WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden has improved enough from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-covid-health-government-and-politics-e29cb0a0a2135f9cc9ecd0967a2bc345">his coronavirus infection</a>&nbsp;that he’s able to resume his regular exercise routine, according to an update Tuesday from his doctor.

Dr. Kevin O’Connor wrote in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Update-7.26.pdf">a new note</a>&nbsp;that Biden’s COVID-19 symptoms “have now almost completely resolved,” and all of his vital signs are good.

Biden took his fifth and final dose of Paxlovid, which is intended to prevent severe symptoms from COVID-19, on Monday night.

Tuesday is Biden's fifth full day of isolation, and he plans to test for the virus on Wednesday.

If he tests negative, he will return to working in person.

“The moment that he turns negative, he’ll return to work,” said Dr. Ashish Jha, the White House COVID-19 response coordinator, during Monday's briefing at the White House.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658854706773.png" alt="Tuesday is Biden's fifth full day of isolation, and he plans to test for the virus on Wednesday.-White House photo" />
 <figcaption>Tuesday is Biden's fifth full day of isolation, and he plans to test for the virus on Wednesday.-White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden has improved enough from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-covid-health-government-and-politics-e29cb0a0a2135f9cc9ecd0967a2bc345">his coronavirus infection</a>&nbsp;that he’s able to resume his regular exercise routine, according to an update Tuesday from his doctor.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658854614980.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dr. Kevin O’Connor wrote in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Update-7.26.pdf">a new note</a>&nbsp;that Biden’s COVID-19 symptoms “have now almost completely resolved,” and all of his vital signs are good.Biden took his fifth and final dose of Paxlovid, which is intended to prevent severe symptoms from COVID-19, on Monday night.Tuesday is Biden's fifth full day of isolation, and he plans to test for the virus on Wednesday.If he tests negative, he will return to working in person.“The moment that he turns negative, he’ll return to work,” said Dr. Ashish Jha, the White House COVID-19 response coordinator, during Monday's briefing at the White House.

Doctor: Biden's COVID symptoms 'almost completely resolved'

ELK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged illegal hunting and asking the public for help to identify suspects.

The game warden in Elk County is working to&nbsp;locate the individual(s) responsible for the illegal shooting of two Whitetail bucks, according to a social media report from the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks Game Wardens.

The bucks were believed to have been shot sometime between July 22 and 23 east of Oak Valley on private property.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Game Warden Gerler at (620)-388-7643. If you want to remain anonymous contact Operation Game Thief at 1-877-426-3843.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658850909225.png" alt="Photo KDWP Game Wardens" />
 <figcaption>Photo KDWP Game Wardens</figcaption>
 </figure>ELK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged illegal hunting and asking the public for help to identify suspects.The game warden in Elk County is working to&nbsp;locate the individual(s) responsible for the illegal shooting of two Whitetail bucks, according to a social media report from the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks Game Wardens.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658851133632.png" alt="Image KDWP Game Wardens" />
 <figcaption>Image KDWP Game Wardens</figcaption>
 </figure>The bucks were believed to have been shot sometime between July 22 and 23 east of Oak Valley on private property.Anyone with information is asked to contact Game Warden Gerler at (620)-388-7643. If you want to remain anonymous contact Operation Game Thief at 1-877-426-3843.

Kansas game warden:  Buck deer found illegally shot

KHIMKI, Russia (AP) — The drug trial of American basketball star Brittney Griner in a Russian court focused Tuesday on testimony that cannabis, while illegal in Russia, is regarded in other countries as having legitimate medicinal use.

Griner has acknowledged that she was carrying vape canisters containing cannabis oil when she was arrested in February at a Moscow airport, but she contends that she had no criminal intent and that the canisters ended up in her luggage inadvertently because of hasty packing.

“We are not arguing that Brittney took it here as a medicine. We are still saying that she involuntarily brought it here because she was in a rush,” defense attorney Alexander Boykov said after the session in which a Russian neuropsychologist testified about worldwide use of medicinal cannabis.

“The Russian public has to know, and the Russian court in the first place has to know, that it was not used for recreational purposes in the United States. It was prescribed by a doctor,” he said.

Griner, a two-time Olympic gold medalist who plays for the WNBA's Phoenix Mercury, faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted. The medical testimony and Griner's admission that she had the canisters is aimed at bringing her a mild sentence.

“We have a lot of mitigating factors. So we do hope that the court will take it into consideration. And the courts in Russia, in fact, have very broad discretion with regard to the sentence," said Maria Blagovolina, another of Griner's lawyers.

After about 90 minutes in session Tuesday, the case was adjourned until Wednesday afternoon.

The trial of the two-time Olympic gold medalist and Phoenix Mercury standout began July 1 but only five sessions have been held, some them lasting only about an hour.

The slow-moving trial and Griner's five months of detention have raised strong criticism among teammates and supporters in the United States, which has formally declared her to be “wrongfully detained,” a designation sharply rejected by Russian officials.

Elizabeth Rood, the U.S. Embassy's charge d'affaires, attended Tuesday's court session. Griner “confirms that she is doing ok and as well as can be expected under these circumstances,” she told reporters.

ABC’s “Good Morning America” aired a producer’s brief interview with Griner in which she wished her wife, Cherelle “good luck on the bar exam.”

When asked whether she had any complaints, she replied: “No, no complaints. Just waiting patiently.” She displayed photos of her wife, friends and teammates.

Griner was arrested in February amid high U.S.-Moscow tensions ahead of Russia sending troops into Ukraine later that month. Some supporters contend she is being held in Russia as a pawn, possibly for a prisoner swap. American soccer notable Megan Rapinoe last week said “she’s being held as a political prisoner, obviously.”

The Russian Foreign Ministry last week lashed out at the U.S. contention that Griner is being wrongfully detained and said Russian laws should be respected.

“If a U.S. citizen was taken in connection with the fact that she was smuggling drugs, and she does not deny this, then this should be commensurate with our Russian local laws, and not with those adopted in San Francisco, New York and Washington,” spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said.

“If drugs are legalized in the United States, in a number of states, and this is done for a long time and now the whole country will become drug-addicted, this does not mean that all other countries are following the same path,” she added.

Russian media have speculated that Griner could be exchanged for prominent Russian arms trader Viktor Bout, who is imprisoned in the United States, and that Paul Whelan, an American imprisoned in Russia for espionage, may also figure in an exchange.

U.S. officials have not commented on the prospects for such a trade. Russian officials have said no exchange could be discussed until the conclusion of the legal proceedings against Griner. It is unclear how long the trial will last, but a court has authorized Griner’s detention until Dec. 20.

Previous trial sessions have included character-witness testimony from the director and captain of the Russian team that Griner played for in the off-season, along with written testimony including a doctor's letter saying he had authorized her to use cannabis for pain treatment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646510097872.png" alt="The 31-year-old Griner, one of the most recognizable players in women’s basketball, has won two Olympic gold medals with the U.S., a WNBA championship with the Phoenix Mercury and a national championship at Baylor. She is a seven-time All-Star and three-time Big 12 Player of the year at Baylor-photo courtesy Phoenix Mercury" />
 <figcaption>The 31-year-old Griner, one of the most recognizable players in women’s basketball, has won two Olympic gold medals with the U.S., a WNBA championship with the Phoenix Mercury and a national championship at Baylor. She is a seven-time All-Star and three-time Big 12 Player of the year at Baylor-photo courtesy Phoenix Mercury</figcaption>
 </figure>KHIMKI, Russia (AP) — The drug trial of American basketball star Brittney Griner in a Russian court focused Tuesday on testimony that cannabis, while illegal in Russia, is regarded in other countries as having legitimate medicinal use.Griner has acknowledged that she was carrying vape canisters containing cannabis oil when she was arrested in February at a Moscow airport, but she contends that she had no criminal intent and that the canisters ended up in her luggage inadvertently because of hasty packing.“We are not arguing that Brittney took it here as a medicine. We are still saying that she involuntarily brought it here because she was in a rush,” defense attorney Alexander Boykov said after the session in which a Russian neuropsychologist testified about worldwide use of medicinal cannabis.“The Russian public has to know, and the Russian court in the first place has to know, that it was not used for recreational purposes in the United States. It was prescribed by a doctor,” he said.Griner, a two-time Olympic gold medalist who plays for the WNBA's Phoenix Mercury, faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted. The medical testimony and Griner's admission that she had the canisters is aimed at bringing her a mild sentence.“We have a lot of mitigating factors. So we do hope that the court will take it into consideration. And the courts in Russia, in fact, have very broad discretion with regard to the sentence," said Maria Blagovolina, another of Griner's lawyers.After about 90 minutes in session Tuesday, the case was adjourned until Wednesday afternoon.The trial of the two-time Olympic gold medalist and Phoenix Mercury standout began July 1 but only five sessions have been held, some them lasting only about an hour.The slow-moving trial and Griner's five months of detention have raised strong criticism among teammates and supporters in the United States, which has formally declared her to be “wrongfully detained,” a designation sharply rejected by Russian officials.Elizabeth Rood, the U.S. Embassy's charge d'affaires, attended Tuesday's court session. Griner “confirms that she is doing ok and as well as can be expected under these circumstances,” she told reporters.ABC’s “Good Morning America” aired a producer’s brief interview with Griner in which she wished her wife, Cherelle “good luck on the bar exam.”When asked whether she had any complaints, she replied: “No, no complaints. Just waiting patiently.” She displayed photos of her wife, friends and teammates.Griner was arrested in February amid high U.S.-Moscow tensions ahead of Russia sending troops into Ukraine later that month. Some supporters contend she is being held in Russia as a pawn, possibly for a prisoner swap. American soccer notable Megan Rapinoe last week said “she’s being held as a political prisoner, obviously.”The Russian Foreign Ministry last week lashed out at the U.S. contention that Griner is being wrongfully detained and said Russian laws should be respected.“If a U.S. citizen was taken in connection with the fact that she was smuggling drugs, and she does not deny this, then this should be commensurate with our Russian local laws, and not with those adopted in San Francisco, New York and Washington,” spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said.“If drugs are legalized in the United States, in a number of states, and this is done for a long time and now the whole country will become drug-addicted, this does not mean that all other countries are following the same path,” she added.Russian media have speculated that Griner could be exchanged for prominent Russian arms trader Viktor Bout, who is imprisoned in the United States, and that Paul Whelan, an American imprisoned in Russia for espionage, may also figure in an exchange.U.S. officials have not commented on the prospects for such a trade. Russian officials have said no exchange could be discussed until the conclusion of the legal proceedings against Griner. It is unclear how long the trial will last, but a court has authorized Griner’s detention until Dec. 20.Previous trial sessions have included character-witness testimony from the director and captain of the Russian team that Griner played for in the off-season, along with written testimony including a doctor's letter saying he had authorized her to use cannabis for pain treatment.

