwind trips across Kansas and saw many unique tourism attractions and communities. He also met many Kansans who were saddened that there wasn’t a Fair. With the trip “powered by E15 fuel,” Ike stopped at stations along the way that had the E15 blend. Kansas Corn also wrapped one of the Fair’s vehicles as Ike’s “Range Roamer,” which included branding E15 and Fueled by Kansas as part of the design.

The video production was done by Bickel and the Fair’s sponsorship coordinator Marla Parsons. A video was developed for each of the 11 road trips. Kansas Corn also gave the Fair $25 fuel gift cards to give as contest prizes on social media posts.

“We’re not sure how many miles Ike and his team traveled. He went from Mount Sunflower - Kansas’ highest point near the Colorado border - to Atchison, Amelia Earhart’s birthplace along the Missouri border,” said Bickel. “He drove on Route 66 through Galena, stopped at the world’s largest ball of twine in Cawker City, peered down the world’s largest hand-dug well in Greensburg, was deputized as an honorary marshal in Dodge City and witnessed a wild west gunfight in Caldwell. Those were just a few of the many sights Ike experienced in two-months of road trips.”

While this sponsorship helped promote E15 fuel, it also allowed the Fair to travel Kansas and market itself during a time when there wasn’t a Fair, Bickel added. Those they met on their journey were happy to meet Ike.

“They were excited we took the time to recognize their community,” she said. “Plus, it gave them an awareness of the 2021 Fair.”

This project is not something the Fair could have accomplished without Ike or without the sponsorship from Fueled By Kansas and Kansas Corn, Schmitt said.

“It takes great sponsors to help us keep our traditions alive and have a Kansas State Fair every year,” Schmitt said. “This was a sponsorship that made sense during a time without a Fair. We were able to showcase the best of Kansas while promoting how to get there - by fueling up with E15.”

The International Association of Fairs and Expositions, based in Springfield, Mo., serves state, provincial, regional and county agricultural fairs, shows, festivals, exhibitions and expositions. IAFE represents more than 1,100 fairs around the world, and more than 900 members from allied fields.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1604056903716.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A promotion to celebrate Kansas despite the cancellation of its annual event helped the Kansas State Fair capture a top award from the International Association of Fairs and Expositions, according to a media release.The Fair received first place in the sponsor exposure category for its state-wide tourism promotion using its new mascot, Ike the American Bison. “Ike’s Kansas Road Trip” was in partnership with Kansas Corn and its campaign, Fueled by Kansas.“While we had to cancel the 2020 Fair, it didn’t mean we couldn’t still celebrate our great state,” said Amy Bickel, the Fair’s marketing director. “The idea of showcasing Kansas’ beauty and tourist attractions, plus the people who call Kansas home, allowed us to find a way to still provide sponsorship support to a longtime partner, Kansas Corn, and its ethanol promotion, Fueled by Kansas.”Fueled by Kansas educates the public about mid- and premium-grade fuels made from Kansas corn. The website, FueledByKansas.com, gives customers information on the benefits of ethanol and where they can find participating stations with E15 and higher blends. Kansas Corn’s goal is to support Kansas farmers by growing their markets and creating jobs.Officials with Kansas Corn and the Kansas State Fair came up with the concept to use Ike to tour the state in an E15-powered vehicle, said Connie Schmitt, the Fair’s industry relations and development director.Ike was introduced as the Fair’s official mascot in June before the Fair was canceled, Schmitt said. The mascot, which represents the state mammal, as well as honors Kansas native President Dwight D. Eisenhower, is sponsored by Key Industries of Fort Scott.Kansas Corn has been a longtime sponsor and supporter of the Fair, and we were looking for ideas to give them sponsorship exposure despite not having the 2020 Fair,” Schmitt said.As part of the sponsorship, Ike completed several whirlwind trips across Kansas and saw many unique tourism attractions and communities. He also met many Kansans who were saddened that there wasn’t a Fair. With the trip “powered by E15 fuel,” Ike stopped at stations along the way that had the E15 blend. Kansas Corn also wrapped one of the Fair’s vehicles as Ike’s “Range Roamer,” which included branding E15 and Fueled by Kansas as part of the design.The video production was done by Bickel and the Fair’s sponsorship coordinator Marla Parsons. A video was developed for each of the 11 road trips. Kansas Corn also gave the Fair $25 fuel gift cards to give as contest prizes on social media posts.“We’re not sure how many miles Ike and his team traveled. He went from Mount Sunflower - Kansas’ highest point near the Colorado border - to Atchison, Amelia Earhart’s birthplace along the Missouri border,” said Bickel. “He drove on Route 66 through Galena, stopped at the world’s largest ball of twine in Cawker City, peered down the world’s largest hand-dug well in Greensburg, was deputized as an honorary marshal in Dodge City and witnessed a wild west gunfight in Caldwell. Those were just a few of the many sights Ike experienced in two-months of road trips.”While this sponsorship helped promote E15 fuel, it also allowed the Fair to travel Kansas and market itself during a time when there wasn’t a Fair, Bickel added. Those they met on their journey were happy to meet Ike.“They were excited we took the time to recognize their community,” she said. “Plus, it gave them an awareness of the 2021 Fair.”This project is not something the Fair could have accomplished without Ike or without the sponsorship from Fueled By Kansas and Kansas Corn, Schmitt said.“It takes great sponsors to help us keep our traditions alive and have a Kansas State Fair every year,” Schmitt said. “This was a sponsorship that made sense during a time without a Fair. We were able to showcase the best of Kansas while promoting how to get there - by fueling up with E15.”The International Association of Fairs and Expositions, based in Springfield, Mo., serves state, provincial, regional and county agricultural fairs, shows, festivals, exhibitions and expositions. IAFE represents more than 1,100 fairs around the world, and more than 900 members from allied fields.

Kan. State Fair road trip promotion earns international honor

MARION –&nbsp; A Kansas man has been charged with first degree murder in connection with the disappearance and death of a Sedgwick County woman this spring, according to Kansas Attorney General&nbsp;Derek Schmidt.

Schmidt filed criminal charges against Robert Bruce Mans Jr., 48, of Wichita, in connection with the death of Shalan Niccole Gannon, 27, of Wichita. The charges were filed Wednesday in Marion County District Court, and Mans was arrested today in Wichita. 

