TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas inmate convicted of attempted murder for assaulting a corrections officer in 2019 has been sentenced to more than 54 years in prison for the attack.

Ray Miles, 58, of Topeka, was convicted in August of attempted first-degree murder, aggravated battery and battery against a corrections officer. The Shawnee County District Attorney’s Office said Miles was sentenced Monday to 653 months in prison.

Prosecutors said Miles attacked Shawnee County corrections officer Kourtney Flynn on July 31, 2019, while Flynn was trying to retrieve a cordless phone from his cell. A court affidavit said Miles pushed Flynn to an isolated area of the jail and tried to stab her several times with a pen before other workers restrained him.

Flynn suffered several injuries, including a head injury.

At the time of the attack, Miles was in the jail to serve the remaining year of his sentences for attacking several employees of Topeka television station WIBW in 2012. In that attack, Miles broke into the station and assaulted the employees because they refused to report on a problem he was having with the Department of Veterans Affairs. He stabbed, kicked, bit and punched the employees before they were able to subdue him.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628293009576.png" alt="Miles-photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Miles-photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas inmate convicted of attempted murder for assaulting a corrections officer in 2019 has been sentenced to more than 54 years in prison for the attack.Ray Miles, 58, of Topeka, was convicted in August of attempted first-degree murder, aggravated battery and battery against a corrections officer. The Shawnee County District Attorney’s Office said Miles was sentenced Monday to 653 months in prison.Prosecutors said Miles attacked Shawnee County corrections officer Kourtney Flynn on July 31, 2019, while Flynn was trying to retrieve a cordless phone from his cell. A court affidavit said Miles pushed Flynn to an isolated area of the jail and tried to stab her several times with a pen before other workers restrained him.Flynn suffered several injuries, including a head injury.At the time of the attack, Miles was in the jail to serve the remaining year of his sentences for attacking several employees of Topeka television station WIBW in 2012. In that attack, Miles broke into the station and assaulted the employees because they refused to report on a problem he was having with the Department of Veterans Affairs. He stabbed, kicked, bit and punched the employees before they were able to subdue him.

54 more years in prison for assault on female Kan. corrections officer 

Experts are predicting an earlier start to the 2021 holiday shopping 
season because of supply chain concerns and holiday hiring. This entices
 scammers to find ways to take advantage of the situation. According to 
the analysis of <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/26013-online-purchase-scams-up-bbb-warns-holiday-shopping-is-at-risk" target="_blank">online purchase scam reports</a>
 submitted to BBB Scam Tracker, more than 400 different types of 
products were used by scammers to perpetrate fraud, including 
counterfeit products.

Scammers may capitalize on what people are looking for online, paying
 close attention to the most sought-after gifts such as electronics, 
toys, and other trendy gift items. Footwear and apparel were the most 
common counterfeit product types, with Nike the most impostered brand. 
Other top brands that scammers focus on, according to BBB research, 
include NFL clothing, Apple gadgets, Louis Vuitton handbags, Tiffany 
jewelry, LEGO toys, and 3M N95 masks.&nbsp;

Other items that scammers promote include luggage, collectibles, and 
medical/nutrition products. BBBs analysis also shows that pets and pet 
supplies are the riskiest online purchase scams, with 70% of people 
losing money, and a median dollar loss of $750. The French Bulldog was 
the top breed used to perpetuate puppy scams.

BBB offers the following tips on how to identify a potential online shopping scam:

To check the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/search" target="_blank">reliability of a company</a>, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/" target="_blank">BBB.org</a>.&nbsp;To report a scam, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/ScamTracker" target="_blank">BBB.org/ScamTracker</a>.&nbsp;Find more <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/holiday" target="_blank">online holiday shopping tips</a> from BBB.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579883951052.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BBBExperts are predicting an earlier start to the 2021 holiday shopping 
season because of supply chain concerns and holiday hiring. This entices
 scammers to find ways to take advantage of the situation. According to 
the analysis of <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/26013-online-purchase-scams-up-bbb-warns-holiday-shopping-is-at-risk" target="_blank">online purchase scam reports</a>
 submitted to BBB Scam Tracker, more than 400 different types of 
products were used by scammers to perpetrate fraud, including 
counterfeit products.Scammers may capitalize on what people are looking for online, paying
 close attention to the most sought-after gifts such as electronics, 
toys, and other trendy gift items. Footwear and apparel were the most 
common counterfeit product types, with Nike the most impostered brand. 
Other top brands that scammers focus on, according to BBB research, 
include NFL clothing, Apple gadgets, Louis Vuitton handbags, Tiffany 
jewelry, LEGO toys, and 3M N95 masks.&nbsp;Other items that scammers promote include luggage, collectibles, and 
medical/nutrition products. BBBs analysis also shows that pets and pet 
supplies are the riskiest online purchase scams, with 70% of people 
losing money, and a median dollar loss of $750. The French Bulldog was 
the top breed used to perpetuate puppy scams.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637159358617.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BBB offers the following tips on how to identify a potential online shopping scam:<ul>
 <li>Watch for low-priced or mid-priced items, usually in the hundreds of
 dollar range for an item that is typically offered at a much higher 
price at a retailer.</li><li>Consumers expect quality from things like shoes, clothing, and 
jewelry. If an online search for these items comes up with a range of 
items between $100 to $300 and associated with a name brand or a popular
 luxury item versus a search using a designer name and presents a much 
higher priced result, chances are it is probably not the real product.</li><li>Read the website and look for grammatical errors. Typographical 
errors indicate the site was more than likely put together quickly.</li><li>Search for contact information. Search for a phone, email address, 
online chat function, and check to see if there is a brick-and-mortar 
address for the business.</li><li>Check BBB. If a business displays a BBB Accredited Business seal, verify its legitimacy by going to <a href="https://www.bbb.org" target="_blank">BBB.org </a>and looking up the company.</li>
 </ul>To check the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/search" target="_blank">reliability of a company</a>, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/" target="_blank">BBB.org</a>.&nbsp;To report a scam, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/ScamTracker" target="_blank">BBB.org/ScamTracker</a>.&nbsp;Find more <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/holiday" target="_blank">online holiday shopping tips</a> from BBB.&nbsp;

Watch out for counterfeit items when shopping online this holiday season

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting and have made an arrest. Just before 1 a.m. Tuesday, police responded to a shooting call at a home in the 2800 block of West Maple in Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidson.

 Upon arrival, officers located 27-year-old Matthew Rodriguez  who had been shot multiple times. He was pronounced deceased on the scene.

Police contacted 28-year-old Charles Burnham and another 30-year-old man who were at the home, according to Davidson.

The investigation revealed that all three men live at the home together and that Rodriguez  had made statements of ending his life.&nbsp; Rodriguez &nbsp;shot himself one time and Burnham then immediately obtained the handgun and fired multiple shots striking him, according to Davidson.

Burnham is being held on requested charges of&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20073367">first-degree murder.</a>&nbsp;Investigators will present the case to the Sedgwick County District Attorney.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637084856781.png" alt="Burnham -photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Burnham -photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting and have made an arrest. Just before 1 a.m. Tuesday, police responded to a shooting call at a home in the 2800 block of West Maple in Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidson. Upon arrival, officers located 27-year-old Matthew Rodriguez who had been shot multiple times. He was pronounced deceased on the scene.Police contacted 28-year-old Charles Burnham and another 30-year-old man who were at the home, according to Davidson.The investigation revealed that all three men live at the home together and that Rodriguez had made statements of ending his life.&nbsp; Rodriguez &nbsp;shot himself one time and Burnham then immediately obtained the handgun and fired multiple shots striking him, according to Davidson.Burnham is being held on requested charges of&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20073367">first-degree murder.</a>&nbsp;Investigators will present the case to the Sedgwick County District Attorney.

Police: Kan. man shot, killed roommate who had shot himself

By STEPHEN KORANDA <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-11-10/heres-what-it-would-take-to-remove-a-kansas-lawmaker-charged-with-domestic-battery">Kansas News Service</a>

Kansas state Rep. Aaron Coleman could face a second complaint from his fellow Democratic lawmakers following his <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-10-31/kansas-rep-aaron-coleman-arrested-on-domestic-violence-charge" target="_blank">arrest last month</a> for an alleged domestic battery. And it appears less likely he’d emerge with a simple reprimand like he did last time.

Coleman,
 from Kansas City, Kansas, was the subject of a legislative complaint 
earlier this year based on allegations that he abused and threatened 
women before taking office. An investigative committee ultimately 
dismissed the charge and issued an informal letter of reprimand.

Coleman
 has a history of allegations of abuse and harassment. The 21-year-old 
narrowly defeated an incumbent in last year’s election. That prompted 
calls to remove him when the allegations came to light. He was also <a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-lifestyle-legislature-kansas-city-kansas-263a71a057314255fdf024b3acb34782" target="_blank">recently banned</a> from a state Department of Labor facility.

Democrats on the committee earlier this year initially wanted harsher
 punishment — like a formal censure or expulsion from the Legislature.

