KANSAS CITY —Investigators are working to determine the cause of a late-night apartment in Kansas City.

Just after 9p.m. Sunday, crews responded to a reported apartment fire in the 11500 block of Holmes, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

 Crews reported smoke and fire showing from a two-story apartment on arrival. Searches of the structure came back all clear. One occupant was transported for evaluation for non-fire related issues. 

One firefighter was treated on scene for heat related issues. Eight to ten units were damaged. Red Cross has been ordered along with dangerous buildings.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1748858504801.png" alt="Photo KCFD" />
 <figcaption>Photo KCFD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Investigators are working to determine the cause of a late-night apartment in Kansas City.Just after 9p.m. Sunday, crews responded to a reported apartment fire in the 11500 block of Holmes, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins. Crews reported smoke and fire showing from a two-story apartment on arrival. Searches of the structure came back all clear. One occupant was transported for evaluation for non-fire related issues. One firefighter was treated on scene for heat related issues. Eight to ten units were damaged. Red Cross has been ordered along with dangerous buildings.&nbsp;

Ten units damaged in fire at Kansas City apartment complex

BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — A man with a makeshift flamethrower yelled “Free Palestine” and hurled an incendiary device into a group that had assembled to raise attention for Israeli hostages in Gaza, law enforcement officials said Sunday. Eight people were injured, some with burns.

The suspect, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45, was booked into the Boulder County jail north of Denver and expected to face charges in connection with the attack the FBI was investigating as a terrorist act. Online records did not immediately show when he would make a court appearance.

The burst of violence at the popular Pearl Street pedestrian mall, a four-block area in downtown Boulder, unfolded against the backdrop of a war between Israel and Hamas that continues to inflame global tensions and has contributed to a spike in antisemitic violence in the United States. The attack happened on the beginning of the Jewish holiday of Shavuot, which is marked with the reading of the Torah and barely a week after a man who also yelled “Free Palestine” was charged with fatally shooting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-embassy-jewish-museum-shooting-10307b3b1a2a337e76730736b12ebbcb">two Israeli embassy staffers outside of a Jewish museum in Washington</a>.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement Monday saying he, his wife and the entire nation of Israel were praying for the full recovery of the people wounded in the “vicious terror attack” in Colorado.

“This attack was aimed against peaceful people who wished to express their solidarity with the hostages held by Hamas, simply because they were Jews,” Netanyahu said.

Across the U.S., the New York Police Department said it has upped its presence at religious sites throughout the city for Shavuot.

“Sadly, attacks like this are becoming too common across the country,” said Mark Michalek, the special agent in charge of the FBI's Denver field office, which encompasses Boulder. “This is an example of how perpetrators of violence continue to threaten communities across the nation.”

The eight victims who were wounded range in age from 52 to 88 and the injuries spanned from serious to minor, officials said.

The attack occurred as people with a volunteer group called Run For Their Lives was concluding their weekly demonstration to raise visibility for the hostages who remain in Gaza. Video from the scene shows a witness shouting, “He’s right there. He’s throwing Molotov cocktails,” as a police officer with his gun drawn advances on a bare-chested suspect who is holding containers in each hand.

Alex Osante of San Diego said he was having lunch on a restaurant patio across the pedestrian mall when he heard the crash of a bottle breaking on the ground, a “boom” sound followed by people yelling and screaming.

In video of the scene captured by Osante, people could be seen pouring water on a woman lying on the ground who Osante said had caught on fire during the attack. A man, who later identified himself as an Israeli visiting Boulder who decided to join the group that day, ran up to Osante on the video asking for some water to help.

After the initial attack, Osante said the suspect went behind some bushes and then re-emerged and threw a Molotov cocktail but apparently accidentally caught himself on fire as he threw it. The man then took off his shirt and what appeared to be a bulletproof vest before the police arrived. The man dropped to the ground and was arrested without any apparent resistance in the video that Osante filmed.

As people tried to help the woman on the ground, another woman who appeared to be a participant in the event yelled to others out of the camera’s view, defending their cause, saying they don’t talk about the government but just talk about the hostages.

Lynn Segal, 72, was among about 20 people who gathered Sunday. They had finished their march in front of the courthouse when a “rope of fire” shot in front of her and then "two big flares.”

She said the scene quickly turned chaotic as people worked to find water to put out flames and find help.

Segal, who said she is Jewish on her father’s side and has supported Palestine for more than 40 years, was concerned that she might be accused of helping the suspect because she was wearing a pro-Palestine shirt.

“There were people who were burning, I wanted to help,” she said. “But I didn’t want to be associated with the perpetrator.”

Authorities did not disclose details about Soliman but said they believe that he acted alone and that no other suspect was being sought. No criminal charges were immediately announced but officials said they would move to hold Soliman accountable. He was also injured and was taken to the hospital to be treated, but authorities didn’t elaborate on the nature of his injuries.

FBI leaders immediately declared the attack an act of terrorism and the Justice Department denounced it as a "needless act of violence, which follows recent attacks against Jewish Americans."

“This act of terror is being investigated as an act of ideologically motivated violence based on the early information, the evidence, and witness accounts. We will speak clearly on these incidents when the facts warrant it,” FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino said in a post on X.

<a href="https://apnews.com/today-in-history/october-7">Israel's war in Gaza</a>&nbsp;began when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting about 250 others. They are still holding 58 hostages, around a third believed to be alive, after most of the rest were released in ceasefire agreements or other deals.

Israel’s military campaign has killed over 54,000 people in Hamas-run Gaza, mostly women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not say how many of the dead were civilians or combatants. The offensive has destroyed vast areas, displaced around 90% of the population and left people almost completely reliant on international aid.

The violence comes four years after a shooting rampage at a grocery store in Boulder, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) northwest of Denver, that killed 10 people. The gunman was sentenced to life in prison for murder after a jury rejected his attempt to avoid prison time by pleading&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/colorado-grocery-store-shooting-verdict-insanity-defense-5165e084ef220a9d65432a2e748979c9">not guilty by reason of insanity.</a>

Multiple blocks of the pedestrian mall area were evacuated by police. The scene shortly after the attack was tense, as law enforcement agents with a police dog walked through the streets looking for threats and instructed the public to stay clear of the mall.

BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — A man with a makeshift flamethrower yelled “Free Palestine” and threw an incendiary device into a group that had assembled to raise attention for Israeli hostages in Gaza, law enforcement officials said Sunday. Six people were injured, some with burns.

The suspect, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45, was expected to face charges in connection with the attack the FBI was investigating as a terrorist act.

The burst of violence at the popular Pearl Street pedestrian mall, a four-block area in downtown Boulder, unfolded against the backdrop of a war between Israel and Hamas that continues to inflame global tensions and has contributed to a spike in antisemitic violence in the United States. It occurred barely a week after a man who also yelled “Free Palestine” was charged with fatally shooting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-embassy-jewish-museum-shooting-10307b3b1a2a337e76730736b12ebbcb">two Israeli embassy staffers outside of a Jewish museum in Washington</a>.

The six victims who were wounded range in age from 67 to 88 and the injuries spanned from serious to minor, officials said.

BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Several people were injured and some may have been set on fire at an outdoor mall in Boulder, Colorado, police said. Police said a man was taken into custody in the attack that the FBI immediately described as a “targeted terror attack."

Boulder Police Chief Steve Redfearn told reporters Sunday evening that it was too early to discuss a motive but that witnesses were being interviewed.

“It would be irresponsible for me to speculate on motive this early on,” he said.

The Boulder attack took place at a popular pedestrian mall known for attracting tourists and college students. On Sunday, demonstrators with a volunteer group called Run For Their Lives had gathered to call for the release of hostages who remain in Gaza. The group has multiple chapters across the world that regularly meet to walk to advocate for hostage releases.

Sunday's attack also occurred as law enforcement authorities in the U.S. grapple with a spike in antisemitic violence. And last week, a man was arrested on charges in the fatal shooting of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/capital-jewish-museum-reopens-after-shooting-that-left-two-dead-447ee0c93db14d20aac5c1461afd9ce8#:~:text=Capital%20Jewish%20Museum%20reopens%20after%20shooting%20that%20left%20two%20dead%20%7C%20AP%20News&amp;text=Capital%20Jewish%20Museum%20in%20Washington,couple%20about%20to%20be%20engaged.">two Israeli embassy staffers</a>&nbsp;and shouted “Free Palestine” as he was being led away by police.

Boulder police said there were “several victims” in the attack. The injuries authorities found were consistent with reports of individuals being set on fire, Redfearn said, adding that injuries ranged from serious to minor.

Multiple blocks of the pedestrian mall area were evacuated by police. The scene shortly after the attack was tense, as law enforcement agents with a police dog walked through the streets looking for threats and instructed the public to stay clear of the pedestrian mall.

“Our agents and local law enforcement are on the scene already, and we will share updates as more information becomes available,” FBI Director Kash Patel posted on social media.