Former Big 12 star's Russian trial considers medicinal use of cannabis

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas jail deputy arrested last week&nbsp; and charged with two counts of felony official misconduct for crimes related to a security breach at the Sedgwick County Jail is facing new charges.

Two female inmates have reported inappropriate sexual contact with 22-year-old Dustin Burnett, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick. The alleged sexual contact occurred on July 17.

Detectives investigated the allegations and added three requested counts of Unlawful Sexual Relations to <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20076697">Burnett’s current charges.</a>

While investigating a security breach at Sedgwick County Jail last week, investigators learned Burnett, the on-duty deputy in that area of the jail, observed inmates break a window, bring the contraband into the facility and didn't stop it or inform anyone it occurred. He also did not give investigators the full story about the incident when confronted about it, according to Sheriff Jeff Easter.&nbsp;

On Friday, Burnett was charged with the two counts of official misconduct, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. Both are felonies. 

Burnett had been employed by the jail since January and was terminated upon his arrest. <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20076697">He remains jailed </a>on a $150,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658429257903.png" alt="Burnett-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Burnett-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas jail deputy arrested last week&nbsp; and charged with two counts of felony official misconduct for crimes related to a security breach at the Sedgwick County Jail is facing new charges.Two female inmates have reported inappropriate sexual contact with 22-year-old Dustin Burnett, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick. The alleged sexual contact occurred on July 17.Detectives investigated the allegations and added three requested counts of Unlawful Sexual Relations to <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20076697">Burnett’s current charges.</a><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FSedgwickCountySheriff%2Fvideos%2F5513627518658845%2F&show_text=false&width=267&t=118" width="267" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>While investigating a security breach at Sedgwick County Jail last week, investigators learned Burnett, the on-duty deputy in that area of the jail, observed inmates break a window, bring the contraband into the facility and didn't stop it or inform anyone it occurred. He also did not give investigators the full story about the incident when confronted about it, according to Sheriff Jeff Easter.&nbsp;On Friday, Burnett was charged with the two counts of official misconduct, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. Both are felonies. Burnett had been employed by the jail since January and was terminated upon his arrest. <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20076697">He remains jailed </a>on a $150,000 bond.

🎥Kansas jail deputy accused of sex with inmates

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas' attorney general is trying to get ahead of arguments that an anti-abortion measure up for a statewide vote next week would hinder medical care for patients with life-threatening pregnancies.

Attorney General Derek Schmidt, a Republican running for governor who supports&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/hcr5003_enrolled.pdf">the measure,</a>&nbsp;argues in a legal opinion issued Friday that treating miscarriages, removing dead fetuses and ending ectopic pregnancies do not fall under Kansas' legal definition of abortion. The proposal on the ballot Aug. 2 would amend the Kansas Constitution to allow the Legislature to further restrict or ban abortion. It's the first referendum on abortion policy by a state since the U.S. Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">overturned Roe v. Wade</a>&nbsp;last month.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-health-texas-government-and-politics-da85c82bf3e9ced09ad499e350ae5ee3">The Texas Medical Society told the state medical board</a>&nbsp;this month that some hospitals were delaying care for pregnancy complications over fears of violating the state's ban on most abortions.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-science-health-medication-lupus-e4042947e4cc0c45e38837d394199033">An Ohio clinic reported</a>&nbsp;calls from two women who said their doctors would not end their ectopic pregnancies, which occur when an embryo grows outside the womb and often are life-threatening to the women involved.

Opponents of the Kansas measure predict it will lead to an abortion ban, while backers including Schmidt&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-2022-midterm-elections-us-supreme-court-health-government-and-politics-ee885ee70503518fa02f982a7ffff464">are not saying</a>&nbsp;whether they would pursue one. Schmidt’s opinion says the proposed amendment would not itself “ban or restrict abortion or any medical treatment.”

“Nor would it affect a physician’s ability to render care for ectopic pregnancies, miscarriages or fetal demise,” the opinion states.

Schmidt's opinion confirms what the coalition leading the vote yes campaign has said “all along” about the Kansas measure, spokesperson Mackenzie Haddix said.

Television ads opposing the measure have not specifically mentioned ectopic pregnancies, stillbirths or miscarriages, but they've said that women's lives could be in danger if voters approve the measure. The proposal is anti-abortion lawmakers' response to a 2019 Kansas Supreme Court decision declaring access to abortion a “fundamental” right under the state constitution.

“What these abortion bans are doing that we’ve seen across the country is bringing with them a whole host of other unintended consequences,” said Zack Gingrich-Gaylord, a spokesperson for the abortion-rights group Trust Women, which operates a Wichita clinic.

State Rep. John Eplee, a doctor and a northeastern Kansas Republican, asked Schmidt to issue an opinion earlier this month. Although he already believed the amendment wouldn't hinder medical care, he said he had gotten enough questions from constituents that he wanted Schmidt to weigh in.

“You know, people believe things better when they hear it from an attorney,” said Eplee, who voted to put the proposed amendment on the ballot.

Schmidt's legal opinion says that the state’s legal definition of abortion already excludes treating miscarriages and removing dead fetuses. But it acknowledges that Kansas law contains no reference to ectopic pregnancies.

Schmidt's opinion notes that an abortion is the termination of a pregnancy, and that's defined as having an “unborn child in the mother's body.” The opinion says at least two laws define an unborn child as being in the womb, not outside it. The opinion also argues that the embryo in an ectopic pregnancy is no longer in a stage “leading to birth.”

“On balance, we believe the best interpretation is that the termination of an ectopic pregnancy does not constitute an abortion as defined by Kansas law,” Schmidt wrote, adding that even if it were, state law has consistently allowed abortions to save a patient's life.

Also, the state health department said it does not require providers to report the termination of an ectopic pregnancy as an abortion and does not include such procedures in state abortion statistics.

But opponents of the Kansas amendment find no comfort in Schmidt's legal analysis, saying the measure would allow lawmakers to change the definition of abortion. Dr. Beth Oller, a family physician in Rooks County in northwest Kansas, said Monday that if abortion is banned, doctors might wonder how long they'd have to wait for a woman to be "in jeopardy for her life” before ending an ectopic pregnancy.