“There
 has to be something done, because otherwise this is a slap in the face 
to all those people who are his victims,” Democratic Rep. Cindy Neighbor
 said at the January hearing.

But those efforts couldn’t advance 
because Republicans didn’t want to take more severe action over fear of 
setting a precedent. They said there was no previous instance of a 
lawmaker facing discipline for actions before they took office.

“I
 don’t want to set a precedent that has never been done before in Kansas
 history,” Republican Rep. John Barker said when opposing any formal 
action against Coleman.

If lawmakers file a new complaint against 
Coleman, committee members wouldn’t have the same concerns about setting
 a new precedent. In this case, Coleman would face discipline for 
actions he took while he was a sitting lawmaker.

Few details have so far been released on Coleman’s arrest last month, but <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-11-01/kansas-state-rep-aaron-coleman-of-kansas-city-kansas-pleads-not-guilty-to-domestic-violence-charge" target="_blank">court documents</a>
 appear to show the battery charge stems from an alleged altercation 
with a family member. It appears that the family member may be Coleman’s
 brother.

A group of women Democratic legislators say they will 
file a new complaint seeking expulsion if Coleman doesn't step down 
following the battery charge.

“We are alarmed that an individual 
remains in a position of power after continued documented accounts of 
violence,” the lawmakers said in a statement. “The message must be sent 
that violence and dangerous conduct won’t be tolerated.”

One of 
those lawmakers, Democratic Rep. Jo Ella Hoye, said the women had not 
set a deadline for Coleman to resign or face a new complaint.

If a
 new complaint is filed, a committee would be created to investigate. 
That panel would then decide whether to dismiss the complaint or 
recommend some disciplinary action to the full House, which could 
admonish him or kick him out of the Legislature.

With the 2022 
session slated to start Jan. 10, it’s unlikely a special investigative 
committee would be formed and consider a complaint before the next 
session starts.

Coleman did not respond to requests for comment.

Stephen Koranda is the news editor for the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Stephen_Koranda" target="_blank">@Stephen_Koranda</a> or email him at stephenkoranda@kcur.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637093014616.png" alt="Coleman at a protest earlier this year opposing calls to remove him from office. Stephen Koranda / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Coleman at a protest earlier this year opposing calls to remove him from office. Stephen Koranda / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By STEPHEN KORANDA <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-11-10/heres-what-it-would-take-to-remove-a-kansas-lawmaker-charged-with-domestic-battery">Kansas News Service</a>Kansas state Rep. Aaron Coleman could face a second complaint from his fellow Democratic lawmakers following his <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-10-31/kansas-rep-aaron-coleman-arrested-on-domestic-violence-charge" target="_blank">arrest last month</a> for an alleged domestic battery. And it appears less likely he’d emerge with a simple reprimand like he did last time.Coleman,
 from Kansas City, Kansas, was the subject of a legislative complaint 
earlier this year based on allegations that he abused and threatened 
women before taking office. An investigative committee ultimately 
dismissed the charge and issued an informal letter of reprimand.Coleman
 has a history of allegations of abuse and harassment. The 21-year-old 
narrowly defeated an incumbent in last year’s election. That prompted 
calls to remove him when the allegations came to light. He was also <a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-lifestyle-legislature-kansas-city-kansas-263a71a057314255fdf024b3acb34782" target="_blank">recently banned</a> from a state Department of Labor facility.Democrats on the committee earlier this year initially wanted harsher
 punishment — like a formal censure or expulsion from the Legislature.“There
 has to be something done, because otherwise this is a slap in the face 
to all those people who are his victims,” Democratic Rep. Cindy Neighbor
 said at the January hearing.But those efforts couldn’t advance 
because Republicans didn’t want to take more severe action over fear of 
setting a precedent. They said there was no previous instance of a 
lawmaker facing discipline for actions before they took office.“I
 don’t want to set a precedent that has never been done before in Kansas
 history,” Republican Rep. John Barker said when opposing any formal 
action against Coleman.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635804497310.png" alt="Coleman in his Johnson Co. booking photo" />
 <figcaption>Coleman in his Johnson Co. booking photo</figcaption>
 </figure>If lawmakers file a new complaint against 
Coleman, committee members wouldn’t have the same concerns about setting
 a new precedent. In this case, Coleman would face discipline for 
actions he took while he was a sitting lawmaker.Few details have so far been released on Coleman’s arrest last month, but <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-11-01/kansas-state-rep-aaron-coleman-of-kansas-city-kansas-pleads-not-guilty-to-domestic-violence-charge" target="_blank">court documents</a>
 appear to show the battery charge stems from an alleged altercation 
with a family member. It appears that the family member may be Coleman’s
 brother.A group of women Democratic legislators say they will 
file a new complaint seeking expulsion if Coleman doesn't step down 
following the battery charge.“We are alarmed that an individual 
remains in a position of power after continued documented accounts of 
violence,” the lawmakers said in a statement. “The message must be sent 
that violence and dangerous conduct won’t be tolerated.”One of 
those lawmakers, Democratic Rep. Jo Ella Hoye, said the women had not 
set a deadline for Coleman to resign or face a new complaint.If a
 new complaint is filed, a committee would be created to investigate. 
That panel would then decide whether to dismiss the complaint or 
recommend some disciplinary action to the full House, which could 
admonish him or kick him out of the Legislature.With the 2022 
session slated to start Jan. 10, it’s unlikely a special investigative 
committee would be formed and consider a complaint before the next 
session starts.Coleman did not respond to requests for comment.Stephen Koranda is the news editor for the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Stephen_Koranda" target="_blank">@Stephen_Koranda</a> or email him at stephenkoranda@kcur.org.

Kansas rep. allegedly hit brother, threatened grandfather on night of arrest

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — A second set of states has filed a federal lawsuit challenging the Biden administration's COVID-19 vaccine mandate for health care workers.

he latest suit, dated Monday, was filed in&nbsp;Louisiana&nbsp;on behalf of 12 states and comes less than a week after another lawsuit challenging the rule was filed in&nbsp;Missouri&nbsp;by a coalition of 10 states.

"The federal government will not impose medical tyranny on Louisiana’s people without my best fight," Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry said in a news release announcing the lawsuit.

Both lawsuits say the vaccine mandate threatens to drive away health care workers who refuse to get vaccinated at a time when such workers are badly needed. They also contend the rule issued by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services violates federal law and unconstitutionally encroaches on powers reserved to the states.

The Louisiana lawsuit quotes from Friday's order by the New Orleans-based 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals blocking a broader Biden administration vaccine mandate that businesses with more than 100 workers require employees to be vaccinated by Jan. 4 or wear masks and be tested weekly for COVID-19.

Borrowing language from the 5th Circuit, the Louisiana lawsuit calls the health care worker vaccine requirement a “one-size-fits-all” sledgehammer. In addition to Louisiana, the suit covers&nbsp;Montana,&nbsp;Arizona,&nbsp;Alabama,&nbsp;Georgia,&nbsp;Idaho,&nbsp;Indiana,&nbsp;Mississippi,&nbsp;Oklahoma,&nbsp;South Carolina,&nbsp;Utah&nbsp;and West&nbsp;Virginia.

The Missouri suit includes Kansas, Nebraska, Alaska,&nbsp;Arkansas,&nbsp;Iowa, New Hampshire,&nbsp;North Dakota,&nbsp;South Dakota&nbsp;and&nbsp;Wyoming.

The Biden administration has not yet filed responses in either of the suits.

The Louisiana-based lawsuit was assigned to U.S. District Judge Terry Doughty, an appointee of President Donald Trump. Any appeals of a Doughty decision would go to the 5th Circuit.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637099598329.png" alt="Protesters on November 12 against the hospital vaccine mandate in Wichita-photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Protesters on November 12 against the hospital vaccine mandate in Wichita-photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW ORLEANS (AP) — A second set of states has filed a federal lawsuit challenging the Biden administration's COVID-19 vaccine mandate for health care workers.he latest suit, dated Monday, was filed in&nbsp;Louisiana&nbsp;on behalf of 12 states and comes less than a week after another lawsuit challenging the rule was filed in&nbsp;Missouri&nbsp;by a coalition of 10 states."The federal government will not impose medical tyranny on Louisiana’s people without my best fight," Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry said in a news release announcing the lawsuit.Both lawsuits say the vaccine mandate threatens to drive away health care workers who refuse to get vaccinated at a time when such workers are badly needed. They also contend the rule issued by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services violates federal law and unconstitutionally encroaches on powers reserved to the states.The Louisiana lawsuit quotes from Friday's order by the New Orleans-based 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals blocking a broader Biden administration vaccine mandate that businesses with more than 100 workers require employees to be vaccinated by Jan. 4 or wear masks and be tested weekly for COVID-19.Borrowing language from the 5th Circuit, the Louisiana lawsuit calls the health care worker vaccine requirement a “one-size-fits-all” sledgehammer. In addition to Louisiana, the suit covers&nbsp;Montana,&nbsp;Arizona,&nbsp;Alabama,&nbsp;Georgia,&nbsp;Idaho,&nbsp;Indiana,&nbsp;Mississippi,&nbsp;Oklahoma,&nbsp;South Carolina,&nbsp;Utah&nbsp;and West&nbsp;Virginia.The Missouri suit includes Kansas, Nebraska, Alaska,&nbsp;Arkansas,&nbsp;Iowa, New Hampshire,&nbsp;North Dakota,&nbsp;South Dakota&nbsp;and&nbsp;Wyoming.The Biden administration has not yet filed responses in either of the suits.The Louisiana-based lawsuit was assigned to U.S. District Judge Terry Doughty, an appointee of President Donald Trump. Any appeals of a Doughty decision would go to the 5th Circuit.

