TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases* (see below) in Kansas increased by 2,437 to a total of 432,730, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

The state reported 103 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 6,345.

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.

<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.

As of August 1, 2021, in accordance with an&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">updated CDC/CSTE surveillance case definition</a>, a confirmed case is defined as a person who tested positive by molecular detection (e.g., PCR, NAA) or identification of SARS-CoV-2 through genetic sequencing. A probable case is defined as a person with: a) presumptive lab evidence (antigen) or b) no lab testing but meeting clinical case criteria and is epi-linked. A person will be counted as a new surveillance case (e.g. reinfection) if they test positive for SARS-CoV-2 by a diagnostic test (i.e., molecular, antigen) and it has been greater than 90 days since the previous positive diagnostic test. In addition, a person with sequencing results identifying different SARS-CoV-2 lineages regardless of the time since the previous specimen sequenced will be counted as a new surveillance case.&nbsp;

Cases occurring between&nbsp;September 1, 2020&nbsp;and July 29, 2021 were classified by&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">previous CDC/CSTE case definition,&nbsp;</a>and cases prior to September 1, 2020 were classified by the&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/case-definitions/coronavirus-disease-2019-2020/" target="_blank">original case definition</a>.

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases* (see below) in Kansas increased by 2,437 to a total of 432,730, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;The state reported 103 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 6,345.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635354091287.png" alt="Wednesday October 27, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday October 27, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.As of August 1, 2021, in accordance with an&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">updated CDC/CSTE surveillance case definition</a>, a confirmed case is defined as a person who tested positive by molecular detection (e.g., PCR, NAA) or identification of SARS-CoV-2 through genetic sequencing. A probable case is defined as a person with: a) presumptive lab evidence (antigen) or b) no lab testing but meeting clinical case criteria and is epi-linked. A person will be counted as a new surveillance case (e.g. reinfection) if they test positive for SARS-CoV-2 by a diagnostic test (i.e., molecular, antigen) and it has been greater than 90 days since the previous positive diagnostic test. In addition, a person with sequencing results identifying different SARS-CoV-2 lineages regardless of the time since the previous specimen sequenced will be counted as a new surveillance case.&nbsp;Cases occurring between&nbsp;September 1, 2020&nbsp;and July 29, 2021 were classified by&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">previous CDC/CSTE case definition,&nbsp;</a>and cases prior to September 1, 2020 were classified by the&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/case-definitions/coronavirus-disease-2019-2020/" target="_blank">original case definition</a>.

KDHE: 2,400 new cases, 103 more COVID deaths

MONTGOMERY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating three suspects on multiple charges including counterfeiting.

Just after 10a.m. Oct. 21, the U.S. Secret Service agents, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, sheriff's deputies and police served a search warrant at at 2001 West Laurel #105 in Independence, Kansas, according to Montgomery County Sheriff Ron Wade reported Tuesday.

Authorities encountered four suspects, detained them and conducted a search of the residence. They found evidence of counterfeiting U.S. currency, meth and drug paraphernalia.

Officials booked 40-year-old Brandy Mulkey and 38-year-old Ernest Hufferd, on requested drug charges. He also faces charges on an outstanding Montgomery County warrant.&nbsp; They booked 21-year-old Adeline Mattes on requested drug and forgery charges. Authorities did not book a fourth suspect.

The sheriff reminded businesses to double check all U.S. currency before accepting it, especially the larger bills.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635285840425.png" alt="Hufferd photo Montgomery Co." />
 <figcaption>Hufferd photo Montgomery Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>MONTGOMERY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating three suspects on multiple charges including counterfeiting.Just after 10a.m. Oct. 21, the U.S. Secret Service agents, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, sheriff's deputies and police served a search warrant at at 2001 West Laurel #105 in Independence, Kansas, according to Montgomery County Sheriff Ron Wade reported Tuesday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635285426195.png" alt="Mulkey photo Montgomery Co." />
 <figcaption>Mulkey photo Montgomery Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Authorities encountered four suspects, detained them and conducted a search of the residence. They found evidence of counterfeiting U.S. currency, meth and drug paraphernalia.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635286329235.png" alt="Mattes photo Montgomery Co." />
 <figcaption>Mattes photo Montgomery Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Officials booked 40-year-old Brandy Mulkey and 38-year-old Ernest Hufferd, on requested drug charges. He also faces charges on an outstanding Montgomery County warrant.&nbsp; They booked 21-year-old Adeline Mattes on requested drug and forgery charges. Authorities did not book a fourth suspect.The sheriff reminded businesses to double check all U.S. currency before accepting it, especially the larger bills.

Sheriff: U.S. Secret Service busts Kan. counterfeiting ring

DENVER (AP) — The United States has issued its first passport with an “X” gender designation — a milestone in the recognition of the rights of people who don’t identify as male or female — and expects to be able to offer the option more broadly next year, the State Department said Wednesday.

The U.S. special diplomatic envoy for LGBTQ rights,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-government-and-politics-bfe4ae528d8a3e1b39448d135d2ef98d">Jessica Stern</a>, called the moves historic and celebratory, saying they bring the government documents in line with the “lived reality” that there is a wider spectrum of human sex characteristics than is reflected in the previous two designations.

“When a person obtains identity documents that reflect their true identity, they live with greater dignity and respect,” Stern said.

The department did not announce to whom the passport was issued. A department official declined to say whether it was for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/40a9acd723e84d8eaae46fd046d2c821">Dana Zzyym</a>, an intersex Colorado resident who has been in a legal battle with the department since 2015, saying the department does not usually discuss individual passport applications because of privacy concerns.

Zzyym (pronounced Zimm) was denied a passport for failing to check male or female on an application. According to court documents, Zzyym wrote “intersex” above the boxes marked “M” and “F” and requested an “X” gender marker instead in a separate letter.

Zzyym was born with ambiguous physical sexual characteristics but was raised as a boy and underwent several surgeries that failed to make Zzyym appear fully male, according to court filings. Zzyym served in the Navy as a male but later came to identify as intersex while working and studying at Colorado State University. The department’s denial of Zzyym’s passport prevented Zzyym from being able to travel to a meeting of Organization Intersex International in Mexico.

The State Department announced in June that it was moving toward&nbsp;<a href="https://www.state.gov/proposing-changes-to-the-departments-policies-on-gender-on-u-s-passports-and-consular-reports-of-birth-abroad/" target="_blank">adding a third gender marker</a>&nbsp;for nonbinary, intersex and gender-nonconforming people but said it would take time because it required extensive updates to its computer systems. A department official said the passport application and system update with the “X” designation option still need to be approved by the Office of Management and Budget, which approves all government forms, before they can be issued.

The department now also allows applicants to self-select their gender as male or female, no longer requiring them to provide medical certification if their gender did not match that listed on their other identification documents.

The United States joins a handful of countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Nepal and Canada, in allowing its citizens to designate a gender other than male or female on their passports.

Stern said her office planned to talk about the United States’ experience with the change in its interactions around the world and she hopes that might help inspire other governments to offer the option.

“We see this as a way of affirming and uplifting the human rights of trans and intersex and gender-nonconforming and nonbinary people everywhere,” she said.

By COLLEEN SLEVIN, Associated PressDENVER (AP) — The United States has issued its first passport with an “X” gender designation — a milestone in the recognition of the rights of people who don’t identify as male or female — and expects to be able to offer the option more broadly next year, the State Department said Wednesday.The U.S. special diplomatic envoy for LGBTQ rights,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-government-and-politics-bfe4ae528d8a3e1b39448d135d2ef98d">Jessica Stern</a>, called the moves historic and celebratory, saying they bring the government documents in line with the “lived reality” that there is a wider spectrum of human sex characteristics than is reflected in the previous two designations.“When a person obtains identity documents that reflect their true identity, they live with greater dignity and respect,” Stern said.The department did not announce to whom the passport was issued. A department official declined to say whether it was for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/40a9acd723e84d8eaae46fd046d2c821">Dana Zzyym</a>, an intersex Colorado resident who has been in a legal battle with the department since 2015, saying the department does not usually discuss individual passport applications because of privacy concerns.Zzyym (pronounced Zimm) was denied a passport for failing to check male or female on an application. According to court documents, Zzyym wrote “intersex” above the boxes marked “M” and “F” and requested an “X” gender marker instead in a separate letter.Zzyym was born with ambiguous physical sexual characteristics but was raised as a boy and underwent several surgeries that failed to make Zzyym appear fully male, according to court filings. Zzyym served in the Navy as a male but later came to identify as intersex while working and studying at Colorado State University. The department’s denial of Zzyym’s passport prevented Zzyym from being able to travel to a meeting of Organization Intersex International in Mexico.The State Department announced in June that it was moving toward&nbsp;<a href="https://www.state.gov/proposing-changes-to-the-departments-policies-on-gender-on-u-s-passports-and-consular-reports-of-birth-abroad/" target="_blank">adding a third gender marker</a>&nbsp;for nonbinary, intersex and gender-nonconforming people but said it would take time because it required extensive updates to its computer systems. A department official said the passport application and system update with the “X” designation option still need to be approved by the Office of Management and Budget, which approves all government forms, before they can be issued.The department now also allows applicants to self-select their gender as male or female, no longer requiring them to provide medical certification if their gender did not match that listed on their other identification documents.The United States joins a handful of countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Nepal and Canada, in allowing its citizens to designate a gender other than male or female on their passports.Stern said her office planned to talk about the United States’ experience with the change in its interactions around the world and she hopes that might help inspire other governments to offer the option.“We see this as a way of affirming and uplifting the human rights of trans and intersex and gender-nonconforming and nonbinary people everywhere,” she said.___

U.S. issues 1st passport for those who don't identify as male, female

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal crash with a pickup truck and a train have identified the Kansas woman who died as 36-year-0ld Ana Guerrero Dominguez of Maize, according to the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Department Accident Bulletin.