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis said in a statement that he was “closely monitoring” the situation, adding that “hate-filled acts of any kind are unacceptable.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1748821549436.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — A man with a makeshift flamethrower yelled “Free Palestine” and hurled an incendiary device into a group that had assembled to raise attention for Israeli hostages in Gaza, law enforcement officials said Sunday. Eight people were injured, some with burns.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1748859119661.png" alt="Boulder Police" />
 <figcaption>Boulder Police</figcaption>
 </figure>The suspect, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45, was booked into the Boulder County jail north of Denver and expected to face charges in connection with the attack the FBI was investigating as a terrorist act. Online records did not immediately show when he would make a court appearance.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We are aware of and fully investigating a targeted terror attack in Boulder, Colorado. Our agents and local law enforcement are on the scene already, and we will share updates as more information becomes available. <a href="https://twitter.com/FBI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FBI</a>&mdash; FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) <a href="https://twitter.com/FBIDirectorKash/status/1929287827130372291?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The burst of violence at the popular Pearl Street pedestrian mall, a four-block area in downtown Boulder, unfolded against the backdrop of a war between Israel and Hamas that continues to inflame global tensions and has contributed to a spike in antisemitic violence in the United States. The attack happened on the beginning of the Jewish holiday of Shavuot, which is marked with the reading of the Torah and barely a week after a man who also yelled “Free Palestine” was charged with fatally shooting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-embassy-jewish-museum-shooting-10307b3b1a2a337e76730736b12ebbcb">two Israeli embassy staffers outside of a Jewish museum in Washington</a>.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement Monday saying he, his wife and the entire nation of Israel were praying for the full recovery of the people wounded in the “vicious terror attack” in Colorado.“This attack was aimed against peaceful people who wished to express their solidarity with the hostages held by Hamas, simply because they were Jews,” Netanyahu said.Across the U.S., the New York Police Department said it has upped its presence at religious sites throughout the city for Shavuot.“Sadly, attacks like this are becoming too common across the country,” said Mark Michalek, the special agent in charge of the FBI's Denver field office, which encompasses Boulder. “This is an example of how perpetrators of violence continue to threaten communities across the nation.”The eight victims who were wounded range in age from 52 to 88 and the injuries spanned from serious to minor, officials said.The attack occurred as people with a volunteer group called Run For Their Lives was concluding their weekly demonstration to raise visibility for the hostages who remain in Gaza. Video from the scene shows a witness shouting, “He’s right there. He’s throwing Molotov cocktails,” as a police officer with his gun drawn advances on a bare-chested suspect who is holding containers in each hand.Alex Osante of San Diego said he was having lunch on a restaurant patio across the pedestrian mall when he heard the crash of a bottle breaking on the ground, a “boom” sound followed by people yelling and screaming.In video of the scene captured by Osante, people could be seen pouring water on a woman lying on the ground who Osante said had caught on fire during the attack. A man, who later identified himself as an Israeli visiting Boulder who decided to join the group that day, ran up to Osante on the video asking for some water to help.After the initial attack, Osante said the suspect went behind some bushes and then re-emerged and threw a Molotov cocktail but apparently accidentally caught himself on fire as he threw it. The man then took off his shirt and what appeared to be a bulletproof vest before the police arrived. The man dropped to the ground and was arrested without any apparent resistance in the video that Osante filmed.As people tried to help the woman on the ground, another woman who appeared to be a participant in the event yelled to others out of the camera’s view, defending their cause, saying they don’t talk about the government but just talk about the hostages.Lynn Segal, 72, was among about 20 people who gathered Sunday. They had finished their march in front of the courthouse when a “rope of fire” shot in front of her and then "two big flares.”She said the scene quickly turned chaotic as people worked to find water to put out flames and find help.Segal, who said she is Jewish on her father’s side and has supported Palestine for more than 40 years, was concerned that she might be accused of helping the suspect because she was wearing a pro-Palestine shirt.“There were people who were burning, I wanted to help,” she said. “But I didn’t want to be associated with the perpetrator.”Authorities did not disclose details about Soliman but said they believe that he acted alone and that no other suspect was being sought. No criminal charges were immediately announced but officials said they would move to hold Soliman accountable. He was also injured and was taken to the hospital to be treated, but authorities didn’t elaborate on the nature of his injuries.FBI leaders immediately declared the attack an act of terrorism and the Justice Department denounced it as a "needless act of violence, which follows recent attacks against Jewish Americans."“This act of terror is being investigated as an act of ideologically motivated violence based on the early information, the evidence, and witness accounts. We will speak clearly on these incidents when the facts warrant it,” FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino said in a post on X.<a href="https://apnews.com/today-in-history/october-7">Israel's war in Gaza</a>&nbsp;began when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting about 250 others. They are still holding 58 hostages, around a third believed to be alive, after most of the rest were released in ceasefire agreements or other deals.Israel’s military campaign has killed over 54,000 people in Hamas-run Gaza, mostly women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not say how many of the dead were civilians or combatants. The offensive has destroyed vast areas, displaced around 90% of the population and left people almost completely reliant on international aid.The violence comes four years after a shooting rampage at a grocery store in Boulder, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) northwest of Denver, that killed 10 people. The gunman was sentenced to life in prison for murder after a jury rejected his attempt to avoid prison time by pleading&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/colorado-grocery-store-shooting-verdict-insanity-defense-5165e084ef220a9d65432a2e748979c9">not guilty by reason of insanity.</a>Multiple blocks of the pedestrian mall area were evacuated by police. The scene shortly after the attack was tense, as law enforcement agents with a police dog walked through the streets looking for threats and instructed the public to stay clear of the mall.___BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — A man with a makeshift flamethrower yelled “Free Palestine” and threw an incendiary device into a group that had assembled to raise attention for Israeli hostages in Gaza, law enforcement officials said Sunday. Six people were injured, some with burns.The suspect, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45, was expected to face charges in connection with the attack the FBI was investigating as a terrorist act.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We are aware of and fully investigating a targeted terror attack in Boulder, Colorado. Our agents and local law enforcement are on the scene already, and we will share updates as more information becomes available. <a href="https://twitter.com/FBI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FBI</a>&mdash; FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) <a href="https://twitter.com/FBIDirectorKash/status/1929287827130372291?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The burst of violence at the popular Pearl Street pedestrian mall, a four-block area in downtown Boulder, unfolded against the backdrop of a war between Israel and Hamas that continues to inflame global tensions and has contributed to a spike in antisemitic violence in the United States. It occurred barely a week after a man who also yelled “Free Palestine” was charged with fatally shooting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-embassy-jewish-museum-shooting-10307b3b1a2a337e76730736b12ebbcb">two Israeli embassy staffers outside of a Jewish museum in Washington</a>.“Sadly, attacks like this are becoming too common across the country,” said Mark Michalek, the special agent in charge of the FBI's Denver field office, which encompasses Boulder. “This is an example of how perpetrators of violence continue to threaten communities across the nation.”The six victims who were wounded range in age from 67 to 88 and the injuries spanned from serious to minor, officials said.The attack occurred as people with a volunteer group called Run For Their Lives was concluding their weekly demonstration to raise visibility for the hostages who remain in Gaza. Video from the scene shows a witness shouting, “He’s right there. He’s throwing Molotov cocktails,” as a police officer with his gun drawn advances on a bare-chested suspect who is holding containers in each hand.Lynn Segal, 72, was among about 20 people who gathered Sunday. They had finished their march in front of the courthouse when a “rope of fire” shot in front of her and then "two big flares.”She said the scene quickly turned chaotic as people worked to find water to put out flames and find help.Segal, who said she is Jewish on her father’s side and has supported Palestine for more than 40 years, was concerned that she might be accused of helping the suspect because she was wearing a pro-Palestine shirt.“There were people who were burning, I wanted to help,” she said. “But I didn’t want to be associated with the perpetrator.”Authorities did not disclose details about Soliman but said they believe that he acted alone and that no other suspect was being sought. No criminal charges were immediately announced but officials said they would move to hold Soliman accountable. He was also injured and was taken to the hospital to be treated, but authorities didn’t elaborate on the nature of his injuries.FBI leaders immediately declared the attack an act of terrorism and the Justice Department denounced it as a "needless act of violence, which follows recent attacks against Jewish Americans."“This act of terror is being investigated as an act of ideologically motivated violence based on the early information, the evidence, and witness accounts. We will speak clearly on these incidents when the facts warrant it,” FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino said in a post on X.<a href="https://apnews.com/today-in-history/october-7">Israel's war in Gaza</a>&nbsp;began when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting about 250 others. They are still holding 58 hostages, around a third believed to be alive, after most of the rest were released in ceasefire agreements or other deals.Israel’s military campaign has killed over 54,000 people in Hamas-run Gaza, mostly women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not say how many of the dead were civilians or combatants. The offensive has destroyed vast areas, displaced around 90% of the population and left people almost completely reliant on international aid.The violence comes four years after a shooting rampage at a grocery store in Boulder, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) northwest of Denver, that killed 10 people. The gunman was sentenced to life in prison for murder after a jury rejected his attempt to avoid prison time by pleading&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/colorado-grocery-store-shooting-verdict-insanity-defense-5165e084ef220a9d65432a2e748979c9">not guilty by reason of insanity.</a>Multiple blocks of the pedestrian mall area were evacuated by police. The scene shortly after the attack was tense, as law enforcement agents with a police dog walked through the streets looking for threats and instructed the public to stay clear of the mall.-----------BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Several people were injured and some may have been set on fire at an outdoor mall in Boulder, Colorado, police said. Police said a man was taken into custody in the attack that the FBI immediately described as a “targeted terror attack."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We are aware of and fully investigating a targeted terror attack in Boulder, Colorado. Our agents and local law enforcement are on the scene already, and we will share updates as more information becomes available. <a href="https://twitter.com/FBI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FBI</a>&mdash; FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) <a href="https://twitter.com/FBIDirectorKash/status/1929287827130372291?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Boulder Police Chief Steve Redfearn told reporters Sunday evening that it was too early to discuss a motive but that witnesses were being interviewed.“It would be irresponsible for me to speculate on motive this early on,” he said.The Boulder attack took place at a popular pedestrian mall known for attracting tourists and college students. On Sunday, demonstrators with a volunteer group called Run For Their Lives had gathered to call for the release of hostages who remain in Gaza. The group has multiple chapters across the world that regularly meet to walk to advocate for hostage releases.Sunday's attack also occurred as law enforcement authorities in the U.S. grapple with a spike in antisemitic violence. And last week, a man was arrested on charges in the fatal shooting of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/capital-jewish-museum-reopens-after-shooting-that-left-two-dead-447ee0c93db14d20aac5c1461afd9ce8#:~:text=Capital%20Jewish%20Museum%20reopens%20after%20shooting%20that%20left%20two%20dead%20%7C%20AP%20News&amp;text=Capital%20Jewish%20Museum%20in%20Washington,couple%20about%20to%20be%20engaged.">two Israeli embassy staffers</a>&nbsp;and shouted “Free Palestine” as he was being led away by police.Boulder police said there were “several victims” in the attack. The injuries authorities found were consistent with reports of individuals being set on fire, Redfearn said, adding that injuries ranged from serious to minor.Multiple blocks of the pedestrian mall area were evacuated by police. The scene shortly after the attack was tense, as law enforcement agents with a police dog walked through the streets looking for threats and instructed the public to stay clear of the pedestrian mall.“Our agents and local law enforcement are on the scene already, and we will share updates as more information becomes available,” FBI Director Kash Patel posted on social media.Colorado Gov. Jared Polis said in a statement that he was “closely monitoring” the situation, adding that “hate-filled acts of any kind are unacceptable.”

