O’FALLON, Mo. (AP) — A federal appeals court panel is weighing the fate of a sweeping Missouri abortion law, including a provision that prohibits a woman from having an abortion because the fetus has Down syndrome.

A three-judge panel of the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in St. Louis heard arguments Thursday in the legal battle over the 2019 measure that bans abortions at or after eight weeks of pregnancy. The appeals court ruling isn’t expected for several weeks.

Reproductive Health Services of Planned Parenthood, operator of Missouri’s lone abortion clinic, and the American Civil Liberties Union sued. A federal judge blocked the law while the legal challenge plays out, prompting the state’s appeal to the 8th Circuit.

U.S. District Judge Howard Sachs said at the time of his ruling last year that Planned Parenthood and the ACLU would likely succeed in their lawsuit alleging that the law is unconstitutional. Similar laws have been struck down in North Dakota and Iowa.

Most of the discussion Thursday centered around the provision banning abortions because the fetus is diagnosed with Down syndrome.

“That epidemic of abortions targeting children with Down syndrome for elimination solely because of their disability, not for any other reason … is a crisis,” Missouri Solicitor General John Sauer said.

Planned Parenthood attorney Claudia Hammerman argued that four decades of U.S. Supreme Court precedent “make it clear that this is unconstitutional.” She said doctors won’t take the risk of losing their medical license for aborting a fetus with Down syndrome, regardless of whether the condition was the reason the woman sought the procedure.

“That woman will be deprived of an abortion,” Hammerman said.

Missouri is among several conservative states in recent years that have passed abortion restrictions in hopes that the increasingly conservative Supreme Court will eventually overturn Roe v. Wade, the 1973 decision that established a nationwide right to abortion. The Supreme Court vacancy created by the recent death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has heightened a sense of alarm among supporters of abortion rights.

O’FALLON, Mo. (AP) — A federal appeals court panel is weighing the fate of a sweeping Missouri abortion law, including a provision that prohibits a woman from having an abortion because the fetus has Down syndrome.A three-judge panel of the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in St. Louis heard arguments Thursday in the legal battle over the 2019 measure that bans abortions at or after eight weeks of pregnancy. The appeals court ruling isn’t expected for several weeks.Reproductive Health Services of Planned Parenthood, operator of Missouri’s lone abortion clinic, and the American Civil Liberties Union sued. A federal judge blocked the law while the legal challenge plays out, prompting the state’s appeal to the 8th Circuit.U.S. District Judge Howard Sachs said at the time of his ruling last year that Planned Parenthood and the ACLU would likely succeed in their lawsuit alleging that the law is unconstitutional. Similar laws have been struck down in North Dakota and Iowa.Most of the discussion Thursday centered around the provision banning abortions because the fetus is diagnosed with Down syndrome.“That epidemic of abortions targeting children with Down syndrome for elimination solely because of their disability, not for any other reason … is a crisis,” Missouri Solicitor General John Sauer said.Planned Parenthood attorney Claudia Hammerman argued that four decades of U.S. Supreme Court precedent “make it clear that this is unconstitutional.” She said doctors won’t take the risk of losing their medical license for aborting a fetus with Down syndrome, regardless of whether the condition was the reason the woman sought the procedure.“That woman will be deprived of an abortion,” Hammerman said.Missouri is among several conservative states in recent years that have passed abortion restrictions in hopes that the increasingly conservative Supreme Court will eventually overturn Roe v. Wade, the 1973 decision that established a nationwide right to abortion. The Supreme Court vacancy created by the recent death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has heightened a sense of alarm among supporters of abortion rights.

Court weighs fate of sweeping Missouri abortion restrictions

LEAVENWORTH COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after noon Friday in Leavenworth County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan driven by Gary W. Story, 83, Tonganoxie, was westbound on U.S. 24 at Stone Creek Drive.

The driver disregarded a red left turn arrow and proceeded to make a left turn. An eastbound 2019 GMC Sierra driven by Danielle R Herring, 38, Tonganoxie, and the Grand Caravan collided in the intersection.

Story was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported a passenger in the van Edris S.&nbsp;Welsh, 81, Tongnoxie, to KU Medical Center. Herring was not transported for treatment.. Story was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

LEAVENWORTH COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after noon Friday in Leavenworth County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan driven by Gary W. Story, 83, Tonganoxie, was westbound on U.S. 24 at Stone Creek Drive.The driver disregarded a red left turn arrow and proceeded to make a left turn. An eastbound 2019 GMC Sierra driven by Danielle R Herring, 38, Tonganoxie, and the Grand Caravan collided in the intersection.Story was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported a passenger in the van Edris S.&nbsp;Welsh, 81, Tongnoxie, to KU Medical Center. Herring was not transported for treatment.. Story was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

83-year-old Kansas man dies after 2-vehicle crash

JOHNSON COUNTY —The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism is asking for help from the public to solve a poaching case in Shawnee, Kansas.

A resident in Shawnee found two whitetail bucks that were illegally shot on private property adjacent to the dead end on Bell Road, about a mile east of the Shawnee Police Department, according to a social media report from KDWP&amp;T game wardens.

The carcasses of both bucks were left intact and the meat was wasted. One buck was a trophy 5x5 point and the other buck was a unique 2x3 point. Both bucks were killed with one arrow from a bow or a bolt fired from a crossbow.

 An Under Armour camo jacket was left on a tree branch above one buck and an Under Armour reversible camo/fluorescent yellow face gaiter mask was left on a tree branch above the other buck.

Kansas law makes wanton waste of game meat a crime. This occurred on private property without the owner’s permission to hunt. The forensic evidence suggests both deer were killed Sunday morning.

A house camera captured a picture of a newer model black Dodge 4 door pickup, with black wheel rims, leaving along Bell Road Sunday around 9:30 AM, then returning before immediately leaving again around 11:20 AM.

 A local resident spotted the same suspicious vehicle leaving and said it had a Kansas license plate.

If you have information, there are several ways to report it. Call Operation Game Thief at 1-877-426-3843 , complete an online Operation Game Thief form from the KDWPT website, or call or text the Kansas Game Warden for Johnson County Vince Wonderlich at (785) 256-3611. Callers can remain anonymous.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601051113535.png" alt="A newer model black Dodge 4-door pickup with a Kansas license plate as seen on a house camera -Photo KDWP&amp;T" />
 <figcaption>A newer model black Dodge 4-door pickup with a Kansas license plate as seen on a house camera -Photo KDWP&amp;T</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism is asking for help from the public to solve a poaching case in Shawnee, Kansas.A resident in Shawnee found two whitetail bucks that were illegally shot on private property adjacent to the dead end on Bell Road, about a mile east of the Shawnee Police Department, according to a social media report from KDWP&amp;T game wardens.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601051084020.png" alt="KDWP&amp;T" />
 <figcaption>KDWP&amp;T</figcaption>
 </figure>The carcasses of both bucks were left intact and the meat was wasted. One buck was a trophy 5x5 point and the other buck was a unique 2x3 point. Both bucks were killed with one arrow from a bow or a bolt fired from a crossbow.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601051194423.png" alt="Photo KDWP&amp;T" />
 <figcaption>Photo KDWP&amp;T</figcaption>
 </figure> An Under Armour camo jacket was left on a tree branch above one buck and an Under Armour reversible camo/fluorescent yellow face gaiter mask was left on a tree branch above the other buck.Kansas law makes wanton waste of game meat a crime. This occurred on private property without the owner’s permission to hunt. The forensic evidence suggests both deer were killed Sunday morning.A house camera captured a picture of a newer model black Dodge 4 door pickup, with black wheel rims, leaving along Bell Road Sunday around 9:30 AM, then returning before immediately leaving again around 11:20 AM. A local resident spotted the same suspicious vehicle leaving and said it had a Kansas license plate.If you have information, there are several ways to report it. Call Operation Game Thief at 1-877-426-3843 , complete an online Operation Game Thief form from the KDWPT website, or call or text the Kansas Game Warden for Johnson County Vince Wonderlich at (785) 256-3611. Callers can remain anonymous.

