WASHINGTON, D.C.&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (Kan.) – ranking member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies – Tuesday questioned U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland on the Biden administration’s&nbsp;response to rising crime in the United States during the committee’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/hearings/a-review-of-the-presidents-fiscal-year-2023-funding-request-for-the-us-department-of-justice" target="_blank">hearing</a>&nbsp;to review the President’s FY2023 Budget request for the Department of Justice.

“Violent crime continues to lack the attention it requires,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“It is absolutely critical that the Department of Justice supports state and local law enforcement, both through grant programs and through joint law enforcement operations. The budget includes an increase to the FY2022 enacted level for DOJ, however, the rhetoric and behavior from the administration too often sends a different signal.”

“If law enforcement officers are not respected or shown respect from our leaders, they will not be respected within the community,”&nbsp;continued Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“We have also seen an appalling increase in attacks against police officers. It is no surprise that police departments and sheriff offices are short staffed and having issues recruiting new police officers.”

WASHINGTON, D.C.&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (Kan.) – ranking member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies – Tuesday questioned U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland on the Biden administration’s&nbsp;response to rising crime in the United States during the committee’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/hearings/a-review-of-the-presidents-fiscal-year-2023-funding-request-for-the-us-department-of-justice" target="_blank">hearing</a>&nbsp;to review the President’s FY2023 Budget request for the Department of Justice.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SdpaqmTJY5I?start=2" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>“Violent crime continues to lack the attention it requires,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“It is absolutely critical that the Department of Justice supports state and local law enforcement, both through grant programs and through joint law enforcement operations. The budget includes an increase to the FY2022 enacted level for DOJ, however, the rhetoric and behavior from the administration too often sends a different signal.”“If law enforcement officers are not respected or shown respect from our leaders, they will not be respected within the community,”&nbsp;continued Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“We have also seen an appalling increase in attacks against police officers. It is no surprise that police departments and sheriff offices are short staffed and having issues recruiting new police officers.”

🎥  Moran questions U.S. Attorney General on rise in violent crime

NEW YORK (AP) — Three out of every four U.S. children have been infected with the coronavirus and more than half of all Americans had signs of previous infections, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention researchers estimated in a report Tuesday.

The researchers examined blood samples from more than 200,000 Americans and looked for virus-fighting antibodies made from infections, not vaccines.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/71/wr/mm7117e3.htm?s_cid=mm7117e3_w" target="_blank">They found</a>&nbsp;that signs of past infection rose dramatically between December and February, when the more contagious omicron variant surged through the U.S.

For Americans of all ages, about 34% had signs of prior infection in December. Just two months later, 58% did.

“I did expect it to increase. I did not expect it to increase quite this much,” said Dr. Kristie Clarke, co-leader of a CDC team that tracks the extent of coronavirus infections.

The news came as Pfizer sought permission to offer a booster dose to kids ages 5 to 11, just like people 12 and older can get.

In the CDC report, the most striking increase was in children. The percentage of those 17 and under with antibodies rose from about 45% in December to about 75% in February.

The older people were, the less likely they had evidence of past infections. That may be because older adults have higher vaccination rates and they may be more likely to take other COVID-19 precautions, such as wearing masks and avoiding crowds, Clarke said.

Reported COVID-19 cases had a huge surge in December and January, then fell almost as dramatically as they had risen. But daily case counts have been trending up again in recent weeks.

The case numbers are believed to be an undercount, but officials do think recent increases reflect a true rise in infections. Many COVID-19 infections are mild enough that patients do not seek care or confirmatory lab tests. CDC officials say they plan to release a study soon that estimates that in recent months there were three infections for every reported case.

Another recent trend: U.S. health officials say they have seen two weeks of increases in COVID-19 hospitalizations, though the numbers remain relatively low. Hospital admissions number about 1,600 per day, a 9% increase in the prior week, the CDC reported.

Available evidence nevertheless offers reason to be hopeful about how the pandemic is going, officials suggested.

“We are not anticipating more severe disease from some of these subvariants, but we are actively studying them,” CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky said Tuesday.

The tests that showed how many people had previous infections can detect antibodies for one to two years after infection, and possibly longer. Studies have shown previous infection can protect some people against severe disease and hospitalization, but CDC officials stressed that the previously infected should still get COVID-19 vaccines.

The study looked for any detectable level of antibodies; it did not distinguish how many people had antibody levels that might be protective. Scientists are still trying to understand what role these kinds of antibodies play in protection from future virus exposures.

Officials continue to urge Americans to get vaccines and boosters, which offer additional protection against COVID-19 for all, including those who were previously infected.

Currently the U.S. offers a booster dose starting at age 12 but Pfizer and BioNTech on Tuesday asked the Food and Drug Administration to allow healthy elementary-age kids to also get one -- about six months after their last shot. The companies cited a small study showing the extra shot for kids ages 5 to 11 revved up antibodies capable of fighting the super-contagious omicron variant. Pfizer’s kid-size shots are a third of the dose given to anyone 12 or older.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635537216378.png" alt="COVID vaccine for children photo courtesy Pfizer" />
 <figcaption>COVID vaccine for children photo courtesy Pfizer</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Three out of every four U.S. children have been infected with the coronavirus and more than half of all Americans had signs of previous infections, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention researchers estimated in a report Tuesday.The researchers examined blood samples from more than 200,000 Americans and looked for virus-fighting antibodies made from infections, not vaccines.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/71/wr/mm7117e3.htm?s_cid=mm7117e3_w" target="_blank">They found</a>&nbsp;that signs of past infection rose dramatically between December and February, when the more contagious omicron variant surged through the U.S.For Americans of all ages, about 34% had signs of prior infection in December. Just two months later, 58% did.“I did expect it to increase. I did not expect it to increase quite this much,” said Dr. Kristie Clarke, co-leader of a CDC team that tracks the extent of coronavirus infections.The news came as Pfizer sought permission to offer a booster dose to kids ages 5 to 11, just like people 12 and older can get.In the CDC report, the most striking increase was in children. The percentage of those 17 and under with antibodies rose from about 45% in December to about 75% in February.The older people were, the less likely they had evidence of past infections. That may be because older adults have higher vaccination rates and they may be more likely to take other COVID-19 precautions, such as wearing masks and avoiding crowds, Clarke said.Reported COVID-19 cases had a huge surge in December and January, then fell almost as dramatically as they had risen. But daily case counts have been trending up again in recent weeks.The case numbers are believed to be an undercount, but officials do think recent increases reflect a true rise in infections. Many COVID-19 infections are mild enough that patients do not seek care or confirmatory lab tests. CDC officials say they plan to release a study soon that estimates that in recent months there were three infections for every reported case.Another recent trend: U.S. health officials say they have seen two weeks of increases in COVID-19 hospitalizations, though the numbers remain relatively low. Hospital admissions number about 1,600 per day, a 9% increase in the prior week, the CDC reported.Available evidence nevertheless offers reason to be hopeful about how the pandemic is going, officials suggested.“We are not anticipating more severe disease from some of these subvariants, but we are actively studying them,” CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky said Tuesday.The tests that showed how many people had previous infections can detect antibodies for one to two years after infection, and possibly longer. Studies have shown previous infection can protect some people against severe disease and hospitalization, but CDC officials stressed that the previously infected should still get COVID-19 vaccines.The study looked for any detectable level of antibodies; it did not distinguish how many people had antibody levels that might be protective. Scientists are still trying to understand what role these kinds of antibodies play in protection from future virus exposures.Officials continue to urge Americans to get vaccines and boosters, which offer additional protection against COVID-19 for all, including those who were previously infected.Currently the U.S. offers a booster dose starting at age 12 but Pfizer and BioNTech on Tuesday asked the Food and Drug Administration to allow healthy elementary-age kids to also get one -- about six months after their last shot. The companies cited a small study showing the extra shot for kids ages 5 to 11 revved up antibodies capable of fighting the super-contagious omicron variant. Pfizer’s kid-size shots are a third of the dose given to anyone 12 or older.___

CDC estimates 3 in 4 kids have had coronavirus infections

FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a car theft and have a suspect in&nbsp; custody.

Just before noon Sunday, police responded to the 1500 block of N. 13th Street in Garden City for a reported auto theft, according to a media release.

Officers met with the reporting party, who stated that&nbsp; 31-year-old Jessie Borrego had taken her Ford Fusion without permission. 

Later that day, the reporting party and another individual observed Borrego walking in the 1700 block of E. Fulton Street and confronted him about the vehicle. 

Borrego pulled out a pocketknife and began swinging it toward both individuals and yelled obscenities, according to police.

 Borrego began chasing one of the victims with the knife before fleeing on foot. Officers located Borrego and took him into custody.