2nd group of states challenges health worker vaccine mandate

KANSAS CITY (AP) — No one was reported injured after a police officer shot at a fleeing suspect’s car in Kansas City, police said.

The shooting happened around 11 p.m. Monday, police said in a news release. The shooting happened after a patrol officer spotted a vehicle speeding eastbound on East 31st Street toward U.S. Highway 40 and Interstate 435. An officer shot at the vehicle as it drove toward a second officer’s vehicle, police said.

The vehicle fled the scene, with no injuries from the shooting reported and no arrests made.

Police have not detailed why the officer shot at the speeding vehicle, but are investigating.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — No one was reported injured after a police officer shot at a fleeing suspect’s car in Kansas City, police said.The shooting happened around 11 p.m. Monday, police said in a news release. The shooting happened after a patrol officer spotted a vehicle speeding eastbound on East 31st Street toward U.S. Highway 40 and Interstate 435. An officer shot at the vehicle as it drove toward a second officer’s vehicle, police said.The vehicle fled the scene, with no injuries from the shooting reported and no arrests made.Police have not detailed why the officer shot at the speeding vehicle, but are investigating.

Report: Kansas City officer fired gun at speeding vehicle

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/boot-hill-casino-draftkings-set-groundwork-for-sports-wagering/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Managers of Boot Hill 
Casino &amp; Resort in Dodge City entered an agreement with a mobile 
sports gambling company in anticipation the state of Kansas would 
eventually adopt legislation and regulations to legalize that form of 
wagering.

DraftKings reached a deal with BHCMC, a subsidiary of Butler National
 Corp. that operates Boot Hill Casino, to eventually bring an online 
sportsbook to that western Kansas casino.

“DraftKings is a leader in this fast 
growing industry and will bring a trusted, experienced mobile sports 
betting application to sports fans in Kansas when the law allows,” said 
Clark Stewart, chief executive officer at Boot Hill Casino, said 
Tuesday.

Sports betting activity is legal in 29 states and the District of Columbia, but Kansas and Missouri have not joined that group.

The Kansas Legislature has struggled for years to find consensus on a
 sports gambling bill. A recent Senate version would have granted the 
four state-owned casinos significant control of the market, while the 
House was keen to emphasize development of sports betting through Kansas
 Lottery retailers.

The debate has grown complex with legislators fighting about revenue 
sharing, prospects of growth and other details. Organizations have 
advocated for inclusion in the bill a moratorium on wagering on 
greyhound races. In addition, there has been a push to allow Sedgwick 
County voters to reconsider a ban on placement of slot machines at the 
defunct Wichita Greyhound Park.

A new proposal would permit state-owned casinos in Pittsburg, Dodge 
City, Mulvane and Kansas City, Kansas, as well as casinos operated by 
federally recognized Native American tribes, to open retail sports books
 and to form business relationships with online providers.

The 2022 Legislature convenes in January, but there’s no guarantee a 
workable solution would be found to policy obstacles would emerge.

“We look forward to the opportunities
 that lay ahead and remain&nbsp; optimistic that Kansas lawmakers will enact 
common sense legislation that will benefit the state and its&nbsp; 
constituents,” said Jeremy Elbaum, senior vice president of business 
development at DraftKings. “As we
 continue our quest to expand our mobile sportsbook footprint to every 
state in the U.S., we are eager to begin working with Boot Hill Casino 
&amp; Resort.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637073249775.png" alt="Rep. John Barker, an Abilene Republican and chairman of the House Federal and State Affairs Committee, has taken the lead in the Kansas House on development of a bill legalizing sports gambling in Kansas. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Rep. John Barker, an Abilene Republican and chairman of the House Federal and State Affairs Committee, has taken the lead in the Kansas House on development of a bill legalizing sports gambling in Kansas. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/boot-hill-casino-draftkings-set-groundwork-for-sports-wagering/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Managers of Boot Hill 
Casino &amp; Resort in Dodge City entered an agreement with a mobile 
sports gambling company in anticipation the state of Kansas would 
eventually adopt legislation and regulations to legalize that form of 
wagering.DraftKings reached a deal with BHCMC, a subsidiary of Butler National
 Corp. that operates Boot Hill Casino, to eventually bring an online 
sportsbook to that western Kansas casino.“DraftKings is a leader in this fast 
growing industry and will bring a trusted, experienced mobile sports 
betting application to sports fans in Kansas when the law allows,” said 
Clark Stewart, chief executive officer at Boot Hill Casino, said 
Tuesday.Sports betting activity is legal in 29 states and the District of Columbia, but Kansas and Missouri have not joined that group.The Kansas Legislature has struggled for years to find consensus on a
 sports gambling bill. A recent Senate version would have granted the 
four state-owned casinos significant control of the market, while the 
House was keen to emphasize development of sports betting through Kansas
 Lottery retailers.The debate has grown complex with legislators fighting about revenue 
sharing, prospects of growth and other details. Organizations have 
advocated for inclusion in the bill a moratorium on wagering on 
greyhound races. In addition, there has been a push to allow Sedgwick 
County voters to reconsider a ban on placement of slot machines at the 
defunct Wichita Greyhound Park.A new proposal would permit state-owned casinos in Pittsburg, Dodge 
City, Mulvane and Kansas City, Kansas, as well as casinos operated by 
federally recognized Native American tribes, to open retail sports books
 and to form business relationships with online providers.The 2022 Legislature convenes in January, but there’s no guarantee a 
workable solution would be found to policy obstacles would emerge.“We look forward to the opportunities
 that lay ahead and remain&nbsp; optimistic that Kansas lawmakers will enact 
common sense legislation that will benefit the state and its&nbsp; 
constituents,” said Jeremy Elbaum, senior vice president of business 
development at DraftKings. “As we
 continue our quest to expand our mobile sportsbook footprint to every 
state in the U.S., we are eager to begin working with Boot Hill Casino 
&amp; Resort.”

Boot Hill Casino, DraftKings set groundwork for sports wagering

WASHINGTON (AP) — Republican Rep. Nancy Mace of South Carolina introduced legislation Monday to federally decriminalize marijuana, a measure she said would give states freer rein to pass their own laws and regulations without fear of federal reprisals.

The measure, which Mace said she hoped would garner broad GOP support, was met immediately with criticism from conservatives in her home state, some of whom vowed opposition to any effort toward legalization.

In announcing the bill during a Washington news conference on Monday, Mace said a half-dozen GOP House members would be original co-sponsors of the bill, which she said would aim to regulate marijuana similarly to alcohol and prohibit its use for anyone under 21 years of age.

The measure would decriminalize marijuana at the federal level, an impediment cited in many states that have opted not to pursue legalization on their own. But it would not change local-level restrictions, meaning that states would still determine their own marijuana statutes.

“It protects each state’s unique laws and reforms,” Mace said. “It takes into account at the federal level that every state is different.”

American support for marijuana legalization has grown, underscoring a national shift as more states have embraced cannabis for medical or recreational use. According to&nbsp;<a href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/356939/support-legal-marijuana-holds-record-high.aspx" target="_blank">a Gallup survey conducted earlier this year,</a>&nbsp;more than two in three Americans supported legalizing marijuana, maintaining a record-high reached a year earlier.

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, 36 states and four territories allow medical cannabis use, while 18 states, two territories and the District of Columbia allow non-medical, adult use.

But in South Carolina, where lawmakers have only passed one marijuana-related bill, allowing prescriptions for products with CBD — a hemp component that alone does not cause a “high” — Mace swiftly drew criticism from some conservatives over her proposal.

Calling marijuana “the number one gateway drug to the exploding opioid crisis that is ravaging our state,” Dave Wilson, president of Palmetto Family, a conservative Christian lobbying organization, warned in a statement that efforts to decriminalize marijuana “will make this crisis exponentially worse.”

Winning back Mace’s 1st District was among South Carolina Republicans’ top priorities in 2020, with GOP Chairman Drew McKissick appearing alongside Mace the day after she defeated U.S. Rep. Joe Cunningham.

But on Monday, McKissick swiftly released a statement rebuking Mace’s bill, not referencing her by name but saying the state GOP opposed “any effort to legalize, decriminalize the use of controlled substances, and that includes this bill.”

In his own campaign for South Carolina governor, Cunningham has already introduced a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-and-politics-marijuana-only-on-ap-8c3a1f6db3265e9eef2580461145a4bf">marijuana legalization proposal</a>&nbsp;of his own.