Police ID suspect in Colorado 'terror attack' who yelled 'Free Palestine'

LYON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating two suspect on multiple allegations after a wild chase in southeast Kansas.

Just before 6a.m. Saturday, sheriff's&nbsp;deputies were conducting traffic control near the<a href="https://www.unboundgravel.com/"> Unbound Gravel bike race</a>&nbsp;near Emporia, according to a media release

A Chevy Silverado, driven by Kaitlynn Mundell, 32 of Emporia allegedly disobeyed traffic control and drove through the intersection at Road J and Road 240 without slowing down. 

A deputy attempted to stop the vehicle which&nbsp; fled eastbound. Deputies pursued the vehicle to Road 250 and Road S when it turned back westbound and ran a stop sign.

That's when the pursuit stopped. As deputies began positioning to prevent the vehicle from entering the bike race route, Mundell turned the truck around and traveled back east where the truck passed three deputies and failed to stop. Mundell then turned south on Highway 99 towards Emporia.

Due to the number of pedestrians and bicycles in Emporia at the time, a decision was made to use measures to disable the truck.

In the 2200 block of N. Highway 99, a deputy was able to get in front of the truck in an attempt to slow it down. The truck attempted to pass the deputy in a ditch, but when the truck came out of the ditch, it struck the deputy’s vehicle causing it to slide into the ditch and roll over. The vehicle ended upright after rolling out.

Mundell continued driving towards Emporia. Lyon County deputies and Emporia Police continued to look for the truck and did find it just before 6:30 a.m. at 8th Ave. and Merchant Street. Two patrol vehicles blocked the truck in.

Mundell and Preston Ashburn, 42 or Emporia, who was a passenger in the vehicle, refused to exit the vehicle. They were removed by police and taken into custody.

Mundell and Ashburn were booked into the Lyon County Detention Center. Mundell on requested charges of aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer, possession of a controlled substance and multiple traffic charges. Ashburn faces charges of obstruct of legal process and possession of a controlled substance.

The deputy involved in the rollover was treated at a&nbsp; hospital for minor injuries and was released.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748743354395.png" alt="Ashburn photo Lyon Co." />
 <figcaption>Ashburn photo Lyon Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>LYON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating two suspect on multiple allegations after a wild chase in southeast Kansas.Just before 6a.m. Saturday, sheriff's&nbsp;deputies were conducting traffic control near the<a href="https://www.unboundgravel.com/"> Unbound Gravel bike race</a>&nbsp;near Emporia, according to a media releaseA Chevy Silverado, driven by Kaitlynn Mundell, 32 of Emporia allegedly disobeyed traffic control and drove through the intersection at Road J and Road 240 without slowing down. A deputy attempted to stop the vehicle which&nbsp; fled eastbound. Deputies pursued the vehicle to Road 250 and Road S when it turned back westbound and ran a stop sign.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748742547739.png" alt="Mundell photo Lyon Co." />
 <figcaption>Mundell photo Lyon Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>That's when the pursuit stopped. As deputies began positioning to prevent the vehicle from entering the bike race route, Mundell turned the truck around and traveled back east where the truck passed three deputies and failed to stop. Mundell then turned south on Highway 99 towards Emporia.Due to the number of pedestrians and bicycles in Emporia at the time, a decision was made to use measures to disable the truck.In the 2200 block of N. Highway 99, a deputy was able to get in front of the truck in an attempt to slow it down. The truck attempted to pass the deputy in a ditch, but when the truck came out of the ditch, it struck the deputy’s vehicle causing it to slide into the ditch and roll over. The vehicle ended upright after rolling out.Mundell continued driving towards Emporia. Lyon County deputies and Emporia Police continued to look for the truck and did find it just before 6:30 a.m. at 8th Ave. and Merchant Street. Two patrol vehicles blocked the truck in.Mundell and Preston Ashburn, 42 or Emporia, who was a passenger in the vehicle, refused to exit the vehicle. They were removed by police and taken into custody.Mundell and Ashburn were booked into the Lyon County Detention Center. Mundell on requested charges of aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer, possession of a controlled substance and multiple traffic charges. Ashburn faces charges of obstruct of legal process and possession of a controlled substance.The deputy involved in the rollover was treated at a&nbsp; hospital for minor injuries and was released.

Kan. deputy injured, suspects jailed after pursuit near bike race 

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating two suspect on multiple allegations after a high-speed chase in a reported stolen vehicle.

Just after 5 p.m. May 30, a sheriff's deputy attempted to conducted a traffic stop on a stolen red 2017 Ford Escape near SE 10th Avenue and SE Monroe Street in Topeka, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

The driver, later identified as 44-year-old Bryan K. Carter of Topeka, refused to stop and initiated a pursuit. The vehicle pursuit ended in the 500 block of SE Lafayette Street and the occupants ran from the SUV.

K-9 units assisted and two individuals were taken into custody nearby. Carter was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of&nbsp;Possession of stolen property, Possession of an opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant;&nbsp;Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body;&nbsp;Operating a vehicle without a valid license,&nbsp;Interference with law enforcement, speeding and reckless driving&nbsp;

Rochelle E-M Mott, 29, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into jail on requested charges that include Possession of an opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant and interference with law enforcement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1748811733168.png" alt="Carter photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Carter photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating two suspect on multiple allegations after a high-speed chase in a reported stolen vehicle.Just after 5 p.m. May 30, a sheriff's deputy attempted to conducted a traffic stop on a stolen red 2017 Ford Escape near SE 10th Avenue and SE Monroe Street in Topeka, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1748811515267.png" alt="Mott photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Mott photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The driver, later identified as 44-year-old Bryan K. Carter of Topeka, refused to stop and initiated a pursuit. The vehicle pursuit ended in the 500 block of SE Lafayette Street and the occupants ran from the SUV.K-9 units assisted and two individuals were taken into custody nearby. Carter was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of&nbsp;Possession of stolen property, Possession of an opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant;&nbsp;Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body;&nbsp;Operating a vehicle without a valid license,&nbsp;Interference with law enforcement, speeding and reckless driving&nbsp;Rochelle E-M Mott, 29, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into jail on requested charges that include Possession of an opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant and interference with law enforcement.

Kan. sheriff's K9 helped make arrest of 2 who ran from stolen SUV

TOPEKA —Pride Month kicked off with events around the world this weekend.

It’s an annual series of parades and other gatherings to celebrate LGBTQ+ culture and rights.

On Sunday morning, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly used her social media account to recognize the month.

At its heart, Pride is both a party and a protest.

In the U.S. this year, that means speaking out against a slew of policies that impose restrictions on transgender people and that try to end diversity, equity and inclusion programming in government, education and businesses.

Here’s a look at the event’s roots and this year’s events and themes.

The monthlong global celebration began with Gay Pride Week in late June 1970, a year after the violent police raid at New York’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-news-ap-top-news-manhattan-new-york-ny-state-wire-4bc5e39485784b16b4b479dca4e4e32c">Stonewall Inn,</a>&nbsp;a gay bar.

At a time when many LGBTQ+ people kept their identities private, the June 28, 1969, raid sparked a series of public protests and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-news-ap-top-news-pa-state-wire-new-york-ny-state-wire-5f2159a5120e4833b31683665f9405ca">catalyzed the gay rights movement</a>.

The first pride week featured marches in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York and San Francisco, and it has since grown to other cities. On the calendar are events in Philadelphia this weekend; New Orleans on June 14; Chicago on June 21 and 22; and New York over the weekend of June 28 and 29. Many other events in big cities and small towns are also planned.

There are pride celebrations around the world, including in Tokyo on June 8; Toronto on June 27-29; Sao Paolo on June 22; and Paris on June 28.

Some events fall outside of June, too.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/world-pride-lgbtq-parade-washington-8399b87fb17792740d1c84094369c682">World Pride</a>, a biannual event held this year in Washington, D.C., began in May and goes through June 8. Pride in London is in July; a big celebration in Rio de Janeiro is in November and Atlanta’s is in October.

Former President Bill Clinton proclaimed June as Gay and Lesbian Pride Month in 1999, marking the first time a U.S. president did so.