“We know that the reason for the amendment is to allow the Legislature to make decisions to restrict reproductive access,” she said in a text to The Associated Press.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654711684391.png" alt="Attorney General Derek Schmidt -photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>Attorney General Derek Schmidt -photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN HANNA&nbsp;TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas' attorney general is trying to get ahead of arguments that an anti-abortion measure up for a statewide vote next week would hinder medical care for patients with life-threatening pregnancies.Attorney General Derek Schmidt, a Republican running for governor who supports&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/hcr5003_enrolled.pdf">the measure,</a>&nbsp;argues in a legal opinion issued Friday that treating miscarriages, removing dead fetuses and ending ectopic pregnancies do not fall under Kansas' legal definition of abortion. The proposal on the ballot Aug. 2 would amend the Kansas Constitution to allow the Legislature to further restrict or ban abortion. It's the first referendum on abortion policy by a state since the U.S. Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">overturned Roe v. Wade</a>&nbsp;last month.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-health-texas-government-and-politics-da85c82bf3e9ced09ad499e350ae5ee3">The Texas Medical Society told the state medical board</a>&nbsp;this month that some hospitals were delaying care for pregnancy complications over fears of violating the state's ban on most abortions.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-science-health-medication-lupus-e4042947e4cc0c45e38837d394199033">An Ohio clinic reported</a>&nbsp;calls from two women who said their doctors would not end their ectopic pregnancies, which occur when an embryo grows outside the womb and often are life-threatening to the women involved.Opponents of the Kansas measure predict it will lead to an abortion ban, while backers including Schmidt&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-2022-midterm-elections-us-supreme-court-health-government-and-politics-ee885ee70503518fa02f982a7ffff464">are not saying</a>&nbsp;whether they would pursue one. Schmidt’s opinion says the proposed amendment would not itself “ban or restrict abortion or any medical treatment.”“Nor would it affect a physician’s ability to render care for ectopic pregnancies, miscarriages or fetal demise,” the opinion states.Schmidt's opinion confirms what the coalition leading the vote yes campaign has said “all along” about the Kansas measure, spokesperson Mackenzie Haddix said.Television ads opposing the measure have not specifically mentioned ectopic pregnancies, stillbirths or miscarriages, but they've said that women's lives could be in danger if voters approve the measure. The proposal is anti-abortion lawmakers' response to a 2019 Kansas Supreme Court decision declaring access to abortion a “fundamental” right under the state constitution.“What these abortion bans are doing that we’ve seen across the country is bringing with them a whole host of other unintended consequences,” said Zack Gingrich-Gaylord, a spokesperson for the abortion-rights group Trust Women, which operates a Wichita clinic.State Rep. John Eplee, a doctor and a northeastern Kansas Republican, asked Schmidt to issue an opinion earlier this month. Although he already believed the amendment wouldn't hinder medical care, he said he had gotten enough questions from constituents that he wanted Schmidt to weigh in.“You know, people believe things better when they hear it from an attorney,” said Eplee, who voted to put the proposed amendment on the ballot.Schmidt's legal opinion says that the state’s legal definition of abortion already excludes treating miscarriages and removing dead fetuses. But it acknowledges that Kansas law contains no reference to ectopic pregnancies.Schmidt's opinion notes that an abortion is the termination of a pregnancy, and that's defined as having an “unborn child in the mother's body.” The opinion says at least two laws define an unborn child as being in the womb, not outside it. The opinion also argues that the embryo in an ectopic pregnancy is no longer in a stage “leading to birth.”“On balance, we believe the best interpretation is that the termination of an ectopic pregnancy does not constitute an abortion as defined by Kansas law,” Schmidt wrote, adding that even if it were, state law has consistently allowed abortions to save a patient's life.Also, the state health department said it does not require providers to report the termination of an ectopic pregnancy as an abortion and does not include such procedures in state abortion statistics.But opponents of the Kansas amendment find no comfort in Schmidt's legal analysis, saying the measure would allow lawmakers to change the definition of abortion. Dr. Beth Oller, a family physician in Rooks County in northwest Kansas, said Monday that if abortion is banned, doctors might wonder how long they'd have to wait for a woman to be "in jeopardy for her life” before ending an ectopic pregnancy.“We know that the reason for the amendment is to allow the Legislature to make decisions to restrict reproductive access,” she said in a text to The Associated Press.

Kansas AG tries to tamp down fears about abortion measure

WICHITA —Sedgwick County is now at a “High” level of&nbsp;community transmission for COVID-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's COVID-19 Community Level framework.&nbsp;

Masks are now required for city employees when they are unable to maintain social distancing. Masks are encouraged for employees and visitors&nbsp;in all city facilities, according to the city of Wichita.

COVID-19 Community Levels are determined by the number of COVID-19 cases reported over the last 7 days per 100,000 residents, new hospital admissions, and the number of hospital beds occupied by COVID-19 patients.

The Kansas Department of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Health reported&nbsp;</a>7,626&nbsp;new coronavirus cases in Kansas from Wednesday July 13 to Wednesday July 20, for a total of&nbsp; 827,301 cases. Th<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1529/June-15-Case-Summary-PDF?bidId=">e state also reported&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;9 additional COVID-19 deaths.

There were 844 new cases of <a href="https://www.sedgwickcounty.org/covid-19/whats-new/covid-19-community-level-high/">COVID in Wichita </a>during the same time period, according to the Sedgwick County Health Department.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658798106681.png" alt="Wichita Mayor Brandon Whipple at Oxford Grand Assisted Living on July 13. On Monday, Whipple reported he tested positive for COVID." />
 <figcaption>Wichita Mayor Brandon Whipple at Oxford Grand Assisted Living on July 13. On Monday, Whipple reported he tested positive for COVID.</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA —Sedgwick County is now at a “High” level of&nbsp;community transmission for COVID-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's COVID-19 Community Level framework.&nbsp;Masks are now required for city employees when they are unable to maintain social distancing. Masks are encouraged for employees and visitors&nbsp;in all city facilities, according to the city of Wichita. COVID-19 Community Levels are determined by the number of COVID-19 cases reported over the last 7 days per 100,000 residents, new hospital admissions, and the number of hospital beds occupied by COVID-19 patients.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Just wanted to let folks know I&#39;ll be MIA this week as I tested positive for Covid19. My symptoms are incredibly light thanks to being fully vaccinated &amp; boosted. So far no one else in our household has tested positive (or has symptoms, thankfully).&mdash; Dr. Brandon Whipple (@BWhippleKS) <a href="https://twitter.com/BWhippleKS/status/1551706590729871361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Kansas Department of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Health reported&nbsp;</a>7,626&nbsp;new coronavirus cases in Kansas from Wednesday July 13 to Wednesday July 20, for a total of&nbsp; 827,301 cases. Th<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1529/June-15-Case-Summary-PDF?bidId=">e state also reported&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;9 additional COVID-19 deaths.There were 844 new cases of <a href="https://www.sedgwickcounty.org/covid-19/whats-new/covid-19-community-level-high/">COVID in Wichita </a>during the same time period, according to the Sedgwick County Health Department.

 City of Wichita to require masks for employees, contractors

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Sedgwick County ballots for next week's election on a proposal that could remove abortion rights from the Kansas Constitution include two misspellings, including of the word “pregnancy.”

The misspellings in the text of the proposal will not impact the validity of the vote in the state's second most-populous county, Sedgwick County Election Commissioner Angela Caudillo said.

The proposal on the Aug. 2 ballot would remove abortion rights from the Kansas Constitution and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-2022-midterm-elections-us-supreme-court-health-government-and-politics-ee885ee70503518fa02f982a7ffff464">give the GOP-led Legislature more authority to restrict or ban the procedure</a>.

The text of the proposal on Sedgwick County paper and electronic ballots includes the line "pregnacy resulting from rape or incest, or circumstnces of necessity to save the life of the mother,” The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article263806053.html">reported</a>.

Caudillo said Kansas law says administrative errors may not be used to overturn elections. She said the county's election office is studying ways to make sure similar errors don't happen in the future.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658783116017.png" alt="The words are spelled correctly on this sample ballot from the Kansas Secretary of State's office" />
 <figcaption>The words are spelled correctly on this sample ballot from the Kansas Secretary of State's office</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Sedgwick County ballots for next week's election on a proposal that could remove abortion rights from the Kansas Constitution include two misspellings, including of the word “pregnancy.”The misspellings in the text of the proposal will not impact the validity of the vote in the state's second most-populous county, Sedgwick County Election Commissioner Angela Caudillo said.The proposal on the Aug. 2 ballot would remove abortion rights from the Kansas Constitution and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-2022-midterm-elections-us-supreme-court-health-government-and-politics-ee885ee70503518fa02f982a7ffff464">give the GOP-led Legislature more authority to restrict or ban the procedure</a>.The text of the proposal on Sedgwick County paper and electronic ballots includes the line "pregnacy resulting from rape or incest, or circumstnces of necessity to save the life of the mother,” The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article263806053.html">reported</a>.Caudillo said Kansas law says administrative errors may not be used to overturn elections. She said the county's election office is studying ways to make sure similar errors don't happen in the future.

County abortion ballot contains two misspellings

BEIJING (AP) — Taiwan’s capital staged air raid drills Monday and its military mobilized for routine defense exercises, coinciding with concerns over a forceful Chinese response to a possible visit to the island by U.S. Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi.

While there was no direct link between China’s renewed threats and Taiwan’s defensive moves, they underscore the possibility of a renewed crisis in the Taiwan Strait, considered a potential hotspot for conflict that could envelop the entire region.

Air raid sirens were sounded in the capital Taipei and the military was holding its annual multi-day Han Kuang drills, including joint air and sea exercises and the mobilization of tanks and troops.

In Taipei, police directed people to shelters when a siren went off shortly after lunchtime. Streets emptied and shops closed.

“In recent years,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-army-taiwan-air-force-df5ce025994309b138a015c8e0526a1f">Chinese military planes</a>&nbsp;have frequently harassed Taiwan, and the war between Russia and Ukraine broke out in February this year,” Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je told reporters, referencing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-business-europe-china-taiwan-8a0b9cf325f5b1f4c5e49a5be58b013f">concerns that a similar conflict</a>&nbsp;could break out in East Asia. “All these things make us understand the importance of being vigilant in times of peace and we need to be prepared if there is war.”