Authorities allege Gannon was murdered on or about April 8. She was reported missing on April 11, and her body was found in June in the Ninnescah River in rural Sumner County. A copy of the complaint can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/35OFNoI">https://bit.ly/35OFNoI</a>.

The case was investigated by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, the Wichita Police Department, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, the Marion Police Department, the Butler County Sheriff’s Office, and the Sumner County Sheriff’s Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591985077348.png" alt="&nbsp;Shalan Niccole Gannon photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Shalan Niccole Gannon photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>MARION –&nbsp; A Kansas man has been charged with first degree murder in connection with the disappearance and death of a Sedgwick County woman this spring, according to Kansas Attorney General&nbsp;Derek Schmidt.Schmidt filed criminal charges against Robert Bruce Mans Jr., 48, of Wichita, in connection with the death of Shalan Niccole Gannon, 27, of Wichita. The charges were filed Wednesday in Marion County District Court, and Mans was arrested today in Wichita. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1604005781596.png" alt="Mans has previous convictions for burglary, theft and aggravated robbery, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections. He is being held in the Marion County, Kansas jail." />
 <figcaption>Mans has previous convictions for burglary, theft and aggravated robbery, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections. He is being held in the Marion County, Kansas jail.</figcaption>
 </figure>Authorities allege Gannon was murdered on or about April 8. She was reported missing on April 11, and her body was found in June in the Ninnescah River in rural Sumner County. A copy of the complaint can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/35OFNoI">https://bit.ly/35OFNoI</a>.The case was investigated by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, the Wichita Police Department, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, the Marion Police Department, the Butler County Sheriff’s Office, and the Sumner County Sheriff’s Office.

Murder charge in connection with body found in Kan. river

By STEPHAN BISAHA <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/kansas-aims-400000-more-coronavirus-tests-years-end-rural-cases-surge">Kansas News Service</a>

WICHITA, Kansas — Amid a surge of coronavirus cases 
across rural Kansas, Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly provided details on her
 new statewide testing plan Wednesday, adding 400,000 more by the end of
 the year.

That's nearly double the amount of tests available 
now, with the goal of reaching a total of 1 million tests. The extra 
capacity is expected to go to schools and high-risk populations, like 
those living and working at nursing homes.

“This
 is especially important for populations at high risk but also for 
businesses across the state worried about keeping their workforces safe 
and their doors open,” Kelly said at a news conference.

Kansas 
reported about 3,400 new cases between Monday and Wednesday, including 
31 new deaths. About half of those new cases are due to an update to the
 Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s system. But even 
accounting for that, Kansas still added hundreds more cases in the time 
frame than it did the previous week.

Kelly plans on using federal
 funding for the increased testing, as well as expanding infrastructure 
like improving testing capacity at labs, better transportation of 
samples to labs and increasing data accuracy to better track coronavirus
 trends across the state.

The plan would also distribute more resources for isolating and quarantining, though Kelly did not provide details.

The highest rates of infection <a href="http://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas" target="_blank">a</a><a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas" target="_blank">re in rural counties</a>, especially in the western half of Kansas.&nbsp;

Norton County in northwest Kansas (population of about 5,500) has more than 550 cases, making it <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/us/coronavirus-us-cases.html" target="_blank">one of the highest per-capita rates of infectio</a><a href="http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/us/coronavirus-us-cases.html" target="_blank">n in the U.S.</a>&nbsp;Finney County, which includes Garden City, reports its positivity rate from two weeks ago reached 31%.

Lindsay
 Byrnes, the county health department’s medical director, emailed Garden
 City commission members this week asking for an immediate 
implementation of a mask mandate in the city itself. She said in the 
letter that the hospital there is “incredibly strained.”

But 
Finney County Commissioner Duane Drees said Wednesday that it isn’t the 
government’s job to force people to wear masks or socially distance. He 
also said that it isn’t realistic to expect the county’s large immigrant
 population to obey the guidelines because they like to have family 
gatherings.

Finney County Health Department Director Colleen 
Drees would not comment on whether her agency needs more help from the 
county government to make sure people are taking precautions.

The virus is spreading widely across the community, she added.

“I
 wouldn't say that there's any specific outbreaks that are causing it. 
We've had several people that have reported that they're not sure where 
they contracted COVID.”

Recently, the county commission Crawford 
County in far southeast Kansas issued a stricter mask ordinance that 
requires people to wear a mask in public.

Wichita also is seeing a <a href="https://sedgwickcounty.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/7b2b4364a5fa4ba3a015d52450acfe0d" target="_blank">steady increase in cases</a>,
 topping more than 11,300 on Wednesday. The city’s two-week 
percent-positive rate is up to 13.3%, which is approaching the peak of 
14.1% in July. Ascension Via Christi hospitals in Wichita are at 
capacity, and Wesley Medical Center is at 90% capacity, Sedgwick County 
Manager Tom Stoltz said about information he received from hospital 
administrators.

“They’re wanting to talk with us about some 
emergency funding,” Stolz said during a county commission meeting 
Wednesday. “They’re looking at options now for overflow patients and 
staffing concerns.”

Kelly and top Republicans <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/kelly-top-lawmakers-agree-no-kansas-mask-rule-now" target="_blank">agreed Tuesday to encourage Kansas counties to adopt local mask mandates</a>
 rather than impose a statewide rule. Most of the state’s counties opted
 out of the mandate, and mask-wearing is a political sticking point. In 
Wichita, <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/wichita-mayor-says-he-appreciates-community-support-after-he-threatened" target="_blank">police arrested a man</a> after he allegedly threatened the Democratic mayor because of the city’s mask mandate.

An analysis from the <a href="https://ipsr.ku.edu/covid19/images/Mask_Mandate_forJoCo.pdf" target="_blank">University of Kansas</a>
 found that of the 80 Kansas counties without mask orders, they’ve seen a
 significant increase in coronavirus case rates in recent months. 
Counties that require masks have had a relatively flat rate of new 
cases.

About a month after the pandemic began in Kansas, 
lawmakers and the governor have clashed over her response. Republicans 
were angered that she closed businesses statewide and in response <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-05-22/kansas-gov-kellys-emergency-powers-weakened-by-lawmakers-who-say-she-overreacted-to-covid-19" target="_blank">voted to restrict her emergency powers</a>.