How Trump is targeting trans people and DEI policies

When President Donald Trump returned to office in January, he quickly attempted to roll back LGBTQ+ rights.

He’s especially targeted transgender people with policies that halted allowing people to change the sex listed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-passports-trump-executive-order-ee211c3298f0c6f561f829cf5adca281">on their passport</a>, removed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-ban-military-discharge-troops-0218f0b6fec595c420bd0ac072d87335">transgender military troops</a>&nbsp;and sought to stop using federal insurance programs to pay for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-transgender-transition-executive-order-301e4130233b411311978f66f455f1c4">gender-affirming care for transgender people</a>&nbsp;under age 19, and keep transgender athletes out of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-transgender-sports-maine-51322764e6a62c6bbed700bbe7ecfb4d">girls and women’s sports competitions</a>.

All of those changes are being challenged in court.

His actions follow years of policies in Republican-controlled states that bar gender-affirming care for transgender minors and dictate which sports transgender people can play and which school and other public bathrooms they are allowed to use. The U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-transgender-tennessee-05cf88e277cb9692ffd5bdd0f95aa4cd">Supreme Court is expected to rule</a>&nbsp;this month on whether Tennessee’s ban on medical treatment is constitutional.

One of Trump’s orders called for removing references to what he and some other conservatives call “gender ideology” from government publications and websites.

A result of that:&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stonewall-transgender-trump-3add180f5cfcde156f8d809d24e830a6">References to transgender people</a>&nbsp;have been removed from government websites, including the one for the Stonewall National Monument, site of the event that inspired Pride.

About&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-poll-care-bathrooms-military-trump-b5c9521d3d486e87c8631a99a455df2f">half of U.S. adults</a>&nbsp;approve of how Trump is handling transgender issues, an Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll found last month. About 4 in 10 voters approve of his job as president overall.

But support for his individual policies on transgender people is not uniformly strong, with a clearer consensus against policies that affect youth.

Organizers of Milwaukee’s PrideFest are prepared for close to 50,000 people at the event scheduled for June 5-7.

“We’re feeling that people will be showing up, and that’s their protest,” said Wes Shaver, the president and CEO of Milwaukee Pride, Inc.

The event’s theme is “Celebrating the Power of Pride” and for the first time, one of the entertainment stages one night will feature only transgender performers. Shaver said that’s an intentional move in response to Trump’s policies. Another night, the stage will feature only performers of color.

Jeremy Williams, the executive producer of Philly Pride 365 in Philadelphia, said he didn’t expect more protest than in the past there.

“Everybody’s just there to be together,” he said.

The 10th anniversary of same-sex marriage legalized nationwide

One milestone that’s likely to be celebrated: This month marks the 10th anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s Obergefell v. Hodges ruling, which recognized same-sex marriage nationwide. It was a watershed event in establishing rights for LGBTQ+ people across the country.

About two-thirds of LGBTQ+ adults in the U.S. said the case made the nation more accepting of same-sex couples, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pew-lgbtq-poll-transgender-acceptance-trump-a2971bdc2731f88ceacd64d7614d6152">Pew Research Center poll</a>&nbsp;released last week.

The poll found that LGBTQ+ people don’t always feel accepted, though. About 6 in 10 said they see “a great deal” or “a fair amount” of social acceptance for those who are lesbian, gay or bisexual. But only about 1 in 10 said the same is true for nonbinary and transgender people.

Which companies are backing off on sponsorships

Several big companies have pulled back on sponsorships for Pride events this year.

Among them: Anheuser-Busch, the St. Louis-based brewer, declined to sponsor PrideFest in its home city after three decades of support, leaving organizers $150,000 short of last year’s budget, they told The Associated Press.

NYC Pride said about 20% of its corporate sponsors dropped or reduced support, including PepsiCo and Nissan. The carmaker said it was reviewing all its marketing costs.

In other cities, such as Kansas City, Missouri, pride events lost about half their budgets.

Several companies that have pulled back have not explained why to the AP. But some experts see the change as part of a broader retreat from brand activism.

Still, the groups behind many Pride events say some companies have kept contributing but have asked not to be listed publicly as sponsors.

TOPEKA —Pride Month kicked off with events around the world this weekend.It’s an annual series of parades and other gatherings to celebrate LGBTQ+ culture and rights.On Sunday morning, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly used her social media account to recognize the month.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Happy Pride Month, Kansas! This June, we celebrate and elevate the voices and contributions of LGBTQ+ Kansans. Know that as long as I&#39;m governor, I will continue to stand with you — you have an ally in me. <a href="https://t.co/ddTmhEWNsA">pic.twitter.com/ddTmhEWNsA</a>&mdash; Governor Laura Kelly (@GovLauraKelly) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovLauraKelly/status/1929195229912969528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>At its heart, Pride is both a party and a protest.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">All Kansans — regardless of who they are and who they love — deserve to thrive as their most authentic selves. Happy Pride Month! <a href="https://t.co/JAGzsoIPS4">pic.twitter.com/JAGzsoIPS4</a>&mdash; Rep. Sharice Davids (@RepDavids) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepDavids/status/1929241535452983453?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>In the U.S. this year, that means speaking out against a slew of policies that impose restrictions on transgender people and that try to end diversity, equity and inclusion programming in government, education and businesses.Here’s a look at the event’s roots and this year’s events and themes.<h2>When Pride Month began</h2>The monthlong global celebration began with Gay Pride Week in late June 1970, a year after the violent police raid at New York’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-news-ap-top-news-manhattan-new-york-ny-state-wire-4bc5e39485784b16b4b479dca4e4e32c">Stonewall Inn,</a>&nbsp;a gay bar.At a time when many LGBTQ+ people kept their identities private, the June 28, 1969, raid sparked a series of public protests and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-news-ap-top-news-pa-state-wire-new-york-ny-state-wire-5f2159a5120e4833b31683665f9405ca">catalyzed the gay rights movement</a>.The first pride week featured marches in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York and San Francisco, and it has since grown to other cities. On the calendar are events in Philadelphia this weekend; New Orleans on June 14; Chicago on June 21 and 22; and New York over the weekend of June 28 and 29. Many other events in big cities and small towns are also planned.There are pride celebrations around the world, including in Tokyo on June 8; Toronto on June 27-29; Sao Paolo on June 22; and Paris on June 28.Some events fall outside of June, too.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/world-pride-lgbtq-parade-washington-8399b87fb17792740d1c84094369c682">World Pride</a>, a biannual event held this year in Washington, D.C., began in May and goes through June 8. Pride in London is in July; a big celebration in Rio de Janeiro is in November and Atlanta’s is in October.Former President Bill Clinton proclaimed June as Gay and Lesbian Pride Month in 1999, marking the first time a U.S. president did so.<h2>How Trump is targeting trans people and DEI policies</h2>When President Donald Trump returned to office in January, he quickly attempted to roll back LGBTQ+ rights.He’s especially targeted transgender people with policies that halted allowing people to change the sex listed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-passports-trump-executive-order-ee211c3298f0c6f561f829cf5adca281">on their passport</a>, removed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-ban-military-discharge-troops-0218f0b6fec595c420bd0ac072d87335">transgender military troops</a>&nbsp;and sought to stop using federal insurance programs to pay for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-transgender-transition-executive-order-301e4130233b411311978f66f455f1c4">gender-affirming care for transgender people</a>&nbsp;under age 19, and keep transgender athletes out of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-transgender-sports-maine-51322764e6a62c6bbed700bbe7ecfb4d">girls and women’s sports competitions</a>.All of those changes are being challenged in court.His actions follow years of policies in Republican-controlled states that bar gender-affirming care for transgender minors and dictate which sports transgender people can play and which school and other public bathrooms they are allowed to use. The U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-transgender-tennessee-05cf88e277cb9692ffd5bdd0f95aa4cd">Supreme Court is expected to rule</a>&nbsp;this month on whether Tennessee’s ban on medical treatment is constitutional.One of Trump’s orders called for removing references to what he and some other conservatives call “gender ideology” from government publications and websites.A result of that:&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stonewall-transgender-trump-3add180f5cfcde156f8d809d24e830a6">References to transgender people</a>&nbsp;have been removed from government websites, including the one for the Stonewall National Monument, site of the event that inspired Pride.About&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-poll-care-bathrooms-military-trump-b5c9521d3d486e87c8631a99a455df2f">half of U.S. adults</a>&nbsp;approve of how Trump is handling transgender issues, an Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll found last month. About 4 in 10 voters approve of his job as president overall.But support for his individual policies on transgender people is not uniformly strong, with a clearer consensus against policies that affect youth.<h2>This year’s celebrations in the U.S.</h2>Organizers of Milwaukee’s PrideFest are prepared for close to 50,000 people at the event scheduled for June 5-7.“We’re feeling that people will be showing up, and that’s their protest,” said Wes Shaver, the president and CEO of Milwaukee Pride, Inc.The event’s theme is “Celebrating the Power of Pride” and for the first time, one of the entertainment stages one night will feature only transgender performers. Shaver said that’s an intentional move in response to Trump’s policies. Another night, the stage will feature only performers of color.Jeremy Williams, the executive producer of Philly Pride 365 in Philadelphia, said he didn’t expect more protest than in the past there.“Everybody’s just there to be together,” he said.<h2>The 10th anniversary of same-sex marriage legalized nationwide</h2>One milestone that’s likely to be celebrated: This month marks the 10th anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s Obergefell v. Hodges ruling, which recognized same-sex marriage nationwide. It was a watershed event in establishing rights for LGBTQ+ people across the country.About two-thirds of LGBTQ+ adults in the U.S. said the case made the nation more accepting of same-sex couples, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pew-lgbtq-poll-transgender-acceptance-trump-a2971bdc2731f88ceacd64d7614d6152">Pew Research Center poll</a>&nbsp;released last week.The poll found that LGBTQ+ people don’t always feel accepted, though. About 6 in 10 said they see “a great deal” or “a fair amount” of social acceptance for those who are lesbian, gay or bisexual. But only about 1 in 10 said the same is true for nonbinary and transgender people.<h2>Which companies are backing off on sponsorships</h2>Several big companies have pulled back on sponsorships for Pride events this year.Among them: Anheuser-Busch, the St. Louis-based brewer, declined to sponsor PrideFest in its home city after three decades of support, leaving organizers $150,000 short of last year’s budget, they told The Associated Press.NYC Pride said about 20% of its corporate sponsors dropped or reduced support, including PepsiCo and Nissan. The carmaker said it was reviewing all its marketing costs.In other cities, such as Kansas City, Missouri, pride events lost about half their budgets.Several companies that have pulled back have not explained why to the AP. But some experts see the change as part of a broader retreat from brand activism.Still, the groups behind many Pride events say some companies have kept contributing but have asked not to be listed publicly as sponsors.

