WASHINGTON— In a call with radio stations from across Kansas on Friday,&nbsp; U.S. Senator Roger Marshall said the price tag for President Biden's infrastructure package could be even higher than is being reported.

"If all this legislation goes through that the President and the Democrats are wanting, it will be $7 trillion of spending over 10 years," Marshall said. "They're playing some budget gimmicks right now, where they are saying, maybe it's only $1.5 trillion. Only $1.5 trillion. If these programs would go through for the next 10 years, if they are reauthorized, I think it will still be $7 trillion. I think that's reckless spending, and that's on top of our annual budgets already."

Marshall is concerned about the continued threat of an increase of the stepped up basis on the sale of farmland.

"The land that my grandparents paid $50 an acre for back in 1910, is probably worth $2000 an acre," Marshall said. "My parents own that land now and someday, my brother and sister and I will inherit it. They would ask us to pay some type of tax on that increase. It would force us to sell the farm."

Marshall also believes that there will be an alternative minimum tax on corporations to help pay for the administration's spending.

"The latest is, they are going to do something with corporate taxes," Marshall said. "It sounds like Joe Manchin and probably Kyrsten Sinema moreso have pushed back on the taxing part of it for the corporations, but they're going to have an alternative minimum tax. Just remember, any type of corporate tax, 70% of that's going to go back to hard working Kansas. They'll be paying 70% of that tax increase, as well."

Marshall said that inflation is one of the top concerns he is hearing about from Kansans, along with the proposed vaccine mandates from the Biden administration.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635518423886.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELLHutch PostWASHINGTON— In a call with radio stations from across Kansas on Friday,&nbsp; U.S. Senator Roger Marshall said the price tag for President Biden's infrastructure package could be even higher than is being reported."If all this legislation goes through that the President and the Democrats are wanting, it will be $7 trillion of spending over 10 years," Marshall said. "They're playing some budget gimmicks right now, where they are saying, maybe it's only $1.5 trillion. Only $1.5 trillion. If these programs would go through for the next 10 years, if they are reauthorized, I think it will still be $7 trillion. I think that's reckless spending, and that's on top of our annual budgets already."Marshall is concerned about the continued threat of an increase of the stepped up basis on the sale of farmland."The land that my grandparents paid $50 an acre for back in 1910, is probably worth $2000 an acre," Marshall said. "My parents own that land now and someday, my brother and sister and I will inherit it. They would ask us to pay some type of tax on that increase. It would force us to sell the farm."Marshall also believes that there will be an alternative minimum tax on corporations to help pay for the administration's spending."The latest is, they are going to do something with corporate taxes," Marshall said. "It sounds like Joe Manchin and probably Kyrsten Sinema moreso have pushed back on the taxing part of it for the corporations, but they're going to have an alternative minimum tax. Just remember, any type of corporate tax, 70% of that's going to go back to hard working Kansas. They'll be paying 70% of that tax increase, as well."Marshall said that inflation is one of the top concerns he is hearing about from Kansans, along with the proposed vaccine mandates from the Biden administration.

Marshall: Price tag for infrastructure bill likely more than reported

JOHNSON COUNTY—A Kansas sheriff's department is hiring and sent a strong message Thursday to unvaccinated officers from across the nation.

In a social media message,&nbsp;Johnson County, Kansas Sheriff Calvin Hayden said, "We have a place for you. The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office is a safe haven for law enforcement officers who feel unsupported and undervalued by their communities and their government leaders."

 “True to our Midwestern values, Johnson County is a place where freedom is valued, and law enforcement is respected. The support our citizens have shown over the last several years has been overwhelming," said Hayden. 

In dozens of cities across the United States, men and women in uniform are being faced with a decision that jeopardizes their family’s livelihood – to stay or to go. Shrinking budgets, low morale and government overreach are just a few of the reasons behind the law enforcement exodus happening in many agencies.

 Hayden wants those officers to know that won’t happen at his Sheriff’s Office. 

“People may say this is all about the vaccine, but that’s missing the point. This issue is so much more than that. This is about valuing, empowering and supporting individual decisions," said Hayden. 

"The Sheriff's Office is a large family of unique, highly-trained professionals dedicated to serving our citizens. We are proud of our diversity and professionalism. We trust our staff to make the best decisions for themselves and our citizens.

"Hayden says his employees are like family to him; their wellbeing is his top priority. Moreover, he says Johnson County offers the complete package for families looking to relocate: Great schools, safe neighborhoods, community support, an easy commute, a big sports town, beautiful parks, and most importantly, jobs. Plus, we are halfway to anywhere in the country. 

Hayden emphasizes the diversity of the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, with employees from all over the globe, from Scotland to California. Additionally, at least 16 languages are currently spoken by employees of the Sheriff’s Office. Equal opportunity is provided to all. “We are blessed here in Johnson County to have a safe, friendly and welcoming environment for raising families. Our citizens support our mission and we are looking for the best of the best to continue our tradition of excellence," said Hayden. 

The sheriff&nbsp; encourage any first responders who are looking for a positive career change to go to their hiring website <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fjoinjcso.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR0qJsjVECjly55K1jkO1J3fp5OAc9dIZCAUPDeoFDLFVXFhWsdh9_6hOxg&amp;h=AT2JSJN2qdGJPxHZTOA9f1SqgjiyVNtxsX3k_KJQt6FLfOPG9hg7aVLZP58ae54pzFGJIPX5yU2zxcsyKsFUfPky_jVHahMuSuJ30COlfkyAd6UDGro_xJpnze6_KOO6ObEu-bo&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT0HzeZPnkmsRGyJXFTUEvCGIjDAGF3ZgozPn8v6eWOBPFUe1nqmbFDFR2BJvyhGMBUZpJUx1zFD-LXCApRMEWAEQDEoBvyLbC8xcMCIlVn8kOJtoUvcdBSkYTHu0kNmWMvn_PJLzsJ3NFNX8wGqwDT3JYKoYEEBjZ6BmL6AcX616Q" target="_blank">joinjcso.org</a>.

JOHNSON COUNTY—A Kansas sheriff's department is hiring and sent a strong message Thursday to unvaccinated officers from across the nation.In a social media message,&nbsp;Johnson County, Kansas Sheriff Calvin Hayden said, "We have a place for you. The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office is a safe haven for law enforcement officers who feel unsupported and undervalued by their communities and their government leaders." “True to our Midwestern values, Johnson County is a place where freedom is valued, and law enforcement is respected. The support our citizens have shown over the last several years has been overwhelming," said Hayden. In dozens of cities across the United States, men and women in uniform are being faced with a decision that jeopardizes their family’s livelihood – to stay or to go. Shrinking budgets, low morale and government overreach are just a few of the reasons behind the law enforcement exodus happening in many agencies. Hayden wants those officers to know that won’t happen at his Sheriff’s Office. “People may say this is all about the vaccine, but that’s missing the point. This issue is so much more than that. This is about valuing, empowering and supporting individual decisions," said Hayden. "The Sheriff's Office is a large family of unique, highly-trained professionals dedicated to serving our citizens. We are proud of our diversity and professionalism. We trust our staff to make the best decisions for themselves and our citizens."Hayden says his employees are like family to him; their wellbeing is his top priority. Moreover, he says Johnson County offers the complete package for families looking to relocate: Great schools, safe neighborhoods, community support, an easy commute, a big sports town, beautiful parks, and most importantly, jobs. Plus, we are halfway to anywhere in the country. Hayden emphasizes the diversity of the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, with employees from all over the globe, from Scotland to California. Additionally, at least 16 languages are currently spoken by employees of the Sheriff’s Office. Equal opportunity is provided to all. “We are blessed here in Johnson County to have a safe, friendly and welcoming environment for raising families. Our citizens support our mission and we are looking for the best of the best to continue our tradition of excellence," said Hayden. The sheriff&nbsp; encourage any first responders who are looking for a positive career change to go to their hiring website <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fjoinjcso.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR0qJsjVECjly55K1jkO1J3fp5OAc9dIZCAUPDeoFDLFVXFhWsdh9_6hOxg&amp;h=AT2JSJN2qdGJPxHZTOA9f1SqgjiyVNtxsX3k_KJQt6FLfOPG9hg7aVLZP58ae54pzFGJIPX5yU2zxcsyKsFUfPky_jVHahMuSuJ30COlfkyAd6UDGro_xJpnze6_KOO6ObEu-bo&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT0HzeZPnkmsRGyJXFTUEvCGIjDAGF3ZgozPn8v6eWOBPFUe1nqmbFDFR2BJvyhGMBUZpJUx1zFD-LXCApRMEWAEQDEoBvyLbC8xcMCIlVn8kOJtoUvcdBSkYTHu0kNmWMvn_PJLzsJ3NFNX8wGqwDT3JYKoYEEBjZ6BmL6AcX616Q" target="_blank">joinjcso.org</a>.

Kan. sheriff welcomes unvaccinated officers from other states

TOPEKA– Governor Kelly visited with students and educators from Dodge City USD 443 to view the Day of the Dead altar located in the Kansas Statehouse, according to a media release from her office.

“The students I visited with today went above and beyond to decorate this year's Day of the Dead altar,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“I appreciated their expertise, and the opportunity to join them to celebrate our state's diversity and the lives of those who have passed before us."