She was driving a Chevy Silverado northbound on 135th Street West at 53rd Street just after 3p.m. Tuesday, according to Lt. Benjamin Blick.&nbsp;

EMS transported two female, juvenile passengers identified as Pamela Antiveros-Guerrero and Hiray Antiveros-Guerrero to Wesley Medical Center in critical condition, according to the report. There were no injuries to those on the eastbound Kansas and Oklahoma train.

The accident remains under investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635284597488.png" alt="First responders at the scene of the fatal crash-photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>First responders at the scene of the fatal crash-photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal crash with a pickup truck and a train have identified the Kansas woman who died as 36-year-0ld Ana Guerrero Dominguez of Maize, according to the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Department Accident Bulletin.She was driving a Chevy Silverado northbound on 135th Street West at 53rd Street just after 3p.m. Tuesday, according to Lt. Benjamin Blick.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WFD?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WFD</a> Rescue and HazMat companies assisting <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SedgwickCounty?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SedgwickCounty</a> FD1 with a vehicle vs train accident near 53rd St N and 135th St W. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/icttraffic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#icttraffic</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ictfire?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ictfire</a>&mdash; WichitaFireDept (@WichitaFireDept) <a href="https://twitter.com/WichitaFireDept/status/1453097720642777100?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>EMS transported two female, juvenile passengers identified as Pamela Antiveros-Guerrero and Hiray Antiveros-Guerrero to Wesley Medical Center in critical condition, according to the report. There were no injuries to those on the eastbound Kansas and Oklahoma train.The accident remains under investigation.

Update: Sheriff IDs Kan. woman who died, girls injured in crash with train

BUCHANAN COUNTY, MO. - A series of shootings at a Catholic abbey near Gower, 37 miles north of Kansas City, has prompted the sisters who live there to take action for their own safety.

Benedictines of Mary, Queen of Apostles, located about six miles northeast of Gower, has been the target in a series of shooting incidents - the first occurring in July 2019, and the most recent on March 24 of this year. Nobody was injured in the shootings.

"As it continued happening, especially with three incidents happening in close succession in March, that's when we realized it was deliberate and we were going to have to do something."

The most recent shooting incident in late March resulted in a bullet piercing the wall of Mother Abbess Cecelia's bedroom - about five feet from her bed. The bullet had already gone through the exterior siding.

"It penetrated that and went through Mother Abbess' exterior wall into an interior wall," said Sister Scholastica Radel, the prioress of the abbey.

 "It actually was at such an angle that it was stopped by a shower wall between us. The police said it was a very serious weapon that was being used."

There was also a shooting on February 17, which was Ash Wednesday, and then another just a few days after that.

Bullets and casings were later discovered on the property following the most recent shooting in March. The Clinton County Sherriff's Department has been in constant contact with the Abbey, but so far, there are no suspects.

"A lot of people are very anxious that we catch whoever did it, but on the other hand, we understand the police are doing their best and there's very little to go on."

Clinton County Sheriff's deputies have provided extra surveillance for the area, and they ask anyone in the community who has information to call their tip line at 816-539-2156.

Beyond that, the sisters knew they had to do something more for their own protection. As a result, an eight-foot high wall is being constructed along the northside of the property - the side where the shots came from.

"It's in the process of going up," Radel said. "There's already a great sense of security, especially in the night. Just to know there's that extra protection and less visibility."

The wall will span about 3,000 feet in length and also cover part of the property on the east side. Construction on the wall began this past week. The project is being funded through donations from the local community and other Benedictines of Mary benefactors.

"We were just so very touched by everybody's generosity," Sr. Radel said. "You really had a beautiful sense of community, especially from our locals as well. Just seeing how many people were coming forward and just the charity in their hearts, it was a beautiful thing. Very encouraging for us."

The contractor who's building the fence, Straub Construction, was also concerned for the sister's safety when they first heard about the shooting incidents. They're also the same company who built the Abbey in the first place.

"Not only have they been great work with, but they also are keeping an eye out for us," Radel said. "They were one of the first people to reach out to us after the shooting incidents occurred, and asked if there was anything they could do for us."

Sr. Radel says there's been a series of incidents occurring on or near their property over the last decade.&nbsp;There was a shooting incident there back in 2010, before the sisters moved to the property. That time, someone shot at a shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes, shooting a life-size statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the waist.

In a statement to supporters earlier this year, the Benedictines of Mary said of the shooting in late March, "Some of the Sisters arose, but soon returned to sleep, as we have sadly become desensitized on account of many incidents of inappropriate activity around our monastery.”

As scary as these incidents are, Sr. Radel and the 44 other sisters who live on the property are grateful to the community for their generosity in donating money toward the wall project. They're also grateful to local law enforcement, who continue to investigate.

They're also relieved, and hopeful, that this will be the end of any violence aimed at them.

"We have a very sacred space here that needs protection," Sr. Radel said. "The message is kind of going two ways. (The wall) is a security for us, but it's also telling everyone else that this is a sacred space that needs protection."

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635337146615.jpeg" alt="Fence posts (left) go up as part of the wall construction at the Benedictines of Mary, Queen of Apostles Abbey near Gower. The wall is going up after a series of four shootings at the Abbey between July 2019 and March of this year. Photo by Matt Pike." />
 <figcaption>Fence posts (left) go up as part of the wall construction at the Benedictines of Mary, Queen of Apostles Abbey near Gower. The wall is going up after a series of four shootings at the Abbey between July 2019 and March of this year. Photo by Matt Pike.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBUCHANAN COUNTY, MO. - A series of shootings at a Catholic abbey near Gower, 37 miles north of Kansas City, has prompted the sisters who live there to take action for their own safety.Benedictines of Mary, Queen of Apostles, located about six miles northeast of Gower, has been the target in a series of shooting incidents - the first occurring in July 2019, and the most recent on March 24 of this year. Nobody was injured in the shootings."As it continued happening, especially with three incidents happening in close succession in March, that's when we realized it was deliberate and we were going to have to do something."The most recent shooting incident in late March resulted in a bullet piercing the wall of Mother Abbess Cecelia's bedroom - about five feet from her bed. The bullet had already gone through the exterior siding."It penetrated that and went through Mother Abbess' exterior wall into an interior wall," said Sister Scholastica Radel, the prioress of the abbey. "It actually was at such an angle that it was stopped by a shower wall between us. The police said it was a very serious weapon that was being used."There was also a shooting on February 17, which was Ash Wednesday, and then another just a few days after that.Bullets and casings were later discovered on the property following the most recent shooting in March. The Clinton County Sherriff's Department has been in constant contact with the Abbey, but so far, there are no suspects."A lot of people are very anxious that we catch whoever did it, but on the other hand, we understand the police are doing their best and there's very little to go on."Clinton County Sheriff's deputies have provided extra surveillance for the area, and they ask anyone in the community who has information to call their tip line at 816-539-2156.Beyond that, the sisters knew they had to do something more for their own protection. As a result, an eight-foot high wall is being constructed along the northside of the property - the side where the shots came from."It's in the process of going up," Radel said. "There's already a great sense of security, especially in the night. Just to know there's that extra protection and less visibility."The wall will span about 3,000 feet in length and also cover part of the property on the east side. Construction on the wall began this past week. The project is being funded through donations from the local community and other Benedictines of Mary benefactors."We were just so very touched by everybody's generosity," Sr. Radel said. "You really had a beautiful sense of community, especially from our locals as well. Just seeing how many people were coming forward and just the charity in their hearts, it was a beautiful thing. Very encouraging for us."The contractor who's building the fence, Straub Construction, was also concerned for the sister's safety when they first heard about the shooting incidents. They're also the same company who built the Abbey in the first place."Not only have they been great work with, but they also are keeping an eye out for us," Radel said. "They were one of the first people to reach out to us after the shooting incidents occurred, and asked if there was anything they could do for us."Sr. Radel says there's been a series of incidents occurring on or near their property over the last decade.&nbsp;There was a shooting incident there back in 2010, before the sisters moved to the property. That time, someone shot at a shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes, shooting a life-size statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the waist.In a statement to supporters earlier this year, the Benedictines of Mary said of the shooting in late March, "Some of the Sisters arose, but soon returned to sleep, as we have sadly become desensitized on account of many incidents of inappropriate activity around our monastery.”As scary as these incidents are, Sr. Radel and the 44 other sisters who live on the property are grateful to the community for their generosity in donating money toward the wall project. They're also grateful to local law enforcement, who continue to investigate.They're also relieved, and hopeful, that this will be the end of any violence aimed at them."We have a very sacred space here that needs protection," Sr. Radel said. "The message is kind of going two ways. (The wall) is a security for us, but it's also telling everyone else that this is a sacred space that needs protection."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635337191930.jpeg" alt="Photo by Matt Pike." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Matt Pike.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Sisters take action after shootings at Catholic abbey near Kansas City 

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

Police arrested a Kansas man Tuesday after he was allegedly found to be in possession of a a pickup stolen from a Salina business in July.