Kelly ultimately <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-05-26/kansas-counties-in-charge-of-covid-19-restrictions-after-gov-kelly-vetoes-emergency-powers-bill" target="_blank">vetoed that bill</a>
 and called a special session, where legislative leaders reached a deal 
to extend the state’s coronavirus emergency order in exchange for Kelly 
giving up some of her powers to respond to the virus. That bill also 
gave counties the ability to opt out of her mask orders.

Tensions between the governor and lawmakers have eased after Kelly said she has no intention of <a href="http://www.kmuw.org/post/republicans-extend-disaster-declaration-after-kansas-gov-kelly-promises-not-close-businesses" target="_blank">c</a><a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/republicans-extend-disaster-declaration-after-kansas-gov-kelly-promises-not-close-businesses" target="_blank">losing businesses again</a>.
 That convinced Republicans to extend the statewide emergency order, 
which must now be done monthly and is up for renewal again in 
mid-November.

Kansas News Service reporters Nomin Ujiyediin and Stephen Koranda contributed to this report.

Stephan Bisaha reports on education and young adult life for the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/stevebisaha">@SteveBisaha</a>&nbsp;or email him at bisaha@kmuw.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603979139090.png" alt=" A drive-through coronavirus testing center in Wichita. Brian Grimmett / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption> A drive-through coronavirus testing center in Wichita. Brian Grimmett / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By STEPHAN BISAHA <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/kansas-aims-400000-more-coronavirus-tests-years-end-rural-cases-surge">Kansas News Service</a>WICHITA, Kansas — Amid a surge of coronavirus cases 
across rural Kansas, Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly provided details on her
 new statewide testing plan Wednesday, adding 400,000 more by the end of
 the year.That's nearly double the amount of tests available 
now, with the goal of reaching a total of 1 million tests. The extra 
capacity is expected to go to schools and high-risk populations, like 
those living and working at nursing homes.“This
 is especially important for populations at high risk but also for 
businesses across the state worried about keeping their workforces safe 
and their doors open,” Kelly said at a news conference.Kansas 
reported about 3,400 new cases between Monday and Wednesday, including 
31 new deaths. About half of those new cases are due to an update to the
 Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s system. But even 
accounting for that, Kansas still added hundreds more cases in the time 
frame than it did the previous week.Kelly plans on using federal
 funding for the increased testing, as well as expanding infrastructure 
like improving testing capacity at labs, better transportation of 
samples to labs and increasing data accuracy to better track coronavirus
 trends across the state.The plan would also distribute more resources for isolating and quarantining, though Kelly did not provide details.The highest rates of infection <a href="http://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas" target="_blank">a</a><a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas" target="_blank">re in rural counties</a>, especially in the western half of Kansas.&nbsp;Norton County in northwest Kansas (population of about 5,500) has more than 550 cases, making it <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/us/coronavirus-us-cases.html" target="_blank">one of the highest per-capita rates of infectio</a><a href="http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/us/coronavirus-us-cases.html" target="_blank">n in the U.S.</a>&nbsp;Finney County, which includes Garden City, reports its positivity rate from two weeks ago reached 31%.Lindsay
 Byrnes, the county health department’s medical director, emailed Garden
 City commission members this week asking for an immediate 
implementation of a mask mandate in the city itself. She said in the 
letter that the hospital there is “incredibly strained.”But 
Finney County Commissioner Duane Drees said Wednesday that it isn’t the 
government’s job to force people to wear masks or socially distance. He 
also said that it isn’t realistic to expect the county’s large immigrant
 population to obey the guidelines because they like to have family 
gatherings.Finney County Health Department Director Colleen 
Drees would not comment on whether her agency needs more help from the 
county government to make sure people are taking precautions.The virus is spreading widely across the community, she added.“I
 wouldn't say that there's any specific outbreaks that are causing it. 
We've had several people that have reported that they're not sure where 
they contracted COVID.”Recently, the county commission Crawford 
County in far southeast Kansas issued a stricter mask ordinance that 
requires people to wear a mask in public.Wichita also is seeing a <a href="https://sedgwickcounty.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/7b2b4364a5fa4ba3a015d52450acfe0d" target="_blank">steady increase in cases</a>,
 topping more than 11,300 on Wednesday. The city’s two-week 
percent-positive rate is up to 13.3%, which is approaching the peak of 
14.1% in July. Ascension Via Christi hospitals in Wichita are at 
capacity, and Wesley Medical Center is at 90% capacity, Sedgwick County 
Manager Tom Stoltz said about information he received from hospital 
administrators.“They’re wanting to talk with us about some 
emergency funding,” Stolz said during a county commission meeting 
Wednesday. “They’re looking at options now for overflow patients and 
staffing concerns.”Kelly and top Republicans <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/kelly-top-lawmakers-agree-no-kansas-mask-rule-now" target="_blank">agreed Tuesday to encourage Kansas counties to adopt local mask mandates</a>
 rather than impose a statewide rule. Most of the state’s counties opted
 out of the mandate, and mask-wearing is a political sticking point. In 
Wichita, <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/wichita-mayor-says-he-appreciates-community-support-after-he-threatened" target="_blank">police arrested a man</a> after he allegedly threatened the Democratic mayor because of the city’s mask mandate.An analysis from the <a href="https://ipsr.ku.edu/covid19/images/Mask_Mandate_forJoCo.pdf" target="_blank">University of Kansas</a>
 found that of the 80 Kansas counties without mask orders, they’ve seen a
 significant increase in coronavirus case rates in recent months. 
Counties that require masks have had a relatively flat rate of new 
cases.About a month after the pandemic began in Kansas, 
lawmakers and the governor have clashed over her response. Republicans 
were angered that she closed businesses statewide and in response <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-05-22/kansas-gov-kellys-emergency-powers-weakened-by-lawmakers-who-say-she-overreacted-to-covid-19" target="_blank">voted to restrict her emergency powers</a>.Kelly ultimately <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-05-26/kansas-counties-in-charge-of-covid-19-restrictions-after-gov-kelly-vetoes-emergency-powers-bill" target="_blank">vetoed that bill</a>
 and called a special session, where legislative leaders reached a deal 
to extend the state’s coronavirus emergency order in exchange for Kelly 
giving up some of her powers to respond to the virus. That bill also 
gave counties the ability to opt out of her mask orders.Tensions between the governor and lawmakers have eased after Kelly said she has no intention of <a href="http://www.kmuw.org/post/republicans-extend-disaster-declaration-after-kansas-gov-kelly-promises-not-close-businesses" target="_blank">c</a><a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/republicans-extend-disaster-declaration-after-kansas-gov-kelly-promises-not-close-businesses" target="_blank">losing businesses again</a>.
 That convinced Republicans to extend the statewide emergency order, 
which must now be done monthly and is up for renewal again in 
mid-November.Kansas News Service reporters Nomin Ujiyediin and Stephen Koranda contributed to this report.Stephan Bisaha reports on education and young adult life for the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/stevebisaha">@SteveBisaha</a>&nbsp;or email him at bisaha@kmuw.org.