Mace’s proposal did garner support from some groups, like South Carolina’s arm of Americans for Prosperity, a political advocacy group funded by the Koch brothers, which lauded the effort as a “step in the right direction” for the leeway it would give states “to determine the best policies for cannabis governance in their states.”

The measure would tackle regulation of marijuana in three silos, giving the U.S. Department of Agriculture purview over growers, while the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives would oversee the cannabis industry. Medical marijuana would be regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, Mace said, adding that she would propose the drug be regulated similarly to alcohol.

It would also levy a 3% federal excise tax on all cannabis products, proceeds from which would go to small businesses, retraining law enforcement and mental health services, among other services. The measure would also expunge nonviolent, cannabis-only related offenses.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637076720518.png" alt="In announcing the bill during a Washington news conference on Monday, Rep. Mace said a half-dozen GOP House members would be original co-sponsors of the bill, which she said would aim to regulate marijuana similarly to alcohol and prohibit its use for anyone under 21 years of age.-photo courtesy office of Rep. Nancy Mace" />
 <figcaption>In announcing the bill during a Washington news conference on Monday, Rep. Mace said a half-dozen GOP House members would be original co-sponsors of the bill, which she said would aim to regulate marijuana similarly to alcohol and prohibit its use for anyone under 21 years of age.-photo courtesy office of Rep. Nancy Mace</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Republican Rep. Nancy Mace of South Carolina introduced legislation Monday to federally decriminalize marijuana, a measure she said would give states freer rein to pass their own laws and regulations without fear of federal reprisals.The measure, which Mace said she hoped would garner broad GOP support, was met immediately with criticism from conservatives in her home state, some of whom vowed opposition to any effort toward legalization.In announcing the bill during a Washington news conference on Monday, Mace said a half-dozen GOP House members would be original co-sponsors of the bill, which she said would aim to regulate marijuana similarly to alcohol and prohibit its use for anyone under 21 years of age.The measure would decriminalize marijuana at the federal level, an impediment cited in many states that have opted not to pursue legalization on their own. But it would not change local-level restrictions, meaning that states would still determine their own marijuana statutes.“It protects each state’s unique laws and reforms,” Mace said. “It takes into account at the federal level that every state is different.”American support for marijuana legalization has grown, underscoring a national shift as more states have embraced cannabis for medical or recreational use. According to&nbsp;<a href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/356939/support-legal-marijuana-holds-record-high.aspx" target="_blank">a Gallup survey conducted earlier this year,</a>&nbsp;more than two in three Americans supported legalizing marijuana, maintaining a record-high reached a year earlier.According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, 36 states and four territories allow medical cannabis use, while 18 states, two territories and the District of Columbia allow non-medical, adult use.But in South Carolina, where lawmakers have only passed one marijuana-related bill, allowing prescriptions for products with CBD — a hemp component that alone does not cause a “high” — Mace swiftly drew criticism from some conservatives over her proposal.Calling marijuana “the number one gateway drug to the exploding opioid crisis that is ravaging our state,” Dave Wilson, president of Palmetto Family, a conservative Christian lobbying organization, warned in a statement that efforts to decriminalize marijuana “will make this crisis exponentially worse.”Winning back Mace’s 1st District was among South Carolina Republicans’ top priorities in 2020, with GOP Chairman Drew McKissick appearing alongside Mace the day after she defeated U.S. Rep. Joe Cunningham.But on Monday, McKissick swiftly released a statement rebuking Mace’s bill, not referencing her by name but saying the state GOP opposed “any effort to legalize, decriminalize the use of controlled substances, and that includes this bill.”In his own campaign for South Carolina governor, Cunningham has already introduced a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-and-politics-marijuana-only-on-ap-8c3a1f6db3265e9eef2580461145a4bf">marijuana legalization proposal</a>&nbsp;of his own.Mace’s proposal did garner support from some groups, like South Carolina’s arm of Americans for Prosperity, a political advocacy group funded by the Koch brothers, which lauded the effort as a “step in the right direction” for the leeway it would give states “to determine the best policies for cannabis governance in their states.”The measure would tackle regulation of marijuana in three silos, giving the U.S. Department of Agriculture purview over growers, while the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives would oversee the cannabis industry. Medical marijuana would be regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, Mace said, adding that she would propose the drug be regulated similarly to alcohol.It would also levy a 3% federal excise tax on all cannabis products, proceeds from which would go to small businesses, retraining law enforcement and mental health services, among other services. The measure would also expunge nonviolent, cannabis-only related offenses.

GOP Rep's bill would federally decriminalize marijuana

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities&nbsp;investigating a fatal accident involving a 71-year-old man in a wheel chair released new details Tuesday morning.

Just before 8p.m. on Monday, police responded to an injury accident call in the 1900 block of North Hillside involving a vehicle and a pedestrian, according to Officer Charley Davidson.

Upon arrival, officers located the victim who was in critical condition. Life-saving measures were attempted by fire and EMS personnel, however, he succumbed to his injures on the scene.

The investigation revealed a 27-year-old man was driving north on Hillside and the victim was crossing Hillside in a wheelchair from the west to the east in a non-activated crosswalk at Stadium and Hillside,&nbsp;northwest of the Wichita State University campus.

The 27-year-old driver not see the victim and struck him. The driver stayed at the scene and contacted 911 for emergency assistance.

The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office. Police have not released the victim's name.

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A man in a wheelchair has died after being hit by a car as he crossed a street in Wichita. Police say the crash happened around 8 p.m. Monday in a business district just northwest of the Wichita State University campus. 

Police say the man was crossing Hillside Street when a northbound car hit him. The man was declared dead at the scene. Police have not released the man's name, but say he was in his 60s. 

The driver of the car remained at the scene of the crash and is cooperating with police. Investigators are trying to determine whether the man killed was crossing the street outside of the designated crosswalk.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637068129713.png" alt="First responders at the scene of the investigation-photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>First responders at the scene of the investigation-photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities&nbsp;investigating a fatal accident involving a 71-year-old man in a wheel chair released new details Tuesday morning.Just before 8p.m. on Monday, police responded to an injury accident call in the 1900 block of North Hillside involving a vehicle and a pedestrian, according to Officer Charley Davidson.Upon arrival, officers located the victim who was in critical condition. Life-saving measures were attempted by fire and EMS personnel, however, he succumbed to his injures on the scene.The investigation revealed a 27-year-old man was driving north on Hillside and the victim was crossing Hillside in a wheelchair from the west to the east in a non-activated crosswalk at Stadium and Hillside,&nbsp;northwest of the Wichita State University campus.The 27-year-old driver not see the victim and struck him. The driver stayed at the scene and contacted 911 for emergency assistance.The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office. Police have not released the victim's name.--------------WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A man in a wheelchair has died after being hit by a car as he crossed a street in Wichita. Police say the crash happened around 8 p.m. Monday in a business district just northwest of the Wichita State University campus. Police say the man was crossing Hillside Street when a northbound car hit him. The man was declared dead at the scene. Police have not released the man's name, but say he was in his 60s. The driver of the car remained at the scene of the crash and is cooperating with police. Investigators are trying to determine whether the man killed was crossing the street outside of the designated crosswalk.

Update: 71-year-old in wheelchair fatally hit by car near WSU campus

SEWARD COUNTY – The Liberal Police Department reported that 66-year-old Ida Knight, the subject of the statewide Silver Alert, was located safe, according to a statement from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.

SEWARD COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Liberal Police Department requested that the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Silver Alert for a missing Liberal woman, according to a media release from the KBI.

The whereabouts of Ida Knight, 66, are unknown, and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate her.

Ida Knight, 66, Liberal, was last seen between 1 and 2 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 16, at the Cottonwood Apartments on Millwood Circle, in Liberal. 

She was last seen wearing a white night gown and a dark-colored jacket. Knight may have had assistance leaving the area.

Knight is a 66-year-old white female, around 6 ft. tall, and weighing approximately 155 pounds. She has gray hair and hazel eyes. Knight typically uses a wheelchair, but is capable of walking short distances. She has been diagnosed with dementia.

If you see Ida Knight, or have information about her whereabouts, please immediately contact 911, or the Liberal Police Department at&nbsp;(620) 626-0150.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637080321872.png" alt="Knight-photo Liberal Police" />
 <figcaption>Knight-photo Liberal Police</figcaption>
 </figure>SEWARD COUNTY – The Liberal Police Department reported that 66-year-old Ida Knight, the subject of the statewide Silver Alert, was located safe, according to a statement from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.--------SEWARD COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Liberal Police Department requested that the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Silver Alert for a missing Liberal woman, according to a media release from the KBI.The whereabouts of Ida Knight, 66, are unknown, and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate her.Ida Knight, 66, Liberal, was last seen between 1 and 2 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 16, at the Cottonwood Apartments on Millwood Circle, in Liberal. She was last seen wearing a white night gown and a dark-colored jacket. Knight may have had assistance leaving the area.Knight is a 66-year-old white female, around 6 ft. tall, and weighing approximately 155 pounds. She has gray hair and hazel eyes. Knight typically uses a wheelchair, but is capable of walking short distances. She has been diagnosed with dementia.If you see Ida Knight, or have information about her whereabouts, please immediately contact 911, or the Liberal Police Department at&nbsp;(620) 626-0150.