The&nbsp;Day of the Dead, or&nbsp;Día de los Muertos,&nbsp;is celebrated November 1-2. The holiday involves family and friends gathering to remember and pay respects to loved ones who have died. The altar and decorations will be on display in the first floor rotunda of the Kansas Statehouse until Tuesday, November 2, 2021.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635445723781.png" alt="The holiday involves family and friends gathering to remember and pay respects to loved ones who have died.-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The holiday involves family and friends gathering to remember and pay respects to loved ones who have died.-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA– Governor Kelly visited with students and educators from Dodge City USD 443 to view the Day of the Dead altar located in the Kansas Statehouse, according to a media release from her office.“The students I visited with today went above and beyond to decorate this year's Day of the Dead altar,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“I appreciated their expertise, and the opportunity to join them to celebrate our state's diversity and the lives of those who have passed before us."The&nbsp;Day of the Dead, or&nbsp;Día de los Muertos,&nbsp;is celebrated November 1-2. The holiday involves family and friends gathering to remember and pay respects to loved ones who have died. The altar and decorations will be on display in the first floor rotunda of the Kansas Statehouse until Tuesday, November 2, 2021.

Governor visits Day of the Dead celebration in Kan. Statehouse

NEMAHA COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) arrested the man who was shot by law enforcement officers during an incident outside his residence in Sabetha.

Just before 5 p.m. Thursday, KBI agents arrested Kelly J. Hall, 38, of Sabetha, for aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer. Hall had been receiving medical treatment at Stormont Vail hospital in Topeka, and was arrested as he was released from the hospital.

Just before 8 p.m. Oct. 20, the Sabetha Police Department and the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office responded to the report of a man who was threatening suicide, according to the KBI.

When officers arrived at 319 N. 9th Street in Sabetha, they tried to convince Hall to come outside so they could verify his welfare. He would not exit the house, so they attempted to communicate with him over their public announcement (PA) system.

During the incident officers heard several pops coming from inside the residence. Attempts to communicate continued until Hall stepped outside the front door holding an air-powered nail gun. Officers and deputies ordered him to drop the nail gun. Hall began firing nails in the direction of officers. A deputy from the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office and an officer from the Sabetha Police Department fired rounds at Hall, striking him. Shots were fired at around 9:45 p.m.

Hall retreated back into the residence. Officers and deputies entered the house and rendered aid to Hall. EMS responded and transported him to the Sabetha Community Hospital. He was later transferred to Stormont Vail in Topeka.

No law enforcement officers were injured during the incident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635513014441.png" alt="Hall is being held without bond" />
 <figcaption>Hall is being held without bond</figcaption>
 </figure>NEMAHA COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) arrested the man who was shot by law enforcement officers during an incident outside his residence in Sabetha.Just before 5 p.m. Thursday, KBI agents arrested Kelly J. Hall, 38, of Sabetha, for aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer. Hall had been receiving medical treatment at Stormont Vail hospital in Topeka, and was arrested as he was released from the hospital.Just before 8 p.m. Oct. 20, the Sabetha Police Department and the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office responded to the report of a man who was threatening suicide, according to the KBI.When officers arrived at 319 N. 9th Street in Sabetha, they tried to convince Hall to come outside so they could verify his welfare. He would not exit the house, so they attempted to communicate with him over their public announcement (PA) system.During the incident officers heard several pops coming from inside the residence. Attempts to communicate continued until Hall stepped outside the front door holding an air-powered nail gun. Officers and deputies ordered him to drop the nail gun. Hall began firing nails in the direction of officers. A deputy from the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office and an officer from the Sabetha Police Department fired rounds at Hall, striking him. Shots were fired at around 9:45 p.m.Hall retreated back into the residence. Officers and deputies entered the house and rendered aid to Hall. EMS responded and transported him to the Sabetha Community Hospital. He was later transferred to Stormont Vail in Topeka.No law enforcement officers were injured during the incident.

Kan. man who shot nail gun at officers moved from hospital to jail

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — A woman is facing a dozen charges, including second-degree murder, after prosecutors said she went on a violent rampage that left one man dead and another woman hospitalized. The Wyandotte County prosecutors office said Alyssa Leanne Arreola began the rampage early Wednesday when she stole a vehicle in Kansas City, Kansas. 

In the next several hours, Arreola allegedly was involved in two hit-and-run crashes, broke into a woman's home and stabbed her, and then fatally shot a man before stealing his car. The stabbing victim remains hospitalized. Authorities have not said what prompted Arreola's actions.

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Police in Kansas City, Kansas, say they've arrested a woman considered a person of interest in a violent rampage that saw a man fatally shot. Television station KCTV reports that the string of violence began around 7:30 a.m. Wednesday, when a woman reportedly stole a vehicle from a store parking lot. 

A few hours later, police say that car was involved in two separate hit-and-run crashes before the woman fled on foot. Police say they then received reports of a woman breaking into an elderly woman's apartment and stabbing the older woman before fleeing. 

About a block away, a man was fatally shot in his driveway and his car stolen. Police say they later found the car with the woman driving it and arrested her.

JOHNSON COUNTY—Late Wednesday afternoon, police recovered the red Hyundai Tucson the suspect was reportedly driving. Officers found it in Kansas City, Missouri. 

A short time later, officers arrested a white female - matching the suspect's description - on unrelated charges. At this time, our detectives consider her a person interest. Officials released no additional details.

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide and asking the public for help to locate a suspect.

On Wednesday afternoon, police in Kansas City, Kansas released a photo of a woman who is&nbsp;suspect in a homicide that took place shortly after 1p.m. in the 7900 block of Sandusky.&nbsp;&nbsp;

She is possibly armed and definitely dangerous. She was last seen eastbound on Interstate 70 in red Hyundai Tucson w Kansas Tag 237 NLE

 If you see her or the vehicle call 911.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635501503065.png" alt="Arreola-is being held in Jackson Co. Missouri&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Arreola-is being held in Jackson Co. Missouri&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — A woman is facing a dozen charges, including second-degree murder, after prosecutors said she went on a violent rampage that left one man dead and another woman hospitalized. The Wyandotte County prosecutors office said Alyssa Leanne Arreola began the rampage early Wednesday when she stole a vehicle in Kansas City, Kansas. In the next several hours, Arreola allegedly was involved in two hit-and-run crashes, broke into a woman's home and stabbed her, and then fatally shot a man before stealing his car. The stabbing victim remains hospitalized. Authorities have not said what prompted Arreola's actions.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635368127641.png" alt="Security camera images KCK&nbsp; police" />
 <figcaption>Security camera images KCK&nbsp; police</figcaption>
 </figure>------KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Police in Kansas City, Kansas, say they've arrested a woman considered a person of interest in a violent rampage that saw a man fatally shot. Television station KCTV reports that the string of violence began around 7:30 a.m. Wednesday, when a woman reportedly stole a vehicle from a store parking lot. A few hours later, police say that car was involved in two separate hit-and-run crashes before the woman fled on foot. Police say they then received reports of a woman breaking into an elderly woman's apartment and stabbing the older woman before fleeing. About a block away, a man was fatally shot in his driveway and his car stolen. Police say they later found the car with the woman driving it and arrested her.----------JOHNSON COUNTY—Late Wednesday afternoon, police recovered the red Hyundai Tucson the suspect was reportedly driving. Officers found it in Kansas City, Missouri. A short time later, officers arrested a white female - matching the suspect's description - on unrelated charges. At this time, our detectives consider her a person interest. Officials released no additional details.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635368221797.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>----------JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide and asking the public for help to locate a suspect.On Wednesday afternoon, police in Kansas City, Kansas released a photo of a woman who is&nbsp;suspect in a homicide that took place shortly after 1p.m. in the 7900 block of Sandusky.&nbsp;&nbsp;She is possibly armed and definitely dangerous. She was last seen eastbound on Interstate 70 in red Hyundai Tucson w Kansas Tag 237 NLE If you see her or the vehicle call 911.&nbsp;

Kansas woman charged after violent rampage that left 1 dead

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden announced Thursday that he and Democrats in Congress have reached a “historic” framework for his sweeping domestic policy package. But he still needs to lock down votes from key colleagues for what’s now a dramatically scaled-back bill.

Eager to have a deal in hand before his departure late in the day for global summits, Biden made his case privately on Capitol Hill to House Democrats and publicly in a speech at the White House. He’s now pressing for a still-robust package — $1.75 trillion of social services and climate change programs — that the White House believes can pass the 50-50 Senate.

The fast-moving developments put Democrats closer to a hard-fought deal, but battles remain as they press to finish the final draft in the days and weeks ahead.

“Let’s get this done,” Biden exhorted.

“It will fundamentally change the lives of millions of people for the better,” he said about the package, which he badly wanted before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/climate-joe-biden-business-rome-scotland-30c46a7eda7f8549d12fd70bd264b4f3">the summits</a>&nbsp;to show the world American democracy still works.

Together with a nearly $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill, Biden claimed the infusion of federal investments would be a domestic achievement modeled on those of Franklin Roosevelt and Lyndon Johnson.

“I need your votes,” Biden told the lawmakers at the Capitol, according to a person who requested anonymity to discuss the private remarks.

But final votes will not be called for some time. The revised package has lost&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/stories/details/60a1bc276d0ab8eb3e0347fc54ee8c2c.12.13.json?type=tab" target="_blank">some top priorities,&nbsp;</a>frustrating many lawmakers as the president’s ambitions make way for the political realities of the narrowly divided Congress.

Paid family leave and efforts to lower prescription drug pricing are now gone entirely from the package, drawing outrage from some lawmakers and advocates.

Still in the mix, a long list of other priorities: free prekindergarten for all youngsters, expanded health care programs — including the launch of a new $35 billion hearing aid benefit for people with Medicare — and $555 billion to tackle climate change.