Kansas aims for 400,000 more virus tests as rural cases surge

By STEPHEN KORANDA <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-10-29/what-130-letters-sent-to-one-mans-mailbox-say-about-increasing-unemployment-fraud-in-kansas">Kansas News Service</a>

STILWELL, Kansas — After Doug Reed put his elderly father’s 
Johnson County home up for sale, the mailbox started to fill up with 
letters from the Kansas Department of Labor, sometimes 25 or 30 at a 
time.

“We had two or three big batches of them, and they’ve been dribbling in ever since,” Reed said.

Within a couple weeks, about 130 letters had arrived, all bearing his father’s street address but addressed to different names.

“Something’s
 wrong and somebody needs to fix it,” Reed said. “Obviously, there’s a 
lot of time and money spent on getting these envelopes together, and 
there’s postage involved. It’s all taxpayer money.”

It’s likely 
related to the landslide of fraudulent unemployment claims the Kansas 
Department of Labor is trying to combat during the pandemic, which <a href="https://www.kcur.org/economy/2020-03-30/kansas-sees-a-1-000-surge-in-jobless-claims-as-covid-19-derails-the-economy" target="_blank">caused unemployment in Kansas (and across the country) to skyrocket.</a> So far, the agency has stopped more than 100,000 fraudulent claims since the pandemic started.

Reed
 asked the labor department what to do several times, all while leaving 
the letters unopened. After a couple weeks, the department told him to 
box up the letters and mail them to the agency.

Agency spokesperson Jerry Grasso said Reed’s situation has been forwarded to investigators, who are looking into it for fraud.

But the fraud problem is not unique to Kansas during the pandemic. Federal officials <a href="https://apnews.com/article/f8e34c8436b52e6df38f974a44403b55" target="_blank">estimated this summer</a>
 that fraud nationwide could approach $26 billion. Much of it is 
targeting a new federal program, Pandemic Unemployment Assistance.

Acting
 Kansas Labor Secretary Ryan Wright said in an interview earlier this 
month that it’s relatively easy to spot fraudulent claims in traditional
 unemployment. Employers can verify that a person was never laid off.

But
 the new federal unemployment program is open to segments of the 
workforce that aren’t covered by traditional unemployment, like people 
who are self employed, which has created the opening for scammers. They 
file fraudulent claims using stolen personal information to try to 
collect the payments.

“This is just identity theft that is being applied to unemployment claims,” Wright said.

Reed, who has sold his father’s home, wonders whether a scammer saw the listing online.

“If someone was going to find an address, this probably would be a good one,” Reed said.

Often, how you find out you’ve been targeted is you’ll receive a letter about an unemployment claim you did not file.

“If
 you get a letter, you have been a victim of identity theft,” Wright 
said. “This is not you may become one. You have already been a victim of
 it.”

Wright encourages anyone who receives an unexpected unemployment letter to report it through an <a href="http://reportfraud.ks.gov" target="_blank">online form</a>.
 That will generate a police report and provide more information on how 
to respond. He also suggests victims review their credit reports and 
bank accounts for any suspicious activity.

To combat the fraud, 
KDOL has put a three-day waiting period in place for new claims to give 
more time for investigation. Wright says one day the agency was 
scheduled to pay out $37 million, but investigators discovered $35 
million of it was fraudulent.

The department has struggled to 
handle the surge of unemployment claims caused by the pandemic, and it 
came to a head when the previous secretary <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-06-22/kansas-labor-secretary-resigns-after-slow-rollout-of-pandemic-unemployment-benefits" target="_blank">resigned in June</a>.

An aging computer system and the huge number of filings led to a backlog of <a href="https://www.kcur.org/2020-08-14/kansans-stuck-waiting-while-the-state-works-through-25-000-unemployment-claims" target="_blank">25,000 unemployment claims</a>,
 but additional staff have now helped cut that backlog in half. Plus, 
with the help of $20 million in mostly federal funds, the agency added 
200 temporary workers to answer phones and work through claims, which 
has allowed more full-time staff to focus on fighting fraud.

