SEDGWICK COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating the death of a 17-year-old who died after being in law enforcement custody. By statute, the KBI investigates all in-custody deaths which occur in Kansas jails and prisons, unless the inmate who dies is being regularly attended by a physician, or the death is ruled natural by autopsy.

The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office asked the KBI to investigate on Friday, Sept. 24, at approximately 10:30 a.m.

Preliminary information indicates that at approximately 1 a.m. on Sept. 24, officers from the Wichita Police Department responded to a disturbance call from a resident at 1221 S. Fox Run in Wichita. Upon arrival they discovered 17-year-old Cedric “CJ” Lofton, of Wichita, outside the house. Lofton appeared paranoid and was behaving erratically. After officers spent an extended period of time trying to convince him to voluntarily seek mental health treatment, they attempted to take Lofton into custody. Lofton resisted by assaulting the officers. After a physical struggle, he was arrested for four counts of battery of a law enforcement officer.

Lofton was transported to the Juvenile Intake and Assessment Center (JIAC) in a Wrap restraint system, a device used to prevent subjects from hurting themselves or others. Once at the facility the Wrap device and handcuffs were removed from Lofton, and he was placed in a single holding cell.

Lofton was later allowed out of the holding cell to use the restroom. When a JIAC staff member attempted to escort him back to the holding cell, Lofton assaulted the staff member. Multiple corrections staff engaged in a lengthy physical struggle to get him into the holding cell and place him into handcuffs. Once Lofton was under control, corrections staff were monitoring him and noticed he became unresponsive.

Life-saving measures were initiated. EMS responded and transported him to Wesley Medical Center where additional medical interventions were attempted. On Sept. 26, at approximately 1:55 a.m. Lofton was pronounced dead.

An autopsy was conducted on Sept. 27. Lofton’s cause of death is pending further investigation and toxicology results.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of a juvenile in custody in Sedgwick County.

On Sept. 24, police booked a 17-year-old boy into the Juvenile Intake Assessment Center,&nbsp;700 South Hydraulic in Sedgwick, Kansas&nbsp; on requested charges of that included three counts of battery of a law enforcement officer,&nbsp;according to Col. Brian White with the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office.

While in custody, the teen also assaulted juvenile assessment center staff and was restrained with handcuffs and more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wichita.gov/WPD/WPDPolicyAndProcedureManual/Policy%20915%20-%20WRAP%20Restraint%20Systems.pdf">including the WRAP process,</a> according to White. After he was restrained, the teen became unresponsive and officials contacted emergency medical services. EMS transported the teen to a local hospital. He died on Sunday, according to White.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is in charge of the investigation. The Sedgwick County Sheriff's office is assisting. The Sheriff's office does not oversee the Juvenile Intake Assessment Center, according to White. The county runs that facility.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632777405725.png" alt="Colonel Brian White during Monday's media conference on the death of the teen." />
 <figcaption>Colonel Brian White during Monday's media conference on the death of the teen.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating the death of a 17-year-old who died after being in law enforcement custody. By statute, the KBI investigates all in-custody deaths which occur in Kansas jails and prisons, unless the inmate who dies is being regularly attended by a physician, or the death is ruled natural by autopsy.The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office asked the KBI to investigate on Friday, Sept. 24, at approximately 10:30 a.m.Preliminary information indicates that at approximately 1 a.m. on Sept. 24, officers from the Wichita Police Department responded to a disturbance call from a resident at 1221 S. Fox Run in Wichita. Upon arrival they discovered 17-year-old Cedric “CJ” Lofton, of Wichita, outside the house. Lofton appeared paranoid and was behaving erratically. After officers spent an extended period of time trying to convince him to voluntarily seek mental health treatment, they attempted to take Lofton into custody. Lofton resisted by assaulting the officers. After a physical struggle, he was arrested for four counts of battery of a law enforcement officer.Lofton was transported to the Juvenile Intake and Assessment Center (JIAC) in a Wrap restraint system, a device used to prevent subjects from hurting themselves or others. Once at the facility the Wrap device and handcuffs were removed from Lofton, and he was placed in a single holding cell.Lofton was later allowed out of the holding cell to use the restroom. When a JIAC staff member attempted to escort him back to the holding cell, Lofton assaulted the staff member. Multiple corrections staff engaged in a lengthy physical struggle to get him into the holding cell and place him into handcuffs. Once Lofton was under control, corrections staff were monitoring him and noticed he became unresponsive.Life-saving measures were initiated. EMS responded and transported him to Wesley Medical Center where additional medical interventions were attempted. On Sept. 26, at approximately 1:55 a.m. Lofton was pronounced dead.An autopsy was conducted on Sept. 27. Lofton’s cause of death is pending further investigation and toxicology results.--------SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of a juvenile in custody in Sedgwick County.On Sept. 24, police booked a 17-year-old boy into the Juvenile Intake Assessment Center,&nbsp;700 South Hydraulic in Sedgwick, Kansas&nbsp; on requested charges of that included three counts of battery of a law enforcement officer,&nbsp;according to Col. Brian White with the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office.While in custody, the teen also assaulted juvenile assessment center staff and was restrained with handcuffs and more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wichita.gov/WPD/WPDPolicyAndProcedureManual/Policy%20915%20-%20WRAP%20Restraint%20Systems.pdf">including the WRAP process,</a> according to White. After he was restrained, the teen became unresponsive and officials contacted emergency medical services. EMS transported the teen to a local hospital. He died on Sunday, according to White.The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is in charge of the investigation. The Sedgwick County Sheriff's office is assisting. The Sheriff's office does not oversee the Juvenile Intake Assessment Center, according to White. The county runs that facility.