Kansas Governor issues statement on Pride Month

WASHINGTON (AP) —The U.S. approved a new COVID-19 vaccine made by Moderna late Friday but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vaccines-fda-kennedy-covid-shots-rfk-trump-bb4de15b6ff955d6cd0b406aaec3cdc5">with limits</a>&nbsp;on who can use it — not a replacement for the company’s existing shot, but a second option.

The new vaccine, mNexspike, is a step toward next-generation coronavirus vaccines. It's made in a way that allows for a lower dose — a fifth of the dose of its current COVID-19 vaccine, Spikevax — by refining its immune target.

The approval “adds an important new tool to help protect people at high risk of severe disease from COVID-19,” Stephane Bancel, Moderna’s CEO, said in a statement Saturday.

The Food and Drug Administration approved the new vaccine for use in all adults 65 and older, and for people age 12 to 64 who have a least one health condition that puts them at increased risk from the coronavirus.

That’s the same limit that the FDA set in licensing another COVID-19 vaccine option from competitor&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/novavax-covid19-vaccine-fda-a477c1aa612ceb293e70d904b46611b0">Novavax</a>.

Those restrictions are a departure from how the U.S. has handled COVID-19 vaccines until now, reflecting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-jr-vaccine-trump-science-autism-9b99621b01f11b7f0bdc81e5a0b82d2b">skepticism about vaccines</a>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-jr-robert-kennedy-vaccines-measles-steak-shake-9c970a1f6bdfd6ac4b4160480e996ac0">Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.</a>&nbsp;and other Trump officials.

Moderna’s existing vaccine doesn’t face those limits and has long been used for anyone ages 6 months and older. The company said it expected to offer both options this fall.

The FDA’s approval was based on a study of 11,400 people age 12 and older that compared the new low-dose vaccine with Moderna’s existing vaccine. It found the new vaccine was safe and was at least as effective — and more by some measures — than the original shot, the company said.

The news came just days after the Trump administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/moderna-influenza-vaccine-terminated-ca14251649cf6a065342196a8b021f92">canceled funding</a>&nbsp;for Moderna to develop a vaccine against potential pandemic flu viruses, including the H5N1 bird flu, despite promising early study results.

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

WASHINGTON (AP) —The U.S. approved a new COVID-19 vaccine made by Moderna late Friday but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vaccines-fda-kennedy-covid-shots-rfk-trump-bb4de15b6ff955d6cd0b406aaec3cdc5">with limits</a>&nbsp;on who can use it — not a replacement for the company’s existing shot, but a second option.The new vaccine, mNexspike, is a step toward next-generation coronavirus vaccines. It's made in a way that allows for a lower dose — a fifth of the dose of its current COVID-19 vaccine, Spikevax — by refining its immune target.The approval “adds an important new tool to help protect people at high risk of severe disease from COVID-19,” Stephane Bancel, Moderna’s CEO, said in a statement Saturday.The Food and Drug Administration approved the new vaccine for use in all adults 65 and older, and for people age 12 to 64 who have a least one health condition that puts them at increased risk from the coronavirus.That’s the same limit that the FDA set in licensing another COVID-19 vaccine option from competitor&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/novavax-covid19-vaccine-fda-a477c1aa612ceb293e70d904b46611b0">Novavax</a>.Those restrictions are a departure from how the U.S. has handled COVID-19 vaccines until now, reflecting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-jr-vaccine-trump-science-autism-9b99621b01f11b7f0bdc81e5a0b82d2b">skepticism about vaccines</a>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-jr-robert-kennedy-vaccines-measles-steak-shake-9c970a1f6bdfd6ac4b4160480e996ac0">Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.</a>&nbsp;and other Trump officials.Moderna’s existing vaccine doesn’t face those limits and has long been used for anyone ages 6 months and older. The company said it expected to offer both options this fall.The FDA’s approval was based on a study of 11,400 people age 12 and older that compared the new low-dose vaccine with Moderna’s existing vaccine. It found the new vaccine was safe and was at least as effective — and more by some measures — than the original shot, the company said.The news came just days after the Trump administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/moderna-influenza-vaccine-terminated-ca14251649cf6a065342196a8b021f92">canceled funding</a>&nbsp;for Moderna to develop a vaccine against potential pandemic flu viruses, including the H5N1 bird flu, despite promising early study results.___The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

FDA approves Moderna's new lower-dose COVID-19 vaccine

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Republican Sen. Joni Ernst was met with shouts and groans when she said “we all are going to die” as she addressed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/medicaid-cuts-trump-tax-cuts-bill-1e2b12a91a3d12ceb0420ce7053de58e">potential changes to Medicaid eligibility</a>&nbsp;at a town hall in north-central Iowa on Friday.

On Saturday, Ernst issued an apology, sort of, on her Instagram page.

She had been consistent in her message throughout the contentious forum at a high school in Parkersburg, Iowa, as she defended the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/big-beautiful-bill-trump-tax-cuts-medicaid-00ce1ff8a7b7fea7a894d38398748c6b">tax and immigration package</a>&nbsp;that has passed the House and is now under consideration in the Senate. Facing several constituents concerned about cuts to Medicaid, she defended the $700 billion in reduced spending, saying it would keep immigrants in the U.S. illegally and those who have access to insurance through their employers off the rolls.

Then someone in the crowd yelled that people will die without coverage.

“People are not ... well, we all are going to die,” Ernst said, drawing groans. “So, for heaven’s sakes. For heaven’s sakes, folks.”

“What you don’t want to do is listen to me when I say that we are going to focus on those that are most vulnerable,” Ernst went on. “Those that meet the eligibility requirements for Medicaid we will protect.”

House Republicans last week&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-tax-cuts-trump-f2c60ae5c7c1313de69446f9ac7176e6">muscled through</a>&nbsp;the massive spending and tax cut&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/big-beautiful-bill-trump-tax-cuts-medicaid-00ce1ff8a7b7fea7a894d38398748c6b">package</a>, dubbed “the big, beautiful bill” at the urging of President Donald Trump, by a single vote. It now&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tax-cuts-medicaid-congress-senate-trump-bill-2825f8fa0e96a00cf72a6de6a5a88a25">moves to the Senate</a>.

Ernst made clear Friday that any measure that emerges from the Senate will look different from the House version.

Republicans have defended the new work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents and stepped up eligibility verification, saying the generated savings will sustain the program for vulnerable populations. Democrats warn that millions of Americans will lose coverage.

A preliminary estimate from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office said the proposals would reduce the number of people with health care by 8.6 million over the decade.

Video of Ernst’s comment started making the rounds among Democrat elected officials and candidates. Ernst is up for reelection in 2026.