Silver Alert canceled, missing SW Kansas woman found safe

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged scam involving gift cards.

Just before 2:30p.m. Monday, officers filed a report for theft by deception in the 100 block of Bluemont Ave. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 60-year-old woman reported an unknown suspect called her saying her Amazon account was hacked and she needed to purchase gift cards and provide them to the caller as a remedy.

The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $1,000.

Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged scam involving gift cards.Just before 2:30p.m. Monday, officers filed a report for theft by deception in the 100 block of Bluemont Ave. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 60-year-old woman reported an unknown suspect called her saying her Amazon account was hacked and she needed to purchase gift cards and provide them to the caller as a remedy.The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $1,000.Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

Police: Kansas woman lost $1,000 in phone scam

WASHINGTON
 — Over 2,500 criminal investigations, the identification of more than 
$10 billion from tax fraud and financial crimes, and a nearly 90% 
conviction rate are just a few highlights from the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p3583.pdf">IRS-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Fiscal Year 2021 Annual Report</a>&nbsp;PDF.
 The report, released Thursday, details statistics, important 
partnerships and significant criminal enforcement actions from IRS-CI, 
the criminal investigative arm of the IRS, for the past fiscal year, 
which began October 1, 2020 and ended September 30, 2021.

"IRS-CI agents are the only federal law enforcement officers with the
 authority to investigate criminal violations of the U.S. tax code. 
Their work reinforces the backbone of our voluntary compliance tax 
system – a system that funds services and benefits for our nation, 
including defense, infrastructure and education," said IRS Commissioner 
Chuck Rettig.

In fiscal year 2021, IRS-CI built upon its existing network of U.S. 
field offices and international attachés to combat financial crimes 
across the globe. The agency's alliance with the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/compliance/joint-chiefs-of-global-tax-enforcement">Joint Chiefs of Global Tax Enforcement (J5)</a>
 helped strengthen public-private partnerships with financial 
institutions and the Fin-Tech industry to deter and identify criminal 
activity. Additionally, IRS-CI established its first cyber attaché in 
The Hague, Netherlands, to proactively support cyber investigative needs
 in coordination with Europol.

"IRS-CI continues to lead tax and financial investigations here in 
the U.S. and across the globe," said IRS-CI Chief Jim Lee. "In fiscal 
year 2021, as we faced the second year of a global pandemic, our team of
 agents continued to overcome personal and professional challenges to 
target criminals who exploited the U.S. tax and financial systems for 
personal gain."

While IRS-CI agents spent most of their investigative man-hours, 
about 72%, investigating tax-related crimes like tax evasion and tax 
fraud during fiscal year 2021, they also made significant contributions 
to money laundering, narcotics trafficking, public corruption, terrorism
 and COVID-19 fraud investigations.

In April 2021, a dual Russian-Swedish national was arrested in Los 
Angeles on criminal charges related to his alleged operation of the 
longest-running bitcoin money laundering service on the darknet dubbed 
Bitcoin Fog. The bulk of cryptocurrency laundered through Bitcoin Fog 
came from darknet marketplaces and was tied to illegal narcotics, 
computer fraud and identity theft. This case marked the second U.S. 
prosecution of a cryptocurrency mixing service; both were investigated 
by IRS-CI.

The ringleader of a transnational criminal organization, with ties to
 the Sinaloa Cartel, operating in California and along the East Coast 
was sentenced to 33 years in prison in July 2021 for narcotics 
trafficking-related charges. The sentencing followed a multiagency 
operation dubbed Operation Cookout that netted 65 kilograms of illegal 
drugs, 24 firearms, more than $700,000 in cash and guilty pleas from 45 
defendants.

Numerous IRS-CI investigations resulted in individuals being 
sentenced for fraudulently obtaining small business relief loans under 
the CARES Act. One of those cases involved a Texas businessman who was 
sentenced in September 2021 to 31 months confinement and 36 months of 
supervised release after he created a scheme to fraudulently obtain more
 than $3.3 million in Paycheck Protection Program loans for personal 
use.

The report includes additional case examples for each U.S. field 
office, an overview of IRS-CI's international footprint, details about 
the specialized services provided by IRS-CI and investigative 
statistics, broken down by discipline, for fiscal year 2021.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON
 — Over 2,500 criminal investigations, the identification of more than 
$10 billion from tax fraud and financial crimes, and a nearly 90% 
conviction rate are just a few highlights from the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p3583.pdf">IRS-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Fiscal Year 2021 Annual Report</a>&nbsp;PDF.
 The report, released Thursday, details statistics, important 
partnerships and significant criminal enforcement actions from IRS-CI, 
the criminal investigative arm of the IRS, for the past fiscal year, 
which began October 1, 2020 and ended September 30, 2021."IRS-CI agents are the only federal law enforcement officers with the
 authority to investigate criminal violations of the U.S. tax code. 
Their work reinforces the backbone of our voluntary compliance tax 
system – a system that funds services and benefits for our nation, 
including defense, infrastructure and education," said IRS Commissioner 
Chuck Rettig.In fiscal year 2021, IRS-CI built upon its existing network of U.S. 
field offices and international attachés to combat financial crimes 
across the globe. The agency's alliance with the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/compliance/joint-chiefs-of-global-tax-enforcement">Joint Chiefs of Global Tax Enforcement (J5)</a>
 helped strengthen public-private partnerships with financial 
institutions and the Fin-Tech industry to deter and identify criminal 
activity. Additionally, IRS-CI established its first cyber attaché in 
The Hague, Netherlands, to proactively support cyber investigative needs
 in coordination with Europol."IRS-CI continues to lead tax and financial investigations here in 
the U.S. and across the globe," said IRS-CI Chief Jim Lee. "In fiscal 
year 2021, as we faced the second year of a global pandemic, our team of
 agents continued to overcome personal and professional challenges to 
target criminals who exploited the U.S. tax and financial systems for 
personal gain."While IRS-CI agents spent most of their investigative man-hours, 
about 72%, investigating tax-related crimes like tax evasion and tax 
fraud during fiscal year 2021, they also made significant contributions 
to money laundering, narcotics trafficking, public corruption, terrorism
 and COVID-19 fraud investigations.<h2>Case examples include:</h2>In April 2021, a dual Russian-Swedish national was arrested in Los 
Angeles on criminal charges related to his alleged operation of the 
longest-running bitcoin money laundering service on the darknet dubbed 
Bitcoin Fog. The bulk of cryptocurrency laundered through Bitcoin Fog 
came from darknet marketplaces and was tied to illegal narcotics, 
computer fraud and identity theft. This case marked the second U.S. 
prosecution of a cryptocurrency mixing service; both were investigated 
by IRS-CI.The ringleader of a transnational criminal organization, with ties to
 the Sinaloa Cartel, operating in California and along the East Coast 
was sentenced to 33 years in prison in July 2021 for narcotics 
trafficking-related charges. The sentencing followed a multiagency 
operation dubbed Operation Cookout that netted 65 kilograms of illegal 
drugs, 24 firearms, more than $700,000 in cash and guilty pleas from 45 
defendants.Numerous IRS-CI investigations resulted in individuals being 
sentenced for fraudulently obtaining small business relief loans under 
the CARES Act. One of those cases involved a Texas businessman who was 
sentenced in September 2021 to 31 months confinement and 36 months of 
supervised release after he created a scheme to fraudulently obtain more
 than $3.3 million in Paycheck Protection Program loans for personal 
use.The report includes additional case examples for each U.S. field 
office, an overview of IRS-CI's international footprint, details about 
the specialized services provided by IRS-CI and investigative 
statistics, broken down by discipline, for fiscal year 2021.

IRS: 90% conviction rate on $10B in tax and COVID frauds, cybercrime

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas woman shot by police after she pointed a gun at officers was scheduled for sentencing Tuesday, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. The hearing was continued and and authorities have not scheduled a new sentencing date, according to the DA's office.

Jennifer Miller, 34 of Wichita, was found guilty of aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer and criminal possession of a firearm.

On March 31, two police officers were proactively checking the Red Roof Inn, 7335 East Kellogg and Sky Palace, 7321 East Kellogg in Wichita after numerous calls and complaints over several months involving assaults, burglaries, drugs, stolen cars, underage parties and other things that would constitute a nuisance to the neighborhood and the businesses.

While checking the businesses, the officers saw a stolen Subaru Legacy behind the Red Roof Inn. The car had been reported stolen on March 30. As officers approached the car, they saw Miller enter the car's trunk, grab items and walk toward her room at the Sky Palace.

One officer approached Miller. A second officer arrived to assist and asked Miller for identification. Miller reached into her purse, pulled out a black handgun and pointed it at both officers, according to Wichita Police Captain Jason Stephens.