There’s also a one-year extension of a child care tax credit that was put in place during the COVID-19 rescue and new child care subsidies. An additional $100 billion to bolster the immigration and border processing system could boost the overall package to $1.85 trillion if it clears Senate rules.

One pivotal Democratic holdout, Sen. Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona, said, “I look forward to getting this done.”

However, another, Joe Manchin of West Virginia, was less committal: “This is all in the hands of the House right now.”

The two Democrats have almost single-handedly reduced the size and scope of their party’s big vision, and are crucial to sealing the deal.

Republicans remain overwhelmingly opposed, forcing Biden to rely on the Democrats’ narrow majority in Congress with no votes to spare in the Senate and few in the House.

Taking form after months of negotiations, Biden’s emerging bill would still be among the most sweeping of its kind in a generation, modeled on New Deal and Great Society programs. The White House calls it the largest-ever investment in climate change and the biggest improvement to the nation’s healthcare system in more than a decade.

In his meeting with lawmakers at the Capitol, Biden made clear how important it was to show progress as he headed to the summits.

“We are at an inflection point,” he said. “The rest of the world wonders whether we can function.”

With U.S. elections on the horizon, he said it’s not “hyperbole to say that the House and Senate majorities and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/climate-joe-biden-business-health-d14c1764e3967c36d29d93ff7ff4bb72">my presidency will be determined by what happens in the next week.”</a>

At one point, Biden “asked for a spirited, enthusiastic vote on his plan,” said Rep. Richard Neal, D-Mass.

Twice over the course of the hour-long meeting Democratic lawmakers rose to their feet and started yelling: “Vote, vote, vote,” said Rep. Gerald Connolly of Virginia.

Biden’s proposal would be paid for by imposing a new 5% surtax on income over $10 million a year, and instituting a new 15% corporate minimum tax, keeping with his plans to have no new taxes on those earning less than $400,000 a year, officials said. A special “billionaires tax” was not included.

Revenue to help pay for the package would also come from rolling back some of the Trump administration’s 2017 tax cuts, along with stepped-up enforcement of tax-dodgers by the IRS. Biden has vowed to cover the entire cost of the plan, ensuring it does not pile onto the debt load.

With the framework being converted to a 1,600-page legislative text for review, lawmakers and aides cautioned it had not yet been agreed to.

Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., the progressive leader, said her caucus endorsed the framework, even as progressive lawmakers worked to delay further action. “We want to see the actual text because we don’t want any confusion and misunderstandings,” she said.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Biden asked the House to vote on the related $1 trillion infrastructure bill, which already cleared the Senate but became tangled in deliberations over the broader bill. But Jayapal said she did not hear an urgent request from him, which emboldened progressives to halt the hoped-for Thursday vote.

“When the president gets off that plane we want him to have a vote of confidence from this Congress,” Pelosi told lawmakers, the person at the private meeting said.

But no votes were scheduled. Progressives have been withholding their support for the roads-and-bridges bill as leverage until they have a commitment that Manchin, Sinema and the other senators are ready to vote on Biden’s bigger package.

“Hell no,” said Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., about allowing the smaller infrastructure bill to pass.

Rep. Cori Bush, D-Mo., shared her own story of making “pennies” at low-wage work, struggling to afford child care and wanting to ensure constituents have better.

“We need both bills to ride together. And we don’t have that right now,” Bush said. “I feel a bit bamboozled because this was not what I thought was coming today.”

Instead, Congress approved an extension to Dec. 3 of Sunday’s deadline for routine transportation funds that were at risk of expiring without the infrastructure bill.

The two holdout Democratic senators now hold enormous power, essentially deciding whether Biden will be able to deliver on the Democrats’ major campaign promises.

Sinema has been instrumental in pushing her party off a promise to undo the Republicans’ 2017 tax cuts. And Manchin’s resistance forced serious cutbacks to a clean energy plan, the elimination of paid family leave and the imposition of work requirements for parents receiving the new child care subsidies.

At the same time, progressives achieved one key priority — Vermont Independent Bernie Sanders’ proposal to provide hearing aid benefits for people on Medicare. However, his ideas to also include dental and vision care were left out.

Other expanded health care programs build on the Affordable Care Act by funding subsidies to help people buy insurance policies and coverage in states that declined the Obamacare program.

Overall, the new package also sets up political battles in future years. The enhanced child care tax credit expires alongside next year’s midterm elections, while much of the health care funding will expire in 2025, ensuring a campaign issue ahead of the next presidential election.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635428977074.png" alt="President Biden arrived on Capitol Hill Thursday morning in an attempt to rally members of his party to support his $1.75T plan" />
 <figcaption>President Biden arrived on Capitol Hill Thursday morning in an attempt to rally members of his party to support his $1.75T plan</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden announced Thursday that he and Democrats in Congress have reached a “historic” framework for his sweeping domestic policy package. But he still needs to lock down votes from key colleagues for what’s now a dramatically scaled-back bill.Eager to have a deal in hand before his departure late in the day for global summits, Biden made his case privately on Capitol Hill to House Democrats and publicly in a speech at the White House. He’s now pressing for a still-robust package — $1.75 trillion of social services and climate change programs — that the White House believes can pass the 50-50 Senate.The fast-moving developments put Democrats closer to a hard-fought deal, but battles remain as they press to finish the final draft in the days and weeks ahead.“Let’s get this done,” Biden exhorted.“It will fundamentally change the lives of millions of people for the better,” he said about the package, which he badly wanted before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/climate-joe-biden-business-rome-scotland-30c46a7eda7f8549d12fd70bd264b4f3">the summits</a>&nbsp;to show the world American democracy still works.Together with a nearly $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill, Biden claimed the infusion of federal investments would be a domestic achievement modeled on those of Franklin Roosevelt and Lyndon Johnson.“I need your votes,” Biden told the lawmakers at the Capitol, according to a person who requested anonymity to discuss the private remarks.But final votes will not be called for some time. The revised package has lost&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/stories/details/60a1bc276d0ab8eb3e0347fc54ee8c2c.12.13.json?type=tab" target="_blank">some top priorities,&nbsp;</a>frustrating many lawmakers as the president’s ambitions make way for the political realities of the narrowly divided Congress.Paid family leave and efforts to lower prescription drug pricing are now gone entirely from the package, drawing outrage from some lawmakers and advocates.Still in the mix, a long list of other priorities: free prekindergarten for all youngsters, expanded health care programs — including the launch of a new $35 billion hearing aid benefit for people with Medicare — and $555 billion to tackle climate change.There’s also a one-year extension of a child care tax credit that was put in place during the COVID-19 rescue and new child care subsidies. An additional $100 billion to bolster the immigration and border processing system could boost the overall package to $1.85 trillion if it clears Senate rules.One pivotal Democratic holdout, Sen. Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona, said, “I look forward to getting this done.”However, another, Joe Manchin of West Virginia, was less committal: “This is all in the hands of the House right now.”The two Democrats have almost single-handedly reduced the size and scope of their party’s big vision, and are crucial to sealing the deal.Republicans remain overwhelmingly opposed, forcing Biden to rely on the Democrats’ narrow majority in Congress with no votes to spare in the Senate and few in the House.Taking form after months of negotiations, Biden’s emerging bill would still be among the most sweeping of its kind in a generation, modeled on New Deal and Great Society programs. The White House calls it the largest-ever investment in climate change and the biggest improvement to the nation’s healthcare system in more than a decade.In his meeting with lawmakers at the Capitol, Biden made clear how important it was to show progress as he headed to the summits.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635435981999.png" alt="Revenue to help pay for the package would also come from rolling back some of the Trump administration’s 2017 tax cuts-photo courtesy White House&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Revenue to help pay for the package would also come from rolling back some of the Trump administration’s 2017 tax cuts-photo courtesy White House&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>“We are at an inflection point,” he said. “The rest of the world wonders whether we can function.”With U.S. elections on the horizon, he said it’s not “hyperbole to say that the House and Senate majorities and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/climate-joe-biden-business-health-d14c1764e3967c36d29d93ff7ff4bb72">my presidency will be determined by what happens in the next week.”</a>At one point, Biden “asked for a spirited, enthusiastic vote on his plan,” said Rep. Richard Neal, D-Mass.Twice over the course of the hour-long meeting Democratic lawmakers rose to their feet and started yelling: “Vote, vote, vote,” said Rep. Gerald Connolly of Virginia.Biden’s proposal would be paid for by imposing a new 5% surtax on income over $10 million a year, and instituting a new 15% corporate minimum tax, keeping with his plans to have no new taxes on those earning less than $400,000 a year, officials said. A special “billionaires tax” was not included.Revenue to help pay for the package would also come from rolling back some of the Trump administration’s 2017 tax cuts, along with stepped-up enforcement of tax-dodgers by the IRS. Biden has vowed to cover the entire cost of the plan, ensuring it does not pile onto the debt load.With the framework being converted to a 1,600-page legislative text for review, lawmakers and aides cautioned it had not yet been agreed to.Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., the progressive leader, said her caucus endorsed the framework, even as progressive lawmakers worked to delay further action. “We want to see the actual text because we don’t want any confusion and misunderstandings,” she said.House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Biden asked the House to vote on the related $1 trillion infrastructure bill, which already cleared the Senate but became tangled in deliberations over the broader bill. But Jayapal said she did not hear an urgent request from him, which emboldened progressives to halt the hoped-for Thursday vote.“When the president gets off that plane we want him to have a vote of confidence from this Congress,” Pelosi told lawmakers, the person at the private meeting said.But no votes were scheduled. Progressives have been withholding their support for the roads-and-bridges bill as leverage until they have a commitment that Manchin, Sinema and the other senators are ready to vote on Biden’s bigger package.“Hell no,” said Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., about allowing the smaller infrastructure bill to pass.Rep. Cori Bush, D-Mo., shared her own story of making “pennies” at low-wage work, struggling to afford child care and wanting to ensure constituents have better.“We need both bills to ride together. And we don’t have that right now,” Bush said. “I feel a bit bamboozled because this was not what I thought was coming today.”Instead, Congress approved an extension to Dec. 3 of Sunday’s deadline for routine transportation funds that were at risk of expiring without the infrastructure bill.The two holdout Democratic senators now hold enormous power, essentially deciding whether Biden will be able to deliver on the Democrats’ major campaign promises.Sinema has been instrumental in pushing her party off a promise to undo the Republicans’ 2017 tax cuts. And Manchin’s resistance forced serious cutbacks to a clean energy plan, the elimination of paid family leave and the imposition of work requirements for parents receiving the new child care subsidies.At the same time, progressives achieved one key priority — Vermont Independent Bernie Sanders’ proposal to provide hearing aid benefits for people on Medicare. However, his ideas to also include dental and vision care were left out.Other expanded health care programs build on the Affordable Care Act by funding subsidies to help people buy insurance policies and coverage in states that declined the Obamacare program.Overall, the new package also sets up political battles in future years. The enhanced child care tax credit expires alongside next year’s midterm elections, while much of the health care funding will expire in 2025, ensuring a campaign issue ahead of the next presidential election.___