On Tuesday, an officer spotted the gray Chevrolet pickup at the Seventh Day Adventist Church, 834 N. 11th Street in Salina, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester.

 The pickup had a license plate belonging to a Ford F150. The officer ran the vehicle identification number and learned that the pickup was one reported stolen from Ferco Rental, 264 S. Broadway Boulevard in Salina on July 26. It was valued at $7,500.

Eric Goldberg, 43, of Salina, approached the officer. Goldberg allegedly had the pickup keys hanging out of his jacket pocket. During a search, the officer allegedly located methamphetamine inside the pickup.

Goldberg was arrested on requested charges of Felony possession of stolen property, Possession of drug paraphernalia and Possession of a controlled substance. The pickup was released to Ferco Rental.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635338705192.jpeg" alt="Eric Goldberg has previous convictions for drugs and fleeing from law enforcement, according to the Kan. Dept. of Corrections- photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Eric Goldberg has previous convictions for drugs and fleeing from law enforcement, according to the Kan. Dept. of Corrections- photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostPolice arrested a Kansas man Tuesday after he was allegedly found to be in possession of a a pickup stolen from a Salina business in July.On Tuesday, an officer spotted the gray Chevrolet pickup at the Seventh Day Adventist Church, 834 N. 11th Street in Salina, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester. The pickup had a license plate belonging to a Ford F150. The officer ran the vehicle identification number and learned that the pickup was one reported stolen from Ferco Rental, 264 S. Broadway Boulevard in Salina on July 26. It was valued at $7,500.Eric Goldberg, 43, of Salina, approached the officer. Goldberg allegedly had the pickup keys hanging out of his jacket pocket. During a search, the officer allegedly located methamphetamine inside the pickup.Goldberg was arrested on requested charges of Felony possession of stolen property, Possession of drug paraphernalia and Possession of a controlled substance. The pickup was released to Ferco Rental.

Police find Kansas felon with pickup reported stolen in July

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. moved a step closer to expanding COVID-19 vaccinations for millions more children as government advisers on Tuesday endorsed kid-size doses of Pfizer’s shots for 5- to 11-year-olds.

A Food and Drug Administration advisory panel voted unanimously, with one abstention, that the vaccine’s benefits in preventing COVID-19 in that age group outweigh any potential risks. That includes questions about a heart-related side effect that’s been very rare in teens and young adults despite their use of a much higher vaccine dose.

While children are far less likely than older people to get severe COVID-19, ultimately many panelists decided it’s important to give parents the choice to protect their youngsters — especially those at high risk of illness or who live in places where other precautions, like masks in schools, aren’t being used.

“This is an age group that deserves and should have the same opportunity to be vaccinated as every other age,” said panel member Dr. Amanda Cohn of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The FDA isn’t bound by the panel’s recommendation and is expected to make its own decision within days. If the FDA concurs, there’s still another step: Next week, the CDC will have to decide whether to recommend the shots and which youngsters should get them.

Full-strength shots made by Pfizer and its partner BioNTech already are recommended for everyone 12 and older but pediatricians and many parents are clamoring for protection for younger children. The extra-contagious delta variant has caused an alarming rise in pediatric infections -- and families are frustrated with school quarantines and having to say no to sleepovers and other rites of childhood to keep the virus at bay.

In the 5- to 11-year-old age group, there have been over 8,300 hospitalizations reported, about a third requiring intensive care, and nearly 100 deaths.

States are getting ready to roll out the shots — just a third of the amount given to teens and adults — that will come in special orange-capped vials to avoid dosage mix-ups. More than 25,000 pediatricians and other primary care providers have signed up so far to offer vaccination, which will also be available at pharmacies and other locations.

But for all that anticipation, there also are people who strongly oppose vaccinating younger children, and both FDA and its advisers were inundated with an email campaign seeking to block the Pfizer shot.

Dr. Jay Portnoy of Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri, said despite over 4,000 emails urging him to vote against the vaccine, he was persuaded by the data showing it works. Portnoy said he also was representing “parents I see every day in the clinic who are terrified of sending their children to school. ... They need a voice also.”

Panelists stressed they weren’t supporting vaccine mandates for young children — and the FDA doesn’t make mandate decisions. FDA vaccine chief Dr. Peter Marks also said it would be highly unusual for other groups to mandate something that’s cleared only for emergency use. Several advisers said they wished they could tailor the shots for the highest-risk youngsters, a decision that would fall to the CDC.

Dr. James Hildreth of Meharry Medical College said he ultimately voted in favor of the vaccine “to make sure that the children who really need this vaccine — primarily Black and brown children in our country — get it.”

Pfizer studied 2,268 elementary schoolchildren given two shots three weeks apart of either a placebo or the kid dose. Vaccinated youngsters developed levels of virus-fighting antibodies just as strong as teens and young adults who got the full-strength shots. More important, the vaccine proved nearly 91% effective at preventing symptomatic infection — based on 16 cases of COVID-19 among kids given dummy shots compared to just three who got vaccinated.

The kid dosage also proved safe, with similar or fewer temporary side effects — such as sore arms, fever or achiness — that teens experience. At FDA’s request, Pfizer more recently enrolled another 2,300 youngsters into the study, and preliminary safety data has shown no red flags.

But that study isn’t large enough to detect any extremely rare side effects, such as the heart inflammation that occasionally occurs after the second full-strength dose, mostly in young men and teen boys. The panel spent hours discussing if younger children, given a smaller dose, might face that side effect, too.

Statistical models developed by FDA scientists showed that in most scenarios of the continuing pandemic, the vaccine would prevent far more COVID-19 hospitalizations in this age group than would potentially be caused by that rare heart problem.

FDA’s models suggested the vaccine could prevent 200 to 250 hospitalizations for every 1 million youngsters vaccinated — assuming that virus spread remained high, something that’s hard to predict. FDA scientists also said younger kids likely won’t have as much risk of heart inflammation as teens but if they did, it might cause about 58 hospitalizations per million vaccinations.

“I do think it’s a relatively close call,” said adviser Dr. Eric Rubin of Harvard University. “It’s really going to be a question of what the prevailing conditions are but we’re never going to learn about how safe this vaccine is unless we start giving it.”

Moderna also is studying its vaccine in young children, and Pfizer has additional studies underway in those younger than 5.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. moved a step closer to expanding COVID-19 vaccinations for millions more children as government advisers on Tuesday endorsed kid-size doses of Pfizer’s shots for 5- to 11-year-olds.A Food and Drug Administration advisory panel voted unanimously, with one abstention, that the vaccine’s benefits in preventing COVID-19 in that age group outweigh any potential risks. That includes questions about a heart-related side effect that’s been very rare in teens and young adults despite their use of a much higher vaccine dose.While children are far less likely than older people to get severe COVID-19, ultimately many panelists decided it’s important to give parents the choice to protect their youngsters — especially those at high risk of illness or who live in places where other precautions, like masks in schools, aren’t being used.“This is an age group that deserves and should have the same opportunity to be vaccinated as every other age,” said panel member Dr. Amanda Cohn of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/laaL0_xKmmA?start=24265" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>The FDA isn’t bound by the panel’s recommendation and is expected to make its own decision within days. If the FDA concurs, there’s still another step: Next week, the CDC will have to decide whether to recommend the shots and which youngsters should get them.Full-strength shots made by Pfizer and its partner BioNTech already are recommended for everyone 12 and older but pediatricians and many parents are clamoring for protection for younger children. The extra-contagious delta variant has caused an alarming rise in pediatric infections -- and families are frustrated with school quarantines and having to say no to sleepovers and other rites of childhood to keep the virus at bay.In the 5- to 11-year-old age group, there have been over 8,300 hospitalizations reported, about a third requiring intensive care, and nearly 100 deaths.States are getting ready to roll out the shots — just a third of the amount given to teens and adults — that will come in special orange-capped vials to avoid dosage mix-ups. More than 25,000 pediatricians and other primary care providers have signed up so far to offer vaccination, which will also be available at pharmacies and other locations.But for all that anticipation, there also are people who strongly oppose vaccinating younger children, and both FDA and its advisers were inundated with an email campaign seeking to block the Pfizer shot.Dr. Jay Portnoy of Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri, said despite over 4,000 emails urging him to vote against the vaccine, he was persuaded by the data showing it works. Portnoy said he also was representing “parents I see every day in the clinic who are terrified of sending their children to school. ... They need a voice also.”Panelists stressed they weren’t supporting vaccine mandates for young children — and the FDA doesn’t make mandate decisions. FDA vaccine chief Dr. Peter Marks also said it would be highly unusual for other groups to mandate something that’s cleared only for emergency use. Several advisers said they wished they could tailor the shots for the highest-risk youngsters, a decision that would fall to the CDC.Dr. James Hildreth of Meharry Medical College said he ultimately voted in favor of the vaccine “to make sure that the children who really need this vaccine — primarily Black and brown children in our country — get it.”Pfizer studied 2,268 elementary schoolchildren given two shots three weeks apart of either a placebo or the kid dose. Vaccinated youngsters developed levels of virus-fighting antibodies just as strong as teens and young adults who got the full-strength shots. More important, the vaccine proved nearly 91% effective at preventing symptomatic infection — based on 16 cases of COVID-19 among kids given dummy shots compared to just three who got vaccinated.The kid dosage also proved safe, with similar or fewer temporary side effects — such as sore arms, fever or achiness — that teens experience. At FDA’s request, Pfizer more recently enrolled another 2,300 youngsters into the study, and preliminary safety data has shown no red flags.But that study isn’t large enough to detect any extremely rare side effects, such as the heart inflammation that occasionally occurs after the second full-strength dose, mostly in young men and teen boys. The panel spent hours discussing if younger children, given a smaller dose, might face that side effect, too.Statistical models developed by FDA scientists showed that in most scenarios of the continuing pandemic, the vaccine would prevent far more COVID-19 hospitalizations in this age group than would potentially be caused by that rare heart problem.FDA’s models suggested the vaccine could prevent 200 to 250 hospitalizations for every 1 million youngsters vaccinated — assuming that virus spread remained high, something that’s hard to predict. FDA scientists also said younger kids likely won’t have as much risk of heart inflammation as teens but if they did, it might cause about 58 hospitalizations per million vaccinations.“I do think it’s a relatively close call,” said adviser Dr. Eric Rubin of Harvard University. “It’s really going to be a question of what the prevailing conditions are but we’re never going to learn about how safe this vaccine is unless we start giving it.”Moderna also is studying its vaccine in young children, and Pfizer has additional studies underway in those younger than 5.___