“This morning, Joni Ernst said the quiet part out loud:" Republicans do not care “about whether their own constituents live or die as long as the richest few get richer,” said Ken Martin, chair of the Democratic National Committee, in a statement.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Republican Sen. Joni Ernst was met with shouts and groans when she said “we all are going to die” as she addressed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/medicaid-cuts-trump-tax-cuts-bill-1e2b12a91a3d12ceb0420ce7053de58e">potential changes to Medicaid eligibility</a>&nbsp;at a town hall in north-central Iowa on Friday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">During a town hall meeting, when discussing Medicaid benefits, Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) responds to someone: &quot;Well, we all are going to die.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/HDj0w27vHJ">pic.twitter.com/HDj0w27vHJ</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1928477381359972502?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>On Saturday, Ernst issued an apology, sort of, on her Instagram page.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Against all odds, Joni Ernst has made it worse <a href="https://t.co/aElIudNmZG">pic.twitter.com/aElIudNmZG</a>&mdash; Keith Edwards (@keithedwards) <a href="https://twitter.com/keithedwards/status/1928916957278908823?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>She had been consistent in her message throughout the contentious forum at a high school in Parkersburg, Iowa, as she defended the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/big-beautiful-bill-trump-tax-cuts-medicaid-00ce1ff8a7b7fea7a894d38398748c6b">tax and immigration package</a>&nbsp;that has passed the House and is now under consideration in the Senate. Facing several constituents concerned about cuts to Medicaid, she defended the $700 billion in reduced spending, saying it would keep immigrants in the U.S. illegally and those who have access to insurance through their employers off the rolls.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Thanks folks for coming out to my town hall in Parkersburg today! I always enjoy hearing from constituents and sharing my work to cut government red tape for you. <a href="https://t.co/Roy06rQVvL">pic.twitter.com/Roy06rQVvL</a>&mdash; Joni Ernst (@SenJoniErnst) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenJoniErnst/status/1928456005597151575?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Then someone in the crowd yelled that people will die without coverage.“People are not ... well, we all are going to die,” Ernst said, drawing groans. “So, for heaven’s sakes. For heaven’s sakes, folks.”“What you don’t want to do is listen to me when I say that we are going to focus on those that are most vulnerable,” Ernst went on. “Those that meet the eligibility requirements for Medicaid we will protect.”House Republicans last week&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-tax-cuts-trump-f2c60ae5c7c1313de69446f9ac7176e6">muscled through</a>&nbsp;the massive spending and tax cut&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/big-beautiful-bill-trump-tax-cuts-medicaid-00ce1ff8a7b7fea7a894d38398748c6b">package</a>, dubbed “the big, beautiful bill” at the urging of President Donald Trump, by a single vote. It now&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tax-cuts-medicaid-congress-senate-trump-bill-2825f8fa0e96a00cf72a6de6a5a88a25">moves to the Senate</a>.Ernst made clear Friday that any measure that emerges from the Senate will look different from the House version.Republicans have defended the new work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents and stepped up eligibility verification, saying the generated savings will sustain the program for vulnerable populations. Democrats warn that millions of Americans will lose coverage.A preliminary estimate from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office said the proposals would reduce the number of people with health care by 8.6 million over the decade.Video of Ernst’s comment started making the rounds among Democrat elected officials and candidates. Ernst is up for reelection in 2026.“This morning, Joni Ernst said the quiet part out loud:" Republicans do not care “about whether their own constituents live or die as long as the richest few get richer,” said Ken Martin, chair of the Democratic National Committee, in a statement.

🎥U.S. Senator responds to criticism of her ‘We're all going to die’ statement 

KANSAS CITY —Police are investigating another homicide in Kansas City, Missouri.

Just before 9p.m. Friday,&nbsp; patrol officers were dispatched to a reported shooting at 82nd Terrace and Troost, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

While in route officers received numerous calls about sounds of shots in the area. They also received an additional call that there was a victim in the 8200 block of Tracy. As officers arrived they located an adult male victim in the street. He was suffering from apparent gunshot wounds and officers immediately began performing life saving measures.

 KCFD EMS responded and transported the victim to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased a short time later.

This is being investigated as a homicide and there is no one in custody at this point. Preliminary information indicated there was an altercation between several individuals in the street that led to shots being fired and the victim being struck.&nbsp; Police have not released the name of the victim.

KANSAS CITY —Police are investigating another homicide in Kansas City, Missouri.Just before 9p.m. Friday,&nbsp; patrol officers were dispatched to a reported shooting at 82nd Terrace and Troost, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.While in route officers received numerous calls about sounds of shots in the area. They also received an additional call that there was a victim in the 8200 block of Tracy. As officers arrived they located an adult male victim in the street. He was suffering from apparent gunshot wounds and officers immediately began performing life saving measures. KCFD EMS responded and transported the victim to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased a short time later.This is being investigated as a homicide and there is no one in custody at this point. Preliminary information indicated there was an altercation between several individuals in the street that led to shots being fired and the victim being struck.&nbsp; Police have not released the name of the victim.

KCPD: After multiple reports of gunfire, victim found in the street

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/david-bauder">DAVID BAUDER</a> Associated Press

PBS filed suit Friday against President Donald Trump and other administration officials to block his order stripping federal funding from the 330-station public television system,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/npr-trump-lawsuit-public-radio-f320314b30df6934238a5b6af47c5067">three days after NPR</a>&nbsp;did the same for its radio network.

In its lawsuit, PBS relies on similar arguments, saying Trump was overstepping his authority and engaging in&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/stories/details/e2b87457c520ea5311da8651d77fccc5.-1.0.json?type=edit" target="_blank">“viewpoint discrimination”</a>&nbsp;because of his claim that PBS’ news coverage is biased against conservatives.

“PBS disputes those charged assertions in the strongest possible terms,” lawyer Z.W. Julius Chen wrote in the suit, filed in U.S. District Court in Washington. “But regardless of any policy disagreements over the role of public television, our Constitution and laws forbid the President from serving as the arbiter of the content of PBS’s programming, including by attempting to defund PBS.”

It was the latest of many legal actions taken against the administration for its moves, including several by media organizations impacted by Trump’s orders.

Northern Minnesota PBS station joins in the lawsuit

PBS was joined as a plaintiff by one of its stations, Lakeland PBS, which serves rural areas in northern and central Minnesota. Trump’s order is an “existential threat” to the station, the lawsuit said.

A PBS spokesman said that “after careful deliberation, PBS reached the conclusion that it was necessary to take legal action to safeguard public television’s editorial independence, and to protect the autonomy of PBS member stations.”

Through an executive order earlier this month, Trump told the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and federal agencies to stop funding the two systems. Through the corporation alone, PBS is receiving $325 million this year, most of which goes directly to individual stations.

The White House deputy press secretary, Harrison Fields, said the Corporation for Public Broadcasting is creating media to support a particular political party on the taxpayers’ dime.

“Therefore, the President is exercising his lawful authority to limit funding to NPR and PBS,” Fields said. “The President was elected with a mandate to ensure efficient use of taxpayer dollars, and he will continue to use his lawful authority to achieve that objective.”

PBS, which makes much of the programming used by the stations, said it gets 22% of its revenue directly from the feds. Sixty-one percent of PBS’ budget is funded through individual station dues, and the stations raise the bulk of that money through the government.

Interrupting ‘a rich tapestry of programming’

Trump’s order “would have profound impacts on the ability of PBS and PBS member stations to provide a rich tapestry of programming to all Americans,” Chen wrote.

PBS said the U.S. Department of Education has canceled a $78 million grant to the system for educational programming, used to make children’s shows like “Sesame Street,” “Clifford the Big Red Dog” and “Reading Rainbow.”

For Minnesota residents, the order threatens the “Lakeland Learns” education program and “Lakeland News,” described in the lawsuit as the only television program in the region providing local news, weather and sports.

Besides Trump, the lawsuit names other administration officials as defendants, including Education Secretary Linda McMahon, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. PBS says its technology is used as a backup for the nationwide wireless emergency alert system.

The administration has fought with several media organizations. Government-run news services like&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/voice-of-america-trump-f30c48df0c16de622ec5fd99ee6c627c">Voice of America</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/radio-free-europe-5e0b2355ad9cee4ad09a3e03b53df8fa">Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty</a>&nbsp;are struggling for their lives, The Associated Press has battled with the White House over press access and the Federal Communications Commission is investigating television news divisions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746181587274.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/david-bauder">DAVID BAUDER</a> Associated PressPBS filed suit Friday against President Donald Trump and other administration officials to block his order stripping federal funding from the 330-station public television system,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/npr-trump-lawsuit-public-radio-f320314b30df6934238a5b6af47c5067">three days after NPR</a>&nbsp;did the same for its radio network.In its lawsuit, PBS relies on similar arguments, saying Trump was overstepping his authority and engaging in&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/stories/details/e2b87457c520ea5311da8651d77fccc5.-1.0.json?type=edit" target="_blank">“viewpoint discrimination”</a>&nbsp;because of his claim that PBS’ news coverage is biased against conservatives.“PBS disputes those charged assertions in the strongest possible terms,” lawyer Z.W. Julius Chen wrote in the suit, filed in U.S. District Court in Washington. “But regardless of any policy disagreements over the role of public television, our Constitution and laws forbid the President from serving as the arbiter of the content of PBS’s programming, including by attempting to defund PBS.”It was the latest of many legal actions taken against the administration for its moves, including several by media organizations impacted by Trump’s orders.<h2>Northern Minnesota PBS station joins in the lawsuit</h2>PBS was joined as a plaintiff by one of its stations, Lakeland PBS, which serves rural areas in northern and central Minnesota. Trump’s order is an “existential threat” to the station, the lawsuit said.A PBS spokesman said that “after careful deliberation, PBS reached the conclusion that it was necessary to take legal action to safeguard public television’s editorial independence, and to protect the autonomy of PBS member stations.”Through an executive order earlier this month, Trump told the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and federal agencies to stop funding the two systems. Through the corporation alone, PBS is receiving $325 million this year, most of which goes directly to individual stations.The White House deputy press secretary, Harrison Fields, said the Corporation for Public Broadcasting is creating media to support a particular political party on the taxpayers’ dime.“Therefore, the President is exercising his lawful authority to limit funding to NPR and PBS,” Fields said. “The President was elected with a mandate to ensure efficient use of taxpayer dollars, and he will continue to use his lawful authority to achieve that objective.”PBS, which makes much of the programming used by the stations, said it gets 22% of its revenue directly from the feds. Sixty-one percent of PBS’ budget is funded through individual station dues, and the stations raise the bulk of that money through the government.<h2>Interrupting ‘a rich tapestry of programming’</h2>Trump’s order “would have profound impacts on the ability of PBS and PBS member stations to provide a rich tapestry of programming to all Americans,” Chen wrote.PBS said the U.S. Department of Education has canceled a $78 million grant to the system for educational programming, used to make children’s shows like “Sesame Street,” “Clifford the Big Red Dog” and “Reading Rainbow.”For Minnesota residents, the order threatens the “Lakeland Learns” education program and “Lakeland News,” described in the lawsuit as the only television program in the region providing local news, weather and sports.Besides Trump, the lawsuit names other administration officials as defendants, including Education Secretary Linda McMahon, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. PBS says its technology is used as a backup for the nationwide wireless emergency alert system.The administration has fought with several media organizations. Government-run news services like&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/voice-of-america-trump-f30c48df0c16de622ec5fd99ee6c627c">Voice of America</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/radio-free-europe-5e0b2355ad9cee4ad09a3e03b53df8fa">Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty</a>&nbsp;are struggling for their lives, The Associated Press has battled with the White House over press access and the Federal Communications Commission is investigating television news divisions.___

PBS will fight Trump administration in court over funding cuts

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22YONAT%20SHIMRON%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By YONAT SHIMRON </a><a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22YONAT%20SHIMRON%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">Religion News Service</a>

This content is written and produced by Religion News Service and distributed by The Associated Press. RNS and AP partner on some religion news content. RNS is solely responsible for this story.

