SUMNER COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 1p.m. Saturday in Sumner County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Nissan Sentra driven by Sanjuana&nbsp;Villarreal De Mendoza, 64, Pharr, Texas,&nbsp;was southbound on U.S. 81 just south 100th Avenue North.

The Nissan traveled off the roadway, struck a culvert, rolled and came to rest in the tree line on the west side of the roadway. A passenger identified as Irene&nbsp;Vazquez De Salinas, 55, Pharr, Texas, was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Cornejo Funeral Home.

The driver and two 18-year-old passengers were not transported for treatment of minor injuries. All four were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

SUMNER COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 1p.m. Saturday in Sumner County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Nissan Sentra driven by Sanjuana&nbsp;Villarreal De Mendoza, 64, Pharr, Texas,&nbsp;was southbound on U.S. 81 just south 100th Avenue North.The Nissan traveled off the roadway, struck a culvert, rolled and came to rest in the tree line on the west side of the roadway. A passenger identified as Irene&nbsp;Vazquez De Salinas, 55, Pharr, Texas, was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Cornejo Funeral Home.The driver and two 18-year-old passengers were not transported for treatment of minor injuries. All four were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Woman dies after rollover crash on Kansas highway

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating theft of a stolen SUV have made an arrest.

Just after 11:30a.m. Thursday, police responded to Heritage at Hawthorne Apartments, 715 N. Ninth Street in Salina for the report of someone sleeping in a vehicle, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester 

Upon arrival, the officer recognized the vehicle as possibly being a 2017 Buick Enclave belonging to a Salina man that was stolen from an open garage in the 900 block of Twin Oaks Drive earlier this week.

The license plate on the Enclave, however, was registered to a Buick Envision belonging to a 62-year-old Salina man, according to Forrester.

Police found Jacob Hewitt, 23, of Salina in the Enclave. They arrested him and reportedly found Methamphetamine in his pocket when he was searched.

Hewitt is being held on requested charges of Felony possession of stolen property, Possession of a controlled substance, Possession of drug paraphernalia and Theft.

When the officer made contact with the Salina woman concerning the stolen license plate, it was discovered that the license plate currently on her Envision was the one registered to the stolen Enclave, according to Forrester. She told police that the switch could have been made either at her east Salina residence or at Kansas Wesleyan University, where she works.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633707957267.png" alt="&nbsp;Hewitt has a previous drug conviction, according to the Kansas Dpt. of Corrections -photo Saline County&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Hewitt has a previous drug conviction, according to the Kansas Dpt. of Corrections -photo Saline County&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating theft of a stolen SUV have made an arrest.Just after 11:30a.m. Thursday, police responded to Heritage at Hawthorne Apartments, 715 N. Ninth Street in Salina for the report of someone sleeping in a vehicle, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester Upon arrival, the officer recognized the vehicle as possibly being a 2017 Buick Enclave belonging to a Salina man that was stolen from an open garage in the 900 block of Twin Oaks Drive earlier this week.The license plate on the Enclave, however, was registered to a Buick Envision belonging to a 62-year-old Salina man, according to Forrester.Police found Jacob Hewitt, 23, of Salina in the Enclave. They arrested him and reportedly found Methamphetamine in his pocket when he was searched.Hewitt is being held on requested charges of Felony possession of stolen property, Possession of a controlled substance, Possession of drug paraphernalia and Theft.When the officer made contact with the Salina woman concerning the stolen license plate, it was discovered that the license plate currently on her Envision was the one registered to the stolen Enclave, according to Forrester. She told police that the switch could have been made either at her east Salina residence or at Kansas Wesleyan University, where she works.

Police find Kansas felon sleeping in stolen SUV

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — A federal appeals court Friday night quickly allowed Texas to resume banning most abortions, just one day after clinics began racing to serve patients again for the first time since early September.

A one-page order by the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals reinstated the nation’s strictest abortion law, which bans abortions&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-laws-government-and-politics-health-77c9ba98c4f4ab46fdbd5bcc47b5b938">once cardiac activity is detected</a>, usually around six weeks. It makes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-health-texas-courts-dallas-ac56b654f88471753b22e19587956c29">no exceptions in cases of rape or incest</a>.

“Patients are being thrown back into a state of chaos and fear,” said Nancy Northup, president of the Center for Reproductive Rights, which represents several Texas clinics that had briefly resumed normal abortion services.

She called on the U.S. Supreme Court to “step in and stop this madness.”

Clinics had braced for the New Orleans-based appeals court to act fast after U.S. District Judge Robert Pitman, an appointee of President Barack Obama, on Wednesday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-us-supreme-court-business-texas-courts-5eb085acee67615da3623212953220c9">suspended the Texas law</a>&nbsp;that he called an “offensive deprivation” of the constitutional right to an abortion. Knowing that order might not stand long, a handful of Texas clinics immediately started performing abortions again beyond six weeks, and booked new appointments for this weekend.

But barely 48 hours passed before the appeals court accepted Texas’ request to set aside Pitman’s ruling — at least for now — pending further arguments. It gave the Biden administration,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-abortion-law-court-a7961b629e913e1008f8e929c99fb310">which had brought the lawsuit</a>, until Tuesday to respond.

“Great news tonight,” Republican Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton tweeted. “I will fight federal overreach at every turn.”

Texas had roughly two dozen abortion clinics before the law took effect Sept. 1. During the brief period the law was on hold, many Texas physicians remained unwilling to perform abortions, fearful that doing so could still leave them in legal jeopardy.

The new law threatens Texas abortion providers with lawsuits from private citizens, who are entitled to collect at least $10,000 in damages if successful. That novel approach to enforcement is the reason why Texas had been able to evade an earlier wave of legal challenges prior to this week.

The 5th circuit appeals court had already once allowed the law to take effect in September, and stepped in this time only hours after Paxton’s office urged them to act.

His office&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/21081018-sb-8-state-appeal" target="_blank">told the court</a>&nbsp;that since the state does not enforce the law, it cannot “be held responsible for the filings of private citizens that Texas is powerless to prevent.”

It is unclear how many abortions Texas clinics performed in the short time the law was put on hold. On Thursday, at least six abortions providers had resumed normal services or were gearing up to do so, according to the Center for Reproductive Rights.

Prior to Pitman’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/21079947-pitman-order" target="_blank">blistering 113-page order</a>, other courts had declined to stop the law, which bans abortions&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-health-texas-courts-dallas-ac56b654f88471753b22e19587956c29">before some women even know they are pregnant</a>. That includes the Supreme Court, which allowed it to move forward in September without ruling on its constitutionality.

One of the first providers to resume normal services this week was Whole Woman’s Health, which operates four clinics in Texas.

Amy Hagstrom Miller, president of Whole Woman’s Health, said her clinics called in some patients early Thursday who were on a list in case the law was blocked at some point. Other appointments were in the process of being scheduled for the days ahead, and phone lines were again busy. But some of the clinics’ 17 physicians were still declining to perform abortions because of the legal risk.

Pitman’s order had amounted to the first legal blow to the law known as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-abortion-business-lawsuits-laws-8690c15ea5de5c6ed695003b7a533cb1">Senate Bill 8</a>. In the weeks since the restrictions took effect, Texas abortion providers said the impact had been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-courts-laws-e456aeea9fcd2dd86723cf915429e594">“exactly what we feared.”</a>

Planned Parenthood says the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-lifestyle-health-travel-texas-fbc505c3db4a08af51ba409a91ea161c">number of patients</a>&nbsp;from Texas at its clinics in the state decreased by nearly 80% in the two weeks after the law took effect. Some providers have said Texas clinics are now in danger of closing while neighboring states struggle to keep up with a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/in-state-wire-abortion-or-state-wire-il-state-wire-mo-state-wire-4ced42150e3348328296e28559c2143b">surge of patients</a>&nbsp;who must drive hundreds of miles for an abortion.

Other women, they say, are being forced to carry pregnancies to term.

How many abortions have been performed in Texas since the law took effect is unknown.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hhs.texas.gov/about-hhs/records-statistics/data-statistics/itop-statistics" target="_blank">State health officials say</a>&nbsp;additional reporting requirements under the law will not make September data available on its website until early next year.