🎥 U.S. moves closer to expanding COVID vaccinations for children

BUTLER COUNTY — A Kansas sheriff's deputy died in an accident just before 5p.m. Monday in Butler County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 marked law enforcement 2006 Ford Crown Victoria driven by 44-year-old Deputy Stephen Evans&nbsp; was southbound on U.S.77 just north of NW 50th.

&nbsp;The deputy pulled to the right shoulder and briefly stopped before making a u-turn crossing the southbound lanes. A southbound 2002 Ford F250 driven by&nbsp; Jacob Steven Weaver, 29, Douglas, struck the&nbsp;left side of Crown Victoria.

Evans was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported Carlson Funeral Home in El Dorado. EMS transported Weaver to a Wichita Hospital. Weaver was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

According to the sheriff's office Steve leaves behind his wife, three children, his parents, and the men and women of the Butler County Sheriff’s Office. Funeral arrangements are pending.

BUTLER COUNTY — A Kansas sheriff's deputy died in an accident just before 5p.m. Monday in Butler County.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fpermalink.php%3Fstory_fbid%3D4787411611289129%26id%3D255726507791018&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="703" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 marked law enforcement 2006 Ford Crown Victoria driven by 44-year-old Deputy Stephen Evans&nbsp; was southbound on U.S.77 just north of NW 50th.&nbsp;The deputy pulled to the right shoulder and briefly stopped before making a u-turn crossing the southbound lanes. A southbound 2002 Ford F250 driven by&nbsp; Jacob Steven Weaver, 29, Douglas, struck the&nbsp;left side of Crown Victoria.Evans was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported Carlson Funeral Home in El Dorado. EMS transported Weaver to a Wichita Hospital. Weaver was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.According to the sheriff's office Steve leaves behind his wife, three children, his parents, and the men and women of the Butler County Sheriff’s Office. Funeral arrangements are pending.

Kansas sheriff's office IDs deputy who died in 2-vehicle crash

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman on drug charges after a traffic stop.

On Just after 7:30a.m. Tuesday, sheriff's deputies conducted a traffic stop on a white 2004 Chevrolet Trailblazer with an expired tag in the 3000 block of NE Quincy Street, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

Throughout the investigation, a K9 Unit assisted and illegal narcotics were located.

The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle 40-year-old Brenda R. Cole&nbsp; of Topeka, was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, driving with an expired tag, no proof of liability insurance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635332224700.png" alt="Cole-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Cole-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman on drug charges after a traffic stop.On Just after 7:30a.m. Tuesday, sheriff's deputies conducted a traffic stop on a white 2004 Chevrolet Trailblazer with an expired tag in the 3000 block of NE Quincy Street, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.Throughout the investigation, a K9 Unit assisted and illegal narcotics were located.The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle 40-year-old Brenda R. Cole&nbsp; of Topeka, was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, driving with an expired tag, no proof of liability insurance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Kan. sheriff's K9 helps deputies find drugs during traffic stop

WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House is zeroing in on a package of clean energy strategies for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-business-congress-be4b0609c5928ace08fe04c0bb6d4cbc">President Joe Biden’s big domestic policy bill&nbsp;</a>that officials believe could reach similar greenhouse gas emission reduction goals as an initial proposal that was quashed by opposition from a centrist Democrat.

The Biden administration discussed the proposals Monday at the White House with the leaders of about a dozen environmental and justice groups, according to a senior administration official who requested anonymity to share the plans. A new approach was needed after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/manchin-budget-impasse-56846c16c1f4c7e989556161f05fcf2e">coal-state Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va.</a>, rejected the White House’s earlier clean energy plan.

The emerging proposals would expand grants and loans in the agriculture and industrial sectors to help them shift to clean energy providers with fewer greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming, the official said. There would also be new, refundable home improvement tax credits for tapping solar and other renewable energy sources. The official said momentum was building as the group coalesced around the new ideas.

The new strategies come as the president and Democrats in Congress are struggling to wrap up talks on Biden’s now-scaled-back package of at least $1.75 trillion in social services and climate change investments before he departs later this week for two global summits overseas.

Vice President Kamala Harris visited the afternoon meeting with the leaders of some of the nation’s leading environmental and justice organizations and reiterated the president’s commitment to the goals of the package — even as she acknowledged the sometimes grueling process to achieve consensus in the party.

“The president and I and our administration are unwavering in our commitment to these issues. Absolutely unwavering,” she said. “But you know, there’s an old saying, you don’t want to watch sausage be made and you don’t want to watch a bill being made.”

A cornerstone of Biden’s climate change strategy had been a clean energy plan that would have rewarded power providers that use clean sources and penalized those that don’t.

But that approach had to be scrapped when Manchin objected. With Republicans fully opposed to Biden’s big package, the president needs the support of all Democrats in the 50-50 split Senate, with no votes to spare.

The senior administration official said the administration was not wedded to one clean-energy strategy as a “silver bullet.”

Instead, officials are coalescing around a new package of strategies that could potentially achieve similar emission reduction goals without adding new costs to the overall package.

A plan backed by Democrats offers tax credits and spending to boost renewable power such as wind and solar and sharply increase the number of electric vehicles. Advocates think the plan, plus executive branch action such as a pending Environmental Protection Agency rule to curb methane emissions, and action by states, should be enough to meet or nearly meet Biden’s goal to cut greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2030, compared with 2005 levels.

Biden said at a town hall last week that he expects to spend the $150 billion that had been targeted for the clean-energy program on climate programs. Advocates say the money would most likely be used as block grants to states to pursue their own emissions cuts.

It’s unclear if the new proposals would be acceptable to Manchin, whose home state is a leading producer of coal and natural gas. He has preferred an approach that does not favor one industry over the other as coal begins to be phased out for cleaner energy sources.

The new strategies appear to use more incentives to encourage clean energy use rather than penalties for failing to make the transition, which could help win over Manchin. But climate change advocates have argued that penalties are needed to get industries to more quickly turn to cleaner sources as the world races to confront the dire threats of climate change.

A major fight emerged in recent days over a proposal to include a so-called “methane fee” in the budget package. The fee would be imposed on energy companies that leak methane pollution during oil and gas production. Methane, the main component of natural gas, is a leading cause of global warming, especially in the short term.

“My hope is, it’s going to be in,” Sen. Tom Carper, D-Del., chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, said of the methane fee.

“We negotiated a methane fee, we tried to do it in a way that Sen. Manchin and his folks would be more receptive of, and we’re still talking about it and continuing to work through it,” Carper told reporters Monday.

Manchin said Tuesday he is talking to Carper and others about the methane fee, but does not want to “punish” energy companies “just for the sake of punishing” them. Some House Democrats from Texas also oppose the methane fee, saying it could cost thousands of jobs in the energy industry and increase energy costs for Americans.

Supporters called the fee a common-sense provision that only kicks in when methane pollution exceeds agreed-upon targets. The fee would give the oil and gas industry a financial incentive to capture methane rather than burn or “flare” excess gas produced at well sites, supporters say.

Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., said a methane fee is crucial to meeting Biden’s climate goals as he heads to a climate summit in Glasgow, Scotland next week.

“Letting corporations pollute for free is not a climate solution,” Whitehouse said.

The grants and loans for the agricultural sector would help rural electric cooperatives transition to cleaner energy sources, which could be of interest to Manchin in his rural state.