Pelosi has not confirmed when, or even if, she will visit, but President Joe Biden last week told reporters that U.S. military officials believed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-biden-beijing-nancy-pelosi-taiwan-c2f23ad7108853d33b6d41456eb4d0c5">such a trip was “not a good idea.”</a>&nbsp;Administration officials are believed to be critical of a possible trip, both for the problematic timing and the lack of coordination with the White House.

China’s authoritarian ruling Communist Party considers democratic, self-ruling Taiwan its own territory, to be annexed by force if necessary, and regularly advertises that threat by staging military exercises and flying warplanes into Taiwan’s air defense identification zone or across the center line of the 180-kilometer (100-mile) -wide Taiwan Strait.

Beijing says those actions are aimed at deterring advocates of the island’s formal independence and foreign allies — principally the U.S. — from interfering, more than 70 years after the sides split amid civil war. Surveys routinely show that Taiwan’s 23 million people reject China’s assertions that the island is a Chinese province that has strayed and must be brought under Beijing’s control.

Pelosi, long a sharp critic of Beijing, is second in line to the White House. She is viewed as a Biden proxy by China, which demands members of Congress follow the commitments made by previous administrations.

Taiwan is among the few issues that enjoys broad bipartisan support among lawmakers and within the administration, with Biden stating earlier this year that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-biden-taiwan-china-4fb0ad0567ed5bbe46c01dd758e6c62b">the U.S. would defend Taiwan</a>&nbsp;if it came under attack.

U.S. law requires Washington provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself and treat all threats to the island as matters of “grave concern,” but remains ambiguous on whether it would commit forces in response to an attack from China.

Though the sides lack formal diplomatic ties, the U.S. is Taiwan’s chief provider of outside defense assistance and political support, in a reflection of its desire to limit China’s growing influence and maintain a robust American presence in the Western Pacific.

During a visit to Indonesia on Sunday, U.S. Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nato-china-indonesia-jakarta-joint-chiefs-of-staff-9d5172dafc703b7dccc4ac175a984c91">Chinese military has become significantly more aggressive</a>&nbsp;and dangerous over the past five years.

Milley’s Chinese counterpart, Gen. Li Zuocheng, told him in a call earlier this month that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-beijing-taiwan-joint-chiefs-of-staff-c65148f1ebccf639f3db91cd359086c5">Beijing had “no room for compromise”</a>&nbsp;on issues such as Taiwan.

On Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said Beijing had repeatedly expressed its “solemn position” over a potential visit by Pelosi, who would be the highest-ranking U.S. elected official to visit Taiwan since 1997.

“We are fully prepared,” Zhao told reporters at a daily briefing. “If the U.S. is bent on going its own way, China will take firm and strong measures to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

China has not said what specific actions it would take, although speculation has centered on a new round of threatening military exercises or even an attempt to prevent Pelosi’s plane from landing by declaring a no-fly zone over Taiwan.

“If the U.S. is determined to make (a visit) happen, they know China will take unprecedented tough measures and the U.S. must make military preparations,” said Shi Yinhong, an international relations expert at Beijing’s Renmin University.

“Expect huffing and puffing, maybe some fire-breathing, military posturing, and perhaps economic punishment of Taiwan,” said Michael Mazza, a defense and China expert at the American Enterprise Institute.

The timing of a Pelosi visit, which could happen sometime in early August, is especially sensitive, hinging on multiple factors. Among them is the anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army — the military branch of the ruling Communist Party — which falls on Aug. 1, a date used to stoke nationalism and rally the troops.

Chinese leaders are also under pressure from hardline nationalist forces within the party ranks.

That harkens back to the Taiwan Strait crisis of 1995 and 1996, when China held exercises and launched missiles into waters north and south of the island in response to a U.S. visit by the island’s then-president Lee Teng-hui. The U.S. responded by dispatching two aircraft carrier battle groups to the area, a move that helped spur China’s massive military upgrading in the years since that has radically changed the balance of power in Asia.

Xi is meanwhile seeking a third five-year term as party leader at a congress later this year and needs to show he is in charge amid a slowing economy and a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-health-beijing-economy-guangzhou-6f3b44ff1f550b74844b9569070de024">public backlash against his “zero-COVID” policy</a>.

Overall, the situation appears to be more serious than in 1995-96, said Bonnie Glaser, director of the Asia Program at the German Marshall Fund of the United States.

“If the Chinese want to demonstrate resolve they have many ways to do so,” Glaser said.

China doesn’t want to create a “crisis for crisis’ sake,” but could try to use the possibility of a Pelosi visit to advance its agenda, said Oriana Skylar Mastro, an expert on Chinese military affairs and foreign policy at Stanford University.

China might take the opportunity to test out capabilities through a large-scale amphibious exercise, which it would justify as a response to an “aggressive move” by the U.S., Mastro said.

“So I think they’ll use it as an opportunity to make advances that could be problematic, but (which) they wanted to do anyway regardless of the Pelosi visit,” she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658713063143.png" alt="House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has been a staunch critic of China throughout her more than three decades in Congress, once unfurling a banner on Beijing's Tiananmen Square memorializing those killed in the bloody crackdown on pro-democracy protesters in 1989. She was also a strong supporter of 2019 pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong, making her a target of caustic criticism from Beijing.-photo courtesy House Speaker's office" />
 <figcaption>House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has been a staunch critic of China throughout her more than three decades in Congress, once unfurling a banner on Beijing's Tiananmen Square memorializing those killed in the bloody crackdown on pro-democracy protesters in 1989. She was also a strong supporter of 2019 pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong, making her a target of caustic criticism from Beijing.-photo courtesy House Speaker's office</figcaption>
 </figure>BEIJING (AP) — Taiwan’s capital staged air raid drills Monday and its military mobilized for routine defense exercises, coinciding with concerns over a forceful Chinese response to a possible visit to the island by U.S. Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi.While there was no direct link between China’s renewed threats and Taiwan’s defensive moves, they underscore the possibility of a renewed crisis in the Taiwan Strait, considered a potential hotspot for conflict that could envelop the entire region.Air raid sirens were sounded in the capital Taipei and the military was holding its annual multi-day Han Kuang drills, including joint air and sea exercises and the mobilization of tanks and troops.In Taipei, police directed people to shelters when a siren went off shortly after lunchtime. Streets emptied and shops closed.“In recent years,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-army-taiwan-air-force-df5ce025994309b138a015c8e0526a1f">Chinese military planes</a>&nbsp;have frequently harassed Taiwan, and the war between Russia and Ukraine broke out in February this year,” Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je told reporters, referencing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-business-europe-china-taiwan-8a0b9cf325f5b1f4c5e49a5be58b013f">concerns that a similar conflict</a>&nbsp;could break out in East Asia. “All these things make us understand the importance of being vigilant in times of peace and we need to be prepared if there is war.”Pelosi has not confirmed when, or even if, she will visit, but President Joe Biden last week told reporters that U.S. military officials believed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-biden-beijing-nancy-pelosi-taiwan-c2f23ad7108853d33b6d41456eb4d0c5">such a trip was “not a good idea.”</a>&nbsp;Administration officials are believed to be critical of a possible trip, both for the problematic timing and the lack of coordination with the White House.China’s authoritarian ruling Communist Party considers democratic, self-ruling Taiwan its own territory, to be annexed by force if necessary, and regularly advertises that threat by staging military exercises and flying warplanes into Taiwan’s air defense identification zone or across the center line of the 180-kilometer (100-mile) -wide Taiwan Strait.Beijing says those actions are aimed at deterring advocates of the island’s formal independence and foreign allies — principally the U.S. — from interfering, more than 70 years after the sides split amid civil war. Surveys routinely show that Taiwan’s 23 million people reject China’s assertions that the island is a Chinese province that has strayed and must be brought under Beijing’s control.Pelosi, long a sharp critic of Beijing, is second in line to the White House. She is viewed as a Biden proxy by China, which demands members of Congress follow the commitments made by previous administrations.Taiwan is among the few issues that enjoys broad bipartisan support among lawmakers and within the administration, with Biden stating earlier this year that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-biden-taiwan-china-4fb0ad0567ed5bbe46c01dd758e6c62b">the U.S. would defend Taiwan</a>&nbsp;if it came under attack.U.S. law requires Washington provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself and treat all threats to the island as matters of “grave concern,” but remains ambiguous on whether it would commit forces in response to an attack from China.Though the sides lack formal diplomatic ties, the U.S. is Taiwan’s chief provider of outside defense assistance and political support, in a reflection of its desire to limit China’s growing influence and maintain a robust American presence in the Western Pacific.During a visit to Indonesia on Sunday, U.S. Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nato-china-indonesia-jakarta-joint-chiefs-of-staff-9d5172dafc703b7dccc4ac175a984c91">Chinese military has become significantly more aggressive</a>&nbsp;and dangerous over the past five years.Milley’s Chinese counterpart, Gen. Li Zuocheng, told him in a call earlier this month that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-beijing-taiwan-joint-chiefs-of-staff-c65148f1ebccf639f3db91cd359086c5">Beijing had “no room for compromise”</a>&nbsp;on issues such as Taiwan.On Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said Beijing had repeatedly expressed its “solemn position” over a potential visit by Pelosi, who would be the highest-ranking U.S. elected official to visit Taiwan since 1997.“We are fully prepared,” Zhao told reporters at a daily briefing. “If the U.S. is bent on going its own way, China will take firm and strong measures to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity.”China has not said what specific actions it would take, although speculation has centered on a new round of threatening military exercises or even an attempt to prevent Pelosi’s plane from landing by declaring a no-fly zone over Taiwan.“If the U.S. is determined to make (a visit) happen, they know China will take unprecedented tough measures and the U.S. must make military preparations,” said Shi Yinhong, an international relations expert at Beijing’s Renmin University.“Expect huffing and puffing, maybe some fire-breathing, military posturing, and perhaps economic punishment of Taiwan,” said Michael Mazza, a defense and China expert at the American Enterprise Institute.The timing of a Pelosi visit, which could happen sometime in early August, is especially sensitive, hinging on multiple factors. Among them is the anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army — the military branch of the ruling Communist Party — which falls on Aug. 1, a date used to stoke nationalism and rally the troops.Chinese leaders are also under pressure from hardline nationalist forces within the party ranks.That harkens back to the Taiwan Strait crisis of 1995 and 1996, when China held exercises and launched missiles into waters north and south of the island in response to a U.S. visit by the island’s then-president Lee Teng-hui. The U.S. responded by dispatching two aircraft carrier battle groups to the area, a move that helped spur China’s massive military upgrading in the years since that has radically changed the balance of power in Asia.Xi is meanwhile seeking a third five-year term as party leader at a congress later this year and needs to show he is in charge amid a slowing economy and a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-health-beijing-economy-guangzhou-6f3b44ff1f550b74844b9569070de024">public backlash against his “zero-COVID” policy</a>.Overall, the situation appears to be more serious than in 1995-96, said Bonnie Glaser, director of the Asia Program at the German Marshall Fund of the United States.“If the Chinese want to demonstrate resolve they have many ways to do so,” Glaser said.China doesn’t want to create a “crisis for crisis’ sake,” but could try to use the possibility of a Pelosi visit to advance its agenda, said Oriana Skylar Mastro, an expert on Chinese military affairs and foreign policy at Stanford University.China might take the opportunity to test out capabilities through a large-scale amphibious exercise, which it would justify as a response to an “aggressive move” by the U.S., Mastro said.“So I think they’ll use it as an opportunity to make advances that could be problematic, but (which) they wanted to do anyway regardless of the Pelosi visit,” she said.