A 1992 decision by the U.S. Supreme Court prevented states from banning abortion before viability, the point at which a fetus can survive outside the womb, around 24 weeks of pregnancy. But Texas’ version has so far outmaneuvered the courts because it leaves enforcement to private citizens to file suits, not prosecutors, which critics say amounts to a bounty.

“This is an answered prayer,” said Kimberlyn Schwartz, spokeswoman for Texas Right to Life, the state’s largest anti-abortion group.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1569156934026.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — A federal appeals court Friday night quickly allowed Texas to resume banning most abortions, just one day after clinics began racing to serve patients again for the first time since early September.A one-page order by the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals reinstated the nation’s strictest abortion law, which bans abortions&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-laws-government-and-politics-health-77c9ba98c4f4ab46fdbd5bcc47b5b938">once cardiac activity is detected</a>, usually around six weeks. It makes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-health-texas-courts-dallas-ac56b654f88471753b22e19587956c29">no exceptions in cases of rape or incest</a>.“Patients are being thrown back into a state of chaos and fear,” said Nancy Northup, president of the Center for Reproductive Rights, which represents several Texas clinics that had briefly resumed normal abortion services.She called on the U.S. Supreme Court to “step in and stop this madness.”Clinics had braced for the New Orleans-based appeals court to act fast after U.S. District Judge Robert Pitman, an appointee of President Barack Obama, on Wednesday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-us-supreme-court-business-texas-courts-5eb085acee67615da3623212953220c9">suspended the Texas law</a>&nbsp;that he called an “offensive deprivation” of the constitutional right to an abortion. Knowing that order might not stand long, a handful of Texas clinics immediately started performing abortions again beyond six weeks, and booked new appointments for this weekend.But barely 48 hours passed before the appeals court accepted Texas’ request to set aside Pitman’s ruling — at least for now — pending further arguments. It gave the Biden administration,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-abortion-law-court-a7961b629e913e1008f8e929c99fb310">which had brought the lawsuit</a>, until Tuesday to respond.“Great news tonight,” Republican Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton tweeted. “I will fight federal overreach at every turn.”Texas had roughly two dozen abortion clinics before the law took effect Sept. 1. During the brief period the law was on hold, many Texas physicians remained unwilling to perform abortions, fearful that doing so could still leave them in legal jeopardy.The new law threatens Texas abortion providers with lawsuits from private citizens, who are entitled to collect at least $10,000 in damages if successful. That novel approach to enforcement is the reason why Texas had been able to evade an earlier wave of legal challenges prior to this week.The 5th circuit appeals court had already once allowed the law to take effect in September, and stepped in this time only hours after Paxton’s office urged them to act.His office&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/21081018-sb-8-state-appeal" target="_blank">told the court</a>&nbsp;that since the state does not enforce the law, it cannot “be held responsible for the filings of private citizens that Texas is powerless to prevent.”It is unclear how many abortions Texas clinics performed in the short time the law was put on hold. On Thursday, at least six abortions providers had resumed normal services or were gearing up to do so, according to the Center for Reproductive Rights.Prior to Pitman’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/21079947-pitman-order" target="_blank">blistering 113-page order</a>, other courts had declined to stop the law, which bans abortions&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-health-texas-courts-dallas-ac56b654f88471753b22e19587956c29">before some women even know they are pregnant</a>. That includes the Supreme Court, which allowed it to move forward in September without ruling on its constitutionality.One of the first providers to resume normal services this week was Whole Woman’s Health, which operates four clinics in Texas.Amy Hagstrom Miller, president of Whole Woman’s Health, said her clinics called in some patients early Thursday who were on a list in case the law was blocked at some point. Other appointments were in the process of being scheduled for the days ahead, and phone lines were again busy. But some of the clinics’ 17 physicians were still declining to perform abortions because of the legal risk.Pitman’s order had amounted to the first legal blow to the law known as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-abortion-business-lawsuits-laws-8690c15ea5de5c6ed695003b7a533cb1">Senate Bill 8</a>. In the weeks since the restrictions took effect, Texas abortion providers said the impact had been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-courts-laws-e456aeea9fcd2dd86723cf915429e594">“exactly what we feared.”</a>Planned Parenthood says the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-lifestyle-health-travel-texas-fbc505c3db4a08af51ba409a91ea161c">number of patients</a>&nbsp;from Texas at its clinics in the state decreased by nearly 80% in the two weeks after the law took effect. Some providers have said Texas clinics are now in danger of closing while neighboring states struggle to keep up with a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/in-state-wire-abortion-or-state-wire-il-state-wire-mo-state-wire-4ced42150e3348328296e28559c2143b">surge of patients</a>&nbsp;who must drive hundreds of miles for an abortion.Other women, they say, are being forced to carry pregnancies to term.How many abortions have been performed in Texas since the law took effect is unknown.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hhs.texas.gov/about-hhs/records-statistics/data-statistics/itop-statistics" target="_blank">State health officials say</a>&nbsp;additional reporting requirements under the law will not make September data available on its website until early next year.A 1992 decision by the U.S. Supreme Court prevented states from banning abortion before viability, the point at which a fetus can survive outside the womb, around 24 weeks of pregnancy. But Texas’ version has so far outmaneuvered the courts because it leaves enforcement to private citizens to file suits, not prosecutors, which critics say amounts to a bounty.“This is an answered prayer,” said Kimberlyn Schwartz, spokeswoman for Texas Right to Life, the state’s largest anti-abortion group.___

US appeals court ramps up battle over abortion

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas woman wounded by police during an exchange of gunfire at a grocery store in Wichita on Monday made her first court appearance Friday.

Danielle Robinson, 31 of Salina, is charged with attempted 1st degree murder, 2 counts of aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer, attempted aggravated robbery, 2 counts of aggravated assault and criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Just after 8p.m. Monday, police responded to report of a suspicious person with a gun in the parking lot of the Whole Foods store, 1423 North Webb Road, in Wichita,&nbsp; according to Officer Trevor Macy.

&nbsp;Multiple 911 callers reported a woman at Whole Foods acting strangely, drinking, and brandishing a firearm. Witnesses reported the woman pointing a gun at windows of the store, and toward the parking lot.

At the scene, officers encountered the woman, later identified as Robinson, who pointed a gun in their direction. They gave verbal commands to the suspect to drop the gun but she did not comply and retreated into the store. There was an exchange of gunfire. The suspect fired one shot at officers that shattered a store window. Both officers returned fire, each firing six shots at the suspect.

After shots were fired, the officers rendered aid and placed Robinson in custody. EMS transported her to an area hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.&nbsp;

Police said there were more than a dozen shoppers and staff inside of the store when the shooting happened, but none were harmed.

Interviews with various witnesses on scene revealed that Robinson had been at the store consuming alcohol and attempted to rob a customer of their personal belongings.

Robinson was released from the hospital Tuesday afternoon and booked into jail.&nbsp; Both officers have been placed on administrative leave. They have worked for the Wichita Police Department for 8 and 19-years, according to Macy.

Robinson remains jailed on a $250,000 bond. She is scheduled back in court October 14, according to the district attorney.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633514325560.png" alt="In January, police arrested Robinson in connection with a shooting at Pinnacle Park Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Salina." />
 <figcaption>In January, police arrested Robinson in connection with a shooting at Pinnacle Park Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Salina.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas woman wounded by police during an exchange of gunfire at a grocery store in Wichita on Monday made her first court appearance Friday.Danielle Robinson, 31 of Salina, is charged with attempted 1st degree murder, 2 counts of aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer, attempted aggravated robbery, 2 counts of aggravated assault and criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.Just after 8p.m. Monday, police responded to report of a suspicious person with a gun in the parking lot of the Whole Foods store, 1423 North Webb Road, in Wichita,&nbsp; according to Officer Trevor Macy.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633466749928.png" alt="Police body camera image of the suspect later identified as Robinson- Wichita Police image" />
 <figcaption>Police body camera image of the suspect later identified as Robinson- Wichita Police image</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Multiple 911 callers reported a woman at Whole Foods acting strangely, drinking, and brandishing a firearm. Witnesses reported the woman pointing a gun at windows of the store, and toward the parking lot.At the scene, officers encountered the woman, later identified as Robinson, who pointed a gun in their direction. They gave verbal commands to the suspect to drop the gun but she did not comply and retreated into the store. There was an exchange of gunfire. The suspect fired one shot at officers that shattered a store window. Both officers returned fire, each firing six shots at the suspect.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633466917940.png" alt="Wichita police body camera image of officers at the scene of the shooting" />
 <figcaption>Wichita police body camera image of officers at the scene of the shooting</figcaption>
 </figure>After shots were fired, the officers rendered aid and placed Robinson in custody. EMS transported her to an area hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.&nbsp;Police said there were more than a dozen shoppers and staff inside of the store when the shooting happened, but none were harmed.Interviews with various witnesses on scene revealed that Robinson had been at the store consuming alcohol and attempted to rob a customer of their personal belongings.Robinson was released from the hospital Tuesday afternoon and booked into jail.&nbsp; Both officers have been placed on administrative leave. They have worked for the Wichita Police Department for 8 and 19-years, according to Macy.Robinson remains jailed on a $250,000 bond. She is scheduled back in court October 14, according to the district attorney.&nbsp;

Kansas woman charged in grocery store shooting 

WICHITA— The boil water order has ended for Kansas’ largest city after a large water main break.