Game wardens: Poachers killed 2 deer in Kansas

DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Tennessee man in connection to multiple storage unit burglaries in Junction City and Abilene.

On Tuesday, officers were dispatched to the 1400 block of North Buckeye Avenue for the report of suspicious activity, according to Abilene Assistant Chief of Police Jason Wilkins.

A citizen had observed a suspicious man at a storage unit facility in the 300 block of Northeast 14th Street.

Officers learned that the man fled on foot prior to their arrival, but were able to locate Joshua Patrick, 22, of Dickson, Tennessee in the 2000 block of North Buckeye Avenue.

Officers discovered a total of nine storage units located on Northeast 14th Street that had been broken into, however, they were able to determine that no property had been taken from the units, according to Wilkins.

As a result of the investigation, police booked Patrick into the Dickinson County Jail on requested charges that include multiple counts of burglary and criminal damage to property.

Patrick is also believed to be involved in multiple storage unit burglaries in Junction City, according to Wilkins.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601043110275.jpeg" alt="Patrick photo Dickinson Co." />
 <figcaption>Patrick photo Dickinson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Tennessee man in connection to multiple storage unit burglaries in Junction City and Abilene.On Tuesday, officers were dispatched to the 1400 block of North Buckeye Avenue for the report of suspicious activity, according to Abilene Assistant Chief of Police Jason Wilkins.A citizen had observed a suspicious man at a storage unit facility in the 300 block of Northeast 14th Street.Officers learned that the man fled on foot prior to their arrival, but were able to locate Joshua Patrick, 22, of Dickson, Tennessee in the 2000 block of North Buckeye Avenue.Officers discovered a total of nine storage units located on Northeast 14th Street that had been broken into, however, they were able to determine that no property had been taken from the units, according to Wilkins.As a result of the investigation, police booked Patrick into the Dickinson County Jail on requested charges that include multiple counts of burglary and criminal damage to property.Patrick is also believed to be involved in multiple storage unit burglaries in Junction City, according to Wilkins.

Police make arrest for series of Kansas burglaries 

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 1366 to a total of 56,592 the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;

Coronavirus deaths were reported at 632, an increase of 11.

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

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 1366 to a total of 56,592 the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 632, an increase of 11.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional numbers from the KDHE.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601054548620.png" alt="Friday Sept. 25, 2020 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Friday Sept. 25, 2020 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

SHAWNEE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 7:30p.m. Thursday in Topeka.

The accident involved a vehicle and motorcycle at SE 31st Street and SE Adams Street, according to Lt. Ron Ekis. 

First responders found the motorcyclist suffering from serious injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Both North and Southbound lanes on SE Adams were temporarily closed while TPD’s Accident Reconstruction Team investigated. Authorities have not released the victim's name.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601051925775.png" alt="Fatal crash scene Thursday night in Topeka -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Fatal crash scene Thursday night in Topeka -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 7:30p.m. Thursday in Topeka.The accident involved a vehicle and motorcycle at SE 31st Street and SE Adams Street, according to Lt. Ron Ekis. First responders found the motorcyclist suffering from serious injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.Both North and Southbound lanes on SE Adams were temporarily closed while TPD’s Accident Reconstruction Team investigated. Authorities have not released the victim's name.

Police: Motorcyclist killed in Kansas crash

HUTCHINSON—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two separate reports of attempted child abductions, according to a media release from Hutchinson Police.

Just after 7:30p.m. September 17,&nbsp; officers were dispatched to the 400 block of East 6th Street in Hutchinson. An 11-year-old girl was playing in her yard and reported being grabbed by her wrist, according to the release. 

When she turned around, she saw a white man approximately 6-foot tall, skinny build dressed in all black clothing and a black mask. 

The girl was able to get away from the suspect and she ran to a nearby building to hide. The suspect then walked away and was last seen westbound in an alley.

Just before 5p.m. on Thursday, police responded to the KWIK Shop at 1401 E. 4th Street in Hutchinson after it was reported that after shopping in the convenience store a three-year old boy was placed into his car seat. The mother then got into the driver’s seat and pushed a button to close the vehichle's rear sliding door.&nbsp; 

Before the door shut, an unknown subject with facial hair, wearing grey sweatpants and a black sweatshirt was seen reaching into the van toward the child. The mother yelled and the suspect fled southbound, according to the release.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Anyone with any information is asked to contact Reno County Crime Stoppers at 620-694-2666 or Lt. Dustin Loepp at 620-694-2829.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582817981133.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two separate reports of attempted child abductions, according to a media release from Hutchinson Police.Just after 7:30p.m. September 17,&nbsp; officers were dispatched to the 400 block of East 6th Street in Hutchinson. An 11-year-old girl was playing in her yard and reported being grabbed by her wrist, according to the release. When she turned around, she saw a white man approximately 6-foot tall, skinny build dressed in all black clothing and a black mask. The girl was able to get away from the suspect and she ran to a nearby building to hide. The suspect then walked away and was last seen westbound in an alley.Just before 5p.m. on Thursday, police responded to the KWIK Shop at 1401 E. 4th Street in Hutchinson after it was reported that after shopping in the convenience store a three-year old boy was placed into his car seat. The mother then got into the driver’s seat and pushed a button to close the vehichle's rear sliding door.&nbsp; Before the door shut, an unknown subject with facial hair, wearing grey sweatpants and a black sweatshirt was seen reaching into the van toward the child. The mother yelled and the suspect fled southbound, according to the release.&nbsp;&nbsp;Anyone with any information is asked to contact Reno County Crime Stoppers at 620-694-2666 or Lt. Dustin Loepp at 620-694-2829.

Police: 2 reported attempted child  abductions in Hutchinson

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Jury selection has begun in the trial of a woman charged with killing a 24-year-old woman who disappeared after a Tinder date and whose dismembered remains later were found in trash bags along remote gravel roads in Nebraska.

Bailey Boswell, 26, faces the death penalty if convicted of first-degree murder in the November 2017 slaying of Sydney Loofe, who was a store clerk in Lincoln. Boswell had arranged a date with Loofe through the internet dating app - a date from which Loofe never returned.

Boswell's boyfriend, 54-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/7242eab656f64cd99b8780881e67deab" target="_blank">Aubrey Trail,&nbsp;</a>was convicted of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder in Loofe's death in July 2019. Trail testified that he accidentally choked Loofe to death during a sex party that involved Boswell.

Boswell's trial was moved from Saline County, where she and Trail lived, to Dawson County because of extensive publicity.

On Wednesday, a special prosecutor handling the case asked jurors if they had read or heard anything about the case. Nearly all indicated that they had heard about the case, and most nodded when asked if they had gotten their information from news accounts.

Trail, a Kansas convict who specialized in fraud and deception, went on social media shortly after Loofe was reported missing to proclaim in a video that he and Boswell had nothing to do with her disappearance. Boswell has said she dropped Loofe off in Lincoln after their date and had no idea where she was.