Democrat infighting puts Biden's 'historic' $1.75T plan in jeopardy

SALINA —Strong winds pummeled the state most of Thursday. A gust of wind equal to that of an EF-0 tornado blasted Salina Thursday afternoon. The Salina Regional Airport recorded a 66 mph gust at 3:53 p.m. According to the Enhanced Fujita Scale, an EF-0 tornado has wind speeds of 65-85 mph.

Several locations in Kansas had wind gusts of 50-60 mph. The high wind warnings ended Thursday evening. There were no injuries reported.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635464790310.jpeg" alt="Thursday's high winds wreaked havoc on Salina's trees, including this tree at the corner of E. Ash Street and N. Columbia Avenue. Photo by Randy Pick" />
 <figcaption>Thursday's high winds wreaked havoc on Salina's trees, including this tree at the corner of E. Ash Street and N. Columbia Avenue. Photo by Randy Pick</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINA —Strong winds pummeled the state most of Thursday. A gust of wind equal to that of an EF-0 tornado blasted Salina Thursday afternoon. The Salina Regional Airport recorded a 66 mph gust at 3:53 p.m. According to the Enhanced Fujita Scale, an EF-0 tornado has wind speeds of 65-85 mph.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Here&#39;s a look at some of the higher wind reports from across the area today. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/uc65uI8Gp9">pic.twitter.com/uc65uI8Gp9</a>&mdash; NWS Wichita (@NWSWichita) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSWichita/status/1453882469548113920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Several locations in Kansas had wind gusts of 50-60 mph. The high wind warnings ended Thursday evening. There were no injuries reported.

60-mph wind gusts cause damage across Kansas

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Hunters killed 12 black bears during Missouri's first black bear hunting season, the Missouri Conservation Department said Thursday.

The hunt was allowed after the state's black bear population grew to about 800, with most in southern Missouri.

More than 6,330 people applied for 400 permits for the hunt, which limited the total number of bears that could be taken to 40.

The hunt, which began Oct. 17 and ended Wednesday, was divided into three zones.

Hunters took nine bears in southwest Missouri and three in the western zone. No bears were killed in a zone that stretched from southeast Missouri to St. Louis, the department said.

The 40 bear maximum limit was only about 5% of the state's total bear population, said bear biologist Laura Conlee.

Black bears were abundant in Missouri forests before European settlement but were nearly eliminated by unregulated killing in the late 19th century and habitat loss in the Ozarks.

Their numbers have rebounded in the last 50 years and the population is expected to double in the next 10 years, the conservation department said.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Hunters killed 12 black bears during Missouri's first black bear hunting season, the Missouri Conservation Department said Thursday.The hunt was allowed after the state's black bear population grew to about 800, with most in southern Missouri.More than 6,330 people applied for 400 permits for the hunt, which limited the total number of bears that could be taken to 40.The hunt, which began Oct. 17 and ended Wednesday, was divided into three zones.Hunters took nine bears in southwest Missouri and three in the western zone. No bears were killed in a zone that stretched from southeast Missouri to St. Louis, the department said.The 40 bear maximum limit was only about 5% of the state's total bear population, said bear biologist Laura Conlee.Black bears were abundant in Missouri forests before European settlement but were nearly eliminated by unregulated killing in the late 19th century and habitat loss in the Ozarks.Their numbers have rebounded in the last 50 years and the population is expected to double in the next 10 years, the conservation department said.

Hunters kill 12 bears in Missouri's first black bear season

My boyfriend is not very good with money, and he is 
in a bad situation right now. He has a huge car payment every month, 
plus about $30,000 in credit card debt. He also lives in a very 
expensive apartment. He recently quit a really good job because he 
doesn’t like his boss anymore. He has talked about filing bankruptcy, 
and yesterday he asked if he could move in with me. I love him, but I’m 
also scared. I try to manage my money well by saving, investing for 
retirement and staying out of debt. What does this mean for our future 
together?

My guess is the guy’s not really&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/debt/the-truth-about-bankruptcy" target="_blank">bankrupt</a>,
 but it sounds like he has some maturity and character issues that need 
to be addressed. I’m not saying things can’t change, but this is not 
someone to move in with or consider marrying anytime soon. You two would
 have a hard time as husband and wife unless he makes some real course 
corrections in his attitudes about money and life.

For starters, 
he needs to get another job, sell the expensive car and find a cheaper 
place to live. Leaving one position for another is okay, but deciding 
you just don’t like something and walking away from it without another 
job waiting—especially when you’ve got bills and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/debt/debt-calculator" target="_blank">a bunch of debt</a>—is just plain irresponsible.

Lots
 of people identify too strongly with what they drive or where they 
live. They come to believe those things are indications of their value 
or worth, and that’s sad. It means something inside them is broken, and 
bankruptcy isn’t going to fix that.

All this doesn’t mean he isn’t basically a decent guy, but it does mean he needs to get control of his finances—and&nbsp;that he’s got some soul searching and growing up to do.

<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/" target="_blank">Dave Ramsey</a>&nbsp;is
 a seven-time No. 1 national best-selling author, personal finance 
expert, and host of The Ramsey Show, heard by more than 18 million 
listeners each week. He&nbsp;has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS
 This Morning, Today Show, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business, and many more. 
Since 1992, Dave has helped people regain control of their money, build 
wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey 
Solutions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596845065840.jpeg" alt="Dave Ramsey&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Dave Ramsey&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Dear Dave,My boyfriend is not very good with money, and he is 
in a bad situation right now. He has a huge car payment every month, 
plus about $30,000 in credit card debt. He also lives in a very 
expensive apartment. He recently quit a really good job because he 
doesn’t like his boss anymore. He has talked about filing bankruptcy, 
and yesterday he asked if he could move in with me. I love him, but I’m 
also scared. I try to manage my money well by saving, investing for 
retirement and staying out of debt. What does this mean for our future 
together?CrislynDear Crislyn,My guess is the guy’s not really&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/debt/the-truth-about-bankruptcy" target="_blank">bankrupt</a>,
 but it sounds like he has some maturity and character issues that need 
to be addressed. I’m not saying things can’t change, but this is not 
someone to move in with or consider marrying anytime soon. You two would
 have a hard time as husband and wife unless he makes some real course 
corrections in his attitudes about money and life.For starters, 
he needs to get another job, sell the expensive car and find a cheaper 
place to live. Leaving one position for another is okay, but deciding 
you just don’t like something and walking away from it without another 
job waiting—especially when you’ve got bills and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/debt/debt-calculator" target="_blank">a bunch of debt</a>—is just plain irresponsible.Lots
 of people identify too strongly with what they drive or where they 
live. They come to believe those things are indications of their value 
or worth, and that’s sad. It means something inside them is broken, and 
bankruptcy isn’t going to fix that.All this doesn’t mean he isn’t basically a decent guy, but it does mean he needs to get control of his finances—and&nbsp;that he’s got some soul searching and growing up to do.Dave. . .<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/" target="_blank">Dave Ramsey</a>&nbsp;is
 a seven-time No. 1 national best-selling author, personal finance 
expert, and host of The Ramsey Show, heard by more than 18 million 
listeners each week. He&nbsp;has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS
 This Morning, Today Show, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business, and many more. 
Since 1992, Dave has helped people regain control of their money, build 
wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey 
Solutions.

DAVE SAYS: Address the deeper issues

If you’re planning to get festive with your Halloween, 
Christmas, or other holiday decorations, keep your eyes open for this 
scam. <a href="https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker">BBB Scam Tracker</a> has received complaints about false advertisements and phony promises for holiday decor. &nbsp;

You are searching for some holiday decorations for your home or lawn.
 You come across the perfect item through a social media ad or a search 
result. The photos on the website look great! The decorations are 
larger-than-life with incredible lights and features and, best of all, 
low prices.