Stephen Koranda is the Statehouse reporter for Kansas Public Radio and the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter<a href="https://twitter.com/kprkoranda" target="_blank"> @kprkoranda</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603988233952.png" alt="Doug Reed holds the dozens of letters from the Kansas Department of Labor that were mailed to his dad's former house and appear to be a sign of unemployment fraud. Stephen Koranda / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Doug Reed holds the dozens of letters from the Kansas Department of Labor that were mailed to his dad's former house and appear to be a sign of unemployment fraud. Stephen Koranda / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By STEPHEN KORANDA <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-10-29/what-130-letters-sent-to-one-mans-mailbox-say-about-increasing-unemployment-fraud-in-kansas">Kansas News Service</a>STILWELL, Kansas — After Doug Reed put his elderly father’s 
Johnson County home up for sale, the mailbox started to fill up with 
letters from the Kansas Department of Labor, sometimes 25 or 30 at a 
time.“We had two or three big batches of them, and they’ve been dribbling in ever since,” Reed said.Within a couple weeks, about 130 letters had arrived, all bearing his father’s street address but addressed to different names.“Something’s
 wrong and somebody needs to fix it,” Reed said. “Obviously, there’s a 
lot of time and money spent on getting these envelopes together, and 
there’s postage involved. It’s all taxpayer money.”It’s likely 
related to the landslide of fraudulent unemployment claims the Kansas 
Department of Labor is trying to combat during the pandemic, which <a href="https://www.kcur.org/economy/2020-03-30/kansas-sees-a-1-000-surge-in-jobless-claims-as-covid-19-derails-the-economy" target="_blank">caused unemployment in Kansas (and across the country) to skyrocket.</a> So far, the agency has stopped more than 100,000 fraudulent claims since the pandemic started.Reed
 asked the labor department what to do several times, all while leaving 
the letters unopened. After a couple weeks, the department told him to 
box up the letters and mail them to the agency.Agency spokesperson Jerry Grasso said Reed’s situation has been forwarded to investigators, who are looking into it for fraud.But the fraud problem is not unique to Kansas during the pandemic. Federal officials <a href="https://apnews.com/article/f8e34c8436b52e6df38f974a44403b55" target="_blank">estimated this summer</a>
 that fraud nationwide could approach $26 billion. Much of it is 
targeting a new federal program, Pandemic Unemployment Assistance.Acting
 Kansas Labor Secretary Ryan Wright said in an interview earlier this 
month that it’s relatively easy to spot fraudulent claims in traditional
 unemployment. Employers can verify that a person was never laid off.But
 the new federal unemployment program is open to segments of the 
workforce that aren’t covered by traditional unemployment, like people 
who are self employed, which has created the opening for scammers. They 
file fraudulent claims using stolen personal information to try to 
collect the payments.“This is just identity theft that is being applied to unemployment claims,” Wright said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603988292589.png" alt="A stack of unemployment letters addressed to different people but all sent to the same house in Johnson County this year." />
 <figcaption>A stack of unemployment letters addressed to different people but all sent to the same house in Johnson County this year.</figcaption>
 </figure>Reed, who has sold his father’s home, wonders whether a scammer saw the listing online.“If someone was going to find an address, this probably would be a good one,” Reed said.Often, how you find out you’ve been targeted is you’ll receive a letter about an unemployment claim you did not file.“If
 you get a letter, you have been a victim of identity theft,” Wright 
said. “This is not you may become one. You have already been a victim of
 it.”Wright encourages anyone who receives an unexpected unemployment letter to report it through an <a href="http://reportfraud.ks.gov" target="_blank">online form</a>.
 That will generate a police report and provide more information on how 
to respond. He also suggests victims review their credit reports and 
bank accounts for any suspicious activity.To combat the fraud, 
KDOL has put a three-day waiting period in place for new claims to give 
more time for investigation. Wright says one day the agency was 
scheduled to pay out $37 million, but investigators discovered $35 
million of it was fraudulent.The department has struggled to 
handle the surge of unemployment claims caused by the pandemic, and it 
came to a head when the previous secretary <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-06-22/kansas-labor-secretary-resigns-after-slow-rollout-of-pandemic-unemployment-benefits" target="_blank">resigned in June</a>.An aging computer system and the huge number of filings led to a backlog of <a href="https://www.kcur.org/2020-08-14/kansans-stuck-waiting-while-the-state-works-through-25-000-unemployment-claims" target="_blank">25,000 unemployment claims</a>,
 but additional staff have now helped cut that backlog in half. Plus, 
with the help of $20 million in mostly federal funds, the agency added 
200 temporary workers to answer phones and work through claims, which 
has allowed more full-time staff to focus on fighting fraud.Stephen Koranda is the Statehouse reporter for Kansas Public Radio and the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter<a href="https://twitter.com/kprkoranda" target="_blank"> @kprkoranda</a>.

130 letters: Unemployment fraud spikes in Kansas during pandemic

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Police say a 14-year-old girl was killed and her father critically injured in a two-vehicle crash in Wichita. Television station KAKE reports that the crash happened just before noon Wednesday in northwest Wichita. 

Police say a red car being driven by the father was speeding when it hit a dip in the road, became airborne and hit a pickup truck. Police Capt. Brent Allred said the car then spun and hit a second pickup. 

Police say the 14-year-old girl died at the scene and that her 38-year-old father suffered critical injuries. Their names have not yet been released. Police say one person in one of the trucks also was treated for minor injuries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603978627640.png" alt="Wednesday's fatal accident photo by Nolan Roth courtesy KAKE TV" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday's fatal accident photo by Nolan Roth courtesy KAKE TV</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Police say a 14-year-old girl was killed and her father critically injured in a two-vehicle crash in Wichita. Television station KAKE reports that the crash happened just before noon Wednesday in northwest Wichita. Police say a red car being driven by the father was speeding when it hit a dip in the road, became airborne and hit a pickup truck. Police Capt. Brent Allred said the car then spun and hit a second pickup. Police say the 14-year-old girl died at the scene and that her 38-year-old father suffered critical injuries. Their names have not yet been released. Police say one person in one of the trucks also was treated for minor injuries.

Update: Police ID Kansas girl who died in crash

HESSTON —The Harvey County Health Department, in conjunction with AGCO Corporation, has confirmed a cluster of COVID-19 cases at Plant 1 of the AGCO facility in Hesston, according to a media release.

The cluster includes 23 confirmed COVID-19 diagnoses. These individuals are isolating at home. AGCO has secured access to rapid-result antigen tests and will be administering them to all remaining Plant 1 employees Friday.

“AGCO takes our responsibility for the safety and well-being of our employees, partners, suppliers and customers very seriously,” said Seth Beytien, AGCO Hesston site leader. “We will continue to follow the guidance of the local health department to prevent the spread of COVID19 in our community. Our thoughts are with all impacted employees and their families as we hope for a quick recovery.”

AGCO suspended operations in Plant 1 at the end of its first shift on Tuesday after being notified that employees had tested positive for COVID-19. Plant 1 employees were advised to remain home until additional test results are received.

“The USW Union Board has been collaborating with AGCO throughout the pandemic to ensure a safe and healthy work environment for all Hesston employees,” said Glenn Davis, president, USW Local 11228. “I feel confident that the steps we’re taking are appropriate and are in the best interests of everyone at the Hesston facility.”

AGCO implemented several precautionary measures earlier this year, including routine daily disinfecting, temperature scanning, and dividers in many workspaces and break areas. AGCO’s policy at the Hesston plant requires all employees to wear face masks in all areas of its facilities at all times.