During his trial, Trail slashed his own neck in front of jurors, but survived. Prosecutors have called Trail a conman. He is scheduled for sentencing in December.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1560911898785.png" alt="Boswell booking photo Lancaster Co." />
 <figcaption>Boswell booking photo Lancaster Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Jury selection has begun in the trial of a woman charged with killing a 24-year-old woman who disappeared after a Tinder date and whose dismembered remains later were found in trash bags along remote gravel roads in Nebraska.Bailey Boswell, 26, faces the death penalty if convicted of first-degree murder in the November 2017 slaying of Sydney Loofe, who was a store clerk in Lincoln. Boswell had arranged a date with Loofe through the internet dating app - a date from which Loofe never returned.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1560911993347.png" alt="Aubrey Trail has previous convictions in Kansas for theft and giving a worthless check, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.&nbsp; He is scheduled for sentencing in December for Loofe's murder." />
 <figcaption>Aubrey Trail has previous convictions in Kansas for theft and giving a worthless check, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.&nbsp; He is scheduled for sentencing in December for Loofe's murder.</figcaption>
 </figure>Boswell's boyfriend, 54-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/7242eab656f64cd99b8780881e67deab" target="_blank">Aubrey Trail,&nbsp;</a>was convicted of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder in Loofe's death in July 2019. Trail testified that he accidentally choked Loofe to death during a sex party that involved Boswell.Boswell's trial was moved from Saline County, where she and Trail lived, to Dawson County because of extensive publicity.On Wednesday, a special prosecutor handling the case asked jurors if they had read or heard anything about the case. Nearly all indicated that they had heard about the case, and most nodded when asked if they had gotten their information from news accounts.Trail, a Kansas convict who specialized in fraud and deception, went on social media shortly after Loofe was reported missing to proclaim in a video that he and Boswell had nothing to do with her disappearance. Boswell has said she dropped Loofe off in Lincoln after their date and had no idea where she was.During his trial, Trail slashed his own neck in front of jurors, but survived. Prosecutors have called Trail a conman. He is scheduled for sentencing in December.

Jury selection underway in murder trial involving Kan. felon

WASHINGTON (AP) — Capping days of commemorations of her extraordinary life, Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg becomes the first woman in American history to lie in state in the U.S. Capitol.

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?476232-1/memorial-service-us-capitol-justice-ruth-bader-ginsburg">Click here</a> to watch the service at the Capitol.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bf6704fa6e900967a705054c801a5495">Ginsburg, who died last week at age 87,</a>&nbsp;also will be the first Jewish-American to lie in state and just the second Supreme Court justice. The first, Chief Justice William Howard Taft, also had been president.

Ginsburg’s casket arrived at the Capitol Friday morning for a private ceremony in Statuary Hall attended by her family and lawmakers, and with musical selections from one of Ginsburg’s favorite opera singers, mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-senate-elections-ruth-bader-ginsburg-north-carolina-elections-caadacc468d17741d4c93f906d9f68eb">Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;and his wife, Jill, planned to attend.

Members of the House and Senate who are not invited to the ceremony because of space limitations imposed by the coronavirus pandemic will be able to pay their respects before a motorcade carrying Ginsburg’s casket departs the Capitol early afternoon.

The honor of lying in state has been accorded fewer than three dozen times, mostly to presidents, vice presidents and members of Congress.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-john-lewis-atlanta-alabama-virus-outbreak-76a63a9d89f53018f9347206b98ae9a9">Rep. John Lewis, the civil rights icon</a>, was the last person to lie in state following his death in July. Henry Clay, the Kentucky lawmaker who served as Speaker of the House and also was a senator, was the first in 1852. Rosa Parks — a private citizen, not a government official — is the only woman who has lain in honor at the Capitol.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/1b5420d9b3582e7ab8419989cea43a6f">Ginsburg has lain in repose for two days at the Supreme Court</a>, where thousands of people paid their respects, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ruth-bader-ginsburg-elections-us-supreme-court-courts-donald-trump-8edd0d716ce82101fcb0992ea1a686b9">President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump on Thursday.</a>&nbsp;Spectators booed and chanted “vote him out” as the president, who wore a mask, stood silently near Ginsburg’s casket at the top of the court’s front steps.

Trump plans to announce his nomination Saturday of a woman to take Ginsburg’s place on the high court, where she served for 27 years and was the leader of the liberal justices.

Ginsburg, the second woman to serve on the Supreme Court, will be buried next week in Arlington National Cemetery beside her husband, Martin, who died in 2010.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601042705219.png" alt="The casket of Justice Ginsberg arrives inside the U.S. Capitol Friday morning -image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>The casket of Justice Ginsberg arrives inside the U.S. Capitol Friday morning -image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Capping days of commemorations of her extraordinary life, Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg becomes the first woman in American history to lie in state in the U.S. Capitol.<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?476232-1/memorial-service-us-capitol-justice-ruth-bader-ginsburg">Click here</a> to watch the service at the Capitol.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601041918742.png" alt="Casket of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg carried up the steps of the U.S. Capitol Friday morning -Image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Casket of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg carried up the steps of the U.S. Capitol Friday morning -Image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://apnews.com/article/bf6704fa6e900967a705054c801a5495">Ginsburg, who died last week at age 87,</a>&nbsp;also will be the first Jewish-American to lie in state and just the second Supreme Court justice. The first, Chief Justice William Howard Taft, also had been president.Ginsburg’s casket arrived at the Capitol Friday morning for a private ceremony in Statuary Hall attended by her family and lawmakers, and with musical selections from one of Ginsburg’s favorite opera singers, mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-senate-elections-ruth-bader-ginsburg-north-carolina-elections-caadacc468d17741d4c93f906d9f68eb">Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;and his wife, Jill, planned to attend.Members of the House and Senate who are not invited to the ceremony because of space limitations imposed by the coronavirus pandemic will be able to pay their respects before a motorcade carrying Ginsburg’s casket departs the Capitol early afternoon.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601042591407.png" alt="Justice Ginsburg's casket in Statuary Hall of the U.S. Capitol-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Justice Ginsburg's casket in Statuary Hall of the U.S. Capitol-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>The honor of lying in state has been accorded fewer than three dozen times, mostly to presidents, vice presidents and members of Congress.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-john-lewis-atlanta-alabama-virus-outbreak-76a63a9d89f53018f9347206b98ae9a9">Rep. John Lewis, the civil rights icon</a>, was the last person to lie in state following his death in July. Henry Clay, the Kentucky lawmaker who served as Speaker of the House and also was a senator, was the first in 1852. Rosa Parks — a private citizen, not a government official — is the only woman who has lain in honor at the Capitol.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/1b5420d9b3582e7ab8419989cea43a6f">Ginsburg has lain in repose for two days at the Supreme Court</a>, where thousands of people paid their respects, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ruth-bader-ginsburg-elections-us-supreme-court-courts-donald-trump-8edd0d716ce82101fcb0992ea1a686b9">President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump on Thursday.</a>&nbsp;Spectators booed and chanted “vote him out” as the president, who wore a mask, stood silently near Ginsburg’s casket at the top of the court’s front steps.Trump plans to announce his nomination Saturday of a woman to take Ginsburg’s place on the high court, where she served for 27 years and was the leader of the liberal justices.Ginsburg, the second woman to serve on the Supreme Court, will be buried next week in Arlington National Cemetery beside her husband, Martin, who died in 2010.

🎥 Memorial Service at U.S. Capitol for Justice Ginsburg

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Republican legislators in Kansas have started pushing to give more of their colleagues a say in how the state manages protracted emergencies such as the coronavirus pandemic after months of conflict between them and Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly.

A Republican-led legislative committee studying the state’s emergency management laws agreed Thursday that the GOP-controlled Legislature should consider creating a new panel with permanent oversight of how the governor handles monthslong emergencies. The study committee also said lawmakers should look into making it easier for them to reconvene later in the year after their annual spring session has concluded.

Top Republicans previously concluded that the Legislature needs to revise laws that give the governor sweeping powers during a state of emergency, arguing that they were designed for short-term emergencies such as floods and tornadoes. Kelly and GOP lawmakers compromised in June on a special law that set separate rules for the coronavirus pandemic, but key parts of it expire in late January 2021.

The law gave eight top legislative leaders, six of them Republicans, some oversight of Kelly’s actions and the ability to prevent her from extending the state’s existing state of emergency past mid-October. Six of the lawmakers are from the state’s two most populous counties, where support for restrictions is greater and mask-wearing is more common, and only one is from western Kansas, where skepticism of such measures is stronger. That’s created dissatisfaction among rank-and-file lawmakers, particularly conservatives from rural areas.