You make your payment and wait for the decorations to arrive. 
However, when your package is delivered, the product is nothing like 
what you saw online. In many cases, it’s a poorly manufactured miniature
 version of what you thought you bought. You now don't have a way to 
return the items or receive a refund. In fact, you probably won’t even 
be able to contact the company.

&nbsp;One consumer reported the following experience: “I ordered a giant 
7-foot pumpkin head and giant 7-foot skeleton with LED eyes and sounds. 
What I finally got in the mail after almost a month was two rubber 
7-inch dolls that sort of looked like what they were advertising. This 
company will not reply to their emails, which is the only means of 
communicating. The items looked amazing online, but the store is a total
 scam.”

Review the <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/23348-shop-safe">BBB Tip: Shop Safe and Shop Smart this Holiday Season</a> for more ways to protect yourself from scams while holiday shopping.

If you spot a scam, report it at <a href="http://www.BBB.org/ScamTracker">BBB.org/ScamTracker</a>. Your report can help others recognize a scam before they fall victim.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579883951052.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BBBIf you’re planning to get festive with your Halloween, 
Christmas, or other holiday decorations, keep your eyes open for this 
scam. <a href="https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker">BBB Scam Tracker</a> has received complaints about false advertisements and phony promises for holiday decor. &nbsp;<h2>How the scam works</h2>You are searching for some holiday decorations for your home or lawn.
 You come across the perfect item through a social media ad or a search 
result. The photos on the website look great! The decorations are 
larger-than-life with incredible lights and features and, best of all, 
low prices.You make your payment and wait for the decorations to arrive. 
However, when your package is delivered, the product is nothing like 
what you saw online. In many cases, it’s a poorly manufactured miniature
 version of what you thought you bought. You now don't have a way to 
return the items or receive a refund. In fact, you probably won’t even 
be able to contact the company.&nbsp;One consumer reported the following experience: “I ordered a giant 
7-foot pumpkin head and giant 7-foot skeleton with LED eyes and sounds. 
What I finally got in the mail after almost a month was two rubber 
7-inch dolls that sort of looked like what they were advertising. This 
company will not reply to their emails, which is the only means of 
communicating. The items looked amazing online, but the store is a total
 scam.”<h2>Avoiding scams</h2><ul>
 <li>Do your research before you buy. Before you make a 
purchase on an unfamilar website, check out the company. Make sure they 
have working contact information. This should include a telephone 
number, email address, and, preferably, a physical address. Look on 
other websites for reviews of the company and reports of scams. You can 
always look for business ratings and customer reviews on <a href="http://www.BBB.org">BBB.org</a>. </li><li>Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. 
Keep in mind that large decorations that involve special lights and 
technology are expensive. If you find something amazing for cheap, it 
could be a scam. </li><li>Don’t make quick purchases on social media. Scam 
advertisers can track your buying habits from social media ads and then 
target you with specific products they think you’ll fall for. Don’t buy 
anything on impulse while scrolling through your feed. Do research first
 to avoid getting scammed. </li><li>Always use your credit card for online purchases. Credit
 card companies allow you to dispute fraudulent charges, a resource you 
may not have at your disposal if you purchase an item with a debit or 
gift card.</li>
 </ul><h2>For More Information</h2>Review the <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/23348-shop-safe">BBB Tip: Shop Safe and Shop Smart this Holiday Season</a> for more ways to protect yourself from scams while holiday shopping.If you spot a scam, report it at <a href="http://www.BBB.org/ScamTracker">BBB.org/ScamTracker</a>. Your report can help others recognize a scam before they fall victim.

'Tis the season: Don't get duped by holiday decoration scams

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after an arrest.

Just before 6:30a.m. Wednesday police responded to the area of the Oak Hill Cemetery in the 200 block North 17th street in Atchison to investigate a suspicious person with a gun, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Officers located 26-year-old Chad M. Gorrell, Atchison,&nbsp; who was in possession of a firearm. Officers took him into custody on a requested charge of criminal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

He has previous convictions for burglary, obstruction, interference with law enforcement and criminal damage to property, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.&nbsp; He had been out of prison since 2019.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635351163327.png" alt="Gorrell photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Gorrell photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after an arrest.Just before 6:30a.m. Wednesday police responded to the area of the Oak Hill Cemetery in the 200 block North 17th street in Atchison to investigate a suspicious person with a gun, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.Officers located 26-year-old Chad M. Gorrell, Atchison,&nbsp; who was in possession of a firearm. Officers took him into custody on a requested charge of criminal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.He has previous convictions for burglary, obstruction, interference with law enforcement and criminal damage to property, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.&nbsp; He had been out of prison since 2019.

Police: Kan. felon was wandering near cemetery with a gun

WASHINGTON (AP) —There’s an intriguing subplot to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-joe-biden-pope-francis-business-europe-dcf0c3e68138c318f1980a04b27ade39">President Joe Biden’s Friday meeting with Pope Francis</a>. The world’s two most prominent Roman Catholics will be celebrating a shared outlook on church teaching and vital social issues even as Biden faces&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-government-and-politics-religion-ea0179cd6c8eddbf66693a7e2b28e2da">unwavering opposition from many U.S. Catholic bishops</a>&nbsp;over his stances on abortion and LGBTQ rights.

Less than three weeks after Biden’s visit to the Vatican on Friday, the American bishops will convene in Baltimore, with one of the agenda items inspired in part by conservatives who contend that Biden’s support for abortion rights&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-joe-biden-communion-d58f0eec9ac1a1ff576e38fb85bf532f">should disqualify him from receiving Communion</a>. Though any document that emerges is not expected to mention Biden by name, it’s possible there could be a clear message of rebuke.

“This is way beyond embarrassing,” said Massimo Faggioli, a professor of historical theology at Villanova University who recently authored a&nbsp;<a href="https://www1.villanova.edu/villanova/media/pressreleases/2021/0113.html" target="_blank">book</a>&nbsp;about Biden and Catholicism.

“For some of the bishops, it’s an act of intimidation” toward Biden, Faggioli said. “And they have a pope who is protecting a Catholic president’s access to the sacraments — he’s had to send a signal from the Vatican saying, ‘We don’t think this is wise.’”

The pope upholds Catholic doctrine opposing abortion and same-sex marriage, but he has irked some conservative Catholics in the U.S. and elsewhere by emphasizing other issues that mesh with Biden’s priorities — protecting the environment, combating racial injustice and poverty, for example.

The pope and Biden “see eye to eye on many issues,” Faggioli said. “But they both are really embattled, facing very strong headwinds ... fighting against different kinds of ideologues.”

Biden is only the second Catholic president of the United States., after John F. Kennedy, and displays his faith openly, often wearing a rosary and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-politics-pope-francis-jen-psaki-42db004ea67e67350c1a563adbece683">attending Mass routinely</a>. The devotion dates to childhood; he has expressed gratitude to the nuns who helped bolster his confidence while he struggled with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-us-news-politics-7670c784a29d8cf6e60558156bdd239e">stuttering as a schoolboy.</a>

“Wherever there were nuns, there was home,” he wrote in his 2007 memoir “Promises to Keep.” “My idea of self, of family, of community, of the wider world comes straight from my religion.”

His faith was tested, but not weakened, after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michael-pence-holidays-joe-biden-ap-top-news-delaware-e5a1e70314eb44219448eeb850c65f1e">his wife and baby daughter were killed in a traffic accident</a>&nbsp;in 1972.

“I never doubted that there was a God, but I was angry with God,” he told The Christian Science Monitor in 2007.

In that same interview, Biden conveyed why he considers himself a faithful Catholic despite his views on abortion.

“My views are totally consistent with Catholic social doctrine,” Biden said. “There are elements within the church who say that if you are at odds with any of the teachings of the church, you are at odds with the church. I think the church is bigger than that.”

Francis already has made clear he won’t shun U.S. political leaders who support abortion rights. On Oct. 9 he met at the Vatican with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, whose abortion stance has drawn the wrath of the top Catholic in her hometown of San Francisco, Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone.

Cordileone has been urging the U.S. bishops conference to send a message to Biden, Pelosi and others “that would move them in their conscience.”

“They need to understand the scandal that is caused when they say they are faithfully Catholic and yet oppose the church on such a basic concept,”&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-coronavirus-government-and-politics-religion-22e0d1ba299fe8693013036e3cc85c81">he told The Associated Press in April</a>.

Under Catholic policy, decisions regarding exclusion from Communion are left to individual bishops. While Cordileone has discouraged Pelosi from receiving Communion in his archdiocese, Cardinal Wilton Gregory, the archbishop of Washington, has made clear that Biden is welcome to receive Communion when he attends services there.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-joe-biden-communion-d58f0eec9ac1a1ff576e38fb85bf532f#:~:text=ABOARD%20THE%20PAPAL%20PLANE%20(AP,into%20questions%20about%20receiving%20Communion.">Francis, asked last month</a>&nbsp;whether Biden and like-minded politicians should be denied Communion, avoided a “yes” or “no” answer, saying bishops must minister to such people with “compassion and tenderness.” He warned that clerics shouldn’t let politics influence decisions about receiving Communion.

Abortion is not the only issue placing Biden in opposition to the U.S. bishops. He is a strong supporter of the proposed Equality Act, which would extend federal civil rights protections to LGBTQ people nationwide.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usccb.org/equality-act" target="_blank">The bishops say the bill,</a>&nbsp;currently stalled in the Senate, would violate the religious freedom of churches and individuals opposed to same-sex marriage and various transgender-rights policies.

The meeting this coming week will be Biden’s first encounter with Francis since becoming president, but he has met him three times before: first when Francis was inaugurated as pope in 2013; later during the pontiff’s 2015 visit to the U.S.; and in 2016, when Biden visited the Vatican for a conference on regenerative medicine, where he spoke on cancer prevention.