“Businesses have faced many challenges these past several months. They are providing essential goods and critical jobs, all while putting the health of employees first and foremost,” said Harvey County Health Department Director Lynnette Redington. “We appreciate AGCO’s focus on workplace safety by implementing COVID-19 precautions throughout the pandemic.”

The cluster will be considered active until there are 28 consecutive days – two incubation periods – without positive cases.

HESSTON —The Harvey County Health Department, in conjunction with AGCO Corporation, has confirmed a cluster of COVID-19 cases at Plant 1 of the AGCO facility in Hesston, according to a media release.The cluster includes 23 confirmed COVID-19 diagnoses. These individuals are isolating at home. AGCO has secured access to rapid-result antigen tests and will be administering them to all remaining Plant 1 employees Friday.“AGCO takes our responsibility for the safety and well-being of our employees, partners, suppliers and customers very seriously,” said Seth Beytien, AGCO Hesston site leader. “We will continue to follow the guidance of the local health department to prevent the spread of COVID19 in our community. Our thoughts are with all impacted employees and their families as we hope for a quick recovery.”AGCO suspended operations in Plant 1 at the end of its first shift on Tuesday after being notified that employees had tested positive for COVID-19. Plant 1 employees were advised to remain home until additional test results are received.“The USW Union Board has been collaborating with AGCO throughout the pandemic to ensure a safe and healthy work environment for all Hesston employees,” said Glenn Davis, president, USW Local 11228. “I feel confident that the steps we’re taking are appropriate and are in the best interests of everyone at the Hesston facility.”AGCO implemented several precautionary measures earlier this year, including routine daily disinfecting, temperature scanning, and dividers in many workspaces and break areas. AGCO’s policy at the Hesston plant requires all employees to wear face masks in all areas of its facilities at all times.“Businesses have faced many challenges these past several months. They are providing essential goods and critical jobs, all while putting the health of employees first and foremost,” said Harvey County Health Department Director Lynnette Redington. “We appreciate AGCO’s focus on workplace safety by implementing COVID-19 precautions throughout the pandemic.”The cluster will be considered active until there are 28 consecutive days – two incubation periods – without positive cases.

COVID-19 cluster at AGCO plant in Hesston

MONTGOMERY COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) released an update related to the officer-involved shooting that took place on Oct. 23.

The autopsy of 32-year-old Wesley Jordan has been completed. It indicated Jordan died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to a media release from the agency. This determination is consistent with investigative findings.

Just before 1 p.m.Friday, a victim called 911 to report being robbed at gunpoint at the Regal Inn in Coffeyville, according to a media release from the KBI.

At approximately 1:15 p.m., a KHP trooper observed a vehicle near 3600 Road, in Independence, Kan., that matched the vehicle connected to the robbery. He and another KHP trooper who responded to assist, initiated a car stop on the silver 2006 Chrysler Town and Country minivan occupied by a female driver later identified as Kristina K. Smith, 26, Coffeyville, and a male passenger later identified as 32-year-old Wesley Jordan of Hot Springs, Arkansas.

As the troopers attempted the traffic stop, Jordan fired at the troopers.

A trooper returned fire and the subjects fled, prompting a police pursuit. Near the intersection of 3600 Road. and 3900 Road., a deputy from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office intercepted the minivan and fired at Jordan.

The minivan continued west on 3600 Road., another 1/4 mile, until it came to a stop. Then a KHP trooper fired at Jordan when he exited the minivan.

Jordan was pronounced deceased at the scene by Montgomery County EMS. No law enforcement officers were injured during this incident.

Deputies took Smith into custody for questioning, and she was later arrested by the Coffeyville Police Department and is being held on requested of armed w/ dangerous weapon, Attempted FelonyTheft of prop/services,&nbsp; Aggravated battery. Knowingly use physical contact in angry/rude manner w/weapon, Aggravated assault and Use of a deadly weapon, according to online booking records.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating an officer-involved shooting that took place Friday afternoon in rural Montgomery County.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) released an update related to the officer-involved shooting that took place on Oct. 23.The autopsy of 32-year-old Wesley Jordan has been completed. It indicated Jordan died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to a media release from the agency. This determination is consistent with investigative findings.Just before 1 p.m.Friday, a victim called 911 to report being robbed at gunpoint at the Regal Inn in Coffeyville, according to a media release from the KBI.At approximately 1:15 p.m., a KHP trooper observed a vehicle near 3600 Road, in Independence, Kan., that matched the vehicle connected to the robbery. He and another KHP trooper who responded to assist, initiated a car stop on the silver 2006 Chrysler Town and Country minivan occupied by a female driver later identified as Kristina K. Smith, 26, Coffeyville, and a male passenger later identified as 32-year-old Wesley Jordan of Hot Springs, Arkansas.As the troopers attempted the traffic stop, Jordan fired at the troopers.A trooper returned fire and the subjects fled, prompting a police pursuit. Near the intersection of 3600 Road. and 3900 Road., a deputy from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office intercepted the minivan and fired at Jordan.The minivan continued west on 3600 Road., another 1/4 mile, until it came to a stop. Then a KHP trooper fired at Jordan when he exited the minivan.Jordan was pronounced deceased at the scene by Montgomery County EMS. No law enforcement officers were injured during this incident.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603551132843.png" alt="Kristina Smith-photo Montgomery County." />
 <figcaption>Kristina Smith-photo Montgomery County.</figcaption>
 </figure>Deputies took Smith into custody for questioning, and she was later arrested by the Coffeyville Police Department and is being held on requested of armed w/ dangerous weapon, Attempted FelonyTheft of prop/services,&nbsp; Aggravated battery. Knowingly use physical contact in angry/rude manner w/weapon, Aggravated assault and Use of a deadly weapon, according to online booking records.---------MONTGOMERY COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating an officer-involved shooting that took place Friday afternoon in rural Montgomery County.Just before 1 p.m.Friday, a victim called 911 to report being robbed at gunpoint at the Regal Inn in Coffeyville, according to a media release from the KBI.At approximately 1:15 p.m., a KHP trooper observed a vehicle near 3600 Road, in Independence, Kan., that matched the vehicle connected to the robbery. He and another KHP trooper who responded to assist, initiated a car stop on the silver 2006 Chrysler Town and Country minivan occupied by a female driver later identified as Kristina K. Smith, 26, Coffeyville, and a male passenger later identified as 32-year-old Wesley Jordan of Hot Springs, Arkansas.As the troopers attempted the traffic stop, Jordan fired at the troopers.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603551132843.png" alt="Kristina Smith photo Montgomery Co." />
 <figcaption>Kristina Smith photo Montgomery Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>A trooper returned fire and the subjects fled, prompting a police pursuit. Near the intersection of 3600 Road. and 3900 Road., a deputy from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office intercepted the minivan and fired at Jordan.The minivan continued west on 3600 Road., another 1/4 mile, until it came to a stop. Then a KHP trooper fired at Jordan when he exited the minivan.Jordan was pronounced deceased at the scene by Montgomery County EMS. No law enforcement officers were injured during this incident.Deputies took Smith into custody for questioning, and she was later arrested by the Coffeyville Police Department and is being held on requested of armed w/ dangerous weapon, Attempted FelonyTheft of prop/services,&nbsp; Aggravated battery. Knowingly use physical contact in angry/rude manner w/weapon, Aggravated assault and Use of a deadly weapon, according to online booking records.