Borrego is in the Finney County Jail on requested charges of Aggravated Battery and Theft.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650912942494.png" alt="Borrego-photo Finney County" />
 <figcaption>Borrego-photo Finney County</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a car theft and have a suspect in&nbsp; custody.Just before noon Sunday, police responded to the 1500 block of N. 13th Street in Garden City for a reported auto theft, according to a media release.Officers met with the reporting party, who stated that&nbsp; 31-year-old Jessie Borrego had taken her Ford Fusion without permission. Later that day, the reporting party and another individual observed Borrego walking in the 1700 block of E. Fulton Street and confronted him about the vehicle. Borrego pulled out a pocketknife and began swinging it toward both individuals and yelled obscenities, according to police. Borrego began chasing one of the victims with the knife before fleeing on foot. Officers located Borrego and took him into custody.Borrego is in the Finney County Jail on requested charges of Aggravated Battery and Theft.

SW Kan. man accused of car theft, threatening owner with knife

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities made four separate vehicle stop investigations that led to multiple arrests, in various locations, around the capital city on Sunday, according to Police Chief Brian Wheeles.

Officers seized four handguns and suspected illegal drugs. Police in Topeka have seized 208 firearms thus far in 2022.

At approximately 3:00 p.m. Sunday, officers stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation in the area of SW Huntoon and SW Lincoln in Topeka. The related investigation led to the arrest of 30-year-old&nbsp; Kevan J. Shane of Topeka on a felony arrest warrant and requested charges of Criminal Possession of a Firearm by a Felon and other misdemeanor arrest warrants. A handgun was seized in this investigation.&nbsp;

At 3:30 pm, officers stopped a vehicle related to a felony arrest warrant and a domestic violence investigation, in the area of SW 12th and SW Polk in Topeka. Police arrested 41-year-0ld Glenn Ford, Jr. of Topeka, for multiple felony warrants and requested charges of Criminal Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, Possession of Marijuana, Criminal Damage (Domestic Violence) and Theft. A handgun was seized in this investigation, along with suspected marijuana.

At 8:00 p.m., officers stopped a vehicle in the 300 block of SE Pinecrest, related to a gunshots in the area call. The related investigation led to the arrest of 19-year-old Jose A.Hernandez of Topeka, on requested charges of Criminal Discharge of a Firearm, Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute &amp; Criminal Possession of a Firearm by a Felon. A handgun was seized in this investigation, along with suspected marijuana.

Just before midnight, officers stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation in the area of SW 6th and S Topeka Blvd. The related investigation led to the arrest of 23-year-old Kayley McDaniel of Topeka on requested charges for Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute, Possession of a Schedule IV Controlled substance and Possession of drug paraphernalia. A handgun, was seized in this investigation, along with suspected Marijuana and Xanax.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650973929790.png" alt="Shane from a 2021 arrest in Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Shane from a 2021 arrest in Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities made four separate vehicle stop investigations that led to multiple arrests, in various locations, around the capital city on Sunday, according to Police Chief Brian Wheeles.Officers seized four handguns and suspected illegal drugs. Police in Topeka have seized 208 firearms thus far in 2022.At approximately 3:00 p.m. Sunday, officers stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation in the area of SW Huntoon and SW Lincoln in Topeka. The related investigation led to the arrest of 30-year-old&nbsp; Kevan J. Shane of Topeka on a felony arrest warrant and requested charges of Criminal Possession of a Firearm by a Felon and other misdemeanor arrest warrants. A handgun was seized in this investigation.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650973662339.png" alt="Ford-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Ford-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>At 3:30 pm, officers stopped a vehicle related to a felony arrest warrant and a domestic violence investigation, in the area of SW 12th and SW Polk in Topeka. Police arrested 41-year-0ld Glenn Ford, Jr. of Topeka, for multiple felony warrants and requested charges of Criminal Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, Possession of Marijuana, Criminal Damage (Domestic Violence) and Theft. A handgun was seized in this investigation, along with suspected marijuana.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650974232607.png" alt="Hernandez-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Hernandez-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>At 8:00 p.m., officers stopped a vehicle in the 300 block of SE Pinecrest, related to a gunshots in the area call. The related investigation led to the arrest of 19-year-old Jose A.Hernandez of Topeka, on requested charges of Criminal Discharge of a Firearm, Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute &amp; Criminal Possession of a Firearm by a Felon. A handgun was seized in this investigation, along with suspected marijuana.Just before midnight, officers stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation in the area of SW 6th and S Topeka Blvd. The related investigation led to the arrest of 23-year-old Kayley McDaniel of Topeka on requested charges for Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute, Possession of a Schedule IV Controlled substance and Possession of drug paraphernalia. A handgun, was seized in this investigation, along with suspected Marijuana and Xanax.

Topeka police have seized over 200 firearms this year

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden has granted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/pardons-and-commutations">the first three pardons of his term</a>, providing clemency to a Kennedy-era Secret Service agent convicted of federal bribery charges that he tried to sell a copy of an agency file and to two people who were convicted on drug-related charges but went on to become pillars in their communities.

<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/04/26/clemency-recipient-list/">Click here to see</a>&nbsp;the full list from the White House.

The Democratic president also commuted the sentences of 75 others for nonviolent, drug-related convictions. The White House announced the clemencies Tuesday as it launched a series of job training and reentry programs for those in prison or recently released.

Many of those who received commutations have been serving their sentences on home confinement during&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic">the COVID-19 pandemic</a>. Several were serving lengthy sentences and would have received lesser terms had they been convicted today for the same offenses as a result of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-america-donald-trump-sentencing-jared-kushner-legislation-5976d8ff40f148dda8199efc8e575475">the 2018 bipartisan sentencing reform</a>&nbsp;ushered into law by the Trump administration.

“America is a nation of laws and second chances, redemption, and rehabilitation,” Biden said in a statement announcing the clemencies. “Elected officials on both sides of the aisle, faith leaders, civil rights advocates, and law enforcement leaders agree that our criminal justice system can and should reflect these core values that enable safer and stronger communities.”

— Abraham Bolden Sr., 86, the first Black Secret Service agent to serve on a presidential detail. In 1964, Bolden, who served on President John F. Kennedy’s detail, faced federal bribery charges that he attempted to sell a copy of a Secret Service file. His first trial ended in a hung jury.

Following his conviction in a second trial, key witnesses admitted lying at the prosecutor’s request. Bolden, of Chicago, was denied a retrial and served several years in federal prison. Bolden has maintained his innocence and wrote a book in which he argued he was targeted for speaking out against racist and unprofessional behavior in the Secret Service.

— Betty Jo Bogans, 51, was convicted in 1998 of possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine in Texas after attempting to transport drugs for her boyfriend and his accomplice. Bogans, a single mother with no prior record, received a seven-year sentence. In the years since her release from prison, Bogans has held consistent employment, even while undergoing cancer treatment, and has raised a son.

— Dexter Jackson , 52, of Athens, Georgia, was convicted in 2002 for using his pool hall to facilitate the trafficking of marijuana. Jackson pleaded guilty and acknowledged he allowed his business to be used by marijuana dealers.

After Jackson was released from prison, he converted his business into a cellphone repair service that employs local high school students through a program that provides young adults with work experience. Jackson has built and renovated homes in his community, which has a shortage of affordable housing.

Civil rights and criminal justice reform groups have pushed the White House to commute sentences and work harder to reduce disparities in the criminal justice system. Biden’s grants of clemency also come as the administration has faced congressional scrutiny over misconduct and the treatment of inmates in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-health-prisons-california-congress-66990dfe50f91fbd3e499b197b590bd9">the beleaguered federal Bureau of Prisons</a>, which is responsible for inmates serving sentences of home confinement.

Biden, as head of the Senate Judiciary Committee, helped shepherd through the 1994 crime bill that many criminal justice experts say contributed to harsh sentences and mass incarceration of Black people.

During his 2020 White House run, Biden vowed to reduce the number of people incarcerated in the U.S. and called for nonviolent drug offenders to be diverted to drug courts and treatment.

He also has pushed for better training for law enforcement and called for criminal justice system changes to address disparities that have led to minorities and the poor making up a disproportionate share of the nation’s incarcerated population.

Biden’s predecessor, Donald Trump, granted 143 pardons and clemency to 237 during his four years in office.

Trump sought the advice of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-america-donald-trump-ap-top-news-alice-marie-johnson-celebrities-fd7cc2166d0840a785ff38cef28a2df0">prison reform advocate Alice Johnson</a>, a Black woman whose life sentence for a nonviolent drug offense he commuted in 2018. He was also lobbied by celebrity Kim Kardashian as well as advisers inside the White House, including daughter Ivanka Trump and son-in-law Jared Kushner, as he weighed applications for clemency.

The Republican used his pardon authority to help several political friends and allies, including former campaign chairman&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-donald-trump-elections-campaigns-baghdad-a6741e5cf9032ce004c8f6751b3cc968">Paul Manafort</a>, Republican operative&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-ap-top-news-politics-russia-fl-state-wire-4d9cba90d023cde628040b1ca0eb89fd">Roger Stone</a>&nbsp;and Charles Kushner, the father-in-law of Ivanka Trump.

Among&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-defense-contracts-f4dea24fa4adf5a03e08a5271402ca08">Trump’s final acts as president</a>&nbsp;was pardoning his former chief strategist Steve Bannon and Al Pirro, the husband of Fox News host and Trump ally Jeanine Pirro.