The boil water advisory remains in place for the following wholesale customers of the City of Wichita: Sedgwick County RWDs 1, 2 and 3; the Cities of Benton, Rose Hill, Derby (El Paso Water Co.), Kechi, Valley Center; and McConnell AFB.

&nbsp;KDHE and the City recommends that to be safe, all consumers run their water by turning on a faucet for 10-15 minutes.

The incident forced Wichita-area schools to close and&nbsp; residents to make a run on bottled water. The city ordered the boil advisory Thursday afternoon, affecting its nearly 400,000 residents and some surrounding communities, following the break of a 42-inch main on Wichita’s north side.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633655322314.png" alt="View of the damage from Thursday water main break-photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>View of the damage from Thursday water main break-photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA— The boil water order has ended for Kansas’ largest city after a large water main break.The boil water advisory remains in place for the following wholesale customers of the City of Wichita: Sedgwick County RWDs 1, 2 and 3; the Cities of Benton, Rose Hill, Derby (El Paso Water Co.), Kechi, Valley Center; and McConnell AFB.&nbsp;KDHE and the City recommends that to be safe, all consumers run their water by turning on a faucet for 10-15 minutes.The incident forced Wichita-area schools to close and&nbsp; residents to make a run on bottled water. The city ordered the boil advisory Thursday afternoon, affecting its nearly 400,000 residents and some surrounding communities, following the break of a 42-inch main on Wichita’s north side.

Boil water order ends for Kansas' largest city, continues in nearby communities

BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal arson fire and have a suspect in custody.

Just after 7 a.m. Friday, the Great Bend Fire Department and Great Bend Police Department responded to a residence located in the 2800 block of 29th Street in Great Bend, in reference to a structure fire.

Upon arrival at the residence, members of the Great Bend Fire Department located a 59-year-old woman inside of the residence and life saving measures were performed. The woman was pronounced dead at the scene and during a preliminary investigation of the incident, arson was determined to be the cause of the fire. Investigators also determined that the deceased victim's death was the result of foul play.

Around 7:19 a.m., the Great Bend Police Department responded to a residence in the 1500 block of Adams Street in reference to an aggravated burglary and battery related to the arson / homicide investigation.

The suspect left that area on foot and at approximately 8:12 a.m. was reported to be at Park Elementary School, 1801 Williams Street.&nbsp; Police officers located the suspect identified as Lyndsay George, in the 2000 Block of 19th Street.

After a physical altercation with police officers, George was arrested. After further investigation and interviews, George was booked into the Barton County jail on requested charges of murder in the 1st degree, aggravated arson, aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer, aggravated burglary, battery and criminal trespass.

During the course of the investigation, members of the Great Bend Police Department, Kansas Bureau of Investigation, Barton County Sheriff's Office, the Kansas Fire Marshal's Office and the A.T.F. obtained and executed search warrants in the 2800 block of 29th Street and at the Traveler's Budget Inn located at 4200 10th Street in Great Bend.

During the execution and thorough search of those locations, items of evidence were located and seized.&nbsp; Authorities have not released the name of the victim.

The victim's name is not being released at this time pending notification of family members.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633782279715.png" alt="Lyndsay George-photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Lyndsay George-photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal arson fire and have a suspect in custody.Just after 7 a.m. Friday, the Great Bend Fire Department and Great Bend Police Department responded to a residence located in the 2800 block of 29th Street in Great Bend, in reference to a structure fire.Upon arrival at the residence, members of the Great Bend Fire Department located a 59-year-old woman inside of the residence and life saving measures were performed. The woman was pronounced dead at the scene and during a preliminary investigation of the incident, arson was determined to be the cause of the fire. Investigators also determined that the deceased victim's death was the result of foul play.Around 7:19 a.m., the Great Bend Police Department responded to a residence in the 1500 block of Adams Street in reference to an aggravated burglary and battery related to the arson / homicide investigation.The suspect left that area on foot and at approximately 8:12 a.m. was reported to be at Park Elementary School, 1801 Williams Street.&nbsp; Police officers located the suspect identified as Lyndsay George, in the 2000 Block of 19th Street.After a physical altercation with police officers, George was arrested. After further investigation and interviews, George was booked into the Barton County jail on requested charges of murder in the 1st degree, aggravated arson, aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer, aggravated burglary, battery and criminal trespass.During the course of the investigation, members of the Great Bend Police Department, Kansas Bureau of Investigation, Barton County Sheriff's Office, the Kansas Fire Marshal's Office and the A.T.F. obtained and executed search warrants in the 2800 block of 29th Street and at the Traveler's Budget Inn located at 4200 10th Street in Great Bend.During the execution and thorough search of those locations, items of evidence were located and seized.&nbsp; Authorities have not released the name of the victim.The victim's name is not being released at this time pending notification of family members.

Kansas woman jailed for fire that killed 59-year-old woman

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a   traffic stop incident have captured a suspect who fled after ramming a patrol vehicle.

On Friday, authorities located and arrested 33-year-old Clinton Douglas Peck in Kansas City, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

Just after 10:30 p.m. Wednesday, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on a black Chevrolet pickup truck for a registration violation near SW 21st Street and SW Auburn Road, according to Christian.

During the traffic stop, the suspect reversed the pickup truck and struck the patrol vehicle before fleeing the scene. The suspect has been identified as 33-year-old Clinton Douglas Peck. 

Authorities located and recovered the pickup truck, according to Christian.&nbsp;Peck has previous convictions for theft, robbery, identity theft, aggravated battery, criminal damage to property and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633781022042.png" alt="Peck has previous convictions for theft, robbery, identity theft, aggravated battery, criminal damage to property and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>Peck has previous convictions for theft, robbery, identity theft, aggravated battery, criminal damage to property and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a traffic stop incident have captured a suspect who fled after ramming a patrol vehicle.On Friday, authorities located and arrested 33-year-old Clinton Douglas Peck in Kansas City, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.Just after 10:30 p.m. Wednesday, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on a black Chevrolet pickup truck for a registration violation near SW 21st Street and SW Auburn Road, according to Christian.During the traffic stop, the suspect reversed the pickup truck and struck the patrol vehicle before fleeing the scene. The suspect has been identified as 33-year-old Clinton Douglas Peck. Authorities located and recovered the pickup truck, according to Christian.&nbsp;Peck has previous convictions for theft, robbery, identity theft, aggravated battery, criminal damage to property and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

Kan. felon who rammed patrol vehicle, fled traffic stop captured 

FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) — More than 130 countries have agreed on sweeping changes to how big global companies are taxed, including a 15% minimum corporate rate designed to deter multinationals from stashing profits in low-tax countries.

The deal announced Friday is an attempt to address the ways globalization and digitalization have changed the world economy. It would allow countries to tax some of the earnings of companies located elsewhere that make money through online retailing, web advertising and other activities.

U.S. President Joe Biden has been one of the driving forces behind the agreement as governments around the world seek to boost revenue following the COVID-19 pandemic.

The agreement among 136 countries representing 90% of the global economy was announced by the Paris-based Organization for Cooperation and Economic Development, which hosted the talks that led to it. The OECD said that the minimum tax would reap some $150 billion for governments.

“Today’s agreement represents a once-in-a-generation accomplishment for economic diplomacy,” U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said in a statement. She said it would end a “race to the bottom” in which countries outbid each other with lower tax rates.