Similarly, industrial steel, cement and aluminum plants could tap funds to beef up their use of greener sources, the official said. There would also be expanded home improvement tax credits.

Biden wants a deal in hand before he arrives in Scotland for the United Nations climate conference amid hopes to reposition the U.S. as a world leader on the issue.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635245289649.png" alt="President Biden at East End Elementary School in North Plainfield, New Jersey Monday to talk about his Build Back Better Agenda said he wants a deal in hand before he arrives in Scotland for the United Nations climate conference amid hopes to reposition the U.S. as a world leader on the issue. Photo courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>President Biden at East End Elementary School in North Plainfield, New Jersey Monday to talk about his Build Back Better Agenda said he wants a deal in hand before he arrives in Scotland for the United Nations climate conference amid hopes to reposition the U.S. as a world leader on the issue. Photo courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House is zeroing in on a package of clean energy strategies for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-business-congress-be4b0609c5928ace08fe04c0bb6d4cbc">President Joe Biden’s big domestic policy bill&nbsp;</a>that officials believe could reach similar greenhouse gas emission reduction goals as an initial proposal that was quashed by opposition from a centrist Democrat.The Biden administration discussed the proposals Monday at the White House with the leaders of about a dozen environmental and justice groups, according to a senior administration official who requested anonymity to share the plans. A new approach was needed after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/manchin-budget-impasse-56846c16c1f4c7e989556161f05fcf2e">coal-state Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va.</a>, rejected the White House’s earlier clean energy plan.The emerging proposals would expand grants and loans in the agriculture and industrial sectors to help them shift to clean energy providers with fewer greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming, the official said. There would also be new, refundable home improvement tax credits for tapping solar and other renewable energy sources. The official said momentum was building as the group coalesced around the new ideas.The new strategies come as the president and Democrats in Congress are struggling to wrap up talks on Biden’s now-scaled-back package of at least $1.75 trillion in social services and climate change investments before he departs later this week for two global summits overseas.Vice President Kamala Harris visited the afternoon meeting with the leaders of some of the nation’s leading environmental and justice organizations and reiterated the president’s commitment to the goals of the package — even as she acknowledged the sometimes grueling process to achieve consensus in the party.“The president and I and our administration are unwavering in our commitment to these issues. Absolutely unwavering,” she said. “But you know, there’s an old saying, you don’t want to watch sausage be made and you don’t want to watch a bill being made.”A cornerstone of Biden’s climate change strategy had been a clean energy plan that would have rewarded power providers that use clean sources and penalized those that don’t.But that approach had to be scrapped when Manchin objected. With Republicans fully opposed to Biden’s big package, the president needs the support of all Democrats in the 50-50 split Senate, with no votes to spare.The senior administration official said the administration was not wedded to one clean-energy strategy as a “silver bullet.”Instead, officials are coalescing around a new package of strategies that could potentially achieve similar emission reduction goals without adding new costs to the overall package.A plan backed by Democrats offers tax credits and spending to boost renewable power such as wind and solar and sharply increase the number of electric vehicles. Advocates think the plan, plus executive branch action such as a pending Environmental Protection Agency rule to curb methane emissions, and action by states, should be enough to meet or nearly meet Biden’s goal to cut greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2030, compared with 2005 levels.Biden said at a town hall last week that he expects to spend the $150 billion that had been targeted for the clean-energy program on climate programs. Advocates say the money would most likely be used as block grants to states to pursue their own emissions cuts.It’s unclear if the new proposals would be acceptable to Manchin, whose home state is a leading producer of coal and natural gas. He has preferred an approach that does not favor one industry over the other as coal begins to be phased out for cleaner energy sources.The new strategies appear to use more incentives to encourage clean energy use rather than penalties for failing to make the transition, which could help win over Manchin. But climate change advocates have argued that penalties are needed to get industries to more quickly turn to cleaner sources as the world races to confront the dire threats of climate change.A major fight emerged in recent days over a proposal to include a so-called “methane fee” in the budget package. The fee would be imposed on energy companies that leak methane pollution during oil and gas production. Methane, the main component of natural gas, is a leading cause of global warming, especially in the short term.“My hope is, it’s going to be in,” Sen. Tom Carper, D-Del., chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, said of the methane fee.“We negotiated a methane fee, we tried to do it in a way that Sen. Manchin and his folks would be more receptive of, and we’re still talking about it and continuing to work through it,” Carper told reporters Monday.Manchin said Tuesday he is talking to Carper and others about the methane fee, but does not want to “punish” energy companies “just for the sake of punishing” them. Some House Democrats from Texas also oppose the methane fee, saying it could cost thousands of jobs in the energy industry and increase energy costs for Americans.Supporters called the fee a common-sense provision that only kicks in when methane pollution exceeds agreed-upon targets. The fee would give the oil and gas industry a financial incentive to capture methane rather than burn or “flare” excess gas produced at well sites, supporters say.Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., said a methane fee is crucial to meeting Biden’s climate goals as he heads to a climate summit in Glasgow, Scotland next week.“Letting corporations pollute for free is not a climate solution,” Whitehouse said.The grants and loans for the agricultural sector would help rural electric cooperatives transition to cleaner energy sources, which could be of interest to Manchin in his rural state.Similarly, industrial steel, cement and aluminum plants could tap funds to beef up their use of greener sources, the official said. There would also be expanded home improvement tax credits.Biden wants a deal in hand before he arrives in Scotland for the United Nations climate conference amid hopes to reposition the U.S. as a world leader on the issue.

New climate change strategies in Biden's $1.75T bill

MANHATTAN —Starting Wednesday, the City&nbsp;of Manhattan&nbsp;staff and visitors&nbsp;are&nbsp;no longer&nbsp;required&nbsp;to wear masks&nbsp;inside&nbsp;City-operated facilities, according to a media release.

 Face masks are strongly recommended inside City&nbsp;facilities&nbsp;for vaccinated or unvaccinated people&nbsp;aged&nbsp;two and older.&nbsp;

“The situation in Manhattan has&nbsp;improved,” said City Manager Ron Fehr. “Thankfully, the community has seen a downward trend in the percent positive as well as the number of new cases and hospitalizations. We will continue to monitor the situation and take appropriate action to protect the safety of employees and visitors.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

Individual businesses and organizations may continue to require masks as they see fit. There is no City-wide mask ordinance in effect.&nbsp;

MANHATTAN —Starting Wednesday, the City&nbsp;of Manhattan&nbsp;staff and visitors&nbsp;are&nbsp;no longer&nbsp;required&nbsp;to wear masks&nbsp;inside&nbsp;City-operated facilities, according to a media release. Face masks are strongly recommended inside City&nbsp;facilities&nbsp;for vaccinated or unvaccinated people&nbsp;aged&nbsp;two and older.&nbsp;“The situation in Manhattan has&nbsp;improved,” said City Manager Ron Fehr. “Thankfully, the community has seen a downward trend in the percent positive as well as the number of new cases and hospitalizations. We will continue to monitor the situation and take appropriate action to protect the safety of employees and visitors.” &nbsp;&nbsp;Individual businesses and organizations may continue to require masks as they see fit. There is no City-wide mask ordinance in effect.&nbsp;

Manhattan ends indoor mask mandate 

The coronavirus pandemic left many Americans unemployed — and 
uninsured. To give people a chance to sign up for health care coverage, 
the U.S. federal government has opened <a href="https://www.medicare.gov/plan-compare/#/?lang=en&amp;year=2022" target="_blank">Medicare.gov</a> from October 15, 2021 – December 7, 2021. <a href="https://www.healthcare.gov" target="_blank">Healthcare.gov</a>
 is open from November 1, 2021 to January 15, 2021. Unfortunately, 
scammers often see open enrollments as a chance to trick people out of 
money and personal information.

Anytime the government has an open enrollment, people understandably 
have questions and concerns. Scammers take advantage of this opportunity
 to confuse and mislead victims.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker/" target="_blank">BBB.org/ScamTracker</a>
 gets many reports about scammers claiming to be a government 
representative who can help you navigate your Medicare or Affordable 
Care Act options. Scammers claim to be a “health care benefits advocate”
 or a similar title. These scammers allege they can enroll you in a 
better program than what you currently have. This new plan is cheaper, 
and you can keep all the same services. To get started, all you need to 
do is provide some personal information, such as your Medicare ID 
number. Of course, the call is a scam, and sharing personal information 
will open you up to identity theft.

In another common scam, callers try to frighten – rather than assist -
 victims with their health care plans. In this case, scammers claim that
 your Medicare will be discontinued if you didn't re-enroll. 
Fortunately, this “Medicare advisor” can fix the situation – if you 
share personal information with them.&nbsp;

Watch out for similar scams this fall. <a href="https://www.healthcare.gov" target="_blank">Healthcare.gov</a> does provide <a href="https://www.healthcare.gov/apply-and-enroll/get-help-applying/" target="_blank">legitimate help with figuring out which plan</a>
 is right for you. These people — sometimes called Navigators or 
Assisters — are not allowed to charge for their help. If someone asks 
you for payment, it’s a scam. You will also need to contact them. They 
will not call you out-of-the-blue.&nbsp;

Selecting a health insurance plan can be challenging and complex. Be on the lookout for common red flags.