Prosecutors alleged that Bannon, who had yet to stand trial when he was pardoned, had duped thousands of donors who believed their money would be used to fulfill Trump’s chief campaign promise to build a wall along the southern border. Instead, Bannon allegedly diverted more than $1 million, paying a salary to one campaign official and personal expenses for himself. Pirro was convicted in 2000 on tax charges.

With the slate of pardons and commutations announced Tuesday, Biden has issued more grants of clemency than any of the previous five presidents at this point in their terms, according to the White House.

In addition to the grants of clemency, Biden announced several new initiatives that are meant to help formerly incarcerated people gain employment — an issue that his administration is driving home as key to lowering crime rates and preventing recidivism.

The Labor Department is directing $140 million toward programs that offer job training, pre-apprenticeship programs, digital literacy training and pre-release and post-release career counseling and more for youth and incarcerated adults.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-congress-infrastructure-bill-signing-b5b8cca843133de060778f049861b144">$1 trillion infrastructure bill</a>&nbsp;passed by Congress last year includes a trio of grant programs that the administration says promote hiring of formerly incarcerated individuals. And the Labor and Justice Departments announced on Tuesday a collaborative plan to provide $145 million over the next year on job skills training as well as individualized employment and reentry plans for people serving time in the Bureau of Prisons.

Biden said the new initiatives are vital to helping the more than 600,000 people released from prison each year get on stable ground.

“Helping those who served their time return to their families and become contributing members of their communities is one of the most effective ways to reduce recidivism and decrease crime,” Biden said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649859299925.png" alt="President Biden also commuted the sentences of 75 -White House photo" />
 <figcaption>President Biden also commuted the sentences of 75 -White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden has granted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/pardons-and-commutations">the first three pardons of his term</a>, providing clemency to a Kennedy-era Secret Service agent convicted of federal bribery charges that he tried to sell a copy of an agency file and to two people who were convicted on drug-related charges but went on to become pillars in their communities.<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/04/26/clemency-recipient-list/">Click here to see</a>&nbsp;the full list from the White House.The Democratic president also commuted the sentences of 75 others for nonviolent, drug-related convictions. The White House announced the clemencies Tuesday as it launched a series of job training and reentry programs for those in prison or recently released.Many of those who received commutations have been serving their sentences on home confinement during&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic">the COVID-19 pandemic</a>. Several were serving lengthy sentences and would have received lesser terms had they been convicted today for the same offenses as a result of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-america-donald-trump-sentencing-jared-kushner-legislation-5976d8ff40f148dda8199efc8e575475">the 2018 bipartisan sentencing reform</a>&nbsp;ushered into law by the Trump administration.“America is a nation of laws and second chances, redemption, and rehabilitation,” Biden said in a statement announcing the clemencies. “Elected officials on both sides of the aisle, faith leaders, civil rights advocates, and law enforcement leaders agree that our criminal justice system can and should reflect these core values that enable safer and stronger communities.”Those granted pardons are:— Abraham Bolden Sr., 86, the first Black Secret Service agent to serve on a presidential detail. In 1964, Bolden, who served on President John F. Kennedy’s detail, faced federal bribery charges that he attempted to sell a copy of a Secret Service file. His first trial ended in a hung jury.Following his conviction in a second trial, key witnesses admitted lying at the prosecutor’s request. Bolden, of Chicago, was denied a retrial and served several years in federal prison. Bolden has maintained his innocence and wrote a book in which he argued he was targeted for speaking out against racist and unprofessional behavior in the Secret Service.— Betty Jo Bogans, 51, was convicted in 1998 of possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine in Texas after attempting to transport drugs for her boyfriend and his accomplice. Bogans, a single mother with no prior record, received a seven-year sentence. In the years since her release from prison, Bogans has held consistent employment, even while undergoing cancer treatment, and has raised a son.— Dexter Jackson , 52, of Athens, Georgia, was convicted in 2002 for using his pool hall to facilitate the trafficking of marijuana. Jackson pleaded guilty and acknowledged he allowed his business to be used by marijuana dealers.After Jackson was released from prison, he converted his business into a cellphone repair service that employs local high school students through a program that provides young adults with work experience. Jackson has built and renovated homes in his community, which has a shortage of affordable housing.Civil rights and criminal justice reform groups have pushed the White House to commute sentences and work harder to reduce disparities in the criminal justice system. Biden’s grants of clemency also come as the administration has faced congressional scrutiny over misconduct and the treatment of inmates in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-health-prisons-california-congress-66990dfe50f91fbd3e499b197b590bd9">the beleaguered federal Bureau of Prisons</a>, which is responsible for inmates serving sentences of home confinement.Biden, as head of the Senate Judiciary Committee, helped shepherd through the 1994 crime bill that many criminal justice experts say contributed to harsh sentences and mass incarceration of Black people.During his 2020 White House run, Biden vowed to reduce the number of people incarcerated in the U.S. and called for nonviolent drug offenders to be diverted to drug courts and treatment.He also has pushed for better training for law enforcement and called for criminal justice system changes to address disparities that have led to minorities and the poor making up a disproportionate share of the nation’s incarcerated population.Biden’s predecessor, Donald Trump, granted 143 pardons and clemency to 237 during his four years in office.Trump sought the advice of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-america-donald-trump-ap-top-news-alice-marie-johnson-celebrities-fd7cc2166d0840a785ff38cef28a2df0">prison reform advocate Alice Johnson</a>, a Black woman whose life sentence for a nonviolent drug offense he commuted in 2018. He was also lobbied by celebrity Kim Kardashian as well as advisers inside the White House, including daughter Ivanka Trump and son-in-law Jared Kushner, as he weighed applications for clemency.The Republican used his pardon authority to help several political friends and allies, including former campaign chairman&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-donald-trump-elections-campaigns-baghdad-a6741e5cf9032ce004c8f6751b3cc968">Paul Manafort</a>, Republican operative&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-ap-top-news-politics-russia-fl-state-wire-4d9cba90d023cde628040b1ca0eb89fd">Roger Stone</a>&nbsp;and Charles Kushner, the father-in-law of Ivanka Trump.Among&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-defense-contracts-f4dea24fa4adf5a03e08a5271402ca08">Trump’s final acts as president</a>&nbsp;was pardoning his former chief strategist Steve Bannon and Al Pirro, the husband of Fox News host and Trump ally Jeanine Pirro.Prosecutors alleged that Bannon, who had yet to stand trial when he was pardoned, had duped thousands of donors who believed their money would be used to fulfill Trump’s chief campaign promise to build a wall along the southern border. Instead, Bannon allegedly diverted more than $1 million, paying a salary to one campaign official and personal expenses for himself. Pirro was convicted in 2000 on tax charges.With the slate of pardons and commutations announced Tuesday, Biden has issued more grants of clemency than any of the previous five presidents at this point in their terms, according to the White House.In addition to the grants of clemency, Biden announced several new initiatives that are meant to help formerly incarcerated people gain employment — an issue that his administration is driving home as key to lowering crime rates and preventing recidivism.The Labor Department is directing $140 million toward programs that offer job training, pre-apprenticeship programs, digital literacy training and pre-release and post-release career counseling and more for youth and incarcerated adults.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-congress-infrastructure-bill-signing-b5b8cca843133de060778f049861b144">$1 trillion infrastructure bill</a>&nbsp;passed by Congress last year includes a trio of grant programs that the administration says promote hiring of formerly incarcerated individuals. And the Labor and Justice Departments announced on Tuesday a collaborative plan to provide $145 million over the next year on job skills training as well as individualized employment and reentry plans for people serving time in the Bureau of Prisons.Biden said the new initiatives are vital to helping the more than 600,000 people released from prison each year get on stable ground.“Helping those who served their time return to their families and become contributing members of their communities is one of the most effective ways to reduce recidivism and decrease crime,” Biden said.___

List of Presidential pardons and 75 sentences commuted

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the community it calls home. Eagle Communications is a diverse company, 
with digital and radio properties in three states.

Qualified
 candidates must have solid writing, news gathering and broadcast skills
 and be technically proficient with broadcast equipment and comfortable 
on the air. Knowledge of computers and digital platforms including 
social media is also necessary.

Prior
 news reporting experience is preferred. Job responsibilities include 
all aspects of news coverage ranging from breaking news, local 
government, community features, crime and courts, and severe weather.

Eagle
 offers a competitive wage and benefits package, including health 
insurance, 401(k) with company match, paid vacation, and employee stock 
ownership.

Apply online at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.eagleradio.net/careers">www.eagleradio.net/careers</a>!
 Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. The 
selected candidate will be required to pass a criminal history 
background check and motor vehicle check. Eagle Communications is an 
Employee-Owned company and an EEO employer.