“Rather than competing on our ability to offer low corporate rates,” she said, “America will now compete on the skills of our workers and our capacity to innovate, which is a race we can win.”

The deal faces several hurdles before it can take effect. U.S. approval of related tax legislation proposed by Biden will be key, especially since the U.S. is home to many of the biggest multinational companies. A rejection by Congress would cast uncertainty over the entire project.

The big U.S. tech companies like Google and Amazon have supported the OECD negotiations. One reason is that countries would agree to withdraw individual digital services taxes they have imposed on them in return for the right to tax a part of their earnings under the global scheme.

That means the companies would deal with just the one international tax regime, not a multitude of different ones depending on the country.

“This accord opens the way to a true tax revolution for the 21st century,” said French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire. “Finally the digital giants will pay their just share in taxes in the countries — including France — where they produce.”

On Thursday, Ireland announced that it would join the agreement, ditching a low-tax policy that has led companies like Google and Facebook to base their European operations there.

Although the Irish agreement was a step forward for the deal, developing countries have raised objections and Nigeria, Kenya, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have indicated they will not sign up.

Anti-poverty and tax fairness advocates have said the bulk of new revenue would go to wealthier countries and offer less to developing countries that are more dependent on corporate taxes. The G-24 group of developing countries said that without a bigger share of revenue from reallocated profits, the deal would be “sub-optimal” and “not sustainable even in the short run.”

The deal will be taken up by the Group of 20 finance ministers next week, and then by G-20 leaders for final approval at a summit in Rome at the end of October.

Countries would sign up to a diplomatic agreement to implement the tax on companies that have no physical presence in a country but earn profits there, such as through digital services. That provision would affect around 100 global firms.

The second part of the deal, the global minimum of at least 15%, would apply to companies with more than 750 billion euros ($864 billion) in revenue and be passed into domestic law by countries according to model rules developed at the OECD. A top-up provision would mean tax avoided overseas would have to be paid at home. So long as at least the major headquarters countries implement the minimum tax, the deal would have most of its desired effect.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633726100931.png" alt="Janet Yellen in Brussels this week on her first tour through the European Union as U.S. Treasury Secretary" />
 <figcaption>Janet Yellen in Brussels this week on her first tour through the European Union as U.S. Treasury Secretary</figcaption>
 </figure>FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) — More than 130 countries have agreed on sweeping changes to how big global companies are taxed, including a 15% minimum corporate rate designed to deter multinationals from stashing profits in low-tax countries.The deal announced Friday is an attempt to address the ways globalization and digitalization have changed the world economy. It would allow countries to tax some of the earnings of companies located elsewhere that make money through online retailing, web advertising and other activities.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Today’s agreement represents a once-in-a-generation accomplishment for economic diplomacy. We’ve turned tireless negotiations into decades of increased prosperity – for both America and the world. My statement on the OECD Inclusive Framework Announcement: <a href="https://t.co/nRUbRP4BrD">pic.twitter.com/nRUbRP4BrD</a>&mdash; Secretary Janet Yellen (@SecYellen) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecYellen/status/1446514646920355842?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>U.S. President Joe Biden has been one of the driving forces behind the agreement as governments around the world seek to boost revenue following the COVID-19 pandemic.The agreement among 136 countries representing 90% of the global economy was announced by the Paris-based Organization for Cooperation and Economic Development, which hosted the talks that led to it. The OECD said that the minimum tax would reap some $150 billion for governments.“Today’s agreement represents a once-in-a-generation accomplishment for economic diplomacy,” U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said in a statement. She said it would end a “race to the bottom” in which countries outbid each other with lower tax rates.“Rather than competing on our ability to offer low corporate rates,” she said, “America will now compete on the skills of our workers and our capacity to innovate, which is a race we can win.”The deal faces several hurdles before it can take effect. U.S. approval of related tax legislation proposed by Biden will be key, especially since the U.S. is home to many of the biggest multinational companies. A rejection by Congress would cast uncertainty over the entire project.The big U.S. tech companies like Google and Amazon have supported the OECD negotiations. One reason is that countries would agree to withdraw individual digital services taxes they have imposed on them in return for the right to tax a part of their earnings under the global scheme.That means the companies would deal with just the one international tax regime, not a multitude of different ones depending on the country.“This accord opens the way to a true tax revolution for the 21st century,” said French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire. “Finally the digital giants will pay their just share in taxes in the countries — including France — where they produce.”On Thursday, Ireland announced that it would join the agreement, ditching a low-tax policy that has led companies like Google and Facebook to base their European operations there.Although the Irish agreement was a step forward for the deal, developing countries have raised objections and Nigeria, Kenya, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have indicated they will not sign up.Anti-poverty and tax fairness advocates have said the bulk of new revenue would go to wealthier countries and offer less to developing countries that are more dependent on corporate taxes. The G-24 group of developing countries said that without a bigger share of revenue from reallocated profits, the deal would be “sub-optimal” and “not sustainable even in the short run.”The deal will be taken up by the Group of 20 finance ministers next week, and then by G-20 leaders for final approval at a summit in Rome at the end of October.Countries would sign up to a diplomatic agreement to implement the tax on companies that have no physical presence in a country but earn profits there, such as through digital services. That provision would affect around 100 global firms.The second part of the deal, the global minimum of at least 15%, would apply to companies with more than 750 billion euros ($864 billion) in revenue and be passed into domestic law by countries according to model rules developed at the OECD. A top-up provision would mean tax avoided overseas would have to be paid at home. So long as at least the major headquarters countries implement the minimum tax, the deal would have most of its desired effect.___

U.S. joins 130 countries in a deal for new corporate tax

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating the Sept. fatal shooting at a Wichita night club have made an arrest.

On Friday, U.S. Marshals arrested&nbsp;23-year-old Keshawn Dawson in Phoenix Arizona., according to officer Charley Davidson. Dawson is wanted for murder and other charges, stemming from a shooting that fatally injured 34-year-old Preston Spencer and injured six others with non-life-threatening gunshot wounds.

A Wichita Police Department (WPD) Officer currently assigned as a Task Force Officer with the United States Marshall’s Service and has been diligently working to locate Dawson for the past four weeks.&nbsp; His efforts led to Dawson’s arrest with the assistance of the United States Marshall’s Service Fugitive Task Force.&nbsp; Dawson was arrested without incident and a process will occur to extradite him back to Sedgwick County.

At approximately 12:40 a.m. on Sept. 7, officers responded to a shooting call at the Enigma Club, 351 N. Mosely.&nbsp; Upon arrival, officers located multiple victims that were all transported to an area hospital for medical treatment.&nbsp; The investigation revealed Dawson got into a disturbance earlier inside the club and was forced to leave.&nbsp; Dawson returned a short time later and fired multiple rounds with a handgun through windows into the club from the outside, striking the victims.

In addition, Dawson had active felony Sedgwick County warrants and was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to previous felony convictions, according to Davidson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631032156553.png" alt="Dawson photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Dawson photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating the Sept. fatal shooting at a Wichita night club have made an arrest.On Friday, U.S. Marshals arrested&nbsp;23-year-old Keshawn Dawson in Phoenix Arizona., according to officer Charley Davidson. Dawson is wanted for murder and other charges, stemming from a shooting that fatally injured 34-year-old Preston Spencer and injured six others with non-life-threatening gunshot wounds.A Wichita Police Department (WPD) Officer currently assigned as a Task Force Officer with the United States Marshall’s Service and has been diligently working to locate Dawson for the past four weeks.&nbsp; His efforts led to Dawson’s arrest with the assistance of the United States Marshall’s Service Fugitive Task Force.&nbsp; Dawson was arrested without incident and a process will occur to extradite him back to Sedgwick County.At approximately 12:40 a.m. on Sept. 7, officers responded to a shooting call at the Enigma Club, 351 N. Mosely.&nbsp; Upon arrival, officers located multiple victims that were all transported to an area hospital for medical treatment.&nbsp; The investigation revealed Dawson got into a disturbance earlier inside the club and was forced to leave.&nbsp; Dawson returned a short time later and fired multiple rounds with a handgun through windows into the club from the outside, striking the victims.In addition, Dawson had active felony Sedgwick County warrants and was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to previous felony convictions, according to Davidson.