China warns U.S. again over Pelosi visit; Taiwan holds invasion drills  

MONTGOMERY COUNTY—A Kansas man injured in an accident just after 9:30a.m. Sunday in Montgomery County has died.

A 2017 motorcycle driven by Harvey E. Eccles, 70, Burlington, was traveling on County Road 5600 one half mile south of West County Road 2700, according to Sheriff Ron Wade.

The motorcycle left the road to the right and entered the ditch.

An air ambulance transported Eccles to Mercy Hospital in Joplin where he died. A passenger on the motorcycle identified Deanna Eccles was not injured.&nbsp; The sheriff's office released no additional details.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY—A Kansas man injured in an accident just after 9:30a.m. Sunday in Montgomery County has died.A 2017 motorcycle driven by Harvey E. Eccles, 70, Burlington, was traveling on County Road 5600 one half mile south of West County Road 2700, according to Sheriff Ron Wade.The motorcycle left the road to the right and entered the ditch.An air ambulance transported Eccles to Mercy Hospital in Joplin where he died. A passenger on the motorcycle identified Deanna Eccles was not injured.&nbsp; The sheriff's office released no additional details.

Kansas man injured in weekend motorcycle accident has died.

JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating three suspects on a variety of charges after a weekend traffic stop.

Just after 8 P.M. Saturday, a sheriff's deputy stopped a 2006 Chevy Trailblazer near 134th and U.S. Highway 75 for an alleged traffic violation, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

Further investigation into the traffic stop led to the arrest of Rusty James Potts, 32, of Mayetta, Simone Alexandra Noriega, 26, of Mayetta and Cass Ellen Cadue, 26, of Mayetta.

  Potts was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of interference with law enforcement and two counts of aggravated endangerment of a child.

Noriega was booked into the Jail on requested charges of interference with law enforcement, two counts of aggravated endangerment of a child, no child restraint seat, and driving while suspended.

Cadue was booked into the Jail on a requested charge of possession of cocaine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and drug paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658744668824.png" alt="Potts-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Potts-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating three suspects on a variety of charges after a weekend traffic stop.Just after 8 P.M. Saturday, a sheriff's deputy stopped a 2006 Chevy Trailblazer near 134th and U.S. Highway 75 for an alleged traffic violation, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658744734257.png" alt="Cadue" />
 <figcaption>Cadue</figcaption>
 </figure>Further investigation into the traffic stop led to the arrest of Rusty James Potts, 32, of Mayetta, Simone Alexandra Noriega, 26, of Mayetta and Cass Ellen Cadue, 26, of Mayetta. Potts was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of interference with law enforcement and two counts of aggravated endangerment of a child.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658744646142.png" alt="Noriega-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Noriega-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Noriega was booked into the Jail on requested charges of interference with law enforcement, two counts of aggravated endangerment of a child, no child restraint seat, and driving while suspended.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658744734257.png" alt="Cadue-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Cadue-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Cadue was booked into the Jail on a requested charge of possession of cocaine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and drug paraphernalia.

Kan. suspects were traveling with kids, cocaine, no car seats

NEOSHO COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Chanute Police Department are investigating a homicide that occurred early Monday morning in Chanute, according to a media release from the agency.

&nbsp;Just before 12:30 a.m., a woman called 911 after hearing a gunshot. When officers responded to the area they found a man conducting CPR on a man who had been shot in an alley, east of 1706 S. Highland in Chanute.

EMS took over life-saving measures. The victim was later identified as 34-year-old Blake A. Pearson, of Topeka. EMS transported Pearson to Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center, but he was pronounced deceased.

Anyone with information about this homicide is asked to call the KBI at 1-800-KS-CRIME, or the Chanute Police Department at (620) 431-5768. Tips can also be submitted online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kbi.ks.gov/sar" target="_blank">https://www.kbi.ks.gov/sar</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658783444413.png" alt="Pearson had bonded out of the Neosho County Jail last Tuesday, according to online jail records. Photo from a February arrest in Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Pearson had bonded out of the Neosho County Jail last Tuesday, according to online jail records. Photo from a February arrest in Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>NEOSHO COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Chanute Police Department are investigating a homicide that occurred early Monday morning in Chanute, according to a media release from the agency.&nbsp;Just before 12:30 a.m., a woman called 911 after hearing a gunshot. When officers responded to the area they found a man conducting CPR on a man who had been shot in an alley, east of 1706 S. Highland in Chanute.EMS took over life-saving measures. The victim was later identified as 34-year-old Blake A. Pearson, of Topeka. EMS transported Pearson to Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center, but he was pronounced deceased.Anyone with information about this homicide is asked to call the KBI at 1-800-KS-CRIME, or the Chanute Police Department at (620) 431-5768. Tips can also be submitted online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kbi.ks.gov/sar" target="_blank">https://www.kbi.ks.gov/sar</a>.An autopsy has been scheduled.

KBI: 34-year-old Kansas man found shot in an alley

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with a stabbing at a Kansas home.

Just before 6p.m. July 22, police were sent to the area of NE Seward Avenue and NE Grattan Street Topeka after reports that a man who had been stabbed, according to Lt. Ron Ekis.

First responders found a victim who was transported by ambulance to a locate hospital for serious, but non-life threatening injuries.&nbsp;

As a result of the investigation police arrested Thomas J. McNorton, 29, of Topeka booked him into to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Burglary, Domestic Battery and Battery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658745390121.png" alt="McNorton photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>McNorton photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with a stabbing at a Kansas home.Just before 6p.m. July 22, police were sent to the area of NE Seward Avenue and NE Grattan Street Topeka after reports that a man who had been stabbed, according to Lt. Ron Ekis.First responders found a victim who was transported by ambulance to a locate hospital for serious, but non-life threatening injuries.&nbsp;As a result of the investigation police arrested Thomas J. McNorton, 29, of Topeka booked him into to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Burglary, Domestic Battery and Battery.

Kansas man jailed after knife fight sends man to the hospital

WASHINGTON (AP) — As President Joe Biden continues to recover from his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-covid-health-karine-jean-pierre-government-and-politics-d9dbee6cc390f648396c46dd504c31c3">coronavirus infection</a>, the White House plans to hold a summit on Tuesday to discuss developing a new generation of vaccines that could more effectively guard against contagious variants.

The summit, which involves top administration officials, scientists and pharmaceutical executives, comes as the country faces a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-health-rochelle-walensky-centers-for-disease-control-and-prevention-government-politics-0bd2ccf19f1c27379f312b9edf5f3634">surge of infections</a>&nbsp;from BA.5, a variant that’s an offshoot of the omicron strain.