Update: 1 dead, 1 jailed after Kan. officer-involved shooting

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Kansas man accused in the death of a woman whose body was found at a motel made his first court appearance in the case Tuesday.

Ricky Hollins, Jr., 40, Wichita, was charged with&nbsp;first-degree murder and buying sexual relations, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. 

Just after 10a.m. October 22, police responded to a call of an unresponsive woman in a room at the Budget Motel in the 1300 Block of South Broad in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp;&nbsp;A staff member of the motel located&nbsp;33-year-old Stephanie Duran of Wichita in the room and called the police.

She was pronounced dead at the scene. The following evening, police arrested and booked Hollins into the Sedgwick County Jail, according to online jail records. He remains jailed on $200,000 bond.&nbsp;

Kansas Department of Corrections records show Hollins has prior drug convictions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603833413290.png" alt="Hollins photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Hollins photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Kansas man accused in the death of a woman whose body was found at a motel made his first court appearance in the case Tuesday.Ricky Hollins, Jr., 40, Wichita, was charged with&nbsp;first-degree murder and buying sexual relations, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. Just after 10a.m. October 22, police responded to a call of an unresponsive woman in a room at the Budget Motel in the 1300 Block of South Broad in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp;&nbsp;A staff member of the motel located&nbsp;33-year-old Stephanie Duran of Wichita in the room and called the police.She was pronounced dead at the scene. The following evening, police arrested and booked Hollins into the Sedgwick County Jail, according to online jail records. He remains jailed on $200,000 bond.&nbsp;Kansas Department of Corrections records show Hollins has prior drug convictions.

Kan. man charged for woman's murder while buying sex

Kansas City (AP) —&nbsp; The new surge of the coronavirus was evident on Thursday, with record hospitalizations in St. Louis and Columbia, and the Kansas City metropolitan area experiencing its worst month ever for COVID-19 deaths.

The number of coronavirus deaths in the metro Kansas City area, which includes Kansas City as well as counties in Missouri and Kansas, was at 176 in October, the most of any month since the onset of the pandemic.

Deaths in the region have risen sharply during the fall. The metro area recorded 80 deaths in August but 172 in September.

“We would predict that November will be worse than October,” Kansas City Health Department Director Rex Archer told the Star. “December’s going to be worse than November and January’s going to be worse than December. We will continue to set records.”

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services' COVID-19 dashboard shows Missouri had the seventh-highest number of per capita deaths over the past seven days, and the 12th highest number of new cases per capita. The statewide positivity rate of 11.6% is more than twice the World Health Organization's 5% benchmark for reopening.

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/6b46885a2495c6b6e9503cd2a549fda2">allowed the state to reopen</a>&nbsp;in mid-June. He has urged Missourians to take personal responsibility in preventing the spread of the virus, but there is no statewide mandate for masks or social distancing. Many local jurisdictions have implemented their own requirements.

Kansas City (AP) —&nbsp; The new surge of the coronavirus was evident on Thursday, with record hospitalizations in St. Louis and Columbia, and the Kansas City metropolitan area experiencing its worst month ever for COVID-19 deaths.The number of coronavirus deaths in the metro Kansas City area, which includes Kansas City as well as counties in Missouri and Kansas, was at 176 in October, the most of any month since the onset of the pandemic.Deaths in the region have risen sharply during the fall. The metro area recorded 80 deaths in August but 172 in September.“We would predict that November will be worse than October,” Kansas City Health Department Director Rex Archer told the Star. “December’s going to be worse than November and January’s going to be worse than December. We will continue to set records.”The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services' COVID-19 dashboard shows Missouri had the seventh-highest number of per capita deaths over the past seven days, and the 12th highest number of new cases per capita. The statewide positivity rate of 11.6% is more than twice the World Health Organization's 5% benchmark for reopening.Missouri Gov. Mike Parson&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/6b46885a2495c6b6e9503cd2a549fda2">allowed the state to reopen</a>&nbsp;in mid-June. He has urged Missourians to take personal responsibility in preventing the spread of the virus, but there is no statewide mandate for masks or social distancing. Many local jurisdictions have implemented their own requirements.

KC-area experiencing  worst month for COVID-19 deaths

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Federal agencies warned that cybercriminals are&nbsp;<a href="https://us-cert.cisa.gov/ncas/alerts/aa20-302a" target="_blank">unleashing a wave of data-scrambling extortion attempts</a>&nbsp;against the U.S. healthcare system designed to lock up hospital information systems, which could hurt patient care just as nationwide cases of COVID-19 are spiking.

In a joint alert Wednesday, the FBI and two federal agencies warned that they had “credible information of an increased and imminent cybercrime threat to U.S. hospitals and healthcare providers.” The alert said malicious groups are targeting the sector with attacks that produce “data theft and disruption of healthcare services.”

The cyberattacks involve ransomware, which scrambles data into gibberish that can only be unlocked with software keys provided once targets pay up. Independent security experts say it has already hobbled at least five U.S. hospitals this week, and could potentially impact hundreds more.

The offensive by a Russian-speaking criminal gang coincides with the U.S. presidential election, although there is no immediate indication they were motivated by anything but profit. “We are experiencing the most significant cyber security threat we’ve ever seen in the United States,” Charles Carmakal, chief technical officer of the cybersecurity firm Mandiant, said in a statement.