U.S. Marshals capture Kansas club killing suspect in Arizona

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) — A hospital employee was stabbed Friday in an assault that police said stemmed from a domestic situation.

Police Lt. Jennifer Charleston said the attack happened around 7:15 a.m. in a stairwell at the Mercy Surgery Center, which is located about a block south of the main hospital. The victim is listed in serious condition, said Mercy Springfield spokeswoman Sonya Kullmann.

After the stabbing, officers had everyone exit the surgery center so they could search the building to make sure it was safe, Lt. Steve Schwind said. The police department announced around noon that the suspect, a man, was in custody.

Schwind said police suspect that the attacker is someone who had been in a romantic relationship with the victim.

Charleston said she didn't immediately have details about the man, including his name, age or where he was taken into custody.

Kullmann said that the main hospital also was placed on lockdown after the attack. She said the hospital later reopened, but the surgery center, which also houses physician offices, was closed for the the rest of the day.

Neither Charleston now Kullmann were immediately able to provide details about the woman’s job at the hospital.

“She is in our prayers and her family is in our prayers," Kullmann said, “and we are hoping for a speedy recovery."

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) — A hospital employee has been stabbed, and law enforcement said the attacker is someone who had been in a romantic relationship with her.

The woman was working in the Mercy Surgery Center when she was attacked around 7:15 a.m. Friday.

Police Lt. Steve Schwind Schwind said the victim was taken to the main Mercy facility for treatment. He did not know the extent of her injuries.

He said officers had everyone exit the surgery center so they could search the building to make sure it was safe. The police department announced around noon that the suspect was in custody.

Mercy Springfield Sonya Kullmann said the entire hospital facility was briefly placed on lockdown.

The main hospital is now open, but Kullmann said that she anticipated the surgery center would be closed for the rest of the day.

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) — A hospital employee was stabbed Friday in an assault that police said stemmed from a domestic situation.Police Lt. Jennifer Charleston said the attack happened around 7:15 a.m. in a stairwell at the Mercy Surgery Center, which is located about a block south of the main hospital. The victim is listed in serious condition, said Mercy Springfield spokeswoman Sonya Kullmann.After the stabbing, officers had everyone exit the surgery center so they could search the building to make sure it was safe, Lt. Steve Schwind said. The police department announced around noon that the suspect, a man, was in custody.Schwind said police suspect that the attacker is someone who had been in a romantic relationship with the victim.Charleston said she didn't immediately have details about the man, including his name, age or where he was taken into custody.Kullmann said that the main hospital also was placed on lockdown after the attack. She said the hospital later reopened, but the surgery center, which also houses physician offices, was closed for the the rest of the day.Neither Charleston now Kullmann were immediately able to provide details about the woman’s job at the hospital.“She is in our prayers and her family is in our prayers," Kullmann said, “and we are hoping for a speedy recovery."----------SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) — A hospital employee has been stabbed, and law enforcement said the attacker is someone who had been in a romantic relationship with her.The woman was working in the Mercy Surgery Center when she was attacked around 7:15 a.m. Friday.Police Lt. Steve Schwind Schwind said the victim was taken to the main Mercy facility for treatment. He did not know the extent of her injuries.He said officers had everyone exit the surgery center so they could search the building to make sure it was safe. The police department announced around noon that the suspect was in custody.Mercy Springfield Sonya Kullmann said the entire hospital facility was briefly placed on lockdown.The main hospital is now open, but Kullmann said that she anticipated the surgery center would be closed for the rest of the day.

Hospital locked down, romantic partner arrested after stabbing

SHAWNEE COUNTY —The search for a missing 5-year-old ended just before 5p.m. Friday.&nbsp; Authorities found Lakota Rigsby and she is safe, according to Shawnee County Deputy Abigail Christian.&nbsp; 

The case involving her grandmother is still under investigation.

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are attempting to locate a 5-year-old girl to place her into protective custody, according Deputy Abigail Christian.

 Lakota D. Rigsby is 4 feet tall, 55 pounds with blue eyes and blonde hair. She is believed to be with her maternal grandmother, Virontka Kay Rigsby,55, of Tecumseh, Kansas.

Virontka is in violation of an Ex Parte Order that awarded custody to Lakota’s father. She is known to drive a 2000 maroon Ford F250 pickup truck with an expired Kansas license plate 060MWU. Virontka has ties to Kansas, Missouri and Colorado.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633710679834.png" alt="Rigsby-photo Shawnee Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Rigsby-photo Shawnee Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —The search for a missing 5-year-old ended just before 5p.m. Friday.&nbsp; Authorities found Lakota Rigsby and she is safe, according to Shawnee County Deputy Abigail Christian.&nbsp; The case involving her grandmother is still under investigation.-----------SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are attempting to locate a 5-year-old girl to place her into protective custody, according Deputy Abigail Christian. Lakota D. Rigsby is 4 feet tall, 55 pounds with blue eyes and blonde hair. She is believed to be with her maternal grandmother, Virontka Kay Rigsby,55, of Tecumseh, Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633710943650.png" alt="Lakota-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Lakota-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Virontka is in violation of an Ex Parte Order that awarded custody to Lakota’s father. She is known to drive a 2000 maroon Ford F250 pickup truck with an expired Kansas license plate 060MWU. Virontka has ties to Kansas, Missouri and Colorado.

Sheriff: 5-year-old found safe; Kansas woman under investigation

NEW YORK (AP)— A panel of vaccine experts will meet in early November to consider whether to recommend the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children younger than 12.

The Advisory Committee of Immunization Practices scheduled a two-day meeting for Nov. 2-3, health officials said Friday. The Pfizer topic is expected to take up part of the agenda.

The experts are anticipating the U.S. Food and Drug Administration will have decided by then whether to authorize use of the Pfizer vaccine for children between ages 5 to 11. The committee’s job is to help the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention develop recommendations for doctors and the public about which vaccines should be used and how they should given.

Currently, Pfizer vaccines are authorized only for people 12 and older.

NEW YORK (AP)— A panel of vaccine experts will meet in early November to consider whether to recommend the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children younger than 12.The Advisory Committee of Immunization Practices scheduled a two-day meeting for Nov. 2-3, health officials said Friday. The Pfizer topic is expected to take up part of the agenda.The experts are anticipating the U.S. Food and Drug Administration will have decided by then whether to authorize use of the Pfizer vaccine for children between ages 5 to 11. The committee’s job is to help the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention develop recommendations for doctors and the public about which vaccines should be used and how they should given.Currently, Pfizer vaccines are authorized only for people 12 and older.

Panel sets meeting to consider COVID shots for ages 5-11 

TOPEKA —The suspect who walked away from from the Wichita Work Release Facility on Saturday is back in custody.

On Friday afternoon, 43-year-old Elvin Eugene Morris was taken into custody by officials from the Kansas Department of Corrections Enforcement Apprehensions &amp; Investigations (EAI) Unit and booked into Sedgwick County Jail.

Morris was placed on escape status Saturday, Oct. 2, 2021, after he failing to report back to correctional facility.

The Wichita Work Release Facility, a satellite unit of the Winfield Correctional Facility, is an all-male, minimum-custody state facility with a population of 250.

TOPEKA, Kansas –&nbsp;Minimum-custody resident Elvin Eugene Morris continues on escape status since 7:50 p.m. Saturday, October 2, after he walked away from the Wichita Work Release Facility, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Morris, a 43-year-old black male, left for Walmart in the community at 4:05 p.m. and was reported missing when he did not report back to the facility following an approved community pass.

Morris is currently serving a sentence for a conviction in Sedgwick County for removing electronic monitoring equipment. Morris was last seen leaving the Wichita Work Release Facility at 400 South Emporia in Wichita, Kansas.

Morris is 5 feet 10 inches tall, 179 pounds with brown eyes and black hair. Morris was last seen wearing jeans and a long sleeved, button up, white shirt and gray sweatshirt.

Anyone with information on Morris can call the Kansas Department of Corrections at 316-265-5211, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation at (800) 572-7463 or local law enforcement at 911.

The&nbsp;escape&nbsp;is currently being investigated.&nbsp; New information will be released as it becomes available.