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=7c09ab04-f576-4f5a-bdb8-f914cdd1f344&amp;ccId=19000101_000001&amp;lang=en_US&amp;source=CC4&amp;selectedMenuKey=CurrentOpenings">HERE</a>&nbsp;to apply

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587155364471.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Click <a href="https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=7c09ab04-f576-4f5a-bdb8-f914cdd1f344&amp;ccId=19000101_000001&amp;lang=en_US&amp;source=CC4&amp;selectedMenuKey=CurrentOpenings">HERE</a> to applyEagle Communications in Great Bend, Kansas is seeking 
to fill a position in its radio and digital news department. Our news 
operation provides the most comprehensive news and information in the 
region via our four radio stations, KVGB-AM, KVGB-FM, KHOK-FM and 
KBGL-FM and our digital platform of GreatBendPost.com.This is an 
opportunity to work for a growing, employee-owned company that values 
the community it calls home. Eagle Communications is a diverse company, 
with digital and radio properties in three states.Experience:&nbsp;Qualified
 candidates must have solid writing, news gathering and broadcast skills
 and be technically proficient with broadcast equipment and comfortable 
on the air. Knowledge of computers and digital platforms including 
social media is also necessary.Requirements:&nbsp;Prior
 news reporting experience is preferred. Job responsibilities include 
all aspects of news coverage ranging from breaking news, local 
government, community features, crime and courts, and severe weather.Salary:&nbsp;Eagle
 offers a competitive wage and benefits package, including health 
insurance, 401(k) with company match, paid vacation, and employee stock 
ownership.Other Information:&nbsp;Apply online at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.eagleradio.net/careers">www.eagleradio.net/careers</a>!
 Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. The 
selected candidate will be required to pass a criminal history 
background check and motor vehicle check. Eagle Communications is an 
Employee-Owned company and an EEO employer.Click&nbsp;<a href="https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=7c09ab04-f576-4f5a-bdb8-f914cdd1f344&amp;ccId=19000101_000001&amp;lang=en_US&amp;source=CC4&amp;selectedMenuKey=CurrentOpenings">HERE</a>&nbsp;to apply

Kansas girl critically injured after struck by wind blown tree limb

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and have made an arrest.

Just before 5:30p.m. Monday, deputies were sent to a disturbance call involving a weapon in the 4500 block of south Meadowview in Wichita, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.

When deputies arrived, they located a 55-year-old man suffering from multiple gunshot wounds in the backyard of a residence. 

EMS transported the victim to a local hospital for treatment of critical injuries.&nbsp; The suspect identified as 62-year-old Phoukhong Khamvongsa&nbsp; of Wichita, was arrested at the residence <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=142445">and booked </a>into the Sedgwick County Detention Facility on requested charges of Aggravated Battery.

The victim and suspect are family members, according to Blick.

Detectives are collecting evidence and conducting interviews to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650989518111.png" alt="Khamvongsa-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Khamvongsa-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and have made an arrest.Just before 5:30p.m. Monday, deputies were sent to a disturbance call involving a weapon in the 4500 block of south Meadowview in Wichita, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.When deputies arrived, they located a 55-year-old man suffering from multiple gunshot wounds in the backyard of a residence. EMS transported the victim to a local hospital for treatment of critical injuries.&nbsp; The suspect identified as 62-year-old Phoukhong Khamvongsa&nbsp; of Wichita, was arrested at the residence <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=142445">and booked </a>into the Sedgwick County Detention Facility on requested charges of Aggravated Battery.The victim and suspect are family members, according to Blick.Detectives are collecting evidence and conducting interviews to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Sheriff: Kan. man shot family member in backyard of home

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Fire crews that took advantage of a break in the weather in their battle to contain large fires in the West and Plains states fear the return of stronger winds could spread the flames further. Officials say a southwestern Nebraska wildfire that killed a former volunteer fire chief last week and destroyed several homes is about half contained. 

After a break in the weather Monday, a red flag warning was issued for the area Tuesday, with temperatures expected to be warmer, humidity dropping to as low at 15% and winds gusting up to 35 mph. Crews in the West continue working to corral blazes in northern New Mexico that have charred a combined 225 square miles over recent days. Several small villages are threatened and evacuations remain in place.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Firefighters across the country are battling multiple wildfires as tinder-dry conditions and high winds whip up flames from Arizona to Florida — including a prairie fire in rural southwestern Nebraska that has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfires-fires-nebraska-emergency-management-5fbf79a71c25690f7f979e29f80e27a2">killed one person</a>, injured at least 15 firefighters and destroyed at least six homes.

A break in the weather in parts of the Midwest and West allowed crews to make progress Monday on some of the nearly dozen new large fires that were reported in recent days across the nation — four in New Mexico, three in Colorado and one each in Florida, Nebraska, South Dakota and Texas.

With more than 1,350 square miles burned so far this year, officials at the National Interagency Fire Center said the amount of land singed to date is outpacing the 10-year average by about 30%.

Hotter, drier weather has combined with a persistent drought to worsen fire danger across many parts of the West, where decades of fire suppression have resulted in overgrown and unhealthy forests and increasing development have put more communities at risk.

About 160 firefighters, emergency management personnel and others — twice as many as the day before — were helping fight the fire in Nebraska by Monday evening.

Known as the Road 702 Fire, it has destroyed at least six homes and threatened 660 others, along with 50 commercial or farm buildings, Ashford said.

A retired Cambridge, Nebraska, fire chief who was helping as a fire spotter in Red Willow County died Friday night after his truck went off the road in a blinding haze of smoke and dust. The body of John Trumble, 66, of Arapahoe, was recovered around early Saturday.

Trumble was the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfires-fires-nebraska-accidents-evacuations-4dfcdda44fa895a7079cae8d9f61fcce">second person in a month to die while fighting a wildfire in southwest Nebraska</a>. Elwood Volunteer Fire Chief Darren Krull, 54, was killed in a collision with a water tanker on April 7 in Furnas County as smoke cut visibility to zero.

Nebraska remains critically dry, said Ashford, who urged residents to use caution when doing anything that could spark a fire.

“The last thing we need is to have another fire started that we have to then fight,” he said.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Fire crews that took advantage of a break in the weather in their battle to contain large fires in the West and Plains states fear the return of stronger winds could spread the flames further. Officials say a southwestern Nebraska wildfire that killed a former volunteer fire chief last week and destroyed several homes is about half contained. <div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MIMpCPXN8fE" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>After a break in the weather Monday, a red flag warning was issued for the area Tuesday, with temperatures expected to be warmer, humidity dropping to as low at 15% and winds gusting up to 35 mph. Crews in the West continue working to corral blazes in northern New Mexico that have charred a combined 225 square miles over recent days. Several small villages are threatened and evacuations remain in place.------OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Firefighters across the country are battling multiple wildfires as tinder-dry conditions and high winds whip up flames from Arizona to Florida — including a prairie fire in rural southwestern Nebraska that has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfires-fires-nebraska-emergency-management-5fbf79a71c25690f7f979e29f80e27a2">killed one person</a>, injured at least 15 firefighters and destroyed at least six homes.A break in the weather in parts of the Midwest and West allowed crews to make progress Monday on some of the nearly dozen new large fires that were reported in recent days across the nation — four in New Mexico, three in Colorado and one each in Florida, Nebraska, South Dakota and Texas.With more than 1,350 square miles burned so far this year, officials at the National Interagency Fire Center said the amount of land singed to date is outpacing the 10-year average by about 30%.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650904932989.jpeg" alt="The Nebraska State patrol troopers and drone pilots captured the videos and photos of the 'Road 702 Fire" near Cambridge in southwest Nebraska." />
 <figcaption>The Nebraska State patrol troopers and drone pilots captured the videos and photos of the 'Road 702 Fire" near Cambridge in southwest Nebraska.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hotter, drier weather has combined with a persistent drought to worsen fire danger across many parts of the West, where decades of fire suppression have resulted in overgrown and unhealthy forests and increasing development have put more communities at risk.About 160 firefighters, emergency management personnel and others — twice as many as the day before — were helping fight the fire in Nebraska by Monday evening.Known as the Road 702 Fire, it has destroyed at least six homes and threatened 660 others, along with 50 commercial or farm buildings, Ashford said.A retired Cambridge, Nebraska, fire chief who was helping as a fire spotter in Red Willow County died Friday night after his truck went off the road in a blinding haze of smoke and dust. The body of John Trumble, 66, of Arapahoe, was recovered around early Saturday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650904966461.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Trumble was the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfires-fires-nebraska-accidents-evacuations-4dfcdda44fa895a7079cae8d9f61fcce">second person in a month to die while fighting a wildfire in southwest Nebraska</a>. Elwood Volunteer Fire Chief Darren Krull, 54, was killed in a collision with a water tanker on April 7 in Furnas County as smoke cut visibility to zero.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650904981267.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Nebraska remains critically dry, said Ashford, who urged residents to use caution when doing anything that could spark a fire.“The last thing we need is to have another fire started that we have to then fight,” he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650905001558.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

 🎥 Progress made on deadly wildfires; high winds threaten efforts

WASHINGTON (AP) — Vice President Kamala Harris tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday, the White House announced, underscoring the persistence of the highly contagious virus even as the U.S. eases restrictions in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-covid-business-health-medication-a5adf6c2e7894e479e795b5a6d1aeb84">a bid to return to pre-pandemic normalcy.</a>

Harris press secretary Kirsten Allen said neither President Joe Biden nor first lady Jill Biden was considered a “close contact” of Harris in recent days. Harris had been scheduled to attend Biden’s Tuesday morning Presidential Daily Brief but was not present, the White House said. Because of their travel schedules, the last time Harris saw Biden was Monday, April 18.