Francis repeatedly reaffirmed his opposition to abortion in recent weeks, calling the procedure “murder” and defending the right of conscientious objectors to refuse to participate in it. He has likened abortion to “hiring a hitman” to solve a problem.

Chad Pecknold, a professor of theology at The Catholic University of America, doubts that the pope will confront Biden over his support for abortion rights, but said many Catholics — bishops included — may wish that would happen.

“I think the Catholic faithful have a right to hope for this, and to express their concern for the soul of Mr. Biden,” Pecknold said.

The Biden-Francis visit “could actually highlight the urgent need to unite around a clear and coherent view of how the bishops should respond to politicians who publicly hold the Church’s teaching in contempt while presenting themselves for Holy Communion,” Pecknold added via email.

Steven Millies, a professor of public theology at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, said the meeting will affect the debate over abortion and Communion “in a way that will produce a lot of heat and very little light.” He doubts Francis will see a need to discuss abortion with Biden.

“It’s not going to get anybody anywhere,” Millies said. “On the other hand, there’s a great deal to be accomplished by focusing on areas of aligned concerned and shared interest.”

When Kennedy became the first Catholic president in 1960, abortion was not the divisive issue that it is today. Not until 1973 was there a nationwide right to abortion, and Kennedy felt no pressure to take a public stance.

Anti-Catholic prejudice was common as Kennedy campaigned. Some Protestant ministers questioned whether he could maintain independence from the Catholic Church.

Unlike Biden, Kennedy enjoyed overwhelming support from Catholic voters, winning about 80% of their votes in 1960, according to researchers at Georgetown University. Biden was backed by about half of Catholic voters in the 2020 election.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635005251145.png" alt="In 2015, then Vice President Joe Biden accompanied Pope Francis on a walk through the U.S. Capitol-photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>In 2015, then Vice President Joe Biden accompanied Pope Francis on a walk through the U.S. Capitol-photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —There’s an intriguing subplot to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-joe-biden-pope-francis-business-europe-dcf0c3e68138c318f1980a04b27ade39">President Joe Biden’s Friday meeting with Pope Francis</a>. The world’s two most prominent Roman Catholics will be celebrating a shared outlook on church teaching and vital social issues even as Biden faces&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-government-and-politics-religion-ea0179cd6c8eddbf66693a7e2b28e2da">unwavering opposition from many U.S. Catholic bishops</a>&nbsp;over his stances on abortion and LGBTQ rights.Less than three weeks after Biden’s visit to the Vatican on Friday, the American bishops will convene in Baltimore, with one of the agenda items inspired in part by conservatives who contend that Biden’s support for abortion rights&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-joe-biden-communion-d58f0eec9ac1a1ff576e38fb85bf532f">should disqualify him from receiving Communion</a>. Though any document that emerges is not expected to mention Biden by name, it’s possible there could be a clear message of rebuke.“This is way beyond embarrassing,” said Massimo Faggioli, a professor of historical theology at Villanova University who recently authored a&nbsp;<a href="https://www1.villanova.edu/villanova/media/pressreleases/2021/0113.html" target="_blank">book</a>&nbsp;about Biden and Catholicism.“For some of the bishops, it’s an act of intimidation” toward Biden, Faggioli said. “And they have a pope who is protecting a Catholic president’s access to the sacraments — he’s had to send a signal from the Vatican saying, ‘We don’t think this is wise.’”The pope upholds Catholic doctrine opposing abortion and same-sex marriage, but he has irked some conservative Catholics in the U.S. and elsewhere by emphasizing other issues that mesh with Biden’s priorities — protecting the environment, combating racial injustice and poverty, for example.The pope and Biden “see eye to eye on many issues,” Faggioli said. “But they both are really embattled, facing very strong headwinds ... fighting against different kinds of ideologues.”Biden is only the second Catholic president of the United States., after John F. Kennedy, and displays his faith openly, often wearing a rosary and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-politics-pope-francis-jen-psaki-42db004ea67e67350c1a563adbece683">attending Mass routinely</a>. The devotion dates to childhood; he has expressed gratitude to the nuns who helped bolster his confidence while he struggled with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-us-news-politics-7670c784a29d8cf6e60558156bdd239e">stuttering as a schoolboy.</a>“Wherever there were nuns, there was home,” he wrote in his 2007 memoir “Promises to Keep.” “My idea of self, of family, of community, of the wider world comes straight from my religion.”His faith was tested, but not weakened, after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michael-pence-holidays-joe-biden-ap-top-news-delaware-e5a1e70314eb44219448eeb850c65f1e">his wife and baby daughter were killed in a traffic accident</a>&nbsp;in 1972.“I never doubted that there was a God, but I was angry with God,” he told The Christian Science Monitor in 2007.In that same interview, Biden conveyed why he considers himself a faithful Catholic despite his views on abortion.“My views are totally consistent with Catholic social doctrine,” Biden said. “There are elements within the church who say that if you are at odds with any of the teachings of the church, you are at odds with the church. I think the church is bigger than that.”Francis already has made clear he won’t shun U.S. political leaders who support abortion rights. On Oct. 9 he met at the Vatican with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, whose abortion stance has drawn the wrath of the top Catholic in her hometown of San Francisco, Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone.Cordileone has been urging the U.S. bishops conference to send a message to Biden, Pelosi and others “that would move them in their conscience.”“They need to understand the scandal that is caused when they say they are faithfully Catholic and yet oppose the church on such a basic concept,”&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-coronavirus-government-and-politics-religion-22e0d1ba299fe8693013036e3cc85c81">he told The Associated Press in April</a>.Under Catholic policy, decisions regarding exclusion from Communion are left to individual bishops. While Cordileone has discouraged Pelosi from receiving Communion in his archdiocese, Cardinal Wilton Gregory, the archbishop of Washington, has made clear that Biden is welcome to receive Communion when he attends services there.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-joe-biden-communion-d58f0eec9ac1a1ff576e38fb85bf532f#:~:text=ABOARD%20THE%20PAPAL%20PLANE%20(AP,into%20questions%20about%20receiving%20Communion.">Francis, asked last month</a>&nbsp;whether Biden and like-minded politicians should be denied Communion, avoided a “yes” or “no” answer, saying bishops must minister to such people with “compassion and tenderness.” He warned that clerics shouldn’t let politics influence decisions about receiving Communion.Abortion is not the only issue placing Biden in opposition to the U.S. bishops. He is a strong supporter of the proposed Equality Act, which would extend federal civil rights protections to LGBTQ people nationwide.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usccb.org/equality-act" target="_blank">The bishops say the bill,</a>&nbsp;currently stalled in the Senate, would violate the religious freedom of churches and individuals opposed to same-sex marriage and various transgender-rights policies.The meeting this coming week will be Biden’s first encounter with Francis since becoming president, but he has met him three times before: first when Francis was inaugurated as pope in 2013; later during the pontiff’s 2015 visit to the U.S.; and in 2016, when Biden visited the Vatican for a conference on regenerative medicine, where he spoke on cancer prevention.Francis repeatedly reaffirmed his opposition to abortion in recent weeks, calling the procedure “murder” and defending the right of conscientious objectors to refuse to participate in it. He has likened abortion to “hiring a hitman” to solve a problem.Chad Pecknold, a professor of theology at The Catholic University of America, doubts that the pope will confront Biden over his support for abortion rights, but said many Catholics — bishops included — may wish that would happen.“I think the Catholic faithful have a right to hope for this, and to express their concern for the soul of Mr. Biden,” Pecknold said.The Biden-Francis visit “could actually highlight the urgent need to unite around a clear and coherent view of how the bishops should respond to politicians who publicly hold the Church’s teaching in contempt while presenting themselves for Holy Communion,” Pecknold added via email.Steven Millies, a professor of public theology at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, said the meeting will affect the debate over abortion and Communion “in a way that will produce a lot of heat and very little light.” He doubts Francis will see a need to discuss abortion with Biden.“It’s not going to get anybody anywhere,” Millies said. “On the other hand, there’s a great deal to be accomplished by focusing on areas of aligned concerned and shared interest.”When Kennedy became the first Catholic president in 1960, abortion was not the divisive issue that it is today. Not until 1973 was there a nationwide right to abortion, and Kennedy felt no pressure to take a public stance.Anti-Catholic prejudice was common as Kennedy campaigned. Some Protestant ministers questioned whether he could maintain independence from the Catholic Church.Unlike Biden, Kennedy enjoyed overwhelming support from Catholic voters, winning about 80% of their votes in 1960, according to researchers at Georgetown University. Biden was backed by about half of Catholic voters in the 2020 election.

Biden to meet Pope Francis amid some rifts with US bishops

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

A Salina woman was arrested late Wednesday afternoon after she was found driving a pickup stolen downtown a few minutes earlier.

A 39-year-old Salina mah walked out of his place of employment in the 300 block of N. Fifth Street at approximately 4:30 p.m. Wednesday and found that his 2005 Chevrolet Colorado had been stolen, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester

A coworker saw a woman get into the pickup and drive away south on N. Fifth Street. The keys were in the pickup, Forrester said.