The Wichita Work Release Facility, a satellite unit of the Winfield Correctional Facility, is an all-male, minimum-custody state prison with a population of 250.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633225847462.png" alt="Morris has previous convictions for theft and one for aggravated robbery in addition to his conviction in Sedgwick County for removing electronic monitoring equipment, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Morris has previous convictions for theft and one for aggravated robbery in addition to his conviction in Sedgwick County for removing electronic monitoring equipment, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —The suspect who walked away from from the Wichita Work Release Facility on Saturday is back in custody.On Friday afternoon, 43-year-old Elvin Eugene Morris was taken into custody by officials from the Kansas Department of Corrections Enforcement Apprehensions &amp; Investigations (EAI) Unit and booked into Sedgwick County Jail.Morris was placed on escape status Saturday, Oct. 2, 2021, after he failing to report back to correctional facility.The Wichita Work Release Facility, a satellite unit of the Winfield Correctional Facility, is an all-male, minimum-custody state facility with a population of 250.------------TOPEKA, Kansas –&nbsp;Minimum-custody resident Elvin Eugene Morris continues on escape status since 7:50 p.m. Saturday, October 2, after he walked away from the Wichita Work Release Facility, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Corrections.Morris, a 43-year-old black male, left for Walmart in the community at 4:05 p.m. and was reported missing when he did not report back to the facility following an approved community pass.Morris is currently serving a sentence for a conviction in Sedgwick County for removing electronic monitoring equipment. Morris was last seen leaving the Wichita Work Release Facility at 400 South Emporia in Wichita, Kansas.Morris is 5 feet 10 inches tall, 179 pounds with brown eyes and black hair. Morris was last seen wearing jeans and a long sleeved, button up, white shirt and gray sweatshirt.Anyone with information on Morris can call the Kansas Department of Corrections at 316-265-5211, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation at (800) 572-7463 or local law enforcement at 911.The&nbsp;escape&nbsp;is currently being investigated.&nbsp; New information will be released as it becomes available.The Wichita Work Release Facility, a satellite unit of the Winfield Correctional Facility, is an all-male, minimum-custody state prison with a population of 250.

Kan. felon who walked away from work release is back in custody

WICHITA, Kan. — U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. issued the following statement after the Department of Labor released a dismal September jobs report showing only 194,000 jobs added, falling dramatically short of DOL’s estimated 500,000. This is the second month in a row of sluggish job growth, lagging far behind the more than 940,000 jobs added in July. Additionally, according to the Wall Street Journal, today’s report indicates that, “U.S. job growth fell to the slowest pace of the year.” The U-6 unemployment rate, a broader measure that includes part-time and discouraged workers, sits at 8.5% for September. Currently, there are nearly 11 million job openings in the U.S. and only 194,000 Americans went back to work this past month.

“Today’s pathetic jobs report proves President Biden’s failed socialist driven spending policies continue to harm our economy. Not only are these policies driving up inflation, but they also created lucrative government dependency that made it more beneficial to stay unemployed rather than return to work. While the increased unemployment benefits ended in early September, President Biden delivered another blow to employers when he announced his unconstitutional vaccine mandate just days later,” said Senator Marshall. “People not returning to work is another reason why we have Biden-Flation, and make no mistake, the current economic downturn is another self-inflicted crisis caused by this Administration. We need to put a stop to the vaccine mandate and we need smart, targeted investments – not radical socialist spending that leaves the country at a disadvantage.”

Senator Marshall has been leading the fight in the U.S. Senate to halt President Biden’s vaccine mandate. Yesterday, he questioned DOL Assistant Secretary for Employment and Training nominee Jose Javier Rodriguez on how he plans to handle the upcoming spike in unemployment rates caused by President Biden’s vaccine mandate. Senator Marshall said in part,

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622814919936.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. — U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. issued the following statement after the Department of Labor released a dismal September jobs report showing only 194,000 jobs added, falling dramatically short of DOL’s estimated 500,000. This is the second month in a row of sluggish job growth, lagging far behind the more than 940,000 jobs added in July. Additionally, according to the Wall Street Journal, today’s report indicates that, “U.S. job growth fell to the slowest pace of the year.” The U-6 unemployment rate, a broader measure that includes part-time and discouraged workers, sits at 8.5% for September. Currently, there are nearly 11 million job openings in the U.S. and only 194,000 Americans went back to work this past month.“Today’s pathetic jobs report proves President Biden’s failed socialist driven spending policies continue to harm our economy. Not only are these policies driving up inflation, but they also created lucrative government dependency that made it more beneficial to stay unemployed rather than return to work. While the increased unemployment benefits ended in early September, President Biden delivered another blow to employers when he announced his unconstitutional vaccine mandate just days later,” said Senator Marshall. “People not returning to work is another reason why we have Biden-Flation, and make no mistake, the current economic downturn is another self-inflicted crisis caused by this Administration. We need to put a stop to the vaccine mandate and we need smart, targeted investments – not radical socialist spending that leaves the country at a disadvantage.”Senator Marshall has been leading the fight in the U.S. Senate to halt President Biden’s vaccine mandate. Yesterday, he questioned DOL Assistant Secretary for Employment and Training nominee Jose Javier Rodriguez on how he plans to handle the upcoming spike in unemployment rates caused by President Biden’s vaccine mandate. Senator Marshall said in part,

Senator Marshall weighs in on dismal jobs report

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The fundamentals behind the price at the pump are headed in a higher direction again this week.

"High crude oil prices are pushing the average gas prices up both nationally and in Kansas," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "At the close of Thursday's trading, West Texas Intermediate Crude was trading at more than $78 a barrel. That's up more than three dollars from the previous weeks."

That's contributing to gas prices nationally that are the highest in several years.

"Since Monday, the national average gas price has risen by four cents to $3.24 a gallon," Steward said. "That's a price that we haven't seen since October 2014."

Prices are still lower in Kansas than nationwide.

"We are up three cents in the last week to an average today of $2.97 a gallon," Steward said. "That still puts us at eighth-cheapest in the country. Reno County is $2.96 a gallon, about a cent cheaper than the statewide average."

Part of what is pushing crude prices higher is OPEC going back on what was an anticipated increase in production later this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627259328916.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELLHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The fundamentals behind the price at the pump are headed in a higher direction again this week."High crude oil prices are pushing the average gas prices up both nationally and in Kansas," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "At the close of Thursday's trading, West Texas Intermediate Crude was trading at more than $78 a barrel. That's up more than three dollars from the previous weeks."That's contributing to gas prices nationally that are the highest in several years."Since Monday, the national average gas price has risen by four cents to $3.24 a gallon," Steward said. "That's a price that we haven't seen since October 2014."Prices are still lower in Kansas than nationwide."We are up three cents in the last week to an average today of $2.97 a gallon," Steward said. "That still puts us at eighth-cheapest in the country. Reno County is $2.96 a gallon, about a cent cheaper than the statewide average."Part of what is pushing crude prices higher is OPEC going back on what was an anticipated increase in production later this year.

AAA: Crude is keeping pump prices up

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases* (see below) in Kansas increased by 2,211 to a total of 417,643, the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;

The state reported 21 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 6,127.

<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 2,211 to a total of 417,643, the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;The state reported 21 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 6,127.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633714665316.png" alt="Friday Oct. 8, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Friday Oct. 8, 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: 2,200 new cases, 21 additional COVID deaths

CHANDLER ARIZONA —One of two people who died after after a helicopter crashed following a mid-air collision with a single-engine plane near a suburban Phoenix airport has been identified as flight instructor Jessica Brandal, according to Dodge City Community College.

She worked for the Dodge City Community College&nbsp;<a href="https://dc3.edu/arizona-campus/">helicopter flight instructor program</a>&nbsp;in Chandler, Arizona. Student Michael Papendick also died in the crash. Friends established <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/remembermikepappy?qid=eb09b2a2eeb116bc75dddf86cc595662">a GoFundMe</a> to help his wife and daughter.

The collision happened October 1, near Chandler Municipal Airport. The plane was able to land safely, and the flight instructor and student pilot on board the airplane declined medical treatment. 