The vice president returned on Monday from a weeklong trip to the West Coast.

Harris tested positive on both rapid and PCR tests but “has exhibited no symptoms,” the White House said. She will isolate at her residence but continue to work remotely, and will return to the White House only when she tests negative for the virus.

Harris, 57, received her first dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine weeks before taking office and a second dose just days after Inauguration Day in 2021. She received a booster shot in late October and an additional booster on April 1. Fully vaccinated and boosted people have a high degree of protection against serious illness and death from COVID-19, particularly from the most common and highly transmissible omicron variant.

Harris’ diagnosis comes a month after her husband, Doug Emhoff, recovered from the virus, as a wave of cases of the highly transmissible omicron subvariant has spread through Washington’s political class, infecting Cabinet members, White House staffers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-health-oregon-kamala-harris-ron-wyden-4635e36e760f07ca2451d9937ca38005">and lawmakers</a>&nbsp;including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., tested positive on Tuesday, his office said.

Allen said Harris would follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines “and the advice of her physicians.” It was not immediately clear whether she is being prescribed any antiviral treatments.

The White House has put in place strict COVID-19 protocols around the president, vice president and their spouses, including daily testing for those expected to be in close contact with them. Biden is tested regularly on the advice of his physician, the White House has said.

After more than two years and nearly a million deaths in the U.S., the virus is still killing more than 300 people a day in the U.S., according to the CDC. The unvaccinated are at a far greater risk, more than twice as likely to test positive and nine times as likely to die from the virus as those who have received at least a primary dose of the vaccines, according to the public health agency.

Harris’ diagnosis comes as the Biden administration is taking steps to expand availability of the life-saving COVID-19 antiviral treatment Paxlovid, reassuring doctors that there is ample supply for people at high risk of severe illness or death from the virus.

Paxlovid, when administered within five days of symptoms appearing, has been proven to bring about a 90% reduction in hospitalizations and deaths among patients most likely to get severe disease.

In addition to her husband’s diagnosis, Harris was identified as a “close contact” after her communications director tested positive on April 6.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines “close contact” with an infected person as spending 15 minutes or more with them over a 24-hour period. The CDC says a (person with “close contact” does not need to quarantine if they are up to date on their vaccines but should wear a well-fitting mask around other people for 10 days after the contact.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650996759503.png" alt="Harris, 57, received her first dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine weeks before taking office and a second dose just days after Inauguration Day in 2021. She received a booster shot in late October and an additional booster on April 1. -photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Harris, 57, received her first dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine weeks before taking office and a second dose just days after Inauguration Day in 2021. She received a booster shot in late October and an additional booster on April 1. -photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Vice President Kamala Harris tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday, the White House announced, underscoring the persistence of the highly contagious virus even as the U.S. eases restrictions in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-covid-business-health-medication-a5adf6c2e7894e479e795b5a6d1aeb84">a bid to return to pre-pandemic normalcy.</a>Harris press secretary Kirsten Allen said neither President Joe Biden nor first lady Jill Biden was considered a “close contact” of Harris in recent days. Harris had been scheduled to attend Biden’s Tuesday morning Presidential Daily Brief but was not present, the White House said. Because of their travel schedules, the last time Harris saw Biden was Monday, April 18.The vice president returned on Monday from a weeklong trip to the West Coast.Harris tested positive on both rapid and PCR tests but “has exhibited no symptoms,” the White House said. She will isolate at her residence but continue to work remotely, and will return to the White House only when she tests negative for the virus.Harris, 57, received her first dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine weeks before taking office and a second dose just days after Inauguration Day in 2021. She received a booster shot in late October and an additional booster on April 1. Fully vaccinated and boosted people have a high degree of protection against serious illness and death from COVID-19, particularly from the most common and highly transmissible omicron variant.Harris’ diagnosis comes a month after her husband, Doug Emhoff, recovered from the virus, as a wave of cases of the highly transmissible omicron subvariant has spread through Washington’s political class, infecting Cabinet members, White House staffers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-health-oregon-kamala-harris-ron-wyden-4635e36e760f07ca2451d9937ca38005">and lawmakers</a>&nbsp;including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., tested positive on Tuesday, his office said.Allen said Harris would follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines “and the advice of her physicians.” It was not immediately clear whether she is being prescribed any antiviral treatments.The White House has put in place strict COVID-19 protocols around the president, vice president and their spouses, including daily testing for those expected to be in close contact with them. Biden is tested regularly on the advice of his physician, the White House has said.After more than two years and nearly a million deaths in the U.S., the virus is still killing more than 300 people a day in the U.S., according to the CDC. The unvaccinated are at a far greater risk, more than twice as likely to test positive and nine times as likely to die from the virus as those who have received at least a primary dose of the vaccines, according to the public health agency.Harris’ diagnosis comes as the Biden administration is taking steps to expand availability of the life-saving COVID-19 antiviral treatment Paxlovid, reassuring doctors that there is ample supply for people at high risk of severe illness or death from the virus.Paxlovid, when administered within five days of symptoms appearing, has been proven to bring about a 90% reduction in hospitalizations and deaths among patients most likely to get severe disease.In addition to her husband’s diagnosis, Harris was identified as a “close contact” after her communications director tested positive on April 6.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines “close contact” with an infected person as spending 15 minutes or more with them over a 24-hour period. The CDC says a (person with “close contact” does not need to quarantine if they are up to date on their vaccines but should wear a well-fitting mask around other people for 10 days after the contact.

Despite 2nd booster this month, vice president positive for COVID

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas state lawmaker has complained publicly about having to share women’s restrooms with a “huge” transgender colleague whom she describes as a potential threat to young children who visit the Statehouse.

Republican state Rep. Cheryl Helmer on Tuesday stood firmly by her comments in an email to a University of Kansas graduate student while defending&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/hb2210_00_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a bill</a>&nbsp;she co-sponsored that would make it a felony for doctors to provide hormones or do gender transition surgery for children under 18. She also decried what she called the “in your face” approach to promoting transgender rights by Democratic state Rep. Stephanie Byers, the first elected transgender Kansas lawmaker.

The House speaker called Helmer’s comments “unfortunate” and Democrats condemned them. The state’s most visible LGBTQ rights lobbyist called for the House to censure Helmer.

The Republican-controlled Legislature is trying to override&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/topeka-kansas-legislature-libraries-9ffb07cf3b25faf848dda6d78bff8856">Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s veto&nbsp;</a>of a ban on transgender athletes in girls’ and women’s K-12 and college sports. Supporters have said they want to preserve fair competition and are not attacking transgender girls and women, but LGBTQ rights advocates say Helmer’s comments prove anti-trans bigotry is behind the measure.

“We know this has been going on in offices, and back rooms and conversations since the day I was elected,” Byers said Tuesday. “The shocking part is that it came out, that someone actually said it.”

Helmer, 70, said in an interview that she was in the Statehouse with a mother and her young daughter and Byers a couple of months ago, and that the girl was frightened of Byers.

Helmer also said she tried to make a point when she mistakenly entered a men’s restroom in the House in early 2021. The men, she said, were surprised and upset, so she asked them how they would like it if a woman regularly used their restroom.

Pressed on the issue Monday evening, she said parents shouldn’t be allowed to “change” their child’s gender.

“You can’t lop a penis off and then expect, you know, a little boy to now live his life,” she said. “He’ll be in regret for the rest of his life.”

Meanwhile, the Kansas Senate voted 28-10 Tuesday to override Kelly’s veto of the transgender athletes bill. A House vote will follow, but the timing wasn’t clear.

Republicans in at least 15 states have enacted bans on transgender athletes, and several have outlawed gender-affirming medical care for children. In Michigan, a conservative state senator accused a Democratic colleague of wanting to “groom” and “sexualize” young children, prompting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/media-social-michigan-9651ec94e425db841581562aed6bbcbb">a response</a>&nbsp;that went viral on social media.

Helmer is a retired Wichita school counselor and nursing instructor, a conservative Republican elected in 2018 to represent a district south of the state’s largest city. She participates in rodeo barrel racing and has a sign in her office that says, “My horse is smarter than your honor student.”

Byers, 59, is a retired Wichita high school music teacher and band director who was elected to the House in 2020.

In her email Sunday to 25-year-old University of Kansas graduate student Brenan Riffel, Helmer wrote: “Now, personally I do not appreciate the huge transgender female who is now in our restrooms in the Capitol.” Riffel, who describes themself as trans-feminine and uses the pronouns they/them, released the email to the Kansas Reflector, a nonprofit news provider.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-legislature-kansas-topeka-7139d8bedcc50a1d00e1d4cd8ebed70b">Tom Witt,&nbsp;</a>executive director of Equality Kansas, called on the Kansas House to censure Helmer, something that would take a formal complaint from another lawmaker and a two-thirds majority vote.

“It is a new level of toxic bigotry that I have not seen in this building before,” Witt said.