While officers were on their way, another officer spotted the stolen pickup near the intersection of S. Fifth Street/E. Mulberry Street. The officer stopped the pickup in the 200 block of S. Seventh Street and arrested the driver, Mary Willems, 25, of Salina, on a requested charge of felony theft. She allegedly had $25 in cash from the pickup in her pocket, according to Forrester.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635431077474.jpeg" alt="Willems-photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Willems-photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA Salina woman was arrested late Wednesday afternoon after she was found driving a pickup stolen downtown a few minutes earlier.A 39-year-old Salina mah walked out of his place of employment in the 300 block of N. Fifth Street at approximately 4:30 p.m. Wednesday and found that his 2005 Chevrolet Colorado had been stolen, according to Salina Police Captain Paul ForresterA coworker saw a woman get into the pickup and drive away south on N. Fifth Street. The keys were in the pickup, Forrester said.While officers were on their way, another officer spotted the stolen pickup near the intersection of S. Fifth Street/E. Mulberry Street. The officer stopped the pickup in the 200 block of S. Seventh Street and arrested the driver, Mary Willems, 25, of Salina, on a requested charge of felony theft. She allegedly had $25 in cash from the pickup in her pocket, according to Forrester.

Police: Woman took Kansas man's pickup and cash

By MAE ANDERSON AP Business Writer

OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) — An embattled Facebook Inc. is changing its name to Meta Platforms Inc., or Meta for short, to reflect what CEO Mark Zuckerberg says is its commitment to developing the new surround-yourself technology known as the “metaverse.” But the social network itself will still be called Facebook.

Skeptics immediately accused the company Thursday of trying to change the subject from the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/the-facebook-papers?utm_source=apnewsnav&amp;utm_medium=featured">Facebook Papers,</a>&nbsp;the trove of leaked documents that have plunged it into the biggest crisis since it was founded in Zuckerberg’s Harvard dorm room 17 years ago. The documents portray Facebook as putting profits ahead of ridding its platform of hate, political strife and misinformation around the world.

Marketing consultant Laura Ries likened the move to BP rebranding itself to “Beyond Petroleum” to escape criticism that the oil giant harmed the environment.

“Facebook is the world’s social media platform and they are being accused of creating something that is harmful to people and society,” she said. “They can’t walk away from the social network with a new corporate name and talk of a future metaverse.”

Facebook the app, where users post personal updates and register likes, is not changing its name. Nor are Instagram, WhatsApp and Messenger. The company’s corporate structure also won’t change. But on Dec. 1, its stock will start trading under a new ticker symbol, MVRS.

The metaverse is sort of the internet brought to life, or at least rendered in 3D. Zuckerberg has described it as a “virtual environment” you can go inside of, instead of just looking at on a screen. People can meet, work and play, using virtual reality headsets, augmented reality glasses, smartphone apps or other devices.

It also will incorporate other aspects of online life such as shopping and social media, according to Victoria Petrock, an analyst who follows emerging technologies.

Other tech companies such as Microsoft, chipmaker Nvidia and Fortnite maker Epic Games have all been outlining their own visions of how the metaverse will work.

Zuckerberg said that he expects the metaverse to reach a billion people within the next decade and that he hopes the new technology will creates millions of jobs for creators.

The announcement comes amid heightened legislative and regulatory scrutiny of Facebook in many parts of the world because of the Facebook Papers. A corporate rebranding isn’t likely to solve the myriad problems revealed by the internal documents.

Zuckerberg, for his part, has largely dismissed the furor triggered by the Facebook Papers as unfair.

Some of Facebook’s biggest critics seemed unimpressed by the name change. The Real Facebook Oversight Board, a watchdog group focused on the company, announced that it will keep its name.

“Changing their name doesn’t change reality: Facebook is destroying our democracy and is the world’s leading peddler of disinformation and hate,” the group said in a statement. “Their meaningless name change should not distract from the investigation, regulation and real, independent oversight needed to hold Facebook accountable.”

In explaining the rebrand, Zuckerberg said the name Facebook doesn’t encompass everything the company does anymore. In addition to its social network, that now includes Instagram, Messenger, its Quest VR headset, its Horizon VR platform and more.

“Today we are seen as a social media company,” Zuckerberg said. “But in our DNA we are a company that builds technology to connect people.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635447652356.png" alt="Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg said during his Thursday presentation, the company will focus on the "metaverse," a virtual computer-generated space where people can interact." />
 <figcaption>Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg said during his Thursday presentation, the company will focus on the "metaverse," a virtual computer-generated space where people can interact.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MAE ANDERSON AP Business WriterOAKLAND, Calif. (AP) — An embattled Facebook Inc. is changing its name to Meta Platforms Inc., or Meta for short, to reflect what CEO Mark Zuckerberg says is its commitment to developing the new surround-yourself technology known as the “metaverse.” But the social network itself will still be called Facebook.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fzuck%2Fvideos%2F1898414763675286%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Skeptics immediately accused the company Thursday of trying to change the subject from the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/the-facebook-papers?utm_source=apnewsnav&amp;utm_medium=featured">Facebook Papers,</a>&nbsp;the trove of leaked documents that have plunged it into the biggest crisis since it was founded in Zuckerberg’s Harvard dorm room 17 years ago. The documents portray Facebook as putting profits ahead of ridding its platform of hate, political strife and misinformation around the world.Marketing consultant Laura Ries likened the move to BP rebranding itself to “Beyond Petroleum” to escape criticism that the oil giant harmed the environment.“Facebook is the world’s social media platform and they are being accused of creating something that is harmful to people and society,” she said. “They can’t walk away from the social network with a new corporate name and talk of a future metaverse.”Facebook the app, where users post personal updates and register likes, is not changing its name. Nor are Instagram, WhatsApp and Messenger. The company’s corporate structure also won’t change. But on Dec. 1, its stock will start trading under a new ticker symbol, MVRS.The metaverse is sort of the internet brought to life, or at least rendered in 3D. Zuckerberg has described it as a “virtual environment” you can go inside of, instead of just looking at on a screen. People can meet, work and play, using virtual reality headsets, augmented reality glasses, smartphone apps or other devices.It also will incorporate other aspects of online life such as shopping and social media, according to Victoria Petrock, an analyst who follows emerging technologies.Other tech companies such as Microsoft, chipmaker Nvidia and Fortnite maker Epic Games have all been outlining their own visions of how the metaverse will work.Zuckerberg said that he expects the metaverse to reach a billion people within the next decade and that he hopes the new technology will creates millions of jobs for creators.The announcement comes amid heightened legislative and regulatory scrutiny of Facebook in many parts of the world because of the Facebook Papers. A corporate rebranding isn’t likely to solve the myriad problems revealed by the internal documents.Zuckerberg, for his part, has largely dismissed the furor triggered by the Facebook Papers as unfair.Some of Facebook’s biggest critics seemed unimpressed by the name change. The Real Facebook Oversight Board, a watchdog group focused on the company, announced that it will keep its name.“Changing their name doesn’t change reality: Facebook is destroying our democracy and is the world’s leading peddler of disinformation and hate,” the group said in a statement. “Their meaningless name change should not distract from the investigation, regulation and real, independent oversight needed to hold Facebook accountable.”In explaining the rebrand, Zuckerberg said the name Facebook doesn’t encompass everything the company does anymore. In addition to its social network, that now includes Instagram, Messenger, its Quest VR headset, its Horizon VR platform and more.“Today we are seen as a social media company,” Zuckerberg said. “But in our DNA we are a company that builds technology to connect people.”___

🎥 Facebook changes name to Meta in rebranding effort

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A fifth child has died of COVID-19 in Kansas, according to state health officials.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment reported Wednesday the child was between 10 and 17 but it provided no other information, including when the death occurred.

Three of the children who died from the virus were in the 10-17 age group and the others were 9 or younger, according to health department statistics.

In the past week, the state recorded 5,807 newly confirmed COVID-19 cases, including 1,460 children. Seven children were among the 249 new hospitalizations in the last week.

Another 160 deaths were recorded but that includes health officials reconciling death reports from the last several months. Health department data shows 6,345 people have died from COVID-19 in Kansas since the pandemic began.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A fifth child has died of COVID-19 in Kansas, according to state health officials.The Kansas Department of Health and Environment reported Wednesday the child was between 10 and 17 but it provided no other information, including when the death occurred.Three of the children who died from the virus were in the 10-17 age group and the others were 9 or younger, according to health department statistics.In the past week, the state recorded 5,807 newly confirmed COVID-19 cases, including 1,460 children. Seven children were among the 249 new hospitalizations in the last week.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635354091287.png" alt="Wednesday Oct. 27, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday Oct. 27, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>Another 160 deaths were recorded but that includes health officials reconciling death reports from the last several months. Health department data shows 6,345 people have died from COVID-19 in Kansas since the pandemic began.

Kansas reports another child death from COVID-19

By SUZANNE PEREZ, JIM MCLEAN and BLAISE MESA <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2021-10-27/your-local-kansas-elections-are-getting-taken-over-by-bruising-dc-style-politics">Kansas News Service</a>

WICHITA — The notion of low-key elections in Kansas 
during odd-numbered years — largely spared the attack campaigns, 
mysterious money and blue-versus-red rancor — now feels so quaint.

Instead,
 school board races carry talking points about race and mask orders that
 would feel at home on Fox News or MSNBC. In one city in central Kansas,
 residents find themselves in an emotional battle over how much power 
local officials should have in the midst of a public health crisis. And 
voters in the state’s capital find one candidate on the ballot for city 
council with ties to a white supremacist group linked to the Jan. 6 
siege of the U.S. Capitol.

So now people running for local office —
 jobs where it can often prove hard to recruit volunteers to serve, much
 less withstand public attack — find themselves in increasingly 
partisan-like contests settled by an ever more polarized electorate.