Although the current generation of vaccines, plus antiviral drugs, have helped prevent hospitalizations and deaths, there are hopes that new versions could provide more durable protection against disruptive infections.

Biden was likely infected by the BA.5 variant, and he tested positive on Thursday.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/22120743-biden-covid-update" target="_blank">A new note</a>&nbsp;from his doctor, released on Monday, said his symptoms have “almost completely resolved.”

Although he still has some nasal congestion and hoarseness, his vital signs remain “absolutely normal,” wrote Dr. Kevin O’Connor.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-covid-health-government-and-politics-e7a24a9dfb0cacd26937286cb0a2b625">Biden has been taking</a>&nbsp;the antiviral drug Paxlovid, and he plans to remain isolated in the White House residence.

“He continues to be very specifically conscientious to protect any of the Executive Residence, White House, Secret Service and other staff whose duties require any (albeit socially distanced) proximity to him,” O’Connor wrote.

On Monday afternoon, Biden is scheduled to deliver virtual remarks to the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives conference in Orlando, Fla. He’s also expected to participate in a virtual meeting with business executives and labor leaders to discuss the Chips Act, a proposal to bolster domestic manufacturing.

Biden has held no public events since Friday, when he held another virtual meeting with economic advisers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658779255130.png" alt="President Biden took some calls Monday morning "with man’s best co-worker."-White House photo" />
 <figcaption>President Biden took some calls Monday morning "with man’s best co-worker."-White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — As President Joe Biden continues to recover from his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-covid-health-karine-jean-pierre-government-and-politics-d9dbee6cc390f648396c46dd504c31c3">coronavirus infection</a>, the White House plans to hold a summit on Tuesday to discuss developing a new generation of vaccines that could more effectively guard against contagious variants.The summit, which involves top administration officials, scientists and pharmaceutical executives, comes as the country faces a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-health-rochelle-walensky-centers-for-disease-control-and-prevention-government-politics-0bd2ccf19f1c27379f312b9edf5f3634">surge of infections</a>&nbsp;from BA.5, a variant that’s an offshoot of the omicron strain.Although the current generation of vaccines, plus antiviral drugs, have helped prevent hospitalizations and deaths, there are hopes that new versions could provide more durable protection against disruptive infections.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658779236763.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Biden was likely infected by the BA.5 variant, and he tested positive on Thursday.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/22120743-biden-covid-update" target="_blank">A new note</a>&nbsp;from his doctor, released on Monday, said his symptoms have “almost completely resolved.”Although he still has some nasal congestion and hoarseness, his vital signs remain “absolutely normal,” wrote Dr. Kevin O’Connor.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-covid-health-government-and-politics-e7a24a9dfb0cacd26937286cb0a2b625">Biden has been taking</a>&nbsp;the antiviral drug Paxlovid, and he plans to remain isolated in the White House residence.“He continues to be very specifically conscientious to protect any of the Executive Residence, White House, Secret Service and other staff whose duties require any (albeit socially distanced) proximity to him,” O’Connor wrote.On Monday afternoon, Biden is scheduled to deliver virtual remarks to the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives conference in Orlando, Fla. He’s also expected to participate in a virtual meeting with business executives and labor leaders to discuss the Chips Act, a proposal to bolster domestic manufacturing.Biden has held no public events since Friday, when he held another virtual meeting with economic advisers.

White House: COVID-19 vaccine summit while Biden recovers

RENO COUNTY— A man wanted in connection with a homicide in San Antonio, Texas has been captured in Hutchinson.&nbsp;

Just after 1a.m. Monday, police arrested 20-year-old Aaron Trevino after officers were notified on Sunday evening he was in Hutchinson.

With the cooperation of the San Antonio Police Department, an arrest warrant was obtained and Trevino was taken into custody on a requested charge of capital murder. He is being held without bail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658783845645.png" alt="Trevino-photo Reno Co." />
 <figcaption>Trevino-photo Reno Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY— A man wanted in connection with a homicide in San Antonio, Texas has been captured in Hutchinson.&nbsp;Just after 1a.m. Monday, police arrested 20-year-old Aaron Trevino after officers were notified on Sunday evening he was in Hutchinson.With the cooperation of the San Antonio Police Department, an arrest warrant was obtained and Trevino was taken into custody on a requested charge of capital murder. He is being held without bail.Police released no additional details.

Texas murder suspect captured in Kansas

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —In collaboration with the Wabaunsee County Sheriff’s Office, law enforcement authorities announced on Monday that over the weekend they participated in a 3-day special operation that targeted major criminals. 

This operation occurred in Wabaunsee County, and over the 3-day span, multiple arrests were made.

In addition to the arrests, there were several cases where large amounts of narcotics were seized. As a result of this operation over 120 pounds of Methamphetamine (street value of over $4,400,000), were seized and removed from circulation. This operation was a great example of inter-agency collaboration, working together on a common goal, making communities safer. The agencies that participated in this operation which include the Wabaunsee County Sheriff's Office, Osage County Sheriff's Office, Junction City Police Department, Marshall County Sheriff Tip Line, Salina Police, Dickinson County Sheriff's Office, Newton Police Department, Cloud County Sheriff's Departmen,&nbsp;&nbsp;Marion County Sheriff's Office,&nbsp;Pratt Police Department,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/PrattPoliceDepartment/?__cft__[0]=AZX1JrfqD00LwQLQzqxIuR-AHmI6KuFRJXwzgjj6KItSC3aNhoElctSrOwkA5lQAHdBhcglZPEYTODrwKr_oAxtanVRAEp-hDEmKP1MAiJ6gvEvu_JadCb1CwSKVTOFh-Xi8f57h6lG8l41JaLfo0OyWvnnCRizmq3kfmurREEXOmQ&amp;__tn__=kK-R"></a>McPherson County KS Sheriff's Office,&nbsp;Rossville Police Department, Clarke County Sheriffs and the&nbsp;Department of Homeland Security

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650624031618.png" alt="The Wabaunsee&nbsp; Co. Sheriff conducted a similar operation in April. -Photo Wabaunsee Co. Sheriff's office." />
 <figcaption>The Wabaunsee&nbsp; Co. Sheriff conducted a similar operation in April. -Photo Wabaunsee Co. Sheriff's office.</figcaption>
 </figure>WABAUNSEE COUNTY —In collaboration with the Wabaunsee County Sheriff’s Office, law enforcement authorities announced on Monday that over the weekend they participated in a 3-day special operation that targeted major criminals. This operation occurred in Wabaunsee County, and over the 3-day span, multiple arrests were made.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658830515741.png" alt="Photo Junction City Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Junction City Police</figcaption>
 </figure>In addition to the arrests, there were several cases where large amounts of narcotics were seized. As a result of this operation over 120 pounds of Methamphetamine (street value of over $4,400,000), were seized and removed from circulation. This operation was a great example of inter-agency collaboration, working together on a common goal, making communities safer. The agencies that participated in this operation which include the Wabaunsee County Sheriff's Office, Osage County Sheriff's Office, Junction City Police Department, Marshall County Sheriff Tip Line, Salina Police, Dickinson County Sheriff's Office, Newton Police Department, Cloud County Sheriff's Departmen,&nbsp;&nbsp;Marion County Sheriff's Office,&nbsp;Pratt Police Department,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/PrattPoliceDepartment/?__cft__[0]=AZX1JrfqD00LwQLQzqxIuR-AHmI6KuFRJXwzgjj6KItSC3aNhoElctSrOwkA5lQAHdBhcglZPEYTODrwKr_oAxtanVRAEp-hDEmKP1MAiJ6gvEvu_JadCb1CwSKVTOFh-Xi8f57h6lG8l41JaLfo0OyWvnnCRizmq3kfmurREEXOmQ&amp;__tn__=kK-R"></a>McPherson County KS Sheriff's Office,&nbsp;Rossville Police Department, Clarke County Sheriffs and the&nbsp;Department of Homeland Security

Sheriff: 120 pounds of meth seized during 3-day operation in Kansas

KIOWA COUNTY –A Kansas man has died from injuries in an accident that occurred just after 6:30p.m. Saturday in Kiowa County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Toyota Tundra driven by&nbsp; Gage L.&nbsp; Hosheit, 33, Greensburg, was southbound on 33rd&nbsp; Avenue five miles north of U.S. 54.

The SUV traveled off the right side of the road, re-entered the roadway, traveled across both lanes of traffic and rolled.

EMS transported Hosheit to&nbsp;Kiowa County Memorial Hospital where he was pronounced dead. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

KIOWA COUNTY –A Kansas man has died from injuries in an accident that occurred just after 6:30p.m. Saturday in Kiowa County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Toyota Tundra driven by&nbsp; Gage L.&nbsp; Hosheit, 33, Greensburg, was southbound on 33rd&nbsp; Avenue five miles north of U.S. 54.The SUV traveled off the right side of the road, re-entered the roadway, traveled across both lanes of traffic and rolled.EMS transported Hosheit to&nbsp;Kiowa County Memorial Hospital where he was pronounced dead. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies from injuries in rollover crash

Kansas voters at forefront of national debate

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/07/25/kansas-governor-warns-passage-of-constitutional-amendment-will-invite-wave-of-abortion-restrictions/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly warned passage of <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/07/19/anti-abortion-groups-make-dubious-claims-as-kansas-amendment-vote-nears/">an amendment removing the right to abortion</a>
 from the Kansas Constitution would prompt an emboldened Republican-led 
Legislature to pass new restraints on the right of women to control 
their reproductive health.