Alex Holden, CEO of Hold Security, which has been closely tracking the ransomware in question for more than a year, agreed that the unfolding offensive is unprecedented in magnitude for the U.S. given its timing in the heat of a contentions presidential election and the worst global pandemic in a century.

The federal alert was co-authored by the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Health and Human Services.

The cybercriminals launching the attacks use a strain of ransomware known as Ryuk, which is seeded through a network of zombie computers called Trickbot that Microsoft&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-malware-elections-crime-cybercrime-913ee5d56affa97fc5d9c639c4a284ab">began trying to counter</a>&nbsp;earlier in October. U.S. Cyber Command has also reportedly taken action against Trickbot. While Microsoft has had considerable success knocking its command-and-control servers offline through legal action, analysts say criminals have still been finding ways to spread Ryuk.

The U.S. has seen a plague of ransomware over the past 18 months or so, with major cities from Baltimore to Atlanta hit and local governments and schools hit especially hard.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Federal agencies warned that cybercriminals are&nbsp;<a href="https://us-cert.cisa.gov/ncas/alerts/aa20-302a" target="_blank">unleashing a wave of data-scrambling extortion attempts</a>&nbsp;against the U.S. healthcare system designed to lock up hospital information systems, which could hurt patient care just as nationwide cases of COVID-19 are spiking.In a joint alert Wednesday, the FBI and two federal agencies warned that they had “credible information of an increased and imminent cybercrime threat to U.S. hospitals and healthcare providers.” The alert said malicious groups are targeting the sector with attacks that produce “data theft and disruption of healthcare services.”The cyberattacks involve ransomware, which scrambles data into gibberish that can only be unlocked with software keys provided once targets pay up. Independent security experts say it has already hobbled at least five U.S. hospitals this week, and could potentially impact hundreds more.The offensive by a Russian-speaking criminal gang coincides with the U.S. presidential election, although there is no immediate indication they were motivated by anything but profit. “We are experiencing the most significant cyber security threat we’ve ever seen in the United States,” Charles Carmakal, chief technical officer of the cybersecurity firm Mandiant, said in a statement.Alex Holden, CEO of Hold Security, which has been closely tracking the ransomware in question for more than a year, agreed that the unfolding offensive is unprecedented in magnitude for the U.S. given its timing in the heat of a contentions presidential election and the worst global pandemic in a century.The federal alert was co-authored by the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Health and Human Services.The cybercriminals launching the attacks use a strain of ransomware known as Ryuk, which is seeded through a network of zombie computers called Trickbot that Microsoft&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-malware-elections-crime-cybercrime-913ee5d56affa97fc5d9c639c4a284ab">began trying to counter</a>&nbsp;earlier in October. U.S. Cyber Command has also reportedly taken action against Trickbot. While Microsoft has had considerable success knocking its command-and-control servers offline through legal action, analysts say criminals have still been finding ways to spread Ryuk.The U.S. has seen a plague of ransomware over the past 18 months or so, with major cities from Baltimore to Atlanta hit and local governments and schools hit especially hard.In September, a ransomware attack&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/media-archive-21ebb97dc7b9e2a7c06244069a35b7e6">hobbled all 250 U.S. facilities</a>&nbsp;of the hospital chain Universal Health Services, forcing doctors and nurses to rely on paper and pencil for record-keeping and slowing lab work. Employees described chaotic conditions impeding patient care, including mounting emergency room waits and the failure of wireless vital-signs monitoring equipment.Also in September, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-hacking-europe-cf8f8eee1adcec69bcc864f2c4308c94">first known fatality related to ransomware</a>&nbsp;occurred in Duesseldorf, Germany, when an IT system failure forced a critically ill patient to be routed to a hospital in another city.Holden said he alerted federal law enforcement Friday after monitoring infection attempts at a number of hospitals, some of which may have beaten back infections. The FBI did not immediately respond to a request for comment.He said the group was demanding ransoms well above $10 million per target and that criminals involved on the dark web were discussing plans to try to infect more than 400 hospitals, clinics and other medical facilities.“One of the comments from the bad guys is that they are expecting to cause panic and, no, they are not hitting election systems,” Holden said. “They are hitting where it hurts even more and they know it.” U.S. officials have repeatedly expressed concern about major ransomware attacks affecting the presidential election, even if the criminals are motivated chiefly by profit.Mandiant’s Carmakal identified the criminal gang as UNC1878, saying “it is deliberately targeting and disrupting U.S. hospitals, forcing them to divert patients to other healthcare providers” and producing prolonged delays in critical care.He called the eastern European group “one of most brazen, heartless, and disruptive threat actors I’ve observed over my career.”While no one has proven suspected ties between the Russian government and gangs that use the Trickbot platform, Holden said he has “no doubt that the Russian government is aware of this operation — of terrorism, really.” He said dozens of different criminal groups use Ryuk, paying its architects a cut.Dmitri Alperovitch, co-founder and former chief technical officer of the cybersecurity firm Crowdstrike, said there are “certainly lot of connections between Russian cyber criminals and the state,” with Kremlin-employed hackers sometimes moonlighting as cyber criminals.Neither Holden nor Carmakal would identify the affected hospitals. Four healthcare institutions have been reported hit by ransomware so far this week, three belonging to the St. Lawrence County Health System in upstate New York and the Sky Lakes Medical Center in Klamath Falls, Oregon.Sky Lakes acknowledged the ransomware attack in an online statement, saying it had no evidence that patient information was compromised. It said emergency and urgent care “remain available” The St. Lawrence system did not immediately return phone calls seeking comment.Increasingly, ransomware criminals are stealing data from their targets before encrypting networks, using it for extortion. They often sow the malware weeks before activating it, waiting for moments when they believe they can extract the highest payments, said Brett Callow, an analyst at the cybersecurity firm Emsisoft.A total of 59 U.S. healthcare providers/systems have been impacted by ransomware in 2020, disrupting patient care at up to 510 facilities, Callow said.Carmakal said Mandiant had provided Microsoft on Wednesday with as much detail as it could&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fireeye.com/blog/threat-research/2020/10/kegtap-and-singlemalt-with-a-ransomware-chaser.html" target="_blank">about the thr</a>eat so it could distribute details to its customers. A Microsoft spokesman had no immediate comment.—-