No one on the ground was injured. The National Transportation Safety Board is leading the investigation into the cause of the collision and crash. Chandler Municipal Airport is a general aviation airport that does not provide commercial airline service. Authorities say both aircraft are operated by separate flight schools.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633123334142.png" alt="First responders at the crash scene photo courtesy KPHO TV" />
 <figcaption>First responders at the crash scene photo courtesy KPHO TV</figcaption>
 </figure>CHANDLER ARIZONA —One of two people who died after after a helicopter crashed following a mid-air collision with a single-engine plane near a suburban Phoenix airport has been identified as flight instructor Jessica Brandal, according to Dodge City Community College.She worked for the Dodge City Community College&nbsp;<a href="https://dc3.edu/arizona-campus/">helicopter flight instructor program</a>&nbsp;in Chandler, Arizona. Student Michael Papendick also died in the crash. Friends established <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/remembermikepappy?qid=eb09b2a2eeb116bc75dddf86cc595662">a GoFundMe</a> to help his wife and daughter.The collision happened October 1, near Chandler Municipal Airport. The plane was able to land safely, and the flight instructor and student pilot on board the airplane declined medical treatment. No one on the ground was injured. The National Transportation Safety Board is leading the investigation into the cause of the collision and crash. Chandler Municipal Airport is a general aviation airport that does not provide commercial airline service. Authorities say both aircraft are operated by separate flight schools.--------------

Dodge City CC IDs flight instructor who died in helicopter crash

BARTON COUNTY—Police in Great Bend shared a fun story this week. Someone in the community found a wallet at the Crest Theater, 1905 Lakin in Great Bend and turned it into police, according to a social media report.

The wallet contained several items including a social security card and a driver’s license that expired in 1974.

Police tracked down the owner, who now lives in Lawrence. The man lost the wallet in the early 70’s. According to police, the owner was tickled and shared that he made the wallet himself. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633702999165.png" alt="Photo courtesy Great Bend Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Great Bend Police</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY—Police in Great Bend shared a fun story this week. Someone in the community found a wallet at the Crest Theater, 1905 Lakin in Great Bend and turned it into police, according to a social media report.The wallet contained several items including a social security card and a driver’s license that expired in 1974.Police tracked down the owner, who now lives in Lawrence. The man lost the wallet in the early 70’s. According to police, the owner was tickled and shared that he made the wallet himself.

Wallet lost in the 1970s found and returned to Kansas man

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas’ largest city is under a water boil order after a large water main break, leading Wichita-area schools to close and prompting residents to make a run on bottled water. 

The city ordered the boil advisory Thursday afternoon, affecting its nearly 400,000 residents and some surrounding communities, following the break of a 42-inch main on Wichita’s north side. 

Mayor Brandon Whipple asked residents not to hoard bottled water, but many area store shelves were wiped out of water by late Thursday. The advisory is to remain in effect until testing shows the city's water is safe. Officials hope to be able to lift the order at some point this weekend.

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE)&nbsp; issued a boil water advisory for the following public water supply systems that purchase water from the City of Wichita:

Sedgwick Co RWD 1 City of Bel Aire, Sedgwick Co RWD 2 City of Rose Hill, City of Benton, Sedgwick Co RWD 3 El Paso Water Co. (City of Derby), City of Kechi and. the City of Valley Center.&nbsp; Most schools in the region are also closed Friday due to the water issue.

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:

• If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.

• Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water.

• Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic ice maker.

• Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.

• Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians.

The advisory took effect on October 7 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE issued the advisory because of a loss of pressure in the City of Wichita’s distribution system due to a waterline break. Failure to maintain pressure can lead to a loss of chlorine residual levels and may result in bacterial contamination.

Regardless of whether the public water supplier or KDHE announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633655322314.png" alt="View of the water main break courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>View of the water main break courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas’ largest city is under a water boil order after a large water main break, leading Wichita-area schools to close and prompting residents to make a run on bottled water. <div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Staff is working with the KDHE. We expect to get back water testing results Saturday morning. KDHE will then advise whether the boil advisory can be lifted or will remain in effect at that time.&mdash; City of Wichita (@CityofWichita) <a href="https://twitter.com/CityofWichita/status/1446313567821647889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The city ordered the boil advisory Thursday afternoon, affecting its nearly 400,000 residents and some surrounding communities, following the break of a 42-inch main on Wichita’s north side. Mayor Brandon Whipple asked residents not to hoard bottled water, but many area store shelves were wiped out of water by late Thursday. The advisory is to remain in effect until testing shows the city's water is safe. Officials hope to be able to lift the order at some point this weekend.--------TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE)&nbsp; issued a boil water advisory for the following public water supply systems that purchase water from the City of Wichita:Sedgwick Co RWD 1 City of Bel Aire, Sedgwick Co RWD 2 City of Rose Hill, City of Benton, Sedgwick Co RWD 3 El Paso Water Co. (City of Derby), City of Kechi and. the City of Valley Center.&nbsp; Most schools in the region are also closed Friday due to the water issue.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Due to the water main break, we will NOT have school tomorrow, Friday, Oct. 8. As we are still under a boil water advisory, we don&#39;t have the ability to provide enough bottled water for our students and staff. For details, go to <a href="https://t.co/jF6Kn9Eq20">https://t.co/jF6Kn9Eq20</a> <a href="https://t.co/N8z8ZJ3GPB">pic.twitter.com/N8z8ZJ3GPB</a>&mdash; Wichita Public Schools (@WichitaUSD259) <a href="https://twitter.com/WichitaUSD259/status/1446305072208506883?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The City is issuing a water boil advisory at this time. <a href="https://t.co/JxOCEE5YmV">pic.twitter.com/JxOCEE5YmV</a>&mdash; City of Wichita (@CityofWichita) <a href="https://twitter.com/CityofWichita/status/1446213626260598792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:• If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.• Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water.• Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic ice maker.• Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.• Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians.The advisory took effect on October 7 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE issued the advisory because of a loss of pressure in the City of Wichita’s distribution system due to a waterline break. Failure to maintain pressure can lead to a loss of chlorine residual levels and may result in bacterial contamination.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Restaurants/food establishments in City of Wichita (and communities that get water from City of W), take note. Food Safety handout available here: <a href="https://t.co/Zer2W1fWH9">https://t.co/Zer2W1fWH9</a> -- for further questions, contact KDA Food Safety &amp; Lodging program at kda.fsl@ks.gov or call 785-564-6767. <a href="https://t.co/kJXGsXUxig">https://t.co/kJXGsXUxig</a>&mdash; Kansas Dept of Ag (@KansasDeptofAg) <a href="https://twitter.com/KansasDeptofAg/status/1446234285502042112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Regardless of whether the public water supplier or KDHE announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.<div></div>

Wichita Mayor: Don't hoard bottled water in midst of large water main break

PICHER, Okla. (AP) — Authorities have announced a new search for the bodies of two northeast Oklahoma girls missing since 1999. The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation and Craig County District Attorney Investigator Gary Stansill say investigators will search a cellar Friday on vacant land in the former town of Picher where a suspect in the girls' disappearance lived at the time. 

The search is for the remains of Ashley Freeman and Lauria Bible, who were 16 when they disappeared from Freeman's home near Welch on Dec. 30, 1999. 

Freeman's parents were found dead in the burned rubble of the home and Ronnie Busick of Wichita, Kansas, pleaded guilty to an accessory to murder charge in the case in August.

VINITA, Okla. (AP) — A Kansas man has been sentenced to 10 years in prison in connection with the deaths of two people and the disappearance of two teenage girls more than 20 years ago.

Ronnie Busick, 69, Wichita, was sentenced Monday i<a href="https://craigcountyso.com/inmate-search.php?FullName=busick&amp;Search=Search">n Craig County </a>on one count of accessory to murder, said Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation spokeswoman Brook Arbeitman.

Busick, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2d867480c8bdaafe2d0f6a9db9a005fb">pleaded guilty</a>&nbsp;in July, could have earned a reduction in his sentence by showing authorities where the bodies of Lauria Bible and Ashley Freeman were located, but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2b48eaf595d69d063f23809078e3d4ff">several searches</a>&nbsp;have not recovered the teens’ remains, Arbeitman said.

Bible and Freeman, who were both 16, haven’t been seen since Dec. 30. 1999, after Freeman’s parents, Danny and Kathy Freeman, were found slain in their burned mobile home in Welch about 70 miles (113 kilometers) northeast of Tulsa.