House Speaker Ron Ryckman Jr., a Kansas City-area Republican, said he hasn’t seen Helmer’s full remarks, but “It’s unfortunate those words were said.”

Byers said several lawmakers have moved away from her in the elevator, and that&nbsp;<a href="https://secureservercdn.net/50.62.88.172/s1c.ac0.myftpupload.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/KSGOP-Platform-Adopted-June-23-2018.pdf" target="_blank">the Kansas Republican Party’s last platform,</a>&nbsp;drafted in 2018, declares that, “We believe God created two genders, male and female.”

In her email to Riffel, Helmer wrote, “A doctor can inject meds and dilute but cannot destroy what God has done in the perfection of the HUMAN BEING.”

Riffel said in an interview that they weren’t surprised by Helmer’s response, “considering what it would take” to sponsor the bill banning gender-affirming care for trans youth.

“The rhetoric against the LGBTQ community has been the same for years, that we’re a threat to society; we’re going to hurt people,” said Riffel. “I just want to go about and just be myself.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650925640050.png" alt="Rep. Cheryl Helmer-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Cheryl Helmer-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN HANNATOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas state lawmaker has complained publicly about having to share women’s restrooms with a “huge” transgender colleague whom she describes as a potential threat to young children who visit the Statehouse.Republican state Rep. Cheryl Helmer on Tuesday stood firmly by her comments in an email to a University of Kansas graduate student while defending&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/hb2210_00_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a bill</a>&nbsp;she co-sponsored that would make it a felony for doctors to provide hormones or do gender transition surgery for children under 18. She also decried what she called the “in your face” approach to promoting transgender rights by Democratic state Rep. Stephanie Byers, the first elected transgender Kansas lawmaker.The House speaker called Helmer’s comments “unfortunate” and Democrats condemned them. The state’s most visible LGBTQ rights lobbyist called for the House to censure Helmer.The Republican-controlled Legislature is trying to override&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/topeka-kansas-legislature-libraries-9ffb07cf3b25faf848dda6d78bff8856">Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s veto&nbsp;</a>of a ban on transgender athletes in girls’ and women’s K-12 and college sports. Supporters have said they want to preserve fair competition and are not attacking transgender girls and women, but LGBTQ rights advocates say Helmer’s comments prove anti-trans bigotry is behind the measure.“We know this has been going on in offices, and back rooms and conversations since the day I was elected,” Byers said Tuesday. “The shocking part is that it came out, that someone actually said it.”Helmer, 70, said in an interview that she was in the Statehouse with a mother and her young daughter and Byers a couple of months ago, and that the girl was frightened of Byers.Helmer also said she tried to make a point when she mistakenly entered a men’s restroom in the House in early 2021. The men, she said, were surprised and upset, so she asked them how they would like it if a woman regularly used their restroom.Pressed on the issue Monday evening, she said parents shouldn’t be allowed to “change” their child’s gender.“You can’t lop a penis off and then expect, you know, a little boy to now live his life,” she said. “He’ll be in regret for the rest of his life.”Meanwhile, the Kansas Senate voted 28-10 Tuesday to override Kelly’s veto of the transgender athletes bill. A House vote will follow, but the timing wasn’t clear.Republicans in at least 15 states have enacted bans on transgender athletes, and several have outlawed gender-affirming medical care for children. In Michigan, a conservative state senator accused a Democratic colleague of wanting to “groom” and “sexualize” young children, prompting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/media-social-michigan-9651ec94e425db841581562aed6bbcbb">a response</a>&nbsp;that went viral on social media.Helmer is a retired Wichita school counselor and nursing instructor, a conservative Republican elected in 2018 to represent a district south of the state’s largest city. She participates in rodeo barrel racing and has a sign in her office that says, “My horse is smarter than your honor student.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612468437256.png" alt="Rep. Stephanie Byers" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Stephanie Byers</figcaption>
 </figure>Byers, 59, is a retired Wichita high school music teacher and band director who was elected to the House in 2020.In her email Sunday to 25-year-old University of Kansas graduate student Brenan Riffel, Helmer wrote: “Now, personally I do not appreciate the huge transgender female who is now in our restrooms in the Capitol.” Riffel, who describes themself as trans-feminine and uses the pronouns they/them, released the email to the Kansas Reflector, a nonprofit news provider.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650634763671.png" alt="Tom Witt, executive director of Equality Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Tom Witt, executive director of Equality Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-legislature-kansas-topeka-7139d8bedcc50a1d00e1d4cd8ebed70b">Tom Witt,&nbsp;</a>executive director of Equality Kansas, called on the Kansas House to censure Helmer, something that would take a formal complaint from another lawmaker and a two-thirds majority vote.“It is a new level of toxic bigotry that I have not seen in this building before,” Witt said.House Speaker Ron Ryckman Jr., a Kansas City-area Republican, said he hasn’t seen Helmer’s full remarks, but “It’s unfortunate those words were said.”Byers said several lawmakers have moved away from her in the elevator, and that&nbsp;<a href="https://secureservercdn.net/50.62.88.172/s1c.ac0.myftpupload.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/KSGOP-Platform-Adopted-June-23-2018.pdf" target="_blank">the Kansas Republican Party’s last platform,</a>&nbsp;drafted in 2018, declares that, “We believe God created two genders, male and female.”In her email to Riffel, Helmer wrote, “A doctor can inject meds and dilute but cannot destroy what God has done in the perfection of the HUMAN BEING.”Riffel said in an interview that they weren’t surprised by Helmer’s response, “considering what it would take” to sponsor the bill banning gender-affirming care for trans youth.“The rhetoric against the LGBTQ community has been the same for years, that we’re a threat to society; we’re going to hurt people,” said Riffel. “I just want to go about and just be myself.”___

Kan. lawmaker doesn't want to share restroom with trans colleague

My younger brother and his wife did their taxes last month and learned they owe $15,000 to the IRS. I love them both, but they are extremely irresponsible with money. I know they have a lot of credit card debt, too. I am debt-free, including my home after following your plan, and would like to help them. I was thinking about taking out a one-time loan from the bank to help cover what they owe the IRS, because my emergency fund is a little low after a recent car accident. Under the circumstances, would this be okay?

In my mind, “help” would be aiding them in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/get-started?_ga=2.234927489.1291410118.1635519022-1999676729.1629298000">changing their ways</a>&nbsp;with money. I don’t say this to be sarcastic or mean, but it’s the truth about where they are in life right now. They both need to be educated, not enabled, when it comes to their behavior with money. This doesn’t mean they’re bad people, but it does mean you don’t need to be a party to, or a temporary fix for, their bad financial decisions.

Some people might say taking this attitude would mean you don’t love and care about your brother and his wife. Those people would be wrong. You’ve already told me they won’t behave with money, so at this point it would kind of be like giving a drunk a drink. You don’t give more money to people who won’t behave with it. That solves nothing, and in most cases it just reinforces the negative behavior.

This might be a good opportunity to sit down with your brother and his wife, and have a firm—but gentle—talk about their situation. Maybe you could offer to teach them the things that worked for you when it comes to finances, using the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/dave-ramsey-7-baby-steps">Baby Steps</a>&nbsp;as your guide. And, make sure they get in touch with the IRS about a payment plan.

I know you love them, but you can’t fix this for them. In some cases, the best thing you can give someone is the understanding that they need to change their behavior. Hopefully, with you as their inspiration and support, they can learn how to manage their finances wisely.

Good luck, and God bless you all, Carson!

<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/">Dave Ramsey&nbsp;</a>is a seven-time #1 national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of&nbsp;The Ramsey Show, heard by more than 18 million listeners each week. He&nbsp;has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today Show, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business, and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people regain control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648177011035.png" alt="Dave Ramsey&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Dave Ramsey&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Dear Dave,My younger brother and his wife did their taxes last month and learned they owe $15,000 to the IRS. I love them both, but they are extremely irresponsible with money. I know they have a lot of credit card debt, too. I am debt-free, including my home after following your plan, and would like to help them. I was thinking about taking out a one-time loan from the bank to help cover what they owe the IRS, because my emergency fund is a little low after a recent car accident. Under the circumstances, would this be okay?CarsonDear Carson,In my mind, “help” would be aiding them in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/get-started?_ga=2.234927489.1291410118.1635519022-1999676729.1629298000">changing their ways</a>&nbsp;with money. I don’t say this to be sarcastic or mean, but it’s the truth about where they are in life right now. They both need to be educated, not enabled, when it comes to their behavior with money. This doesn’t mean they’re bad people, but it does mean you don’t need to be a party to, or a temporary fix for, their bad financial decisions.Some people might say taking this attitude would mean you don’t love and care about your brother and his wife. Those people would be wrong. You’ve already told me they won’t behave with money, so at this point it would kind of be like giving a drunk a drink. You don’t give more money to people who won’t behave with it. That solves nothing, and in most cases it just reinforces the negative behavior.This might be a good opportunity to sit down with your brother and his wife, and have a firm—but gentle—talk about their situation. Maybe you could offer to teach them the things that worked for you when it comes to finances, using the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/dave-ramsey-7-baby-steps">Baby Steps</a>&nbsp;as your guide. And, make sure they get in touch with the IRS about a payment plan.I know you love them, but you can’t fix this for them. In some cases, the best thing you can give someone is the understanding that they need to change their behavior. Hopefully, with you as their inspiration and support, they can learn how to manage their finances wisely.Good luck, and God bless you all, Carson!— Dave<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/">Dave Ramsey&nbsp;</a>is a seven-time #1 national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of&nbsp;The Ramsey Show, heard by more than 18 million listeners each week. He&nbsp;has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today Show, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business, and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people regain control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions

Dave Says: Teach them, don’t enable them

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspicious death in Shawnee County have identified the victim Joshua R. Kline, 24 of Topeka, according to police spokesperson Gretchen Spiker.