“It’s too limited, and you’re not guaranteed to have diversity,” said Rep. Fred Patton, a Topeka Republican and the study committee’s chairman.

Kelly frustrated many Republicans by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/8e5672095558ab92d7505f2a06f9a9b9">closing all K-12 schools</a>&nbsp;in March for the rest of the spring semester, keeping&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/425a488fcf8f16dfb0d7e06a9293b1ff">a statewide stay-at-home order</a>&nbsp;in place for five weeks this spring and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abd6bb1cfc4f6349d94f853f04b12bcb">imposing statewide restrictions</a>&nbsp;this spring on businesses and public gatherings. They’ve argued for giving local officials control over such decisions and forced Kelly to largely accept that approach since Memorial Day.

Kansas has reported more than 55,000 confirmed and probable coronavirus cases, or 19 for every 1,000 residents, with 621 reported COVID-19-related deaths as of Wednesday.

The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Kansas has risen over the past two weeks, from 496 new cases per day on Sept. 9 to 622 per day on Wednesday. That last figure represented&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-health-kansas-clinical-trials-archive-c87451b4cf129afb6d02d4c8cd0a0fb2">the biggest spike</a>&nbsp;in new Kansas cases since the pandemic began.

“Laura Kelly, I felt like, was managing this public health crisis very well until the Republicans stepped in and started restricting her power,” said Senate Minority Leader Anthony Hensley, a Topeka Democrat.

The Legislature delegated decisions to its top leaders because lawmakers meet regularly only during the first part of each year in annual sessions scheduled for 90 days ending in May. Governors can call special sessions, as Kelly did to get the pandemic law enacted in early June, but the state’s tradition is not to have them frequently. Legislators can call themselves back only if two-thirds of them want to do it.

Rep. Stephen Owens, a Hesston Republican, said his constituents want him to be active in the state’s pandemic response, asking him, “Why aren’t you in Topeka fixing this?”

“I just think more legislative oversight is the way to go,” he said.

Meanwhile, a report from the state health department said nursing homes made up nearly half of the places in Kansas linked to active coronavirus clusters with five or more new cases in the past 14 days. The report released Wednesday listed 29 clusters, including 14 that are tied to nursing homes in 11 counties.

And Scott Brunner, a deputy secretary at the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services, told a legislative budget committee Wednesday that some nursing homes were struggling to meet federal testing bench marks because of lags in the supply chain,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cjonline.com/news/20200923/coronavirus-testing-in-nursing-homes-remains-rsquomixed-bagrsquo-state-says" target="_blank">The Topeka Capital Journal reported.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595279892769.png" alt="Governor Laura Kelly during a press conference in June" />
 <figcaption>Governor Laura Kelly during a press conference in June</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN HANNATOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Republican legislators in Kansas have started pushing to give more of their colleagues a say in how the state manages protracted emergencies such as the coronavirus pandemic after months of conflict between them and Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly.A Republican-led legislative committee studying the state’s emergency management laws agreed Thursday that the GOP-controlled Legislature should consider creating a new panel with permanent oversight of how the governor handles monthslong emergencies. The study committee also said lawmakers should look into making it easier for them to reconvene later in the year after their annual spring session has concluded.Top Republicans previously concluded that the Legislature needs to revise laws that give the governor sweeping powers during a state of emergency, arguing that they were designed for short-term emergencies such as floods and tornadoes. Kelly and GOP lawmakers compromised in June on a special law that set separate rules for the coronavirus pandemic, but key parts of it expire in late January 2021.The law gave eight top legislative leaders, six of them Republicans, some oversight of Kelly’s actions and the ability to prevent her from extending the state’s existing state of emergency past mid-October. Six of the lawmakers are from the state’s two most populous counties, where support for restrictions is greater and mask-wearing is more common, and only one is from western Kansas, where skepticism of such measures is stronger. That’s created dissatisfaction among rank-and-file lawmakers, particularly conservatives from rural areas.“It’s too limited, and you’re not guaranteed to have diversity,” said Rep. Fred Patton, a Topeka Republican and the study committee’s chairman.Kelly frustrated many Republicans by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/8e5672095558ab92d7505f2a06f9a9b9">closing all K-12 schools</a>&nbsp;in March for the rest of the spring semester, keeping&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/425a488fcf8f16dfb0d7e06a9293b1ff">a statewide stay-at-home order</a>&nbsp;in place for five weeks this spring and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abd6bb1cfc4f6349d94f853f04b12bcb">imposing statewide restrictions</a>&nbsp;this spring on businesses and public gatherings. They’ve argued for giving local officials control over such decisions and forced Kelly to largely accept that approach since Memorial Day.Kansas has reported more than 55,000 confirmed and probable coronavirus cases, or 19 for every 1,000 residents, with 621 reported COVID-19-related deaths as of Wednesday.The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Kansas has risen over the past two weeks, from 496 new cases per day on Sept. 9 to 622 per day on Wednesday. That last figure represented&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-health-kansas-clinical-trials-archive-c87451b4cf129afb6d02d4c8cd0a0fb2">the biggest spike</a>&nbsp;in new Kansas cases since the pandemic began.“Laura Kelly, I felt like, was managing this public health crisis very well until the Republicans stepped in and started restricting her power,” said Senate Minority Leader Anthony Hensley, a Topeka Democrat.The Legislature delegated decisions to its top leaders because lawmakers meet regularly only during the first part of each year in annual sessions scheduled for 90 days ending in May. Governors can call special sessions, as Kelly did to get the pandemic law enacted in early June, but the state’s tradition is not to have them frequently. Legislators can call themselves back only if two-thirds of them want to do it.Rep. Stephen Owens, a Hesston Republican, said his constituents want him to be active in the state’s pandemic response, asking him, “Why aren’t you in Topeka fixing this?”“I just think more legislative oversight is the way to go,” he said.Meanwhile, a report from the state health department said nursing homes made up nearly half of the places in Kansas linked to active coronavirus clusters with five or more new cases in the past 14 days. The report released Wednesday listed 29 clusters, including 14 that are tied to nursing homes in 11 counties.And Scott Brunner, a deputy secretary at the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services, told a legislative budget committee Wednesday that some nursing homes were struggling to meet federal testing bench marks because of lags in the supply chain,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cjonline.com/news/20200923/coronavirus-testing-in-nursing-homes-remains-rsquomixed-bagrsquo-state-says" target="_blank">The Topeka Capital Journal reported.</a>___

COVID-19 has Kansas lawmakers pondering broader oversight

IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) —Regulators have issued their first citation to a meatpacking plant with a large coronavirus outbreak that sickened its workforce — a $957 fine for a minor record-keeping violation.

The outbreak at the Iowa Premium Beef Plant in Tama in April resulted in 338 of the plant's 850 workers testing positive for the virus, 80 more than the state previously acknowledged, according to inspection records released Thursday.

The Iowa Occupational Safety and Health Administration said on June 1 that it had launched inspections at the Tama plant and four other meatpacking plants where thousands of workers had tested positive.

Records show that the inspections did not lead to any citations at the other four plants, where at least nine workers have died after contracting the COVID-19 virus. Those included Tyson Foods plants in Waterloo, Columbus Junction and Perry and the JBS plant in Marshalltown.

The agency cited Iowa Premium Beef in August for failing to keep a required log of workplace-related injuries and illnesses, and for failing to provide the document within four hours after inspectors requested it.

Both violations were labeled “other-than-serious," according to documents obtained by The Associated Press under the open records law.

On Sept. 2, Iowa OSHA administrator Russell Perry approved a settlement with the company that reduced the proposed penalties from $1,914 to a $957 fine. The company also agreed to correct the violations. It had already turned over the log the day after the inspection, although it was initially missing information about several workers' illnesses.

Democrats and labor activists have blasted the Iowa agency for a lax approach to worker safety during the pandemic. Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds has defended the state's approach, saying it has helped keep a critical industry operating while protecting workers.