Last month, Marc Wyatt, director of Welcome House Raleigh, received a call from the North Carolina field office of the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants asking if he could help furnish the apartments for the refugees, among the 59 Afrikaners who arrived in the U.S. last week from South Africa, he told RNS. It was a common request for the ministry that partners with refugee resettlement agencies to provide temporary housing and furniture for people in need.

And at the same time, the request was extremely challenging. After thinking about it, consulting with the Welcome House network director and asking for feedback from ministry volunteers, Wyatt said yes.

“Our position is that however morally and ethically charged it is, our mandate is to help welcome and love people,” said Wyatt, a retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary who now works for CBF North Carolina. “Our holy book says God loves people. We don’t get to discriminate.”

He recognized that Afrikaners are part of a white ethnic minority that created and led South Africa’s brutal segregationist policies known as apartheid for nearly 50 years. That policy, which included denying the country’s Black majority rights to voting, housing, education and land, ended in 1994, when the country elected Nelson Mandela in its first free presidential election.

Like Wyatt and Welcome House, many faith-based groups are now considering whether to help the government resettle Afrikaners after the Trump administration shut down refugee resettlement for all others.

Last week, the Episcopal Church chose to end its refugee resettlement partnership with the U.S. government rather than resettle Afrikaners. Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe said his church’s commitment to racial justice and reconciliation, and its long relationship with the late Anglican Archbishop Desmond Tutu made it impossible for the church to work with the government on resettling Afrikaners.

In January, in one of his first executive orders, President Donald Trump shuttered the decades-old refugee program, which brings people to the U.S. who are displaced by war, natural disasters or persecution. The decision left thousands of refugees, many living in camps for years and having undergone a rigorous vetting process, stranded.

But then Trump directed the government to fast-track the group of Afrikaners for resettlement, saying these white farmers in South Africa are being killed in a genocide, a baseless claim. The order left many refugee advocates who have worked for years to resettle vulnerable people enraged.

“Refugees sit in camps for 10, 20 years, but if you’re a white South African Afrikaner, then suddenly you can make it through in three months?” asked the Rev. Randy Carter, director of the Welcome Network and a pastor of a CBF church. “There’s a lot of words I’d like to attach to that, but I don’t want any of those printed.”

Carter said he respects and honors the Episcopal Church’s decision not to work with the government on resettling the Afrikaners, even if his network has taken a different approach.

“The call to welcome is not always easy,” Carter said. “Sometimes it’s hard.”

At the same time, he said, it’s important resettlement volunteers keep in mind that the ministry opposes apartheid and racism, both in the U.S. and abroad, and is committed to repentance and repair.

The North Carolina field office for the USCRI resettlement group also recognized how fraught this particular resettlement is for its faith-based partners.

“In our communication with them, we said, ‘Look, we know this is not a normal issue. You or your constituencies may have reservations, and we understand that. That should not affect our partnership,’” said Omer Omer, the North Carolina field office director for USCRI. “If you want to participate, welcome. If not, we understand.”

Wyatt got nearly two dozen comments on his Facebook post in which he announced his decision to work with the refugee agency in resettling the Afrikaners. Nearly all wrote in support of his decision. “I’m up sleepless pondering this,” acknowledged one person. “Complicated, but the right call,” wrote another.

USCRI did not release the names of the three Afrikaners who chose to settle in Raleigh, a couple and a single individual. Other Afrikaners chose to be resettled in Idaho, Iowa, New York and Texas.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested last week that more Afrikaners are on the way. The Trump administration argues white South Africans are being discriminated against by the country’s government, pointing to a law potentially allowing the government to seize privately held land under certain conditions. Since the end of apartheid, the South African government has made efforts to level the economic imbalance and redistribute land to Black South Africans that had been seized by the former colonial and apartheid governments.

Wyatt, who has been running the Welcome House Raleigh ministry for 10 years, providing temporary housing and a furniture bank for refugees, and now asylum seekers, said he has settled the matter in his mind.

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22YONAT%20SHIMRON%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By YONAT SHIMRON </a><a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22YONAT%20SHIMRON%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">Religion News Service</a>___This content is written and produced by Religion News Service and distributed by The Associated Press. RNS and AP partner on some religion news content. RNS is solely responsible for this story.___Last month, Marc Wyatt, director of Welcome House Raleigh, received a call from the North Carolina field office of the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants asking if he could help furnish the apartments for the refugees, among the 59 Afrikaners who arrived in the U.S. last week from South Africa, he told RNS. It was a common request for the ministry that partners with refugee resettlement agencies to provide temporary housing and furniture for people in need.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">U.S. officials greet white South Africans to whom the Trump administration has granted refugee status for being deemed victims of racial discrimination in their home country. <a href="https://t.co/JwaVyziofT">pic.twitter.com/JwaVyziofT</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1922007640294519257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>And at the same time, the request was extremely challenging. After thinking about it, consulting with the Welcome House network director and asking for feedback from ministry volunteers, Wyatt said yes.“Our position is that however morally and ethically charged it is, our mandate is to help welcome and love people,” said Wyatt, a retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary who now works for CBF North Carolina. “Our holy book says God loves people. We don’t get to discriminate.”He recognized that Afrikaners are part of a white ethnic minority that created and led South Africa’s brutal segregationist policies known as apartheid for nearly 50 years. That policy, which included denying the country’s Black majority rights to voting, housing, education and land, ended in 1994, when the country elected Nelson Mandela in its first free presidential election.Like Wyatt and Welcome House, many faith-based groups are now considering whether to help the government resettle Afrikaners after the Trump administration shut down refugee resettlement for all others.Last week, the Episcopal Church chose to end its refugee resettlement partnership with the U.S. government rather than resettle Afrikaners. Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe said his church’s commitment to racial justice and reconciliation, and its long relationship with the late Anglican Archbishop Desmond Tutu made it impossible for the church to work with the government on resettling Afrikaners.In January, in one of his first executive orders, President Donald Trump shuttered the decades-old refugee program, which brings people to the U.S. who are displaced by war, natural disasters or persecution. The decision left thousands of refugees, many living in camps for years and having undergone a rigorous vetting process, stranded.But then Trump directed the government to fast-track the group of Afrikaners for resettlement, saying these white farmers in South Africa are being killed in a genocide, a baseless claim. The order left many refugee advocates who have worked for years to resettle vulnerable people enraged.“Refugees sit in camps for 10, 20 years, but if you’re a white South African Afrikaner, then suddenly you can make it through in three months?” asked the Rev. Randy Carter, director of the Welcome Network and a pastor of a CBF church. “There’s a lot of words I’d like to attach to that, but I don’t want any of those printed.”Carter said he respects and honors the Episcopal Church’s decision not to work with the government on resettling the Afrikaners, even if his network has taken a different approach.“The call to welcome is not always easy,” Carter said. “Sometimes it’s hard.”At the same time, he said, it’s important resettlement volunteers keep in mind that the ministry opposes apartheid and racism, both in the U.S. and abroad, and is committed to repentance and repair.The North Carolina field office for the USCRI resettlement group also recognized how fraught this particular resettlement is for its faith-based partners.“In our communication with them, we said, ‘Look, we know this is not a normal issue. You or your constituencies may have reservations, and we understand that. That should not affect our partnership,’” said Omer Omer, the North Carolina field office director for USCRI. “If you want to participate, welcome. If not, we understand.”Wyatt got nearly two dozen comments on his Facebook post in which he announced his decision to work with the refugee agency in resettling the Afrikaners. Nearly all wrote in support of his decision. “I’m up sleepless pondering this,” acknowledged one person. “Complicated, but the right call,” wrote another.USCRI did not release the names of the three Afrikaners who chose to settle in Raleigh, a couple and a single individual. Other Afrikaners chose to be resettled in Idaho, Iowa, New York and Texas.Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested last week that more Afrikaners are on the way. The Trump administration argues white South Africans are being discriminated against by the country’s government, pointing to a law potentially allowing the government to seize privately held land under certain conditions. Since the end of apartheid, the South African government has made efforts to level the economic imbalance and redistribute land to Black South Africans that had been seized by the former colonial and apartheid governments.Wyatt, who has been running the Welcome House Raleigh ministry for 10 years, providing temporary housing and a furniture bank for refugees, and now asylum seekers, said he has settled the matter in his mind.

‘We don’t get to discriminate’: How a ministry decided to help resettle Afrikaners

GLADSTONE, Mo. —Authorities are investigating the cause of a deadly explosion at a single-family home in the 100 Block of NE 74th Terrace in the Kansas City suburb of Gladstone.&nbsp; Investigators found one unidentified body at the scene.