Just after 5:30 p.m.&nbsp; Friday, police responded to 901 NE River Rd on a report of a body in the river, according to Lt. Ron Ekis.

Topeka Fire Department personnel were requested to the scene to recover the body. Investigators with the Topeka Police Department and Shawnee County Coroner’s Office were also on scene.&nbsp;

The investigation is in its preliminary stages. At this time, foul play is not suspected. An official cause of death will be determined by the Shawnee County Coroner’s Office. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650716166152.png" alt="Investigators on the scene Friday evening -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Investigators on the scene Friday evening -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspicious death in Shawnee County have identified the victim Joshua R. Kline, 24 of Topeka, according to police spokesperson Gretchen Spiker.Just after 5:30 p.m.&nbsp; Friday, police responded to 901 NE River Rd on a report of a body in the river, according to Lt. Ron Ekis.Topeka Fire Department personnel were requested to the scene to recover the body. Investigators with the Topeka Police Department and Shawnee County Coroner’s Office were also on scene.&nbsp;The investigation is in its preliminary stages. At this time, foul play is not suspected. An official cause of death will be determined by the Shawnee County Coroner’s Office.

Police ID Kansas man whose body was found in river

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

SALINE COUNTY —Police arrested a Kansas man on Monday wanted on multiple Salina Municipal Court warrants after a traffic stop in central Salina.

Just after 8:30a.m. a police officer on patrol in the 200 block of W. Crawford Street noticed a 2005 Ford Escape that had an expired license plate, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester. The officer was able to stop the vehicle in the 500 block of S. Ninth Street.

The driver allegedly initially identified himself with a false name and date of birth, however, the officer was able to identify him as Dalton Reinbold, 24, of Salina.

Reinbold was known to have seven active Salina Municipal Court warrants for probation violations. In addition to the warrants, Reinbold was arrested on requested charges of Obstruction, Driving while suspended, Driving while a habitual violator, No proof of insurance, Expired registration.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650988141361.png" alt="Dalton Reinbold photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Dalton Reinbold photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostSALINE COUNTY —Police arrested a Kansas man on Monday wanted on multiple Salina Municipal Court warrants after a traffic stop in central Salina.Just after 8:30a.m. a police officer on patrol in the 200 block of W. Crawford Street noticed a 2005 Ford Escape that had an expired license plate, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester. The officer was able to stop the vehicle in the 500 block of S. Ninth Street.The driver allegedly initially identified himself with a false name and date of birth, however, the officer was able to identify him as Dalton Reinbold, 24, of Salina.Reinbold was known to have seven active Salina Municipal Court warrants for probation violations. In addition to the warrants, Reinbold was arrested on requested charges of Obstruction, Driving while suspended, Driving while a habitual violator, No proof of insurance, Expired registration.

Police: Wanted Kan. man used false name during traffic stop

MOSCOW(AP) —Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov warned Monday that Ukraine risks provoking World War III and said the threat of a nuclear conflict “should not be underestimated.”

In an in-depth Russian TV interview, Lavrov blamed Ukraine for stalled talks between the two countries, and accused the United States and Britain of pressuring Kyiv not to reach agreement.

“Everyone is reciting incantations that in no case can we allow World War III,” Lavrov said, and accused Ukrainian leaders of provoking Russia by asking NATO to become involved in the conflict.

By providing weapons, NATO forces are “pouring oil on the fire,” he said, according to a Russian transcript on the Russian Foreign Ministry’s website.

Lavrov apparently made the remarks after U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said the United States wants “to see Russia weakened to the point where it can’t do things like invade Ukraine.”

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba told The Associated Press in an interview Monday that only discussions between Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin would bring resolution.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650881393752.png" alt="U.S. Airmen prepare supply crates containing Stinger anti-aircraft systems, Javelin anti-armor systems, and other equipment bound for Ukraine at Dover Air Force Base in April 2022 -photo U.S.Defense Department" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Airmen prepare supply crates containing Stinger anti-aircraft systems, Javelin anti-armor systems, and other equipment bound for Ukraine at Dover Air Force Base in April 2022 -photo U.S.Defense Department</figcaption>
 </figure>MOSCOW(AP) —Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov warned Monday that Ukraine risks provoking World War III and said the threat of a nuclear conflict “should not be underestimated.”In an in-depth Russian TV interview, Lavrov blamed Ukraine for stalled talks between the two countries, and accused the United States and Britain of pressuring Kyiv not to reach agreement.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650883422666.png" alt="Reporters who accompanied Defense Sec. Lloyd Austin and Sec. of State Anthony Blinken to Poland&nbsp; on their way to meet with the Ukraine President were barred by Pentagon and State Department officials from reporting the Kyiv visit until the two men physically left Ukraine-photo U.S. Defense Department" />
 <figcaption>Reporters who accompanied Defense Sec. Lloyd Austin and Sec. of State Anthony Blinken to Poland&nbsp; on their way to meet with the Ukraine President were barred by Pentagon and State Department officials from reporting the Kyiv visit until the two men physically left Ukraine-photo U.S. Defense Department</figcaption>
 </figure>“Everyone is reciting incantations that in no case can we allow World War III,” Lavrov said, and accused Ukrainian leaders of provoking Russia by asking NATO to become involved in the conflict.By providing weapons, NATO forces are “pouring oil on the fire,” he said, according to a Russian transcript on the Russian Foreign Ministry’s website.Lavrov apparently made the remarks after U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said the United States wants “to see Russia weakened to the point where it can’t do things like invade Ukraine.”Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba told The Associated Press in an interview Monday that only discussions between Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin would bring resolution.

Russia warns of real nuclear war risk over Ukraine

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal pedestrian accident have identified the victim as 44-year-old Melissa Mertes of Wichita, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.

Just before 9:30p.m. Monday,&nbsp;a westbound 2011 Chevy Impala driven by an 18-year-old female from Rose Hill struck Mertes in the 12000 block of east 31st Street South in Wichita.

&nbsp;She was walking a dog, westbound on the north edge of the roadway.

Mertes and the dog she was walking were pronounced dead at the scene, according to Blick. The teen driver was not injured.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal pedestrian accident have identified the victim as 44-year-old Melissa Mertes of Wichita, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.Just before 9:30p.m. Monday,&nbsp;a westbound 2011 Chevy Impala driven by an 18-year-old female from Rose Hill struck Mertes in the 12000 block of east 31st Street South in Wichita.&nbsp;She was walking a dog, westbound on the north edge of the roadway.Mertes and the dog she was walking were pronounced dead at the scene, according to Blick. The teen driver was not injured.

Sheriff: Teen driver struck, killed Kan. woman walking dog

Every few months, a new scam pops up that seems to be everywhere (remember the <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/5691-bbb-warning-if-caller-asks-can-you-hear-me-just-hang-up" target="_blank">"Can you hear me” scam</a> or this <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/scams/26053-bbb-scam-alert-wrong-number-text-message-could-be-a-scam-bot" target="_blank">wrong number con</a>).&nbsp; A new version is here! In the past few weeks, <a href="https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker" target="_blank">BBB Scam Tracker</a> has received numerous reports of a text message scam that attempts to trick people with the promise of a “free gift.”

You receive a text message that says something like this: “Your bill is paid for March. Thanks, here’s a little gift for you.”
 This message followed by a link to an unfamiliar website. The text 
doesn’t specify what bill you paid, what company the message is coming 
from, or what the total amount was. Even more disturbing, the message 
may be a group text sent to a dozen or more other people, none of whom 
are in your contacts list.