One officer pulled his handgun and fired one shot striking Miller in the neck. The officers began life saving measures and called EMS.&nbsp; She was transported to a local hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.&nbsp;

She was released from the hospital April 9 and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618056359501.png" alt="Miller photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Miller photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas woman shot by police after she pointed a gun at officers was scheduled for sentencing Tuesday, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. The hearing was continued and and authorities have not scheduled a new sentencing date, according to the DA's office.Jennifer Miller, 34 of Wichita, was found guilty of aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer and criminal possession of a firearm.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617291763952.png" alt="Photo from the officers body camera released by Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo from the officers body camera released by Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>On March 31, two police officers were proactively checking the Red Roof Inn, 7335 East Kellogg and Sky Palace, 7321 East Kellogg in Wichita after numerous calls and complaints over several months involving assaults, burglaries, drugs, stolen cars, underage parties and other things that would constitute a nuisance to the neighborhood and the businesses.While checking the businesses, the officers saw a stolen Subaru Legacy behind the Red Roof Inn. The car had been reported stolen on March 30. As officers approached the car, they saw Miller enter the car's trunk, grab items and walk toward her room at the Sky Palace.One officer approached Miller. A second officer arrived to assist and asked Miller for identification. Miller reached into her purse, pulled out a black handgun and pointed it at both officers, according to Wichita Police Captain Jason Stephens.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617293757915.png" alt="Miller has previous convictions that include ID theft, forgery, theft and flee and elude, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections-photo Sedgwick County&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Miller has previous convictions that include ID theft, forgery, theft and flee and elude, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections-photo Sedgwick County&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>One officer pulled his handgun and fired one shot striking Miller in the neck. The officers began life saving measures and called EMS.&nbsp; She was transported to a local hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.&nbsp;She was released from the hospital April 9 and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail.-----------

Sentencing delayed for Kan. woman shot by police after she pointed gun 

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today issued <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/n-21-63.pdf">Notice 2021-63</a>&nbsp;PDF
 to make clear how the temporary 100% business deduction for food or 
beverages from restaurants applies to taxpayers properly applying the 
rules of <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/rp-19-48.pdf">Revenue Procedure 2019-48</a>&nbsp;PDF for using per diem rates.

Previously, the IRS issued <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/n-21-25.pdf">Notice 2021-25</a>&nbsp;PDF
 providing guidance under the Taxpayer Certainty and Disaster Relief Act
 of 2020, which added a temporary exception to the 50% limit on the 
amount that businesses may deduct for food or beverages. The temporary 
exception allows a 100% deduction for food or beverages from 
restaurants, as long as the expense is paid or incurred in 2021 or 2022.

For a taxpayer properly applying the rules of Revenue Procedure 
2019-48,&nbsp;Notice 2021-63 provides a special rule that allows the taxpayer
 to treat the full meal portion of a per diem rate or allowance as being
 attributable to food or beverages from a restaurant beginning January 
1, 2021, through December 31, 2022.

Taxpayers should refer to section 6.05 of Revenue Procedure 2019-48 
to determine the meal portion of a per diem rate or allowance paid or 
incurred.

More information for <a href="https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/coronavirus-tax-relief-for-businesses-and-tax-exempt-entities">businesses seeking coronavirus-related tax relief</a> can be found at IRS.gov.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today issued <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/n-21-63.pdf">Notice 2021-63</a>&nbsp;PDF
 to make clear how the temporary 100% business deduction for food or 
beverages from restaurants applies to taxpayers properly applying the 
rules of <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/rp-19-48.pdf">Revenue Procedure 2019-48</a>&nbsp;PDF for using per diem rates.Previously, the IRS issued <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/n-21-25.pdf">Notice 2021-25</a>&nbsp;PDF
 providing guidance under the Taxpayer Certainty and Disaster Relief Act
 of 2020, which added a temporary exception to the 50% limit on the 
amount that businesses may deduct for food or beverages. The temporary 
exception allows a 100% deduction for food or beverages from 
restaurants, as long as the expense is paid or incurred in 2021 or 2022.For a taxpayer properly applying the rules of Revenue Procedure 
2019-48,&nbsp;Notice 2021-63 provides a special rule that allows the taxpayer
 to treat the full meal portion of a per diem rate or allowance as being
 attributable to food or beverages from a restaurant beginning January 
1, 2021, through December 31, 2022.Taxpayers should refer to section 6.05 of Revenue Procedure 2019-48 
to determine the meal portion of a per diem rate or allowance paid or 
incurred.More information for <a href="https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/coronavirus-tax-relief-for-businesses-and-tax-exempt-entities">businesses seeking coronavirus-related tax relief</a> can be found at IRS.gov.

IRS clarifies rules for deducting business meals from taxes

BEIJING (AP) — China on Tuesday hailed a virtual meeting between President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Joe Biden, saying they had a candid and constructive exchange that sent a strong signal to the world.

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?516101-1/president-biden-holds-virtual-meeting-president-china">Click here to watch</a> a portion of the virtual meeting

The positive description of the meeting came in sharp contrast to heated exchanges between the two nations earlier this year. The talks appeared to mark what both sides hoped would be a turnaround in relations, though major differences remain.

“If China-U.S. relations cannot return to the past, they should face the future,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said.

The video conference between the two leaders and their senior aides lasted more than three hours and was their first formal meeting since Biden took office in January.

Facing domestic pressures at home, both Biden and Xi seemed determined to lower the temperature in what for both sides is their most significant — and frequently turbulent — relationship on the global stage.

“As I’ve said before, it seems to me our responsibility as leaders of China and the United States is to ensure that the competition between our countries does not veer into conflict, whether intended or unintended,” Biden told Xi at the start of their virtual meeting Monday. “Just simple, straightforward competition.”

The White House set low expectations for the meeting, and no major announcements or even a joint statement were delivered. Still, White House officials said the two leaders had a substantive exchange.

Xi greeted the U.S. president as his “old friend” and echoed Biden’s cordial tone in his own opening remarks, saying, “China and the United States need to increase communication and cooperation.”

However, Xi held a tough line on Taiwan, which Chinese officials had signaled would be a top issue for them at the talks. Tensions have heightened as the Chinese military has dispatched an increasing number of fighter jets near the self-ruled island, which Beijing considers part of its territory.

Xi blamed the tensions on Taiwan seeking to attain independence through reliance on the U.S. and some on the American side using Taiwan as a way to interefere in China, the official Xinhua News Agency said.

“This is extremely dangerous, it’s playing with fire, and they that play with fire will burn themselves,” Xi was quoted as saying by the agency.

Chinese military forces held exercises last week near Taiwan in response to a visit by a U.S. congressional delegation to the island.

The White House said Biden reiterated the U.S. will abide by the longstanding U.S. “One China” policy, which recognizes Beijing but allows informal relations and defense ties with Taipei. But Biden also made clear the U.S. “strongly opposes unilateral efforts to change the status quo or undermine peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait,” the White House said.

The relationship has had no shortage of tension since Biden strode into the White House in January and quickly criticized Beijing for human rights abuses against Uyghurs in northwest China, suppression of democratic protests in Hong Kong, military aggression against the self-ruled island of Taiwan and more. Xi’s deputies, meanwhile, have lashed out against the Biden White House for interfering in what they see as internal Chinese matters.

The White House in a statement said that Biden again raised concerns about China’s human rights practices, and made clear that he sought to “protect American workers and industries from the PRC’s unfair trade and economic practices.” The two also spoke about key regional challenges, including North Korea, Afghanistan and Iran.

As U.S.-China tensions have mounted, both leaders also have found themselves under the weight of increased challenges in their own backyards.

Biden, who has watched his poll numbers diminish amid concerns about the lingering coronavirus pandemic, inflation and supply chain problems, was looking to find a measure of equilibrium on the most consequential foreign policy matter he faces.

Xi, meanwhile, is facing a COVID-19 resurgence, rampant energy shortages, and a looming housing crisis that Biden officials worry could cause tremors in the global market.

“Right now, both China and the United States are at critical stages of development, and humanity lives in a global village, and we face multiple challenges together,” Xi said.

The U.S. president was joined in the Roosevelt Room for the video call by Secretary of State Antony Blinken and a handful of aides. Xi, for his part, was accompanied in the East Hall of the Great Hall of the People by communist party director Ding Xuexiang and a number of advisers.

The high-level diplomacy had a touch of pandemic Zoom meeting informality as the two leaders waved to each other once they saw one another on the screen, with Xi telling Biden, “It’s the first time for us to meet virtually, although it’s not as good as a face-to-face meeting.”

Biden would have preferred to meet Xi in person, but the Chinese leader has not left his country since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. The White House floated the idea of a virtual meeting as the next best thing to allow for the two leaders to have a candid conversation about a wide range of strains in the relationship.

With Beijing set to host the Winter Olympics in February and Xi expected to be approved by Communist Party leaders to serve as party leader next year and then a third term as president in 2023 — unprecedented in recent Chinese history — the Chinese leader may be looking to stabilize the relationship in the near term.