If you are unsure whether a call or offer is from Medicare, or you 
gave your personal information to someone claiming to be with Medicare, 
call 1-800-MEDICARE to report it. If you suspect fraud when signing up 
for ACA coverage, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthcare.gov/how-can-i-protect-myself-from-fraud-in-the-health-insurance-marketplace/" target="_blank">HealthCare.gov</a>&nbsp;or call the Health Insurance Marketplace call center at <a href="tel:8003182596" target="_blank">800-318-2596</a>.&nbsp;

For more tips from BBB on avoiding health care scams, check&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/healthcarescam/" target="_blank">BBB.org/HealthCareScam</a>. If you’ve been the victim of a scam, please report it to <a href="https://www.bbb.org/ScamTracker" target="_blank">BBB.org/ScamTracker</a>. By sharing your experience, you can help others avoid falling victim to similar scams.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579883951052.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Better Business BureauThe coronavirus pandemic left many Americans unemployed — and 
uninsured. To give people a chance to sign up for health care coverage, 
the U.S. federal government has opened <a href="https://www.medicare.gov/plan-compare/#/?lang=en&amp;year=2022" target="_blank">Medicare.gov</a> from October 15, 2021 – December 7, 2021. <a href="https://www.healthcare.gov" target="_blank">Healthcare.gov</a>
 is open from November 1, 2021 to January 15, 2021. Unfortunately, 
scammers often see open enrollments as a chance to trick people out of 
money and personal information.<h2>How the Scam Works: &nbsp;</h2>Anytime the government has an open enrollment, people understandably 
have questions and concerns. Scammers take advantage of this opportunity
 to confuse and mislead victims.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker/" target="_blank">BBB.org/ScamTracker</a>
 gets many reports about scammers claiming to be a government 
representative who can help you navigate your Medicare or Affordable 
Care Act options. Scammers claim to be a “health care benefits advocate”
 or a similar title. These scammers allege they can enroll you in a 
better program than what you currently have. This new plan is cheaper, 
and you can keep all the same services. To get started, all you need to 
do is provide some personal information, such as your Medicare ID 
number. Of course, the call is a scam, and sharing personal information 
will open you up to identity theft.In another common scam, callers try to frighten – rather than assist -
 victims with their health care plans. In this case, scammers claim that
 your Medicare will be discontinued if you didn't re-enroll. 
Fortunately, this “Medicare advisor” can fix the situation – if you 
share personal information with them.&nbsp;Watch out for similar scams this fall. <a href="https://www.healthcare.gov" target="_blank">Healthcare.gov</a> does provide <a href="https://www.healthcare.gov/apply-and-enroll/get-help-applying/" target="_blank">legitimate help with figuring out which plan</a>
 is right for you. These people — sometimes called Navigators or 
Assisters — are not allowed to charge for their help. If someone asks 
you for payment, it’s a scam. You will also need to contact them. They 
will not call you out-of-the-blue.&nbsp;<h2>Tips to Avoid Open Enrollment Scams</h2>Selecting a health insurance plan can be challenging and complex. Be on the lookout for common red flags.<ul>
 <li>Be wary of anyone who contacts you unsolicited. 
People representing Medicare or ACA plans don’t contact you by phone, 
email, or in person unless you are already enrolled. Be especially 
cautious of threatening calls that require quick action or immediate 
payment. </li><li>Decline promotional gifts in exchange for personal information.&nbsp;Keep a healthy level of skepticism any time a broker offers you <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/scams/13033-scam-alert-beware-of-the-medicare-back-brace-scam" target="_blank">free gifts</a>,
 health screenings, or other special deals. Never sign up with a broker 
who offers you an expensive “sign-up gift” in exchange for providing 
your Medicare ID number or other personally identifiable information. </li><li>Beware of dishonest brokers who offer “free health screenings.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/17378-scam-alert-when-a-free-health-screening-is-really-a-health-insurance-scam" target="_blank">Some brokers offer this to weed out people who are less healthy</a>. This is called “cherry picking” and is against the Medicare rules. </li><li>Guard your government-issued numbers. Never offer 
your Medicare ID number, Social Security number, health plan info, or 
banking information to anyone you don’t know. </li><li>Hang up and go to official websites. You can enroll or re-enroll in Medicare at <a href="https://medicare.gov" target="_blank">Medicare.gov</a> or in a marketplace health plan at <a href="https://www.healthcare.gov/" target="_blank">Healthcare.gov</a>. </li>
 </ul><h2>For more information: &nbsp;</h2>If you are unsure whether a call or offer is from Medicare, or you 
gave your personal information to someone claiming to be with Medicare, 
call 1-800-MEDICARE to report it. If you suspect fraud when signing up 
for ACA coverage, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthcare.gov/how-can-i-protect-myself-from-fraud-in-the-health-insurance-marketplace/" target="_blank">HealthCare.gov</a>&nbsp;or call the Health Insurance Marketplace call center at <a href="tel:8003182596" target="_blank">800-318-2596</a>.&nbsp;For more tips from BBB on avoiding health care scams, check&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/healthcarescam/" target="_blank">BBB.org/HealthCareScam</a>. If you’ve been the victim of a scam, please report it to <a href="https://www.bbb.org/ScamTracker" target="_blank">BBB.org/ScamTracker</a>. By sharing your experience, you can help others avoid falling victim to similar scams.

Medicare, ACA scams abound during special enrollment period

The
 Federal Trade Commission is putting more than 1,100 businesses that 
pitch money-making ventures on notice that if they deceive or mislead 
consumers about potential earnings, the FTC won’t hesitate to use its 
authority to target them with large civil penalties.

As the 
pandemic has left many people in dire financial straits, money-making 
pitches have proliferated and gained special attention. From multi-level
 marketing companies offering the dream of owning a business, to 
investment “coaches” with promises of secrets on how to beat the odds, 
to ubiquitous “gigs” that pitch a steady second income, Americans are 
bombarded by offers that often prove to be less than advertised.

As
 a result, the FTC is deploying its Penalty Offense Authority to remind 
businesses of the law and deter them from breaking it. By sending a <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/attachments/penalty-offenses-concerning-money-making-opportunities/cover-letter-mmo.pdf">Notice of Penalty Offenses</a>&nbsp;to
 more than 1,100 companies, the agency is placing them on notice they 
could incur significant civil penalties—up to $43,792 per violation—if 
they or their representatives make claims about money-making 
opportunities that run counter to prior FTC administrative cases.

“Preying
 on consumers and workers with bogus promises of big earnings should 
never be profitable,” said Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC’s Bureau 
of Consumer Protection. “Today’s announcement helps ensure that 
companies that cheat struggling Americans will pay a heavy price.”

The
 Notice of Penalty Offenses allows the agency to seek civil penalties 
against a company that engages in conduct that it knows is unlawful, and
 that has been found unlawful in a previous FTC administrative order, 
other than a consent order.

The Notice sent to the companies 
outlines a number of practices that the FTC determined to be unfair or 
deceptive in prior administrative cases. Broadly, the cases found that 
it was unlawful to make false, misleading, or deceptive representations 
concerning the profits or earnings that may be anticipated by a 
participant in a money-making opportunity. This includes, for example, 
representations that participants will make a profit, or that 
represented profits are typical. The Notice also describes other 
practices that the FTC has determined to be unfair or deceptive, such as
 falsely telling consumers they do not need experience to earn income or
 that they must act immediately to participate. 

Companies receiving the Notice also received a copy of the recently issued <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2021/10/ftc-puts-hundreds-businesses-notice-about-fake-reviews-other">Notice of Penalty Offenses concerning endorsements and testimonials</a>,
 as companies frequently use testimonials to advertise money-making 
opportunities. Together, the notices make clear that it is illegal to 
use testimonials to mislead consumers about the rewards of participating
 in a money-making opportunity.

The notices are being sent to a 
broad array of businesses that cover a wide range of money-making 
opportunities, including multi-level marketing, “gig” employers, 
investment and business coaching, franchises, business opportunities, 
and others. A recipient’s presence on this list does not in any way suggest that it has engaged in deceptive or unfair conduct. A full list of the businesses <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/attachments/penalty-offenses-concerning-money-making-opportunities/list-recipients-mmo_notice_0.pdf">receiving the Notice</a>&nbsp;from the FTC is available on the FTC’s website.

The Commission vote to authorize the Notice and its distribution was 5-0.

The Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and to <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/bureau-consumer-protection">protect and educate consumers</a>. You can <a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/">learn more about consumer topics</a> and file a <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/complaint">consumer complaint online</a> or by calling 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357).&nbsp;For the latest news and resources, <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/social-media">follow the FTC on social media</a>, <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/stay-connected">subscribe to press releases</a> and read our <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/blogs">blogs</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619632629588.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FTCThe
 Federal Trade Commission is putting more than 1,100 businesses that 
pitch money-making ventures on notice that if they deceive or mislead 
consumers about potential earnings, the FTC won’t hesitate to use its 
authority to target them with large civil penalties.As the 
pandemic has left many people in dire financial straits, money-making 
pitches have proliferated and gained special attention. From multi-level
 marketing companies offering the dream of owning a business, to 
investment “coaches” with promises of secrets on how to beat the odds, 
to ubiquitous “gigs” that pitch a steady second income, Americans are 
bombarded by offers that often prove to be less than advertised.As
 a result, the FTC is deploying its Penalty Offense Authority to remind 
businesses of the law and deter them from breaking it. By sending a <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/attachments/penalty-offenses-concerning-money-making-opportunities/cover-letter-mmo.pdf">Notice of Penalty Offenses</a>&nbsp;to
 more than 1,100 companies, the agency is placing them on notice they 
could incur significant civil penalties—up to $43,792 per violation—if 
they or their representatives make claims about money-making 
opportunities that run counter to prior FTC administrative cases.“Preying
 on consumers and workers with bogus promises of big earnings should 
never be profitable,” said Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC’s Bureau 
of Consumer Protection. “Today’s announcement helps ensure that 
companies that cheat struggling Americans will pay a heavy price.”The
 Notice of Penalty Offenses allows the agency to seek civil penalties 
against a company that engages in conduct that it knows is unlawful, and
 that has been found unlawful in a previous FTC administrative order, 
other than a consent order.The Notice sent to the companies 
outlines a number of practices that the FTC determined to be unfair or 
deceptive in prior administrative cases. Broadly, the cases found that 
it was unlawful to make false, misleading, or deceptive representations 
concerning the profits or earnings that may be anticipated by a 
participant in a money-making opportunity. This includes, for example, 
representations that participants will make a profit, or that 
represented profits are typical. The Notice also describes other 
practices that the FTC has determined to be unfair or deceptive, such as
 falsely telling consumers they do not need experience to earn income or
 that they must act immediately to participate. Companies receiving the Notice also received a copy of the recently issued <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2021/10/ftc-puts-hundreds-businesses-notice-about-fake-reviews-other">Notice of Penalty Offenses concerning endorsements and testimonials</a>,
 as companies frequently use testimonials to advertise money-making 
opportunities. Together, the notices make clear that it is illegal to 
use testimonials to mislead consumers about the rewards of participating
 in a money-making opportunity.The notices are being sent to a 
broad array of businesses that cover a wide range of money-making 
opportunities, including multi-level marketing, “gig” employers, 
investment and business coaching, franchises, business opportunities, 
and others. A recipient’s presence on this list does not in any way suggest that it has engaged in deceptive or unfair conduct. A full list of the businesses <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/attachments/penalty-offenses-concerning-money-making-opportunities/list-recipients-mmo_notice_0.pdf">receiving the Notice</a>&nbsp;from the FTC is available on the FTC’s website. The Commission vote to authorize the Notice and its distribution was 5-0.The Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and to <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/bureau-consumer-protection">protect and educate consumers</a>. You can <a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/">learn more about consumer topics</a> and file a <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/complaint">consumer complaint online</a> or by calling 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357).&nbsp;For the latest news and resources, <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/social-media">follow the FTC on social media</a>, <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/stay-connected">subscribe to press releases</a> and read our <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/blogs">blogs</a>.

FTC: Pitching a deceptive money-making scheme? Feds will target you

LYON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with multiple crimes including bank robbery.

Just before 8:30a.m. Monday, a Lyon County resident called in a theft of fuel from Road 110 and South Highway 99, according to&nbsp;Detective Sergeant Jacob Welsh.

The suspect’s vehicle was described as a White Dodge truck with an Oklahoma license plate. Deputies located the truck northbound in the 700 block of South Weaver Street.

 Deputies initiated a traffic stop however the suspect fled eastbound on Logan Avenue into the county and ultimately came back into Emporia on East Logan Avenue.

 The suspect drove northbound on Commercial Street and failed to navigate a turn eastbound&nbsp;on Norton Street. The suspect’s vehicle struck an Evergy power pole.

The suspect later identified as 43-year-old Jerry Brown of Bixby, Oklahoma, exited his vehicle and continued fleeing on foot and was shortly captured in the area of 302 S. Commercial Street.

Deputies arrested Brown for the theft of fuel, and additional requested charges that include criminal damage, felony flee and elude, leaving the scene of an accident and several other traffic related charges.&nbsp;

During the investigation, it was discovered that Brown was involved in a felony flee and elude around 3:30a.m. Monday in Nowata, OK. It was also discovered that Brown is pending trial for two bank robberies out of Oklahoma.

Detectives are working with Oklahoma authorities to determine if any other crimes have been committed, according to Welsh

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635192951054.png" alt="Brown photo Lyon County" />
 <figcaption>Brown photo Lyon County</figcaption>
 </figure>LYON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with multiple crimes including bank robbery.Just before 8:30a.m. Monday, a Lyon County resident called in a theft of fuel from Road 110 and South Highway 99, according to&nbsp;Detective Sergeant Jacob Welsh.The suspect’s vehicle was described as a White Dodge truck with an Oklahoma license plate. Deputies located the truck northbound in the 700 block of South Weaver Street. Deputies initiated a traffic stop however the suspect fled eastbound on Logan Avenue into the county and ultimately came back into Emporia on East Logan Avenue. The suspect drove northbound on Commercial Street and failed to navigate a turn eastbound&nbsp;on Norton Street. The suspect’s vehicle struck an Evergy power pole.The suspect later identified as 43-year-old Jerry Brown of Bixby, Oklahoma, exited his vehicle and continued fleeing on foot and was shortly captured in the area of 302 S. Commercial Street.Deputies arrested Brown for the theft of fuel, and additional requested charges that include criminal damage, felony flee and elude, leaving the scene of an accident and several other traffic related charges.&nbsp;During the investigation, it was discovered that Brown was involved in a felony flee and elude around 3:30a.m. Monday in Nowata, OK. It was also discovered that Brown is pending trial for two bank robberies out of Oklahoma.Detectives are working with Oklahoma authorities to determine if any other crimes have been committed, according to Welsh

Man wanted for bank robberies captured after Kan. fuel theft

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas’ top court wrestled Tuesday with deciding whether the state constitution allows people to keep getting quick judicial decisions in lawsuits against COVID-19 restrictions such as mask mandates.

The state Supreme Court heard arguments from attorneys on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/summary_sb_40_2021" target="_blank">a law</a>&nbsp;that requires district courts to rule within 10 days when someone sues over a county restriction. Three of the seven justices expressed skepticism during&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YzR-WyoZfug" target="_blank">a Zoom hearing</a>&nbsp;that the law is constitutional.

But the court is considering an appeal in a case involving a lawsuit against a mask mandate imposed last year by a school district in Johnson County, the state’s most populous county. And school districts aren’t covered by the law that applies to counties — and a separate one mandating the same expedited legal process in lawsuits against school districts expired in June.

Kansas courts generally don’t rule when there’s not a live case involving parties needing a legal question resolved. Nevertheless, in July, a Johnson County judge handling the lawsuit against the school district&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-government-and-politics-coronavirus-pandemic-kansas-2817bd3686e752155c9667d5013c809a">struck down</a>&nbsp;the law applying to county restrictions. He concluded that it denied counties their right to due legal process and interfered with the courts’ power to handle their own business.

Supreme Court justices first must decide whether the case should have been dead before it reached them, then whether the law applying to county COVID-19 restrictions violates the Kansas Constitution. If it says yes to the first question, district courts still will have to rule quickly on lawsuits against counties.

“Do we look at it as an abuse of discretion that the (district) court made this pivot?” Justice Dan Biles asked during the hearing.

The Supreme Court did not say when it would issue a decision.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-coronavirus-pandemic-kansas-94e3fab54b7b90da37bd62b5280efeee">It declined&nbsp;</a>in August to put the law applying to counties on hold temporarily while considering the case involving the school district.

Both the law applying to counties and the earlier law applying to school districts arose from the Republican-controlled Legislature’s opposition to Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s response to the coronavirus pandemic and later, local restrictions. Lawmakers rewrote the state’s emergency management laws several times.

Attorney General Derek Schmidt, a Republican running for governor, has argued that Johnson County District Judge David Hauber never should have ruled on the constitutionality of the law applying to counties. The case before him — and now before the Supreme Court — involved parents upset with a mask mandate imposed last year by the Shawnee Mission school district in the Kansas City area.

“Courts do not decide moot issues, particularly moot constitutional issues,” Brant Laue, the state’s solicitor general, told the court.

But Greg Goheen, an attorney for the Shawnee Mission school district, argued that the lower-court judge didn’t abuse his authority because counties can impose mask mandates that apply to schools. Counties still face a “very unworkable” deadline for settling legal challenges to COVID-19 restrictions, he said.

“And I think the (lower) court has the ability to raise that issue,” Goheen said.

The law says that if a judge doesn’t rule on a lawsuit over county restrictions within 10 days, the people challenging them prevail automatically. Chief Justice Marla Luckert suggested the provision is a “pretty heavy enforcement measure.”

Luckert added, “Isn’t there some right to have a day in court?”