The text isn’t from a real company. The goal is to 
get your personal information, which puts you at risk for identity 
theft. In some versions of the scam, you may be directed to a website 
asking you to “confirm your identity,” so you can receive the gift. 
Scammers may also ask for your credit card information, claiming you 
need to pay a few dollars to ship the “free” gift.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579883951052.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BBBEvery few months, a new scam pops up that seems to be everywhere (remember the <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/5691-bbb-warning-if-caller-asks-can-you-hear-me-just-hang-up" target="_blank">"Can you hear me” scam</a> or this <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/scams/26053-bbb-scam-alert-wrong-number-text-message-could-be-a-scam-bot" target="_blank">wrong number con</a>).&nbsp; A new version is here! In the past few weeks, <a href="https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker" target="_blank">BBB Scam Tracker</a> has received numerous reports of a text message scam that attempts to trick people with the promise of a “free gift.”<h2>How the scam works</h2>You receive a text message that says something like this: “Your bill is paid for March. Thanks, here’s a little gift for you.”
 This message followed by a link to an unfamiliar website. The text 
doesn’t specify what bill you paid, what company the message is coming 
from, or what the total amount was. Even more disturbing, the message 
may be a group text sent to a dozen or more other people, none of whom 
are in your contacts list.The text isn’t from a real company. The goal is to 
get your personal information, which puts you at risk for identity 
theft. In some versions of the scam, you may be directed to a website 
asking you to “confirm your identity,” so you can receive the gift. 
Scammers may also ask for your credit card information, claiming you 
need to pay a few dollars to ship the “free” gift.<h2>How to avoid text message scams</h2><ul>
 <li>Don’t click on links from strangers. In fact, be 
wary of suspicious links forwarded to you by friends too. Even 
well-meaning friends may forward suspicious links without realizing 
they’ve been scammed. Scammers often use links along with either an 
exciting offer or a threat as part of a <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/16758-bbb-tip-phishing-scams" target="_blank">phishing scam</a>. They want to elicit an emotional response from you, so you’ll click on the link without thinking. </li><li>Call the company directly to confirm messages sent by text.
 If you think the message came from a company you do business with, call
 them directly before you click on any links. Keep in mind that 
businesses need your permission to send you text messages. If you never 
opted in to receive text messages from a company, the text is probably a
 scam. </li><li>Use good judgement. Scammers love to trick people 
with offers that are too good to be true. If you get a message promising
 you’ll receive an amazing gift for free, it’s probably a scam.</li>
 </ul>

Scam alert: 'Free gift for you' text message? It's a scam!

TOPEKA – Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt on Monday notified the Wyandotte County District Court he is appealing to the Kansas Supreme Court the ruling that legislation enacted in early February to reapportion Kansas congressional districts violates the Kansas constitution, according to a statement from Schmidt's office.&nbsp; The district court ordered the Legislature to redraw the districts.

Attorney General Schmidt issued the following statement in connection with Monday's actions in court:

“Today’s Wyandotte County District Court decision may be the first redistricting case ever to make use of folk-song lyrics, the Buddha, and personal memories from the judge’s childhood. The state is promptly appealing.”

Click <a href="https://ag.ks.gov/docs/default-source/documents/2022-cv-89-decision-final.pdf?sfvrsn=37c9a01a_2">here to read a </a>copy of the Wyandotte County District Court’s decision.&nbsp; Click<a href="https://ag.ks.gov/docs/default-source/documents/notice-of-appeal---supreme-court.pdf?sfvrsn=94caa01a_2"> here to read</a> the attorney general’s notice of appeal.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;district court judge on Monday struck down a new Republican-backed congressional map that would likely make it harder for the only Democrat in the state's delegation to win reelection this year.

It was the first time a court has declared that the Kansas Constitution prohibits political gerrymandering. The state is expected to appeal to the Kansas Supreme Court.

The decision from Wyandotte County District Judge Bill Klapper in the Kansas City area came a little more than five weeks before the state's June 1 candidate filing deadline. He ordered legislators to draft a new one.

“How strong are Kansans?” Klepper wrote in his 209-page opinion. “Strong enough to expect nothing more than a level playing field devoid of partisan advantage for one group of Kansans. Strong enough for the merits of the issue to be the deciding factor. Strong enough to make their political decisions based upon the content of a candidate’s character rather than the color of their political party.”

Democrats have criticized the map as political gerrymandering. Lawsuits claimed it violated voting rights and constitutional guarantees of equal rights for all Kansas residents and freedom of speech and assembly. Critics also said the map was unacceptable under the state constitution because it diluted the political power of Black and Hispanic voters in the Kansas City area by splitting them up. The state rejected all of those allegations.

The map moved the northern part of Kansas City, Kansas, out of the 3rd District represented by Democratic Rep. Sharice Davids and into the larger 2nd District of eastern Kansas represented by Republican Rep. Jake LaTurner. Kansas City, Kansas, is among the few Democratic strongholds in GOP-leaning Kansas.

Davids lost territory where she performs well, while the new map added several rural, heavily Republican counties to her district. She has gained national attention for her resume as a lesbian, Native American lawyer who fought mixed-martial arts bouts.

The map also moved the liberal northeast Kansas city of Lawrence — another Democratic stronghold and home to the main University of Kansas campus — out of the 2nd District. The city of 95,000 is now in the already sprawling 1st District of central and western Kansas with small conservative communities, some six hours away by car.

Klapper ruled in three consolidated lawsuits filed by a voting rights group, Loud Light, and 20 voters in the Kansas City and Lawrence areas. Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab, the state's top elections official, and local elections officials are the defendants.

The state argued that Davids' district emerged slightly more competitive than it had been. They also said the changes were driven by the need to satisfy past federal court decisions requiring districts to have as equal a number of residents as possible after 10 years of population shifts.

But the state's attorneys also argued that nothing in the Kansas Constitution allows state courts — rather than federal courts — to review congressional maps or to consider political gerrymandering as an issue. Federal judges have decided challenges to congressional redistricting in the past, and the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 2019 that complaints about partisan gerrymandering are political issues and not for the federal courts to resolve.

Meanwhile, the Kansas Supreme Court must review a separate law redrawing Kansas House, Kansas Senate and State Board of Education districts. The state constitution requires a decision by June 5.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643147273216.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt on Monday notified the Wyandotte County District Court he is appealing to the Kansas Supreme Court the ruling that legislation enacted in early February to reapportion Kansas congressional districts violates the Kansas constitution, according to a statement from Schmidt's office.&nbsp; The district court ordered the Legislature to redraw the districts.Attorney General Schmidt issued the following statement in connection with Monday's actions in court:“Today’s Wyandotte County District Court decision may be the first redistricting case ever to make use of folk-song lyrics, the Buddha, and personal memories from the judge’s childhood. The state is promptly appealing.”Click <a href="https://ag.ks.gov/docs/default-source/documents/2022-cv-89-decision-final.pdf?sfvrsn=37c9a01a_2">here to read a </a>copy of the Wyandotte County District Court’s decision.&nbsp; Click<a href="https://ag.ks.gov/docs/default-source/documents/notice-of-appeal---supreme-court.pdf?sfvrsn=94caa01a_2"> here to read</a> the attorney general’s notice of appeal.-----------TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;district court judge on Monday struck down a new Republican-backed congressional map that would likely make it harder for the only Democrat in the state's delegation to win reelection this year.It was the first time a court has declared that the Kansas Constitution prohibits political gerrymandering. The state is expected to appeal to the Kansas Supreme Court.The decision from Wyandotte County District Judge Bill Klapper in the Kansas City area came a little more than five weeks before the state's June 1 candidate filing deadline. He ordered legislators to draft a new one.“How strong are Kansans?” Klepper wrote in his 209-page opinion. “Strong enough to expect nothing more than a level playing field devoid of partisan advantage for one group of Kansans. Strong enough for the merits of the issue to be the deciding factor. Strong enough to make their political decisions based upon the content of a candidate’s character rather than the color of their political party.”Democrats have criticized the map as political gerrymandering. Lawsuits claimed it violated voting rights and constitutional guarantees of equal rights for all Kansas residents and freedom of speech and assembly. Critics also said the map was unacceptable under the state constitution because it diluted the political power of Black and Hispanic voters in the Kansas City area by splitting them up. The state rejected all of those allegations.The map moved the northern part of Kansas City, Kansas, out of the 3rd District represented by Democratic Rep. Sharice Davids and into the larger 2nd District of eastern Kansas represented by Republican Rep. Jake LaTurner. Kansas City, Kansas, is among the few Democratic strongholds in GOP-leaning Kansas.Davids lost territory where she performs well, while the new map added several rural, heavily Republican counties to her district. She has gained national attention for her resume as a lesbian, Native American lawyer who fought mixed-martial arts bouts.The map also moved the liberal northeast Kansas city of Lawrence — another Democratic stronghold and home to the main University of Kansas campus — out of the 2nd District. The city of 95,000 is now in the already sprawling 1st District of central and western Kansas with small conservative communities, some six hours away by car.Klapper ruled in three consolidated lawsuits filed by a voting rights group, Loud Light, and 20 voters in the Kansas City and Lawrence areas. Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab, the state's top elections official, and local elections officials are the defendants.The state argued that Davids' district emerged slightly more competitive than it had been. They also said the changes were driven by the need to satisfy past federal court decisions requiring districts to have as equal a number of residents as possible after 10 years of population shifts.But the state's attorneys also argued that nothing in the Kansas Constitution allows state courts — rather than federal courts — to review congressional maps or to consider political gerrymandering as an issue. Federal judges have decided challenges to congressional redistricting in the past, and the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 2019 that complaints about partisan gerrymandering are political issues and not for the federal courts to resolve.Meanwhile, the Kansas Supreme Court must review a separate law redrawing Kansas House, Kansas Senate and State Board of Education districts. The state constitution requires a decision by June 5.