Busick, of Wichita, Kansas, was arrested and charged in 2018, and investigators say two other suspects are now dead.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1598956739361.png" alt="Ronnie Busick, of Wichita was sentenced in Sept. 2020 for his role in the girls' disappearance.-photo Craig Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Ronnie Busick, of Wichita was sentenced in Sept. 2020 for his role in the girls' disappearance.-photo Craig Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>PICHER, Okla. (AP) — Authorities have announced a new search for the bodies of two northeast Oklahoma girls missing since 1999. The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation and Craig County District Attorney Investigator Gary Stansill say investigators will search a cellar Friday on vacant land in the former town of Picher where a suspect in the girls' disappearance lived at the time. The search is for the remains of Ashley Freeman and Lauria Bible, who were 16 when they disappeared from Freeman's home near Welch on Dec. 30, 1999. Freeman's parents were found dead in the burned rubble of the home and Ronnie Busick of Wichita, Kansas, pleaded guilty to an accessory to murder charge in the case in August.------------VINITA, Okla. (AP) — A Kansas man has been sentenced to 10 years in prison in connection with the deaths of two people and the disappearance of two teenage girls more than 20 years ago.Ronnie Busick, 69, Wichita, was sentenced Monday i<a href="https://craigcountyso.com/inmate-search.php?FullName=busick&amp;Search=Search">n Craig County </a>on one count of accessory to murder, said Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation spokeswoman Brook Arbeitman. Busick, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2d867480c8bdaafe2d0f6a9db9a005fb">pleaded guilty</a>&nbsp;in July, could have earned a reduction in his sentence by showing authorities where the bodies of Lauria Bible and Ashley Freeman were located, but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2b48eaf595d69d063f23809078e3d4ff">several searches</a>&nbsp;have not recovered the teens’ remains, Arbeitman said.Bible and Freeman, who were both 16, haven’t been seen since Dec. 30. 1999, after Freeman’s parents, Danny and Kathy Freeman, were found slain in their burned mobile home in Welch about 70 miles (113 kilometers) northeast of Tulsa.Busick, of Wichita, Kansas, was arrested and charged in 2018, and investigators say two other suspects are now dead.

Search continues in cold case a year after Kan. man sentenced

ELK GROVE VILLAGE, Il. (AP) — President Joe Biden on Thursday championed COVID-19 vaccination requirements, determined that the roughly 67 million&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-health-941fcf43d9731c76c16e7354f5d5e187">unvaccinated American adults</a>&nbsp;must get the shot even as he acknowledged that mandates weren’t his “first instinct.”

Biden had ruled out such requirements before taking office in January, but they now are a tactic he feels forced into using by a stubborn slice of the public that has refused to be inoculated and has jeopardized the lives of others and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-economy-economic-growth-a35a482985d6c4b2046ba884a99319a8">the nation’s economic recovery</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633699117760.png" alt="“There is no other way to beat the pandemic than to get the vast majority of the American people vaccinated,” Biden said in suburban Chicago at an event promoting the mandates.-photo courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>“There is no other way to beat the pandemic than to get the vast majority of the American people vaccinated,” Biden said in suburban Chicago at an event promoting the mandates.-photo courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>ELK GROVE VILLAGE, Il. (AP) — President Joe Biden on Thursday championed COVID-19 vaccination requirements, determined that the roughly 67 million&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-health-941fcf43d9731c76c16e7354f5d5e187">unvaccinated American adults</a>&nbsp;must get the shot even as he acknowledged that mandates weren’t his “first instinct.”Biden had ruled out such requirements before taking office in January, but they now are a tactic he feels forced into using by a stubborn slice of the public that has refused to be inoculated and has jeopardized the lives of others and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-economy-economic-growth-a35a482985d6c4b2046ba884a99319a8">the nation’s economic recovery</a>.“There is no other way to beat the pandemic than to get the vast majority of the American people vaccinated,” Biden said in suburban Chicago at an event promoting the mandates. “While I didn’t race to do it right away, that’s why I’ve had to move toward requirements.”In the coming weeks, more than 100 million Americans will be subject to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-executive-branch-18fb12993f05be13bf760946a6fb89be">vaccine requirements ordered by Biden</a>. And his administration is encouraging employers to take additional steps voluntarily that would push vaccines on people or subject them to onerous testing requirements.Forcing people to do something they do not want to do is rarely a winning political strategy. Yet with the majority of the country already vaccinated and with industry on his side, Biden has emerged as an unlikely advocate of browbeating tactics to drive vaccinations.“Look, I know that vaccination requirements are a tough medicine — unpopular to some, politics for others — but they’re lifesaving, they’re game-changing for our country,” Biden said.But the requirements have drawn widespread public support. People are hoping to put behind a pandemic that has taken the lives of more than 700,000 in the United States, and businesses see vaccinations as a road map toward a revitalized economic.Biden took that message to a construction site run by Clayco, a large building firm that announced a new vaccinate-or-test requirement for its workforce in conjunction with Biden’s visit. The company is taking action weeks before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-henry-mcmaster-f33acd986ad5045e48088a832c6f9903">a forthcoming rule by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration</a>&nbsp;that will require all employers with more than 100 employees to require that their staffs be vaccinated or face weekly testing for the coronavirus.“You’re setting an example and a powerful example,” Biden told company officials. “I’m calling on more employers to act.”Biden encouraged other businesses to follow suit by taking action before the OSHA rule and to go even further by requiring shots for their employees without offering a test-out option.Biden also met with the CEO of United Airlines, Scott Kirby, whose company&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-de26955d518a498c5ffb26160d9c623d">successfully implemented a vaccine mandate</a>, with no option for workers to be tested instead. Less than 1% have failed to comply and risk termination.Biden’s mandates have “worked spectacularly well,” said Lawrence Gostin, a public health expert at Georgetown University’s law school. He added that the president’s rules have also had a “modeling effect” for cities, states and businesses. That’s what the White House intended.U.S. officials began anticipating the need for a more forceful vaccination campaign by April, when the nation’s supply of shots began to outpace demand. Political conditions meant immediate steps to require shots would have likely proved counterproductive.The idea of mandatory vaccination faced pushback from critics who argue it smacks of government overreach and takes away people’s rights to make their own medical decisions.So first, officials engaged in a monthslong and multibillion-dollar education and incentives effort to persuade people to get the vaccines of their own accord.It wasn’t enough.By midsummer,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/science-health-coronavirus-pandemic-ac6ef8534bffeec97e9dc771b7990fe6">the more transmissible delta variant</a>&nbsp;of the virus was eroding months of health and economic progress and the rate of new vaccinations had slowed to a trickle. Biden’s strategy shifted from inducement to compulsion, with a slow, and deliberate heightening of vaccination restrictions.“It’s a good political strategy, but it also is a good public health strategy, because once you have a lot of people that have already been vaccinated. then mandates become more acceptable,” Gostin said.It started with a vaccination requirement for federal frontline health workers serving veterans in VA hospitals. Then the military, followed in steady succession by all healthcare workers reimbursed by the government, all federal workers, and then the more than 80 million Americans who work at mid- and large-size companies.Nearly 100 million adult Americans were unvaccinated in July. That figure has been cut by one-third since federal, state and private-sector mandates have been imposed.“Here’s the deal: These requirements are already proving that they work,” Biden said Thursday.In conjunction with the president’s trip to Chicago, the White House was releasing a report that outlines the early successes of vaccine mandates at driving up vaccination rates and tries to make the economic case for businesses and local governments to put mandates in place. It points to everything from reduced employee hours to diminished restaurant reservations in areas with fewer vaccinations, not to mention markedly reduced instances of serious illness and death from the virus in areas with higher vaccination rates.Millions of workers, the White House notes, say they are still unable to work due to pandemic-related effects, because their workplaces have been shuttered or reduced service, or because they’re afraid to work or can’t get child care.“The evidence has been overwhelmingly clear that these vaccine mandates work,” said Charlie Anderson, director of economic policy and budget for the White House COVID-19 response team. “And so now, I think it’s a good time to lift up and say, ‘Now’s the time to move, if you haven’t yet.’”While mandates are the ultimate tool to press Americans to get vaccinated, Biden has resisted, at least thus far, requiring shots or tests for interstate or international air travel, a move that legal experts say is within his powers. Officials said it was under consideration.“We have a track record, and I think it’s clear, that shows that we’re pulling available levers to require vaccinations,” said Jeff Zients, the White House COVID-19 coordinator. “And we’re not taking anything off the table.”