The outbreak in Tama produced one of the first hot spots in the state.

The beef plant suspended production for two weeks in April after scores of workers became ill. A two-day mass testing conducted by the Iowa Department of Public Health found that 338 workers were infected by then, the records show.

The health department’s deputy director, Sarah Reisetter, nonetheless announced at a news conference May 5 that only 258 workers had tested positive. The department has blamed record-keeping problems for erroneously announcing artificially low numbers of positive tests at another meatpacking plant the same day.

Facing criticism for its response, Iowa OSHA decided to inspect the Tama plant May 21 based on news reports of the 6-week-old outbreak.

Inspectors found that four workers were still hospitalized with COVID-19 and saw some employees working close to one another on the floor with no barriers between them.

Inspectors noted that employees were wearing surgical-style masks that were issued by the company and required when the plant reopened April 20. The company had allowed workers to begin wearing their own face coverings April 2, four days before the plant shut down, records show.

The plant has taken steps to prevent the virus' spread by installing plastic barriers where possible, staggering breaks, adding seating, providing hand sanitizer and checking temperatures before entry.

The plant was purchased last year by National Beef, which is based in Kansas&nbsp;City and supplies grocery stores and restaurants with meat products.

CEO Tim Klein praised his company in an open letter published Wednesday for “rapidly adjusting our processes and protocols to improve safety" during the pandemic.

“Our industry was in the local and national news for the wrong reasons during a time when we were all learning how to combat COVID-19 and keep our people safe,” he wrote. “And yet our employees continued to deliver — safe, quality beef products, ideas for improved safety, and time and talents to help their families and communities thrive in challenging situations.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600974957573.png" alt="photo courtesy National Beef" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy National Beef</figcaption>
 </figure>IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) —Regulators have issued their first citation to a meatpacking plant with a large coronavirus outbreak that sickened its workforce — a $957 fine for a minor record-keeping violation.The outbreak at the Iowa Premium Beef Plant in Tama in April resulted in 338 of the plant's 850 workers testing positive for the virus, 80 more than the state previously acknowledged, according to inspection records released Thursday.The Iowa Occupational Safety and Health Administration said on June 1 that it had launched inspections at the Tama plant and four other meatpacking plants where thousands of workers had tested positive.Records show that the inspections did not lead to any citations at the other four plants, where at least nine workers have died after contracting the COVID-19 virus. Those included Tyson Foods plants in Waterloo, Columbus Junction and Perry and the JBS plant in Marshalltown.The agency cited Iowa Premium Beef in August for failing to keep a required log of workplace-related injuries and illnesses, and for failing to provide the document within four hours after inspectors requested it.Both violations were labeled “other-than-serious," according to documents obtained by The Associated Press under the open records law.On Sept. 2, Iowa OSHA administrator Russell Perry approved a settlement with the company that reduced the proposed penalties from $1,914 to a $957 fine. The company also agreed to correct the violations. It had already turned over the log the day after the inspection, although it was initially missing information about several workers' illnesses.Democrats and labor activists have blasted the Iowa agency for a lax approach to worker safety during the pandemic. Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds has defended the state's approach, saying it has helped keep a critical industry operating while protecting workers.The outbreak in Tama produced one of the first hot spots in the state.The beef plant suspended production for two weeks in April after scores of workers became ill. A two-day mass testing conducted by the Iowa Department of Public Health found that 338 workers were infected by then, the records show.The health department’s deputy director, Sarah Reisetter, nonetheless announced at a news conference May 5 that only 258 workers had tested positive. The department has blamed record-keeping problems for erroneously announcing artificially low numbers of positive tests at another meatpacking plant the same day.Facing criticism for its response, Iowa OSHA decided to inspect the Tama plant May 21 based on news reports of the 6-week-old outbreak.Inspectors found that four workers were still hospitalized with COVID-19 and saw some employees working close to one another on the floor with no barriers between them.Inspectors noted that employees were wearing surgical-style masks that were issued by the company and required when the plant reopened April 20. The company had allowed workers to begin wearing their own face coverings April 2, four days before the plant shut down, records show.The plant has taken steps to prevent the virus' spread by installing plastic barriers where possible, staggering breaks, adding seating, providing hand sanitizer and checking temperatures before entry.The plant was purchased last year by National Beef, which is based in Kansas&nbsp;City and supplies grocery stores and restaurants with meat products.CEO Tim Klein praised his company in an open letter published Wednesday for “rapidly adjusting our processes and protocols to improve safety" during the pandemic.“Our industry was in the local and national news for the wrong reasons during a time when we were all learning how to combat COVID-19 and keep our people safe,” he wrote. “And yet our employees continued to deliver — safe, quality beef products, ideas for improved safety, and time and talents to help their families and communities thrive in challenging situations.”

State fines beef plant after huge coronavirus outbreak

Overland Park, Kan. (AP) — Federal agents are investigating the shooting death of an Overland Park teenager by a police officer for possible civil rights violations, an FBI spokeswoman said Thursday.

John Albers, 17, was killed in January 2018 as he backed a minivan out of his family’s home. Officers responded to the house after Albers’ friends reported he was threatening to hurt himself. His parents were not home at the time.

The FBI in Kansas City, the agency’s Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney in Kansas are investigating the shooting. Bridget Patton, said in a statement.

Johnson County District Attorney Steve Howe declined to press charges against the officer, Clayton Jenison, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/d4cb99f7d309451b7a4499f53ab19c67">left&nbsp;</a>the police force.

The Albers family later&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/af71e84e02ea41b8af098e2dee11ec4f">settled</a>&nbsp;a wrongful death lawsuit against Overland Park for $2.3 million.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601028395769.png" alt="Police on the scene of the fatal shooting -photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the fatal shooting -photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>Overland Park, Kan. (AP) — Federal agents are investigating the shooting death of an Overland Park teenager by a police officer for possible civil rights violations, an FBI spokeswoman said Thursday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601028453799.png" alt="John Albers photo courtesy McGilley Memorial Chapel" />
 <figcaption>John Albers photo courtesy McGilley Memorial Chapel</figcaption>
 </figure>John Albers, 17, was killed in January 2018 as he backed a minivan out of his family’s home. Officers responded to the house after Albers’ friends reported he was threatening to hurt himself. His parents were not home at the time.The FBI in Kansas City, the agency’s Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney in Kansas are investigating the shooting. Bridget Patton, said in a statement.Johnson County District Attorney Steve Howe declined to press charges against the officer, Clayton Jenison, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/d4cb99f7d309451b7a4499f53ab19c67">left&nbsp;</a>the police force.The Albers family later&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/af71e84e02ea41b8af098e2dee11ec4f">settled</a>&nbsp;a wrongful death lawsuit against Overland Park for $2.3 million.

FBI investigates Kansas teen's shooting death

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Authorities responding to a call about deputies being shot at briefly shut down the Kansas Turnpike Wednesday night and sent an armored vehicle and drone to the scene.

It turned out the ruckus was coming from a propane cannon an 87-year-old watermelon farmer uses to scare away racoons and coyotes from his crops near Haysville.

About 10-12 watermelons were disappearing each night, so about a week ago Kenneth Simmons put a propane cannon in their field east of the Turnpike to scare off the predators, said his wife, Ester. The device can be put on a timer to set off a loud bang.

Officers were originally called at 9:09 p.m. about shots fired, said Sedgwick County Lt. Benjamin Blick. Two deputies made their way toward an abandoned vehicle and announced their presence.

“Their announcement was met with what they believed to be three gunshots,” Blick said in an email.

The Turnpike was shut down in both directions for 30-45 minutes.