School
 board meetings across Kansas have become a battleground for protests 
about mask mandates, critical race theory and other issues.

That 
means races for hundreds of school board seats — usually low-interest, 
low-turnout affairs — draw more attention than usual this year.

The <a href="https://1776projectpac.com/" target="_blank">Project 1776 PAC</a>, a New York-based political action committee, is backing dozens of candidates in seven states, including Kansas. The group has <a href="https://1776projectpac.com/endorsed-candidates/" target="_blank">endorsed 10 candidates</a> for school board races in Shawnee Mission, Blue Valley, Olathe and Lansing.

Project 1776 opposes the teaching of critical race theory or anything related to the <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2019/08/14/magazine/1619-america-slavery.html" target="_blank">1619 Project</a>,
 a New York Times initiative that aims to reframe American history by 
focusing on the consequences of slavery and the contributions of Black 
Americans.

In Wichita, the state’s largest school district has <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2021-10-19/your-guide-to-the-2021-wichita-school-board-elections" target="_blank">four seats up for grabs</a> — a board majority — on Tuesday.

Incumbents
 have faced criticism for more than a year over COVID-19 protocols, 
including decisions to start last school year with <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/education/2020-08-20/wichita-school-board-votes-to-start-middle-and-high-school-students-remotely" target="_blank">remote-only classes for secondary students</a> and to require <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2021-08-23/wichita-boe-votes-to-mandate-masks-for-students-employees" target="_blank">masks in schools</a>.

They’re facing a slate of challengers recruited and endorsed by the Sedgwick County Republican Party who oppose mask mandates.

Both
 the incumbents and challengers in Wichita are campaigning as a group, 
which is unusual for school board races, and both are getting support 
from larger organizations.

A campaign flier for the incumbents was paid for by the <a href="https://bluestemkansas.com/" target="_blank">Bluestem Fund PAC</a>, which gets contributions from the National Education Association and other unions.

During
 a recent gathering at a parking lot in east Wichita, Republican state 
Rep. Patrick Penn rallied the challengers and their supporters. He said 
Kansas school districts will get more than $8 billion in federal funding
 for COVID relief, and they’re spending it on the wrong things.

“What
 kind of stuff am I talking about? I’m talking about critical race 
theory,” Penn said. “I’m talking about anything that can be associated 
with depression, anti-bullying — they call it social-emotional learning.
 That’s what the school board wants to push out there.”

Judith Deedy, executive director of <a href="https://gameonforkansasschools.com/" target="_blank">Game On For Kansas Schools</a>, says she’s troubled by the shift toward partisan elections all over the state.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635433578405.png" alt="The race for four seats on the Wichita school board has become a battle between the incumbents and a slate of challengers recruited by the county Republican Party. Suzanne Perez / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>The race for four seats on the Wichita school board has become a battle between the incumbents and a slate of challengers recruited by the county Republican Party. Suzanne Perez / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By SUZANNE PEREZ, JIM MCLEAN and BLAISE MESA <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2021-10-27/your-local-kansas-elections-are-getting-taken-over-by-bruising-dc-style-politics">Kansas News Service</a>WICHITA — The notion of low-key elections in Kansas 
during odd-numbered years — largely spared the attack campaigns, 
mysterious money and blue-versus-red rancor — now feels so quaint.Instead,
 school board races carry talking points about race and mask orders that
 would feel at home on Fox News or MSNBC. In one city in central Kansas,
 residents find themselves in an emotional battle over how much power 
local officials should have in the midst of a public health crisis. And 
voters in the state’s capital find one candidate on the ballot for city 
council with ties to a white supremacist group linked to the Jan. 6 
siege of the U.S. Capitol.So now people running for local office —
 jobs where it can often prove hard to recruit volunteers to serve, much
 less withstand public attack — find themselves in increasingly 
partisan-like contests settled by an ever more polarized electorate.School
 board meetings across Kansas have become a battleground for protests 
about mask mandates, critical race theory and other issues.That 
means races for hundreds of school board seats — usually low-interest, 
low-turnout affairs — draw more attention than usual this year.The <a href="https://1776projectpac.com/" target="_blank">Project 1776 PAC</a>, a New York-based political action committee, is backing dozens of candidates in seven states, including Kansas. The group has <a href="https://1776projectpac.com/endorsed-candidates/" target="_blank">endorsed 10 candidates</a> for school board races in Shawnee Mission, Blue Valley, Olathe and Lansing.Project 1776 opposes the teaching of critical race theory or anything related to the <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2019/08/14/magazine/1619-america-slavery.html" target="_blank">1619 Project</a>,
 a New York Times initiative that aims to reframe American history by 
focusing on the consequences of slavery and the contributions of Black 
Americans.In Wichita, the state’s largest school district has <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2021-10-19/your-guide-to-the-2021-wichita-school-board-elections" target="_blank">four seats up for grabs</a> — a board majority — on Tuesday.Incumbents
 have faced criticism for more than a year over COVID-19 protocols, 
including decisions to start last school year with <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/education/2020-08-20/wichita-school-board-votes-to-start-middle-and-high-school-students-remotely" target="_blank">remote-only classes for secondary students</a> and to require <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2021-08-23/wichita-boe-votes-to-mandate-masks-for-students-employees" target="_blank">masks in schools</a>.They’re facing a slate of challengers recruited and endorsed by the Sedgwick County Republican Party who oppose mask mandates.Both
 the incumbents and challengers in Wichita are campaigning as a group, 
which is unusual for school board races, and both are getting support 
from larger organizations.A campaign flier for the incumbents was paid for by the <a href="https://bluestemkansas.com/" target="_blank">Bluestem Fund PAC</a>, which gets contributions from the National Education Association and other unions.During
 a recent gathering at a parking lot in east Wichita, Republican state 
Rep. Patrick Penn rallied the challengers and their supporters. He said 
Kansas school districts will get more than $8 billion in federal funding
 for COVID relief, and they’re spending it on the wrong things.“What
 kind of stuff am I talking about? I’m talking about critical race 
theory,” Penn said. “I’m talking about anything that can be associated 
with depression, anti-bullying — they call it social-emotional learning.
 That’s what the school board wants to push out there.”Judith Deedy, executive director of <a href="https://gameonforkansasschools.com/" target="_blank">Game On For Kansas Schools</a>, says she’s troubled by the shift toward partisan elections all over the state.“There’s
 a lot of anger and frustration, particularly with COVID, and so the 
more traditional school board members are maybe more susceptible to 
being picked off right now,” she said.“It’s misguided anger or 
misdirected anger at the people who’ve been in there and having to make 
some really difficult decisions.”<h2>Salina showdown</h2>In
 Salina, a town of about 50,000 in the middle of the state, an effort to
 limit the emergency powers of the city commission is sparking heated 
debate.A group of residents angered by a mask mandate and 
restrictions imposed on businesses during the height of the pandemic 
mounted a petition drive over the summer to get the question on the Nov.
 2 ballot.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635433656199.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“This is about a lot of citizens that feel like the government overreached,” said Kevin Korb, the leader of the group —<a href="https://salinafreedom.com/" target="_blank"> Salina Freedom </a>— during a recent<a href="https://www.ksal.com/ballot-question-debate-on-ksal/" target="_blank"> discussion of the issue </a>on Salina radio station KSAL.“The city commissioners are there to represent us,” he said, “not rule over us like kings.”A rival group, <a href="https://salinansforfacts.org/" target="_blank">Salinans for Facts,</a> is spearheading an effort to defeat the measure. It includes <a href="https://www.ksal.com/opinion-former-commissioners-mayors-urge-no-vote/" target="_blank">several former mayors and commissioners</a> who argue the proposed ordinance would usurp the home-rule powers granted the city in the Kansas Constitution.“This
 isn’t about freedom,” said former Commissioner Jon Blanchard on the 
KSAL broadcast. “This is about how we best respond to public 
emergencies.”Passage of the ordinance, Blanchard said, would tie the city’s hands when dealing with future health crises.“I fail to see how that makes anybody more free and it certainly does not make people safer,” he said.A
 court challenge could prevent the ordinance from taking effect even if 
voters approve it. Saline County District Court Judge Paul Hickman has 
heard arguments in the case earlier this month but is waiting until 
after the election to issue a ruling.<h2>Controversial candidate</h2>A candidate in Topeka’s city council race has deep-rooted connections to the Proud Boys.Canada
 labeled the Proud Boys as a terrorist organization, and the group 
fundraised legal defense funds for people arrested in the Capitol 
insurrection.Joel Campbell, who says he left the group, was a 
third-degree member with a tattoo professing his allegiance to the 
group. He is running against incumbent Neil Dobler for Topeka’s a 
district city council seat.Campbell was previously investigated 
by the state’s highway patrol for threats against Gov. Laura Kelly. In a
 now-deleted video he, without evidence, linked Kelly to running a child
 trafficking ring out of a pizza shop in Salina.“(Kelly) is 
wearing the red shoes,” Campbell said in the video. “They are literally 
throwing this (expletive) in our face. … The leader of Kansas, 
(expletive) Kansas’ governor, is in on this (expletive).”Campbell’s social media also follows a “super straight" account.A
 TikTok user coined the term super straight after saying they didn't 
want to date transgender people. The post then gained popularity and 
became closely tied with transphobic posts. It has since been banned 
from the social media app TikTok because it is “associated with hateful 
behavior.”The
 Kansas News Service is a collaboration of KCUR, Kansas Public Radio, 
KMUW and High Plains Public Radio focused on health, the social 
determinants of health and their connection to public policy.