Just after 11a.m. Saturday, crews from city of Gladstone and the Kansas City Fire Department responded to the property where the home was completely destroyed, according to&nbsp;Gladstone Battalion Chief Mike Desaultels.&nbsp;

As a precaution, adjacent homes were evacuated. Crews found the body of one victim. No other injuries were reported.&nbsp; The area was secured and reported to be safe.

The Kansas City Fire Dept. assisted Gladstone with 4 pumper companies, 2 truck companies, HazMat, and a Drone, according to KCFD Battalion Chief Riley Nolan.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748720548341.png" alt="View near the scene of the home explosion-photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>View near the scene of the home explosion-photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>GLADSTONE, Mo. —Authorities are investigating the cause of a deadly explosion at a single-family home in the 100 Block of NE 74th Terrace in the Kansas City suburb of Gladstone.&nbsp; Investigators found one unidentified body at the scene.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1748777741182.png" alt="Photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 11a.m. Saturday, crews from city of Gladstone and the Kansas City Fire Department responded to the property where the home was completely destroyed, according to&nbsp;Gladstone Battalion Chief Mike Desaultels.&nbsp;As a precaution, adjacent homes were evacuated. Crews found the body of one victim. No other injuries were reported.&nbsp; The area was secured and reported to be safe.The Kansas City Fire Dept. assisted Gladstone with 4 pumper companies, 2 truck companies, HazMat, and a Drone, according to KCFD Battalion Chief Riley Nolan.

Cause of fatal home explosion under investigation in KC suburb 

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansas House Democrats opened their “fight back” tour Thursday night in the capital city, drawing more than 220 people to sit through rain showers and talk about the importance of strengthening their party’s voice in upcoming elections.

“There’s a lot to lose, so we have a lot to fight for,” said Carla Gardner, of Lawrence, as she waited in line to get into the event. “It’s sad that in 2025 we feel we have to fight back. But a lot of, well, women, potentially, could lose, the LGBTQ+ community, health care, veterans — there are just so many groups, people of color, just all the marginalized groups, that stand to lose a lot more. We have to fight back.”

Linda Manley and Sarah Ruiz, both of Topeka, said they attended the rally because they feel the need to get involved more at the local level after watching national news.

Why did they come listen to Democrats in the rain?

“The chaos in the world and trying to find out what we can do,” Ruiz said.

“Loss of our Constitution, loss of our courts, checks and balances — I know it needs to start locally,” Manley added.

Their words were echoed by many of the House Democrats in attendance, as well as Gov. Laura Kelly, who spoke briefly at the event.

“This was exactly the right response to what happened in November of 2024, in this last legislative session,” she said. “We need to be out there now and forever, leading up to the August 2026 primary when, in addition to electing candidates, we also have to make sure that we defeat that amendment to elect our Supreme Court justices.”

Kelly referred to a proposed constitutional amendment that would put Kansas Supreme Court justices on the ballot, instead of the governor appointing one of three finalists selected by a nonpartisan review panel.

“I don’t know about you, but I have no interest in being like Wisconsin on this where there are millions and millions of dollars coming into that state to sway the one group that is supposed to be impartial and not motivated by political leanings,” the governor said.

Kelly encouraged everyone in attendance to “learn to speak Republican” and talk to people throughout the state.

“Talk about the issues that matter to people, and talk about electing a person, not a party,” she said.

Rep. Susan Ruiz, before the event started, emphasized that same message. The Shawnee Democrat said anyone paying attention to what happened in the Legislature during the recent session should be concerned.

A more collaborative relationship is needed in the Statehouse to push forward things Kansans care about, she said.

“I want to see more Democrats running and winning so that we can have a fighting chance,” she said, referring to the Republicans’ supermajority. “But it would be nice to see some moderate Republicans also win because we can band together. There’s a lot of things that we can do together that would be good for the majority of the people in the state, and not the Koch brothers of the world.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748697749008.jpeg" alt="Linda Manley, left, and Sarah Ruiz attended the House Democrats “fight back” rally Thursday in Topeka. (Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Linda Manley, left, and Sarah Ruiz attended the House Democrats “fight back” rally Thursday in Topeka. (Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansas House Democrats opened their “fight back” tour Thursday night in the capital city, drawing more than 220 people to sit through rain showers and talk about the importance of strengthening their party’s voice in upcoming elections.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🔥🦬Topeka showed up!!! A fired-up crowd of hundreds gathered in Topeka last night to help us launch the Fight Back Tour! The Fight Back Tour heads next to Wichita and Newton on June 5 and 6. 🔥 RSVP for your spot at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fightbacktour?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fightbacktour</a> in our bio <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kansas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kansas</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ksleg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ksleg</a> <a href="https://t.co/3jSTNkC36p">pic.twitter.com/3jSTNkC36p</a>&mdash; Kansas House Democrats (@KSHouseDems) <a href="https://twitter.com/KSHouseDems/status/1928555944931176957?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“There’s a lot to lose, so we have a lot to fight for,” said Carla Gardner, of Lawrence, as she waited in line to get into the event. “It’s sad that in 2025 we feel we have to fight back. But a lot of, well, women, potentially, could lose, the LGBTQ+ community, health care, veterans — there are just so many groups, people of color, just all the marginalized groups, that stand to lose a lot more. We have to fight back.”Linda Manley and Sarah Ruiz, both of Topeka, said they attended the rally because they feel the need to get involved more at the local level after watching national news.Why did they come listen to Democrats in the rain?“The chaos in the world and trying to find out what we can do,” Ruiz said.“Loss of our Constitution, loss of our courts, checks and balances — I know it needs to start locally,” Manley added.Their words were echoed by many of the House Democrats in attendance, as well as Gov. Laura Kelly, who spoke briefly at the event.“This was exactly the right response to what happened in November of 2024, in this last legislative session,” she said. “We need to be out there now and forever, leading up to the August 2026 primary when, in addition to electing candidates, we also have to make sure that we defeat that amendment to elect our Supreme Court justices.”Kelly referred to a proposed constitutional amendment that would put Kansas Supreme Court justices on the ballot, instead of the governor appointing one of three finalists selected by a nonpartisan review panel.“I don’t know about you, but I have no interest in being like Wisconsin on this where there are millions and millions of dollars coming into that state to sway the one group that is supposed to be impartial and not motivated by political leanings,” the governor said.Kelly encouraged everyone in attendance to “learn to speak Republican” and talk to people throughout the state.“Talk about the issues that matter to people, and talk about electing a person, not a party,” she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748697709558.png" alt="Representatives (from left) John Alcala, Alexis Simmons, Kirk Haskins and Brandon Woodard took part in a panel in Topeka Thursday to kick off the House Democrats “fight back” tour. The panel was moderated by Jacquie Lightcap. (Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Representatives (from left) John Alcala, Alexis Simmons, Kirk Haskins and Brandon Woodard took part in a panel in Topeka Thursday to kick off the House Democrats “fight back” tour. The panel was moderated by Jacquie Lightcap. (Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>Rep. Susan Ruiz, before the event started, emphasized that same message. The Shawnee Democrat said anyone paying attention to what happened in the Legislature during the recent session should be concerned.A more collaborative relationship is needed in the Statehouse to push forward things Kansans care about, she said.“I want to see more Democrats running and winning so that we can have a fighting chance,” she said, referring to the Republicans’ supermajority. “But it would be nice to see some moderate Republicans also win because we can band together. There’s a lot of things that we can do together that would be good for the majority of the people in the state, and not the Koch brothers of the world.”Rep. Kirk Haskins, a Topeka Democrat, said before speaking at the event that the fight back tour, which will go to at least 11 more stops throughout the state, is important to get messaging out for the Democrats.“There’s a lot of Kansans that have had their opinion not heard,” he said. “For example, 80% of Kansans want us to see some sort of expansion of Medicaid, but yet it doesn’t come up. We also feel like it’s time for the House Democrats to lead the opportunity for them to be heard, and so we’re traveling across with an agenda purpose to share what’s happening, but also to learn, not just from Democrats, but from all Kansans.”Haskins said he’s been concerned about how business is being conducted at the Statehouse, and also what is happening at the federal level. Important items are buried in details, for instance.&nbsp;“We saw this during the past session many times over,” he said. “Property tax relief started off as something they campaigned on, but then when it came out, they’re making sure that luxury jets get property tax relief.”Rob Fillion, executive director of the Kansas GOP, said the House Democrats are not on a “fight back” tour.“This is the out-of-touch tour,” he said by email. “Do the legislators not know that people are tired of larger government? Do they not understand that people like lower taxes, secure borders and parental rights?”The gathering drew former elected officials like Joan Wagnon, who served in the House and as Topeka mayor, along with 13 current representatives and senators, Kansas Board of Education members, Topeka Mayor Michael Padilla and others.After Kelly spoke, a panel made up of House Minority Leader Brandon Woodard, of Lenexa, and Topeka Reps. Alexis Simmons, John Alcala, and Haskins answered questions from the audience.Those questions focused primarily on what actions people could take to make a difference, as well as concerns about Medicaid cuts and mental health services.The panel encouraged people to contact their legislators, to go to their offices and be heard.&nbsp;“I’m on my soapbox. Settle in,” Simmons said, drawing laughs. “Y’all know how many races in the state of Kansas, in the state Legislature, are won or lost by only double digits? It’s crazy. There are so many. We just lost a state senator in Leavenworth — he lost by 31 votes.”Simmons encouraged people to talk to everyone and tell them to vote all the way down the ballot.“Do not vote only for president. Don’t vote only for Congress. Vote all the way down,” she said.The next fight back tour events will be in Wichita on June 5 and Newton on June 6. Details are on the House Democrats&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kshousedems" target="_blank">Facebook page</a>.&nbsp;