An off-duty lieutenant who remembered something similar happened years ago in the area contacted officers to help connect them with the farmer. The armored vehicle and drone confirmed that it was the propane cannon before the scene was cleared.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601029074135.png" alt="Propane cannon photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Propane cannon photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Authorities responding to a call about deputies being shot at briefly shut down the Kansas Turnpike Wednesday night and sent an armored vehicle and drone to the scene.It turned out the ruckus was coming from a propane cannon an 87-year-old watermelon farmer uses to scare away racoons and coyotes from his crops near Haysville.About 10-12 watermelons were disappearing each night, so about a week ago Kenneth Simmons put a propane cannon in their field east of the Turnpike to scare off the predators, said his wife, Ester. The device can be put on a timer to set off a loud bang.Officers were originally called at 9:09 p.m. about shots fired, said Sedgwick County Lt. Benjamin Blick. Two deputies made their way toward an abandoned vehicle and announced their presence.“Their announcement was met with what they believed to be three gunshots,” Blick said in an email.The Turnpike was shut down in both directions for 30-45 minutes.An off-duty lieutenant who remembered something similar happened years ago in the area contacted officers to help connect them with the farmer. The armored vehicle and drone confirmed that it was the propane cannon before the scene was cleared.

Kansas farm device triggers police response to shooting call

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on numerous charges including his possession of dangerous snakes.

On Wednesday evening, police and members of the&nbsp;Shawnee County Drug Task Force served a narcotics search warrant at a. home at 3600 SE Indiana, in Topeka, according to&nbsp; LT Jerry Monasmith.&nbsp; 

As a result of the investigation, officers found David Kidd, 54, had Methamphetamine, Drug Paraphernalia, and Venomous Snakes.

Officers arrested Kidd and transported him to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of drug paraphernalia and the Unlawful possession of venomous snakes. The snakes were humanly rescued by the Northeast Kansas Wild Life Rescue Organization, according to Monasmith.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600945439087.png" alt="Kidd photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Kidd photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on numerous charges including his possession of dangerous snakes.On Wednesday evening, police and members of the&nbsp;Shawnee County Drug Task Force served a narcotics search warrant at a. home at 3600 SE Indiana, in Topeka, according to&nbsp; LT Jerry Monasmith.&nbsp; As a result of the investigation, officers found David Kidd, 54, had Methamphetamine, Drug Paraphernalia, and Venomous Snakes.Officers arrested Kidd and transported him to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of drug paraphernalia and the Unlawful possession of venomous snakes. The snakes were humanly rescued by the Northeast Kansas Wild Life Rescue Organization, according to Monasmith.

Drug task force finds venomous snakes at Kan. home

WICHITA, KAN. – A Kansas man has been sentenced for a shooting death in west Wichita.

District Judge Dave Dahl sentenced Tanner Mora, 27 of Wichita, to life with parole eligibility after 25 years, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

A jury convicted Mora of felony 1st degree murder during the commission of aggravated robbery which occurred during the sale of marijuana.

In February 2019, police found the body of Lorenzo Wade, 22 of Wichita, in the parking lot of Genesis Health Club in the 3700 block of West 13th Street. He had multiple gunshot wounds. A bag of marijuana was found next to the body. 

Police later arrested Mora and Ashantis Bledsoe, 21, Wichita.&nbsp; He is awaiting trial. Mora and his girlfriend moved to Wichita from Arkansas City a month before the shooting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600962165579.png" alt="Mora photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Mora photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, KAN. – A Kansas man has been sentenced for a shooting death in west Wichita.District Judge Dave Dahl sentenced Tanner Mora, 27 of Wichita, to life with parole eligibility after 25 years, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.A jury convicted Mora of felony 1st degree murder during the commission of aggravated robbery which occurred during the sale of marijuana.In February 2019, police found the body of Lorenzo Wade, 22 of Wichita, in the parking lot of Genesis Health Club in the 3700 block of West 13th Street. He had multiple gunshot wounds. A bag of marijuana was found next to the body. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600962223546.png" alt="Bledsoe photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Bledsoe photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Police later arrested Mora and Ashantis Bledsoe, 21, Wichita.&nbsp; He is awaiting trial. Mora and his girlfriend moved to Wichita from Arkansas City a month before the shooting.

Kansas man sentenced for marijuana sale murder

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Nursing homes make up nearly half of the places in Kansas linked to active coronavirus clusters of five or more cases and some of them still are struggling to find testing supplies despite heightened federal testing requirements, a state official told legislators.

The state Department of Health and Environment has resumed its weekly reports on specific coronavirus clusters. It started releasing the data on Sept. 9 but paused it for a week because the first reports included weeks-old cases in the counts for businesses and other places that still had active ones. The latest report, issued Wednesday, lists places that have had five or more active cases within the past 14 days, and only the cases in which symptoms started during that period, not a long-term cumulative total.

The latest health department report lists 29 clusters, including 14 that are tied to nursing homes in 11 counties. Together, the 29 clusters account for 316 cases, including 169, or 53%, that were in nursing homes.

The state has 211 active clusters accounting for about 8,000 of the more than 55,000 confirmed and probable coronavirus cases that Kansas has reported since the pandemic reached the state in early March. Active clusters account for 128 of the 621 reported COVID-19-related deaths reported by the state health department since the pandemic began.

The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Kansas has risen over the past two weeks, from 496 new cases per day on Sept. 9 to 622 per day on Wednesday. That last figure&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-health-kansas-clinical-trials-archive-c87451b4cf129afb6d02d4c8cd0a0fb2">represented the biggest spike in new Kansas cases&nbsp;</a>since the pandemic began.

Meanwhile, Scott Brunner, a deputy secretary at the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services, told a joint legislative budget committee Wednesday that some nursing homes were struggling to meet a federal benchmark requiring homes in more than half the state’s counties to test staff at least once a week because of the spread of the coronavirus locally,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cjonline.com/news/20200923/coronavirus-testing-in-nursing-homes-remains-rsquomixed-bagrsquo-state-says" target="_blank">The Topeka Capital Journal reported.&nbsp;</a>Brunner blamed lags in the supply chain.

“It’s a little bit of a mixed bag but I agree that the resourcing element is a concern, and we’ve certainly heard that and want to keep figuring out the best way to meet that,” Brunner said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600981970057.png" alt="Sept. 23, 2020 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Sept. 23, 2020 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Nursing homes make up nearly half of the places in Kansas linked to active coronavirus clusters of five or more cases and some of them still are struggling to find testing supplies despite heightened federal testing requirements, a state official told legislators.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600895539200.png" alt="KDHE Secretary Dr. Lee Norman during his Wednesday press briefing" />
 <figcaption>KDHE Secretary Dr. Lee Norman during his Wednesday press briefing</figcaption>
 </figure>The state Department of Health and Environment has resumed its weekly reports on specific coronavirus clusters. It started releasing the data on Sept. 9 but paused it for a week because the first reports included weeks-old cases in the counts for businesses and other places that still had active ones. The latest report, issued Wednesday, lists places that have had five or more active cases within the past 14 days, and only the cases in which symptoms started during that period, not a long-term cumulative total.The latest health department report lists 29 clusters, including 14 that are tied to nursing homes in 11 counties. Together, the 29 clusters account for 316 cases, including 169, or 53%, that were in nursing homes.The state has 211 active clusters accounting for about 8,000 of the more than 55,000 confirmed and probable coronavirus cases that Kansas has reported since the pandemic reached the state in early March. Active clusters account for 128 of the 621 reported COVID-19-related deaths reported by the state health department since the pandemic began.The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Kansas has risen over the past two weeks, from 496 new cases per day on Sept. 9 to 622 per day on Wednesday. That last figure&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-health-kansas-clinical-trials-archive-c87451b4cf129afb6d02d4c8cd0a0fb2">represented the biggest spike in new Kansas cases&nbsp;</a>since the pandemic began.Meanwhile, Scott Brunner, a deputy secretary at the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services, told a joint legislative budget committee Wednesday that some nursing homes were struggling to meet a federal benchmark requiring homes in more than half the state’s counties to test staff at least once a week because of the spread of the coronavirus locally,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cjonline.com/news/20200923/coronavirus-testing-in-nursing-homes-remains-rsquomixed-bagrsquo-state-says" target="_blank">The Topeka Capital Journal reported.&nbsp;</a>Brunner blamed lags in the supply chain.“It’s a little bit of a mixed bag but I agree that the resourcing element is a concern, and we’ve certainly heard that and want to keep figuring out the best way to meet that,” Brunner said.