But Laue argued that the Legislature has “a great deal of authority” in dictating how the state manages emergencies like the coronavirus pandemic.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635270134976.png" alt="court" />
 <figcaption>court</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN HANNATOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas’ top court wrestled Tuesday with deciding whether the state constitution allows people to keep getting quick judicial decisions in lawsuits against COVID-19 restrictions such as mask mandates.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YzR-WyoZfug?start=9" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>The state Supreme Court heard arguments from attorneys on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/summary_sb_40_2021" target="_blank">a law</a>&nbsp;that requires district courts to rule within 10 days when someone sues over a county restriction. Three of the seven justices expressed skepticism during&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YzR-WyoZfug" target="_blank">a Zoom hearing</a>&nbsp;that the law is constitutional.But the court is considering an appeal in a case involving a lawsuit against a mask mandate imposed last year by a school district in Johnson County, the state’s most populous county. And school districts aren’t covered by the law that applies to counties — and a separate one mandating the same expedited legal process in lawsuits against school districts expired in June.Kansas courts generally don’t rule when there’s not a live case involving parties needing a legal question resolved. Nevertheless, in July, a Johnson County judge handling the lawsuit against the school district&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-government-and-politics-coronavirus-pandemic-kansas-2817bd3686e752155c9667d5013c809a">struck down</a>&nbsp;the law applying to county restrictions. He concluded that it denied counties their right to due legal process and interfered with the courts’ power to handle their own business.Supreme Court justices first must decide whether the case should have been dead before it reached them, then whether the law applying to county COVID-19 restrictions violates the Kansas Constitution. If it says yes to the first question, district courts still will have to rule quickly on lawsuits against counties.“Do we look at it as an abuse of discretion that the (district) court made this pivot?” Justice Dan Biles asked during the hearing.The Supreme Court did not say when it would issue a decision.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-coronavirus-pandemic-kansas-94e3fab54b7b90da37bd62b5280efeee">It declined&nbsp;</a>in August to put the law applying to counties on hold temporarily while considering the case involving the school district.Both the law applying to counties and the earlier law applying to school districts arose from the Republican-controlled Legislature’s opposition to Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s response to the coronavirus pandemic and later, local restrictions. Lawmakers rewrote the state’s emergency management laws several times.Attorney General Derek Schmidt, a Republican running for governor, has argued that Johnson County District Judge David Hauber never should have ruled on the constitutionality of the law applying to counties. The case before him — and now before the Supreme Court — involved parents upset with a mask mandate imposed last year by the Shawnee Mission school district in the Kansas City area.“Courts do not decide moot issues, particularly moot constitutional issues,” Brant Laue, the state’s solicitor general, told the court.But Greg Goheen, an attorney for the Shawnee Mission school district, argued that the lower-court judge didn’t abuse his authority because counties can impose mask mandates that apply to schools. Counties still face a “very unworkable” deadline for settling legal challenges to COVID-19 restrictions, he said.“And I think the (lower) court has the ability to raise that issue,” Goheen said.The law says that if a judge doesn’t rule on a lawsuit over county restrictions within 10 days, the people challenging them prevail automatically. Chief Justice Marla Luckert suggested the provision is a “pretty heavy enforcement measure.”Luckert added, “Isn’t there some right to have a day in court?”But Laue argued that the Legislature has “a great deal of authority” in dictating how the state manages emergencies like the coronavirus pandemic.___

🎥 Kansas court wonders: Is it too late to rule on COVID law?

FORD COUNTY—A recent incident involving Carbon Monoxide occurred in Dodge City and left 5 people fighting for their lives, according to a report from the Dodge City Fire Department.

Early Monday, fire crews, police and EMS responded to an address in Dodge City where they found several people unconscious and barely breathing. 

 Police officers rescued several that were close to the door while fire personnel using their self-contained breathing apparatus found others in bedrooms.  It appears the source of the Carbon Monoxide was from a vehicle running in the garage.  

The Dodge City Fire Department reminded the public that a running vehicle inside of a garage can and will produce high amounts of Carbon Monoxide that will make its way into the house. 

They offered some ways to prevent this from happening by avoiding certain activities can help prevent build-up of carbon monoxide.

Don't run your car in an enclosed space, even if it is a garage with the garage door open. Pull the car out or shut the car off.

Don't use a charcoal or gas-powered grill inside your house or inside a tent. Use it outside or under a shelter with plenty of room for cross-ventilation such as natural wind and fresh air.

Have your heating equipment checked regularly by professionals, according to the manufacturer's instructions.

An undersized exhaust vent in a water heater or furnace can interfere with the removal of carbon monoxide, causing a backflow into your home. If you replace a furnace or gas-powered device, ensure the exhaust system is up to current code standards.

Just like there are smoke detectors, there are also carbon monoxide detectors. They look similar to smoke detectors. You may be able to purchase a combination smoke and carbon monoxide detector. Some may plug into the electrical outlet, while some may operate on batteries alone. It is recommended to have some of both in your home. Have one installed near your sleeping area. Have additional ones installed on each level of your home.

The Dodge City Fire Department as well as Developmental Services will install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide detectors free of charge.

What to do if you think you have a Carbon Monoxide exposure:

You and all persons in your home should leave immediately. Go outside and breathe some fresh air. Call 911 and request the fire department. If anyone is nauseated, dizzy, unusually sleepy or unconscious, tell them you need an ambulance as well.

Stay outside until the fire department arrives. Do not go back inside the house, whether you begin to feel better or not.

FORD COUNTY—A recent incident involving Carbon Monoxide occurred in Dodge City and left 5 people fighting for their lives, according to a report from the Dodge City Fire Department.Early Monday, fire crews, police and EMS responded to an address in Dodge City where they found several people unconscious and barely breathing. Police officers rescued several that were close to the door while fire personnel using their self-contained breathing apparatus found others in bedrooms. It appears the source of the Carbon Monoxide was from a vehicle running in the garage. The Dodge City Fire Department reminded the public that a running vehicle inside of a garage can and will produce high amounts of Carbon Monoxide that will make its way into the house. They offered some ways to prevent this from happening by avoiding certain activities can help prevent build-up of carbon monoxide.Don't run your car in an enclosed space, even if it is a garage with the garage door open. Pull the car out or shut the car off.Don't use a charcoal or gas-powered grill inside your house or inside a tent. Use it outside or under a shelter with plenty of room for cross-ventilation such as natural wind and fresh air.Have your heating equipment checked regularly by professionals, according to the manufacturer's instructions.An undersized exhaust vent in a water heater or furnace can interfere with the removal of carbon monoxide, causing a backflow into your home. If you replace a furnace or gas-powered device, ensure the exhaust system is up to current code standards.Just like there are smoke detectors, there are also carbon monoxide detectors. They look similar to smoke detectors. You may be able to purchase a combination smoke and carbon monoxide detector. Some may plug into the electrical outlet, while some may operate on batteries alone. It is recommended to have some of both in your home. Have one installed near your sleeping area. Have additional ones installed on each level of your home.The Dodge City Fire Department as well as Developmental Services will install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide detectors free of charge.What to do if you think you have a Carbon Monoxide exposure:You and all persons in your home should leave immediately. Go outside and breathe some fresh air. Call 911 and request the fire department. If anyone is nauseated, dizzy, unusually sleepy or unconscious, tell them you need an ambulance as well.Stay outside until the fire department arrives. Do not go back inside the house, whether you begin to feel better or not.

Carbon monoxide poisoning: 5 critically injured in SW Kansas

MITCHELL COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Mitchell County Sheriff’s Office are investigating after a suspect was found dead Monday following a standoff at a residence near Glen Elder, according to a media release from the agency.

On Saturday, Oct. 23, at approximately noon, the Mitchell County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call from a 78-year-old man who reported that he was forcibly taken at gunpoint and held for around 26 hours by his 59-year-old acquaintance, John Roudybush, of Glen Elder.

&nbsp;An arrest warrant for Roudybush for aggravated kidnapping was obtained, and a search warrant for Roudybush’s residence was secured.

MITCHELL COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Mitchell County Sheriff’s Office are investigating after a suspect was found dead Monday following a standoff at a residence near Glen Elder, according to a media release from the agency.On Saturday, Oct. 23, at approximately noon, the Mitchell County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call from a 78-year-old man who reported that he was forcibly taken at gunpoint and held for around 26 hours by his 59-year-old acquaintance, John Roudybush, of Glen Elder.&nbsp;An arrest warrant for Roudybush for aggravated kidnapping was obtained, and a search warrant for Roudybush’s residence was secured.At approximately 9 p.m. Sunday, the KBI’s High Risk Warrant Team attempted to execute the warrants at 2446 190 Road in rural Glen Elder. Roudybush refused to come out of the house and a standoff began. During the standoff, negotiators attempted to communicate with Roudybush for many hours.Two shots were heard inside the house at approximately 4:30 a.m. Monday morning. Then at approximately 7:30 a.m. on Monday, control of the scene was transferred to the Kansas Highway Patrol’s Special Response Team, due to the length of time it was requiring to resolve the incident.At approximately 8:30 a.m., KHP reported hearing a gunshot inside the residence. They later breached an external wall of the house and were able to locate Roudybush deceased in an upstairs room at around 12:45 p.m. on Monday. He died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. No shots were fired by any law enforcement officer during this incident. An autopsy will be performed.The KBI and the Mitchell County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the death of Roudybush, as well as the aggravated kidnapping case. There is no indication that any other subjects were involved in the kidnapping incident.