“The amendment is written in such a way that the proponents of the 
amendment want to suggest that this would just leave things as they are 
in Kansas. But that’s not true,” Kelly said during the Kansas Reflector 
podcast. “What would happen if that amendment would pass is that the 
Legislature would immediately come back with some very severe 
restrictions on a woman’s ability to control her own fate.”

Kelly said she was voting against the amendment because it was 
essential to reinforce the right of women to maintain bodily autonomy. 
She expected the statewide vote to be “very close.” It follows the June 
reversal by the U.S. Supreme Court of the landmark Roe v. Wade decision 
that affirmed nationwide the right to abortion.

Voting in Kansas closes Aug. 2 on the amendment, which was drafted by
 opponents of abortion and approved by two-thirds majorities in the 
House and Senate. Campaign finance reports show <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/07/19/organization-leading-fight-against-abortion-amendment-tops-6-5-million-in-donations/">more than $11 million has been spent</a> to influence public opinion on the amendment.

Kelly said she was confident in the security and accuracy of voting 
in this and future Kansas elections, because state and local officials 
took their duties seriously.

“You know, I think if you want to have a voice in what happens in 
your life in your world, then it’s important that you take the time, 
make the effort to go to the polls and elect people you think will truly
 represent your values,” the governor said.

Kelly is seeking reelection as governor in November. She will be 
competing against Republican Derek Schmidt, the state’s attorney general
 and a former colleague of Kelly’s in the Kansas Senate. In addition, 
state Sen. Dennis Pyle, a conservative Republican from Hiawatha, is <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/07/22/pyle-pushes-ahead-with-hunt-for-5k-signatures-to-join-november-ballot-in-kansas-governors-race/">collecting petition signatures</a> in an attempt to get on the Nov. 8 ballot as an independent candidate for governor.

Kelly said during the podcast interview she would focus her campaign 
on “bread-and-butter” issues of education, transportation, health care, 
tax relief, the social safety net, economic development and stability of
 the state budget. She was elected in 2018 following eight years with 
Republican Govs. Jeff Colyer and Sam Brownback at the helm.

“Our budget was a mess when I came into office,” Kelly said. “We have
 now fully funded our schools for the last four years. That was 
incredibly important to Kansans. Not only have we been able to fully 
fund, you know, basic essential services in the state, we’ve also been 
able to eliminate the sales tax on food. And we are now sitting on the 
largest ending balance in the state’s history. We’ve got about $1.5 
billion in our ending balance.”

In the 2022 legislative session, Kelly and legislators set aside 
nearly $1 billion in a rainy day fund for future use by the state and 
invested more than $1 billion in the state’s pension system. State 
lawmakers adopted an unprecedented economic development incentive 
program relied upon by the Kelly administration to leverage $829 million
 to <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/07/13/kansas-wins-panasonic-competition-for-worlds-largest-vehicle-battery-manufacturing-plant/">attract a $4 billion Panasonic vehicle battery plant</a> to Johnson County.

Kelly said growth in the state’s economy during her term was 
important to recovery from Brownback-era tax policies that starved the 
state treasury. Funding was cannibalized from government agencies, 
including the Kansas Department of Transportation, as revenue plummeted.
 The Brownback income tax “experiment,” as he referred to it, was 
largely repealed in 2017 by the Legislature.

“If I wanted to be able to fund the services that I felt essential — 
our roads, our schools, our foster care system — that I was going to 
have to grow this economy and do it quickly,” said Kelly, a Democrat. “I
 have no interest in raising taxes. I think our property taxes are too 
high. And, obviously I wanted to eliminate food sales tax. So the only 
other way to accomplish my goals was to grow the economy and increase 
the amount of revenue coming into the state.”

With the Panasonic development, which includes 4,000 direct new jobs,
 Kelly said the state had benefitted from $13.5 billion in capital 
investments and creation or preservation of 50,000 jobs since she became
 governor.

“We looked back at the last administration to see what had happened 
over their eight years, and they brought in less new capital investment 
in eight years than we have done in three and a half,” Kelly said.

Kelly predicted that following her reelection in November the 
Legislature would pass a bill expanding eligibility for Medicaid 
services to lower-income Kansans. The Legislature approved expansion in 
2017, but Brownback vetoed the measure. Since then, the House and Senate
 haven’t agreed on an expansion plan.

“I presented four different proposals for Medicaid expansion,” Kelly 
said. “I think that leadership will finally let the rank and file vote 
on it. You know, our rural hospitals desperately need this, but even our
 urban hospitals. They’re taking care of a lot of uncompensated care 
patients.”

Kelly signed a bill this year eliminating the state’s 6.5% sales tax 
on groceries over a three-year period starting in 2023. She had proposed
 repeal of the food sales tax effective July 1. If reelected, Kelly said
 she would again seek immediate end of the state sales tax on groceries.

“That’s precisely what I would want to do,” Kelly said. “I’ll come 
back with my original proposal. There’s really no reason not to go ahead
 and just do it.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658765675627.png" alt="Gov. Laura Kelly, a Democrat seeking reelection in 2022, urged Kansans to participate in the Aug. 2 primary election and vote against a proposed amendment to the Kansas Constitution that would remove the right of women to seek an abortion. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Laura Kelly, a Democrat seeking reelection in 2022, urged Kansans to participate in the Aug. 2 primary election and vote against a proposed amendment to the Kansas Constitution that would remove the right of women to seek an abortion. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Kansas voters at forefront of national debate</h2>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/07/25/kansas-governor-warns-passage-of-constitutional-amendment-will-invite-wave-of-abortion-restrictions/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly warned passage of <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/07/19/anti-abortion-groups-make-dubious-claims-as-kansas-amendment-vote-nears/">an amendment removing the right to abortion</a>
 from the Kansas Constitution would prompt an emboldened Republican-led 
Legislature to pass new restraints on the right of women to control 
their reproductive health.“The amendment is written in such a way that the proponents of the 
amendment want to suggest that this would just leave things as they are 
in Kansas. But that’s not true,” Kelly said during the Kansas Reflector 
podcast. “What would happen if that amendment would pass is that the 
Legislature would immediately come back with some very severe 
restrictions on a woman’s ability to control her own fate.”<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1311048079&color=%232b7fb4&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/kansas-reflector-podcast" title="Reflector Podcast" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Reflector Podcast</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/kansas-reflector-podcast/governor-laura-kelly" title="Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly on her time in office and reelection campaign" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly on her time in office and reelection campaign</a></div></div>Kelly said she was voting against the amendment because it was 
essential to reinforce the right of women to maintain bodily autonomy. 
She expected the statewide vote to be “very close.” It follows the June 
reversal by the U.S. Supreme Court of the landmark Roe v. Wade decision 
that affirmed nationwide the right to abortion.Voting in Kansas closes Aug. 2 on the amendment, which was drafted by
 opponents of abortion and approved by two-thirds majorities in the 
House and Senate. Campaign finance reports show <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/07/19/organization-leading-fight-against-abortion-amendment-tops-6-5-million-in-donations/">more than $11 million has been spent</a> to influence public opinion on the amendment.Kelly said she was confident in the security and accuracy of voting 
in this and future Kansas elections, because state and local officials 
took their duties seriously.“You know, I think if you want to have a voice in what happens in 
your life in your world, then it’s important that you take the time, 
make the effort to go to the polls and elect people you think will truly
 represent your values,” the governor said.Kelly is seeking reelection as governor in November. She will be 
competing against Republican Derek Schmidt, the state’s attorney general
 and a former colleague of Kelly’s in the Kansas Senate. In addition, 
state Sen. Dennis Pyle, a conservative Republican from Hiawatha, is <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/07/22/pyle-pushes-ahead-with-hunt-for-5k-signatures-to-join-november-ballot-in-kansas-governors-race/">collecting petition signatures</a> in an attempt to get on the Nov. 8 ballot as an independent candidate for governor.Kelly said during the podcast interview she would focus her campaign 
on “bread-and-butter” issues of education, transportation, health care, 
tax relief, the social safety net, economic development and stability of
 the state budget. She was elected in 2018 following eight years with 
Republican Govs. Jeff Colyer and Sam Brownback at the helm.“Our budget was a mess when I came into office,” Kelly said. “We have
 now fully funded our schools for the last four years. That was 
incredibly important to Kansans. Not only have we been able to fully 
fund, you know, basic essential services in the state, we’ve also been 
able to eliminate the sales tax on food. And we are now sitting on the 
largest ending balance in the state’s history. We’ve got about $1.5 
billion in our ending balance.”In the 2022 legislative session, Kelly and legislators set aside 
nearly $1 billion in a rainy day fund for future use by the state and 
invested more than $1 billion in the state’s pension system. State 
lawmakers adopted an unprecedented economic development incentive 
program relied upon by the Kelly administration to leverage $829 million
 to <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/07/13/kansas-wins-panasonic-competition-for-worlds-largest-vehicle-battery-manufacturing-plant/">attract a $4 billion Panasonic vehicle battery plant</a> to Johnson County.Kelly said growth in the state’s economy during her term was 
important to recovery from Brownback-era tax policies that starved the 
state treasury. Funding was cannibalized from government agencies, 
including the Kansas Department of Transportation, as revenue plummeted.
 The Brownback income tax “experiment,” as he referred to it, was 
largely repealed in 2017 by the Legislature.“If I wanted to be able to fund the services that I felt essential — 
our roads, our schools, our foster care system — that I was going to 
have to grow this economy and do it quickly,” said Kelly, a Democrat. “I
 have no interest in raising taxes. I think our property taxes are too 
high. And, obviously I wanted to eliminate food sales tax. So the only 
other way to accomplish my goals was to grow the economy and increase 
the amount of revenue coming into the state.”With the Panasonic development, which includes 4,000 direct new jobs,
 Kelly said the state had benefitted from $13.5 billion in capital 
investments and creation or preservation of 50,000 jobs since she became
 governor.“We looked back at the last administration to see what had happened 
over their eight years, and they brought in less new capital investment 
in eight years than we have done in three and a half,” Kelly said.Kelly predicted that following her reelection in November the 
Legislature would pass a bill expanding eligibility for Medicaid 
services to lower-income Kansans. The Legislature approved expansion in 
2017, but Brownback vetoed the measure. Since then, the House and Senate
 haven’t agreed on an expansion plan.“I presented four different proposals for Medicaid expansion,” Kelly 
said. “I think that leadership will finally let the rank and file vote 
on it. You know, our rural hospitals desperately need this, but even our
 urban hospitals. They’re taking care of a lot of uncompensated care 
patients.”Kelly signed a bill this year eliminating the state’s 6.5% sales tax 
on groceries over a three-year period starting in 2023. She had proposed
 repeal of the food sales tax effective July 1. If reelected, Kelly said
 she would again seek immediate end of the state sales tax on groceries.“That’s precisely what I would want to do,” Kelly said. “I’ll come 
back with my original proposal. There’s really no reason not to go ahead
 and just do it.”