Nursing homes lead list of reported Kansas COVID-19 clusters

WASHINGTON — U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos on Thursday recognized 367 schools including 6 in Kansas as&nbsp;<a href="https://www2.ed.gov/programs/nclbbrs/index.html">National Blue Ribbon Schools</a>&nbsp;for 2020.

The recognition is based on a school's overall academic performance or progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups.

The schools in Kansas include Bostic Traditional Magnet Elementary School, Wichita; Grant F. Timmerman Elementary School, Emporia; St Thomas Aquinas Catholic School, Wichita; Bradley Elementary School, Leavenworth; Prairie Creek Elementary School, Olathe and Piper Elementary School, Kansas City

Congratulations to this year's National Blue Ribbon School awardees," said Secretary DeVos. "It's a privilege to recognize the extraordinary work you do to meet students' needs and prepare them for successful careers and meaningful lives."

The coveted National Blue Ribbon Schools award affirms the hard work of educators, families, and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging and engaging content. Now in its 38th year, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has bestowed almost 10,000 awards to more than 9,000 schools, with some schools winning multiple awards. Schools are eligible for nomination after five years.&nbsp;

The Education Department recognizes all schools in one of two performance categories, based on all student scores, student subgroup scores, and graduation rates:

Up to 420 schools may be nominated each year. The U.S. Education Department invites National Blue Ribbon School nominations from the top education official in all states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, the Department of Defense Education Activity, and the Bureau of Indian Education. Private schools are nominated by the Council for American Private Education (CAPE).

The 2020 National Blue Ribbon Schools Awards Ceremony will be held virtually Nov. 12 and 13. While we regret not having the opportunity to celebrate in person, given the current situation regarding COVID-19, we will celebrate the 317 public and 50 non-public school honorees in the ways that we are able, and they will each receive their plaques and flags via mail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600979430865.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON — U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos on Thursday recognized 367 schools including 6 in Kansas as&nbsp;<a href="https://www2.ed.gov/programs/nclbbrs/index.html">National Blue Ribbon Schools</a>&nbsp;for 2020. The recognition is based on a school's overall academic performance or progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups.The schools in Kansas include Bostic Traditional Magnet Elementary School, Wichita; Grant F. Timmerman Elementary School, Emporia; St Thomas Aquinas Catholic School, Wichita; Bradley Elementary School, Leavenworth; Prairie Creek Elementary School, Olathe and Piper Elementary School, Kansas City<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600979315874.png" alt="Education Secretary Betsy Devos made the announcement Thursday morning-photo courtesy U.S. Dept. of Education" />
 <figcaption>Education Secretary Betsy Devos made the announcement Thursday morning-photo courtesy U.S. Dept. of Education</figcaption>
 </figure>Congratulations to this year's National Blue Ribbon School awardees," said Secretary DeVos. "It's a privilege to recognize the extraordinary work you do to meet students' needs and prepare them for successful careers and meaningful lives."The coveted National Blue Ribbon Schools award affirms the hard work of educators, families, and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging and engaging content. Now in its 38th year, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has bestowed almost 10,000 awards to more than 9,000 schools, with some schools winning multiple awards. Schools are eligible for nomination after five years.&nbsp;The Education Department recognizes all schools in one of two performance categories, based on all student scores, student subgroup scores, and graduation rates:<ol>
 <li>Exemplary High Performing Schools&nbsp;– These are among their state's highest performing schools as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.</li><li>Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools&nbsp;– These are among their state's highest performing in closing achievement gaps between a school's student groups and all students.</li>
 </ol>Up to 420 schools may be nominated each year. The U.S. Education Department invites National Blue Ribbon School nominations from the top education official in all states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, the Department of Defense Education Activity, and the Bureau of Indian Education. Private schools are nominated by the Council for American Private Education (CAPE).The 2020 National Blue Ribbon Schools Awards Ceremony will be held virtually Nov. 12 and 13. While we regret not having the opportunity to celebrate in person, given the current situation regarding COVID-19, we will celebrate the 317 public and 50 non-public school honorees in the ways that we are able, and they will each receive their plaques and flags via mail.

6 in Kansas named 2020 National Blue Ribbon Schools

ELK COUNTY–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Elk County Sheriff’s Office are investigating a homicide that occurred in Longton, Kansas, according to a media release from the agency.

Just after 10 a.m. Thursday, following a 911 call from a family member reporting a death, the Elk County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to 200 E. 3rd&nbsp;St. in Longton.&nbsp;

When deputies arrived, they discovered a resident of the home, 34-year-old Amy R. Lammon, deceased inside. EMS responded, and the coroner pronounced Lammon dead at the scene.&nbsp; Authorities released no additional details.

Longton is approximately 90 miles southeast of Wichita.

ELK COUNTY–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Elk County Sheriff’s Office are investigating a homicide that occurred in Longton, Kansas, according to a media release from the agency.Just after 10 a.m. Thursday, following a 911 call from a family member reporting a death, the Elk County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to 200 E. 3rd&nbsp;St. in Longton.&nbsp;When deputies arrived, they discovered a resident of the home, 34-year-old Amy R. Lammon, deceased inside. EMS responded, and the coroner pronounced Lammon dead at the scene.&nbsp; Authorities released no additional details.Longton is approximately 90 miles southeast of Wichita.

KBI: 34-year-old woman found dead in Kansas home

SALINE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating after a vehicle crash in to a home early Wednesday in Salina.

Just before 4a.m. Wednesday, a 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo was&nbsp; northbound on Montrose Street, ran the stop sign at West South Street, continued across West South Street and into the yard of 918 West South Street, striking the front porch of the residence, according to  Salina Police Capt. Paul Forrester. The front of the vehicle was completely under the porch.

Five people were in the home at the time of the crash.&nbsp; They were not injured. A witness observed two suspects running from the scene, according to Forrester.

The registered owner told police that the car was recently sold. A city inspector was called in to check the porch as there was a concern of it collapsing. Police released no additional details.

SALINE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating after a vehicle crash in to a home early Wednesday in Salina.Just before 4a.m. Wednesday, a 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo was&nbsp; northbound on Montrose Street, ran the stop sign at West South Street, continued across West South Street and into the yard of 918 West South Street, striking the front porch of the residence, according to Salina Police Capt. Paul Forrester. The front of the vehicle was completely under the porch.Five people were in the home at the time of the crash.&nbsp; They were not injured. A witness observed two suspects running from the scene, according to Forrester.The registered owner told police that the car was recently sold. A city inspector was called in to check the porch as there was a concern of it collapsing. Police released no additional details.

Police search for 2 after car crash into Salina home

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — The Norman City Council voted to require that masks be worn indoors at house parties if more than 25 people are present to slow the spread of the coronavirus in the college town — a step that angry residents said would infringe on their rights.

The council voted 5-3 on Tuesday night in favor of the ordinance, which took effect immediately and expires Nov. 30, despite the objections of some locals.

“You can make any law that you want to. You come into my house telling me that I got to wear this stupid thing and you’re going to have a firefight on your hands,” said Josh Danforth, who identified himself as an Iraqi war veteran while holding a mask.

Resident Laura Ashford said the ordinance violates the First, Second and 10th amendments to the Constitution.

“You have no authority to command what I do in my home,” Ashford said. “It’s against my constitutional rights as a citizen of the United States of America.”