Both leaders gave nods to their history with the other. Biden noted that the two have spent an “awful ... lot of time” speaking to each other over the years, and have never walked away “wondering what the other man is thinking.”

But the public warmth — Xi referred to Biden as his “old friend” when the then-vice president visited China in 2013, while Biden spoke of their “friendship” — has cooled now that both men are heads of state. Biden bristled in June when asked by a reporter if he would press his old friend to cooperate with a World Health Organization investigation into the coronavirus origins.

Xi, however, seemed interested in publicly reviving the warmth of the earlier days of their relationship, saying, “I am very happy to see my old friend.”

Despite the tensions, there have been moments of progress in the U.S.-China relationship over the past months.

Last week, the two countries pledged at U.N. climate talks in Glasgow, Scotland, to increase their cooperation and speed up action to rein in climate-damaging emissions.

The White House has said it views cooperation on climate change as something in China’s interest, something the two nations should cooperate on despite differences on other aspects of the relationship.

“None of this is a favor to either of our countries — what we do for one another — but it’s just responsible world leadership,” Biden told Xi. “You’re a major world leader, and so is the United States.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637027480993.png" alt="The White House set low expectations for the meeting, and no major announcements or even a joint statement were delivered-photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>The White House set low expectations for the meeting, and no major announcements or even a joint statement were delivered-photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>BEIJING (AP) — China on Tuesday hailed a virtual meeting between President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Joe Biden, saying they had a candid and constructive exchange that sent a strong signal to the world.<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?516101-1/president-biden-holds-virtual-meeting-president-china">Click here to watch</a> a portion of the virtual meetingThe positive description of the meeting came in sharp contrast to heated exchanges between the two nations earlier this year. The talks appeared to mark what both sides hoped would be a turnaround in relations, though major differences remain.“If China-U.S. relations cannot return to the past, they should face the future,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said.The video conference between the two leaders and their senior aides lasted more than three hours and was their first formal meeting since Biden took office in January.Facing domestic pressures at home, both Biden and Xi seemed determined to lower the temperature in what for both sides is their most significant — and frequently turbulent — relationship on the global stage.“As I’ve said before, it seems to me our responsibility as leaders of China and the United States is to ensure that the competition between our countries does not veer into conflict, whether intended or unintended,” Biden told Xi at the start of their virtual meeting Monday. “Just simple, straightforward competition.”The White House set low expectations for the meeting, and no major announcements or even a joint statement were delivered. Still, White House officials said the two leaders had a substantive exchange.Xi greeted the U.S. president as his “old friend” and echoed Biden’s cordial tone in his own opening remarks, saying, “China and the United States need to increase communication and cooperation.”However, Xi held a tough line on Taiwan, which Chinese officials had signaled would be a top issue for them at the talks. Tensions have heightened as the Chinese military has dispatched an increasing number of fighter jets near the self-ruled island, which Beijing considers part of its territory.Xi blamed the tensions on Taiwan seeking to attain independence through reliance on the U.S. and some on the American side using Taiwan as a way to interefere in China, the official Xinhua News Agency said.“This is extremely dangerous, it’s playing with fire, and they that play with fire will burn themselves,” Xi was quoted as saying by the agency.Chinese military forces held exercises last week near Taiwan in response to a visit by a U.S. congressional delegation to the island.The White House said Biden reiterated the U.S. will abide by the longstanding U.S. “One China” policy, which recognizes Beijing but allows informal relations and defense ties with Taipei. But Biden also made clear the U.S. “strongly opposes unilateral efforts to change the status quo or undermine peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait,” the White House said.The relationship has had no shortage of tension since Biden strode into the White House in January and quickly criticized Beijing for human rights abuses against Uyghurs in northwest China, suppression of democratic protests in Hong Kong, military aggression against the self-ruled island of Taiwan and more. Xi’s deputies, meanwhile, have lashed out against the Biden White House for interfering in what they see as internal Chinese matters.The White House in a statement said that Biden again raised concerns about China’s human rights practices, and made clear that he sought to “protect American workers and industries from the PRC’s unfair trade and economic practices.” The two also spoke about key regional challenges, including North Korea, Afghanistan and Iran.As U.S.-China tensions have mounted, both leaders also have found themselves under the weight of increased challenges in their own backyards.Biden, who has watched his poll numbers diminish amid concerns about the lingering coronavirus pandemic, inflation and supply chain problems, was looking to find a measure of equilibrium on the most consequential foreign policy matter he faces.Xi, meanwhile, is facing a COVID-19 resurgence, rampant energy shortages, and a looming housing crisis that Biden officials worry could cause tremors in the global market.“Right now, both China and the United States are at critical stages of development, and humanity lives in a global village, and we face multiple challenges together,” Xi said.The U.S. president was joined in the Roosevelt Room for the video call by Secretary of State Antony Blinken and a handful of aides. Xi, for his part, was accompanied in the East Hall of the Great Hall of the People by communist party director Ding Xuexiang and a number of advisers.The high-level diplomacy had a touch of pandemic Zoom meeting informality as the two leaders waved to each other once they saw one another on the screen, with Xi telling Biden, “It’s the first time for us to meet virtually, although it’s not as good as a face-to-face meeting.”Biden would have preferred to meet Xi in person, but the Chinese leader has not left his country since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. The White House floated the idea of a virtual meeting as the next best thing to allow for the two leaders to have a candid conversation about a wide range of strains in the relationship.With Beijing set to host the Winter Olympics in February and Xi expected to be approved by Communist Party leaders to serve as party leader next year and then a third term as president in 2023 — unprecedented in recent Chinese history — the Chinese leader may be looking to stabilize the relationship in the near term.Both leaders gave nods to their history with the other. Biden noted that the two have spent an “awful ... lot of time” speaking to each other over the years, and have never walked away “wondering what the other man is thinking.”But the public warmth — Xi referred to Biden as his “old friend” when the then-vice president visited China in 2013, while Biden spoke of their “friendship” — has cooled now that both men are heads of state. Biden bristled in June when asked by a reporter if he would press his old friend to cooperate with a World Health Organization investigation into the coronavirus origins.Xi, however, seemed interested in publicly reviving the warmth of the earlier days of their relationship, saying, “I am very happy to see my old friend.”Despite the tensions, there have been moments of progress in the U.S.-China relationship over the past months.Last week, the two countries pledged at U.N. climate talks in Glasgow, Scotland, to increase their cooperation and speed up action to rein in climate-damaging emissions.The White House has said it views cooperation on climate change as something in China’s interest, something the two nations should cooperate on despite differences on other aspects of the relationship.“None of this is a favor to either of our countries — what we do for one another — but it’s just responsible world leadership,” Biden told Xi. “You’re a major world leader, and so is the United States.”___

🎥 Biden and Xi meet virtually as US-China tensions grow

JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug charges after a traffic stop.

Just before 4a.m. Sunday, a sheriff’s deputy stopped a Dodge SUV for a traffic infraction near 150th and Q. Road, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 Further investigation led to the arrest of Jesse Leroy Davis, 32, of Topeka.  Davis was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, no ignition interlock device and transporting an open container, according to Morse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637008278948.png" alt="Davis-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Davis-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug charges after a traffic stop.Just before 4a.m. Sunday, a sheriff’s deputy stopped a Dodge SUV for a traffic infraction near 150th and Q. Road, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. Further investigation led to the arrest of Jesse Leroy Davis, 32, of Topeka. Davis was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, no ignition interlock device and transporting an open container, according to Morse.

Sheriff: Kan. man drove with open container, not required interlock device

FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a second school threat in less than a week&nbsp; at USD 457.

Just before 10a.m. Monday, police were dispatched to 1901 Wilcox Street Edith Scheuerman Elementary School, 1901 Wilcox Street in Garden City for a possible criminal threat, according to a media release.

Officers were told that a social media account, created by an unknown user, contained suspected threats against students from the school. Through the course of the investigation, it was learned that there was no threat to the students or the school, and the incident occurred off school property.

On Thursday, police were informed of a suspected threat at Horace Good Middle School, 1412 north Main in Garden City, according to a media release.

Officers learned that a 13-year-old student made threats against the school, which were reported to Horace Good personnel by several students. 

Through the course of the investigation, it was learned there was no threat to the school or students. Disciplinary action has been taken by the school for the 13-year-old student.

The Garden City Police Department and USD 457 encouraged parents to monitor children's social media account(s). They encourage paraents to remind your child to immediately report any information about any school safety-related incidents to administrators/staff and/or police.

FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a second school threat in less than a week&nbsp; at USD 457.Just before 10a.m. Monday, police were dispatched to 1901 Wilcox Street Edith Scheuerman Elementary School, 1901 Wilcox Street in Garden City for a possible criminal threat, according to a media release.Officers were told that a social media account, created by an unknown user, contained suspected threats against students from the school. Through the course of the investigation, it was learned that there was no threat to the students or the school, and the incident occurred off school property.On Thursday, police were informed of a suspected threat at Horace Good Middle School, 1412 north Main in Garden City, according to a media release.Officers learned that a 13-year-old student made threats against the school, which were reported to Horace Good personnel by several students. Through the course of the investigation, it was learned there was no threat to the school or students. Disciplinary action has been taken by the school for the 13-year-old student.The Garden City Police Department and USD 457 encouraged parents to monitor children's social media account(s). They encourage paraents to remind your child to immediately report any information about any school safety-related incidents to administrators/staff and/or police.