Kan. governor: Amendment will invite wave of abortion restrictions

RENO COUNTY —Authorities are working to determine the cause of a fire at&nbsp; the Central Kansas Gun Club at 7804 N. Lorraine in Hutchinson, according to a media release.

Just before 8:30a.m. crews responded to report of the fire and found a pole style barn burning at the rear of the structure. 

Extra units were called in to fight the fire before it was eventually brought under control. The building is a total loss. The fire marshal was on the scene. There were no injuries.

RENO COUNTY —Authorities are working to determine the cause of a fire at&nbsp; the Central Kansas Gun Club at 7804 N. Lorraine in Hutchinson, according to a media release.Just before 8:30a.m. crews responded to report of the fire and found a pole style barn burning at the rear of the structure. Extra units were called in to fight the fire before it was eventually brought under control. The building is a total loss. The fire marshal was on the scene. There were no injuries.

Fire destroys clubhouse at Kansas gun club

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a shooting in Manhattan have made an arrest.

Just before 3p.m. July 22, police arrested 25-year-old Tyrell Harper of Manhattan on requested charges of aggravated assault and aggravated battery, according to Riley County Police Department activity report.

On June 5, it was reported Harper shot a 21-year-old woman in the leg, then shot multiple rounds in the air before leaving the scene.

The victim was treated at Via Christi for a minor gunshot leg wound and was released later the same day. Harper is currently confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $500,000.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a shooting in Manhattan have made an arrest.Just before 3p.m. July 22, police arrested 25-year-old Tyrell Harper of Manhattan on requested charges of aggravated assault and aggravated battery, according to Riley County Police Department activity report. On June 5, it was reported Harper shot a 21-year-old woman in the leg, then shot multiple rounds in the air before leaving the scene.The victim was treated at Via Christi for a minor gunshot leg wound and was released later the same day. Harper is currently confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $500,000.

Police: Man shot Manhattan woman in the leg

By MIKE COURSON <a href="https://greatbendpost.com/">Great Bend Post</a>

GREAT BEND — Each 
September, Kansas is witness to one of the most impressive migrations in
 all of nature. Millions of monarch butterflies, weighing less than a 
gram but still able to travel up to 30 miles an hour, travel through the
 Midwest on the way from Canada to Mexico. The annual migration, which 
includes between three and five generations of butterflies, is a natural
 phenomenon.

University of Kansas Professor Chip Taylor studies 
monarchs and founded Monarch Watch. The Kansas Wetlands Education Center
 at Cheyenne Bottoms has participated in the organization's monarch 
tagging program each year since its inception.

"Kansas is
 monarch central because Chip Taylor is one of the top monarch 
researchers in the world," said Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks 
Educator Pam Martin. "What he's determining is how the migration works, 
what's happening and why, so we can stabilize the migration." 

Now
 the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has 
placed the monarch butterfly on its "red list" as an endangered species.
 Unlike the U.S. Endangered Species List, the IUCN list carries no legal
 weight, but it does indicate great peril for the species.

"The 
monarch goes through three countries: Canada, the United States, and 
Mexico," said Martin. "Those three countries have an agreement to 
promote the monarch butterfly and save habitat. That's the big one. 
Habitat loss is major. By planting native and planting milkweed, you're 
helping to mitigate some of that habitat loss."

IUCN estimates 
monarch numbers have declined between 22 percent and 72 percent over the
 past decade, depending on the measurement method. Numbers may be down 
by as much as 85 or 95 percent east of the Rockies over the last 30 
years. Along with loss of habitat, climate change and pesticide use are 
two other possible factors in declining numbers.

"It's 
everything," said Martin. "It's a perfect storm. In a way, they're an 
indicator species. Monarch butterflies are beautiful and they're 
wonderful - they're one of my favorite insects. But they're not the only
 insect this is happening to. We're losing bumble bee species and other 
pollinator species. They call it the 'insect apocalypse.'"

Martin 
said there are things people can do to help boost monarch numbers, 
namely planting native wildflowers and limiting pesticide use. Milkweed 
is the most important native plant as it is the monarch's only 
caterpillar host plant.

Not only are monarchs a beautiful 
component of nature, but as pollinators that travel across the borders 
of three countries and many more states, their survival is essential to 
many ecosystems. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658763799966.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON <a href="https://greatbendpost.com/">Great Bend Post</a>GREAT BEND — Each 
September, Kansas is witness to one of the most impressive migrations in
 all of nature. Millions of monarch butterflies, weighing less than a 
gram but still able to travel up to 30 miles an hour, travel through the
 Midwest on the way from Canada to Mexico. The annual migration, which 
includes between three and five generations of butterflies, is a natural
 phenomenon.University of Kansas Professor Chip Taylor studies 
monarchs and founded Monarch Watch. The Kansas Wetlands Education Center
 at Cheyenne Bottoms has participated in the organization's monarch 
tagging program each year since its inception."Kansas is
 monarch central because Chip Taylor is one of the top monarch 
researchers in the world," said Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks 
Educator Pam Martin. "What he's determining is how the migration works, 
what's happening and why, so we can stabilize the migration." Now
 the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has 
placed the monarch butterfly on its "red list" as an endangered species.
 Unlike the U.S. Endangered Species List, the IUCN list carries no legal
 weight, but it does indicate great peril for the species."The 
monarch goes through three countries: Canada, the United States, and 
Mexico," said Martin. "Those three countries have an agreement to 
promote the monarch butterfly and save habitat. That's the big one. 
Habitat loss is major. By planting native and planting milkweed, you're 
helping to mitigate some of that habitat loss."IUCN estimates 
monarch numbers have declined between 22 percent and 72 percent over the
 past decade, depending on the measurement method. Numbers may be down 
by as much as 85 or 95 percent east of the Rockies over the last 30 
years. Along with loss of habitat, climate change and pesticide use are 
two other possible factors in declining numbers."It's 
everything," said Martin. "It's a perfect storm. In a way, they're an 
indicator species. Monarch butterflies are beautiful and they're 
wonderful - they're one of my favorite insects. But they're not the only
 insect this is happening to. We're losing bumble bee species and other 
pollinator species. They call it the 'insect apocalypse.'"Martin 
said there are things people can do to help boost monarch numbers, 
namely planting native wildflowers and limiting pesticide use. Milkweed 
is the most important native plant as it is the monarch's only 
caterpillar host plant.Not only are monarchs a beautiful 
component of nature, but as pollinators that travel across the borders 
of three countries and many more states, their survival is essential to 
many ecosystems. "The fact that they can migrate over 2,000 
miles, and do this with the information stored in their heads, is 
unbelievable," Martin said. "It would be devastating to lose that 
migration behavior. It's a wonder of the natural world."