Council member Kate Bierman said an increase in coronavirus cases — more than 1,000 reported cases per day statewide for each of the past seven days — and a weekend party attended by up to 400 people at a Norman apartment complex illustrate that residents aren’t heeding recommendations to wear masks.

Violating the ordinance carries a fine of $50-$500 and requires at least three violations before a citation can be issued, said Mayor Breea Clark.

“We’re not going to bust into people’s houses to county and make sure everyone is wearing a mask,” Clark said. “We’re going after the clear violations that apparently we’re having trouble enforcing.”

The council also cited large numbers of unmasked people who attended parties on University of Oklahoma football game days. The Oklahoma State Department of Health on Wednesday reported Wednesday that the state had recorded 80,161 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 970 deaths since the start of the pandemic, which were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2a01ee64ae87fb564fac79dfeae1f694">increases</a>&nbsp;of 1,089 cases and eight deaths from Monday. The agency said there were 12,412 active cases.

Dr. Dale Bratzler of the University of Oklahoma Medical Center said the state had seen a substantial increase in reported cases during the past week, largely in rural counties and in state prisons.

“On Monday of this week when we had 1,100 new cases reported in the state, almost 400 of those came out of a single county, Woodward County which is where they’re seeing this large outbreak in the correctional facility,” Bratzler said.

The Kansas State University football team travels to Norman for an 11a.m. game on Saturday against the University of Oklahoma.

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — The Norman City Council voted to require that masks be worn indoors at house parties if more than 25 people are present to slow the spread of the coronavirus in the college town — a step that angry residents said would infringe on their rights.The council voted 5-3 on Tuesday night in favor of the ordinance, which took effect immediately and expires Nov. 30, despite the objections of some locals.“You can make any law that you want to. You come into my house telling me that I got to wear this stupid thing and you’re going to have a firefight on your hands,” said Josh Danforth, who identified himself as an Iraqi war veteran while holding a mask.Resident Laura Ashford said the ordinance violates the First, Second and 10th amendments to the Constitution.“You have no authority to command what I do in my home,” Ashford said. “It’s against my constitutional rights as a citizen of the United States of America.”Council member Kate Bierman said an increase in coronavirus cases — more than 1,000 reported cases per day statewide for each of the past seven days — and a weekend party attended by up to 400 people at a Norman apartment complex illustrate that residents aren’t heeding recommendations to wear masks.Violating the ordinance carries a fine of $50-$500 and requires at least three violations before a citation can be issued, said Mayor Breea Clark.“We’re not going to bust into people’s houses to county and make sure everyone is wearing a mask,” Clark said. “We’re going after the clear violations that apparently we’re having trouble enforcing.”The council also cited large numbers of unmasked people who attended parties on University of Oklahoma football game days. The Oklahoma State Department of Health on Wednesday reported Wednesday that the state had recorded 80,161 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 970 deaths since the start of the pandemic, which were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2a01ee64ae87fb564fac79dfeae1f694">increases</a>&nbsp;of 1,089 cases and eight deaths from Monday. The agency said there were 12,412 active cases.Dr. Dale Bratzler of the University of Oklahoma Medical Center said the state had seen a substantial increase in reported cases during the past week, largely in rural counties and in state prisons.“On Monday of this week when we had 1,100 new cases reported in the state, almost 400 of those came out of a single county, Woodward County which is where they’re seeing this large outbreak in the correctional facility,” Bratzler said.The Kansas State University football team travels to Norman for an 11a.m. game on Saturday against the University of Oklahoma.

City of Norman expands mask mandate to include private homes

COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa (AP) — A Nebraska man has been arrested in Missouri for his alleged role in an assault on an Iowa police officer in which the officer fired his gun, according to officials.

Ian James Lybarger, 29, of Omaha, Nebraska, was arrested Wednesday night following a police chase that began in Red Oak, Iowa, and ended in northwestern Missouri, the Council Bluffs Police Department said Thursday in a news release.

Lybarger is accused of dragging a Council Bluffs police officer last week for several feet in a parking lot as the officer tried to remove him from his car. During the struggle, Officer John Kuebler fired his service weapon, but didn’t hit anyone.

Lybarger is charged in an Iowa warrant with assaulting a police officer, leaving the scene of an injury accident, operating a vehicle without the owner’s consent and theft.

Lybarger is being held 90 minutes north of Kansas City the in Rock Port, Missouri, jail.

At the time of the incident, Lybarger was already wanted on an outstanding warrant out of Omaha for felony theft, police said.

Kuebler remains on administrative leave while the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation investigates.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600896351314.png" alt="Lybarger -photo Council Bluffs Police" />
 <figcaption>Lybarger -photo Council Bluffs Police</figcaption>
 </figure>COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa (AP) — A Nebraska man has been arrested in Missouri for his alleged role in an assault on an Iowa police officer in which the officer fired his gun, according to officials.Ian James Lybarger, 29, of Omaha, Nebraska, was arrested Wednesday night following a police chase that began in Red Oak, Iowa, and ended in northwestern Missouri, the Council Bluffs Police Department said Thursday in a news release.Lybarger is accused of dragging a Council Bluffs police officer last week for several feet in a parking lot as the officer tried to remove him from his car. During the struggle, Officer John Kuebler fired his service weapon, but didn’t hit anyone.Lybarger is charged in an Iowa warrant with assaulting a police officer, leaving the scene of an injury accident, operating a vehicle without the owner’s consent and theft.Lybarger is being held 90 minutes north of Kansas City the in Rock Port, Missouri, jail.At the time of the incident, Lybarger was already wanted on an outstanding warrant out of Omaha for felony theft, police said.Kuebler remains on administrative leave while the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation investigates.

Man wanted in officer assault arrested near Kansas City

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump paid respects to late Supreme Court Justice&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ruth-bader-ginsburg">Ruth Bader Ginsburg</a>&nbsp;on Thursday morning, just two days before he announces his nominee to replace her on the high court.

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?476148-1/justice-ruth-bader-ginsburg-lying-repose-supreme-court&amp;live&amp;vod">Click here</a> to watch

The president and first lady Melania Trump — both wearing masks — stood silently at the top of the steps of the court and looked down at Ginsburg’s flag-draped coffin, surrounded by white flowers. The death of the liberal-leaning justice has sparked a controversy over the balance of the court just weeks before the November presidential election.

Trump has called Ginsburg an “amazing woman,” but some spectators were not happy that he came. Moments after he arrived, booing could be heard from those holding about a block away from the building. The spectators chanted “vote him out and honor her wish " as the president stood near the coffin. 

He walked back into the court as the chants grew louder. As the motorcade returned to the White House, there were also chants of “Breonna Taylor” from some spectators standing on the sidewalk.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600956126039.png" alt="President Trump outside the court Thursday morning -photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>President Trump outside the court Thursday morning -photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump paid respects to late Supreme Court Justice&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ruth-bader-ginsburg">Ruth Bader Ginsburg</a>&nbsp;on Thursday morning, just two days before he announces his nominee to replace her on the high court.<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?476148-1/justice-ruth-bader-ginsburg-lying-repose-supreme-court&amp;live&amp;vod">Click here</a> to watchThe president and first lady Melania Trump — both wearing masks — stood silently at the top of the steps of the court and looked down at Ginsburg’s flag-draped coffin, surrounded by white flowers. The death of the liberal-leaning justice has sparked a controversy over the balance of the court just weeks before the November presidential election.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600966936348.png" alt="Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s flag-draped coffin outside the Supreme Court Thursday morning-photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s flag-draped coffin outside the Supreme Court Thursday morning-photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>Trump has called Ginsburg an “amazing woman,” but some spectators were not happy that he came. Moments after he arrived, booing could be heard from those holding about a block away from the building. The spectators chanted “vote him out and honor her wish " as the president stood near the coffin. He walked back into the court as the chants grew louder. As the motorcade returned to the White House, there were also chants of “Breonna Taylor” from some spectators standing on the sidewalk.