Police: 2nd reported threat in a week at Kansas school district 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, some retailers started <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/business/23228-bbb-business-tip-get-your-business-ready-for-the-holidays" target="_blank">turning to outdoor pop-up shops</a>
 and, while in-store shopping is back, the pop-ups are not likely to go 
away yet. These temporary storefronts allow shoppers to avoid enclosed 
spaces while still getting to browse in-person. Indoor pop-up shops 
allow landlords look to fill vacant retail space in downtown areas and suburban malls.

The Better Business Bureau receives hundreds of complaints a year about temporary retail locations, reporting everything from poor quality merchandise to difficulty obtaining refunds after temporary stores have closed their doors. Pop-up shops can be fun, but keep the following BBB tips in mind if you choose to buy from one of them:&nbsp; Research store headquarters.&nbsp;If
 you are interested in trying a new or unfamiliar online merchant, ask 
the company for its physical location (address and phone number) so you 
can check its BBB Business Profile at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bbb.org/" target="_blank">BBB.org</a>. Ask how long a store will operate.&nbsp;If
 you are buying from a seasonal store, ask whether it will be open after
 the holiday and whether it will accept returns when the season is over.
 If not, consider buying elsewhere or taking more time to be sure the 
item is exactly what you want before making the purchase.&nbsp; Review purchase policies.&nbsp;Determine
 the company's refund and return policies before you buy. If pop-up 
shops cannot offer concrete commitments on how they will handle any 
potential problems you may have with their products or services, 
reconsider doing business with them.&nbsp; Shop around.
 Pop-ups often focus on unique or high-quality gifts that you may not 
find elsewhere, but some are simply mini versions of discount retailers,
 offering holiday-themed goods that may be available for less at a 
traditional retailer.&nbsp; Pay attention to quality.
 Occasionally, pop-ups sell counterfeit products, so be cautious when 
purchasing designer goods or that latest “must have” gifts. Prices that 
are dramatically lower than regular retail stores may be a red flag that
 the items are either stolen or counterfeit.&nbsp; Know the terms of any product or service guarantees.&nbsp;If
 you are purchasing anything that comes with a manufacturer’s warranty, 
ask how you will be able to get the product serviced if needed.&nbsp; Guard your personal information.
 For small items, you might be better off paying in cash so you don’t 
have to share any personal information. Just be sure you understand that
 you probably won’t have any recourse if something is not right. For 
larger items, paying with a credit card can provide additional 
protections if there are problems and the retailer disappears. Make sure
 you hang on to the receipt to match it against your credit card 
statement. Consider whether the gift is for a hard-to-please recipient.
 If you are planning a gift for someone who might need or want to return
 it, consider buying from a retailer with a long-standing business, 
strong reputation, and well-established return policies, instead of a 
pop-up shop.&nbsp; Whenever possible, ask for a gift receipt that would make a
 return or exchange easier, if necessary.

Thanks to BBB of Eastern North Carolina and BBB Metro New York for their contribution to this tip.

For more holiday tips, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/holiday-tips/" target="_blank">BBB Holiday Tips page</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579883951052.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BBBDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, some retailers started <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/business/23228-bbb-business-tip-get-your-business-ready-for-the-holidays" target="_blank">turning to outdoor pop-up shops</a>
 and, while in-store shopping is back, the pop-ups are not likely to go 
away yet. These temporary storefronts allow shoppers to avoid enclosed 
spaces while still getting to browse in-person. Indoor pop-up shops 
allow landlords look to fill vacant retail space in downtown areas and suburban malls. The Better Business Bureau receives hundreds of complaints a year about temporary retail locations, reporting everything from poor quality merchandise to difficulty obtaining refunds after temporary stores have closed their doors. Pop-up shops can be fun, but keep the following BBB tips in mind if you choose to buy from one of them:&nbsp; Research store headquarters.&nbsp;If
 you are interested in trying a new or unfamiliar online merchant, ask 
the company for its physical location (address and phone number) so you 
can check its BBB Business Profile at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bbb.org/" target="_blank">BBB.org</a>. Ask how long a store will operate.&nbsp;If
 you are buying from a seasonal store, ask whether it will be open after
 the holiday and whether it will accept returns when the season is over.
 If not, consider buying elsewhere or taking more time to be sure the 
item is exactly what you want before making the purchase.&nbsp; Review purchase policies.&nbsp;Determine
 the company's refund and return policies before you buy. If pop-up 
shops cannot offer concrete commitments on how they will handle any 
potential problems you may have with their products or services, 
reconsider doing business with them.&nbsp; Shop around.
 Pop-ups often focus on unique or high-quality gifts that you may not 
find elsewhere, but some are simply mini versions of discount retailers,
 offering holiday-themed goods that may be available for less at a 
traditional retailer.&nbsp; Pay attention to quality.
 Occasionally, pop-ups sell counterfeit products, so be cautious when 
purchasing designer goods or that latest “must have” gifts. Prices that 
are dramatically lower than regular retail stores may be a red flag that
 the items are either stolen or counterfeit.&nbsp; Know the terms of any product or service guarantees.&nbsp;If
 you are purchasing anything that comes with a manufacturer’s warranty, 
ask how you will be able to get the product serviced if needed.&nbsp; Guard your personal information.
 For small items, you might be better off paying in cash so you don’t 
have to share any personal information. Just be sure you understand that
 you probably won’t have any recourse if something is not right. For 
larger items, paying with a credit card can provide additional 
protections if there are problems and the retailer disappears. Make sure
 you hang on to the receipt to match it against your credit card 
statement. Consider whether the gift is for a hard-to-please recipient.
 If you are planning a gift for someone who might need or want to return
 it, consider buying from a retailer with a long-standing business, 
strong reputation, and well-established return policies, instead of a 
pop-up shop.&nbsp; Whenever possible, ask for a gift receipt that would make a
 return or exchange easier, if necessary.Thanks to BBB of Eastern North Carolina and BBB Metro New York for their contribution to this tip.For more holiday tips, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/holiday-tips/" target="_blank">BBB Holiday Tips page</a>.Cover image courtesy Pixabay

Tips for dealing with, shopping at holiday pop-up shops

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas City, Kansas, woman was charged Monday with first-degree murder in the death of a woman who died after she was caught in a crossfire as she drove home from her church.

Melanie Perry, 29, was charged in the death of Lillian Jackson, 62, on Sept. 18. She has been held in the Wyandotte County Jail on other charges since Oct. 20.

Authorities said Jackson, of Kansas City, Kansas, was driving home from Mount Zion Baptist Church when she was caught in the crossfire of a rolling gun battle. Her car was hit several times and she died instantly, police said.

Police Chief Karl Oakman said a tip from a member of the public led to Perry’s arrest. No other suspects in Jackson’s death have been named.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637014128359.png" alt="Perry-photo Wyandotte Co." />
 <figcaption>Perry-photo Wyandotte Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas City, Kansas, woman was charged Monday with first-degree murder in the death of a woman who died after she was caught in a crossfire as she drove home from her church.Melanie Perry, 29, was charged in the death of Lillian Jackson, 62, on Sept. 18. She has been held in the Wyandotte County Jail on other charges since Oct. 20.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633207338009.png" alt="The victim Lillian Jackson-photo KCK PD" />
 <figcaption>The victim Lillian Jackson-photo KCK PD</figcaption>
 </figure>Authorities said Jackson, of Kansas City, Kansas, was driving home from Mount Zion Baptist Church when she was caught in the crossfire of a rolling gun battle. Her car was hit several times and she died instantly, police said.Police Chief Karl Oakman said a tip from a member of the public led to Perry’s arrest. No other suspects in Jackson’s death have been named.

Woman charged in death of Kan. woman driving home from church

JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects&nbsp;following a weekend pursuit

Just before 2a.m. Nov. 13, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office was notified that the PBPN Police were in pursuit with a vehicle near 174th and L. Road, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636907829369.png" alt="Benton photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Benton photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects&nbsp;following a weekend pursuitJust before 2a.m. Nov. 13, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office was notified that the PBPN Police were in pursuit with a vehicle near 174th and L. Road, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.The black Saturn approached K-16 Highway, headed east into Holton and east on K-116 Highway. A Jackson County Deputy deployed a tire deflation device which eventually disabled the Saturn in the 14000 block of K-116 Highway.Deputies placed two of the four occupants under arrest. The driver, Dustin Dean Benton, 45, of Meriden was arrested on requested charges that include possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, felony flee and eluding and traffic charges.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636907804055.png" alt="Arb-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Arb-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure> A passenger, Kristina Marie Arb, 56, Olathe is jailed on requested charges that include possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. The Holton Police Department assisted with the capture of these suspects.