KBI IDs teen who died  after restrained at Kan. juvenile intake center

NEMAHA COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged child sex crimes.

On Monday, authorities booked 41-year-old Simon S. Survila of Rice Lake, Wisconsin into the Nemaha County Jail on a Nemaha County warrant for Aggravated Indecent Liberties with a Child. 

He remains jailed on&nbsp; $250,000 bond and is expected to make a first court appearance this week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632859020721.png" alt="Survilla photo Nemaha County" />
 <figcaption>Survilla photo Nemaha County</figcaption>
 </figure>NEMAHA COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged child sex crimes.On Monday, authorities booked 41-year-old Simon S. Survila of Rice Lake, Wisconsin into the Nemaha County Jail on a Nemaha County warrant for Aggravated Indecent Liberties with a Child. He remains jailed on&nbsp; $250,000 bond and is expected to make a first court appearance this week.

Wisconsin man jailed in Kansas for alleged child sex crimes

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A former Wichita police officer has been sentenced to a year of probation after he admitted he helped a woman avoid arrest. Matthew Powell would serve a year in jail if he violates probation. He also cannot be certified again to work as a law enforcement officer. 

A probable cause statement says that on May 3, 2019, Powell told a woman who was wanted on a warrant that officers were coming to arrest her. The woman was taken into custody about two weeks later. KAKE-TV reports the woman told detectives that Powell had helped her avoid arrest for months.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632847775609.png" alt="Powell as shown in his Sedgwick&nbsp; booking photo" />
 <figcaption>Powell as shown in his Sedgwick&nbsp; booking photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A former Wichita police officer has been sentenced to a year of probation after he admitted he helped a woman avoid arrest. Matthew Powell would serve a year in jail if he violates probation. He also cannot be certified again to work as a law enforcement officer. A probable cause statement says that on May 3, 2019, Powell told a woman who was wanted on a warrant that officers were coming to arrest her. The woman was taken into custody about two weeks later. KAKE-TV reports the woman told detectives that Powell had helped her avoid arrest for months.

Former Kan. police officer sentenced for helping woman avoid arrest

WAYNE COUNTY, Utah —U.S. Marshals investigators say viewers in Wayne County saw Colt’s wanted poster on the news Monday evening and recognized Colt, calling in tips to the U.S. Marshals Service and the WayneCounty Sheriff’s Office. 

As sheriff’s deputies were staging in a parking lot near the target house, they saw Colt roll by on his blue motorcycle and gave chase. Colt eventually decided to give up. He confirmed his identity, and the sheriff confirmed the motorcycle VIN in NCIC.

He is being held in the Sevier County jail pending his return to Kansas.

“Effective law enforcement in the United States today is enhanced by citizens willing to report what they see,” said U.S. marshal for the District of Kansas Ronald Miller. “That occurred in this case and resulted in a violent predator being recaptured.”

The U.S. Marshals elevated Colt’s escape to major case status Sept. 20 and had offered up to $10,000 as reward for information leading to Colt’s arrest. The USMS will continue to collect information and work with Utah USMS to start a failure to register case on him. As the lead federal agency for sex offender violations following passage of the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006, the

Colt was sentenced on Dec. 14, 2001, to five years in state prison for aggravated sexual battery, attempted rape, aggravated burglary, and four counts of aggravated battery against law enforcement. He was required to register as a sexual offender for the remainder of his life.

After his criminal sentence was completed, the State of Kansas courts deemed him a Sexually Violent Predator at high risk to commit a future sex offense and too dangerous to be released. He was indefinitely civilly committed and sent to the Larned State Hospital’s Sexual Predator Treatment Program in 2007, where he has resided until the escape. 

Investigators believe Colt planned his escape several months in advance, obtaining a replica of a staff ID badge and dress clothes. The morning of his escape he shaved off his long hair and beard. He put blankets under his bed covers making it appear he was still in bed sleeping. He was then able to convince a new staff worker (that he targeted) that he was in fact a new doctor and needed help finding his way out. Posing as a doctor, Colt was able to make his way past five secured doors and ultimately outside the gates.

Several hours passed before staff noticed he was missing and alerted the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office. After escaping, Colt received a ride from a local farmer to the town of Larned. From there he rode to Scott City on a motorcycle he’d purchased prior to his escape with the help of an accomplice. 

WAYNE COUNTY, Utah—Thanks to tips from the public, authorities&nbsp; arrested 42-year-old John Colt near Torrey, Utah late Monday without incident, according Sevier County Sheriff Nathan Curtis.&nbsp;

Colt escaped from the Sexual Predator Treatment program at the Larned State hospital on June 30 and traveled over 850 miles before his arrest.

Just after midnight Tuesday, Colt was booked into the Sevier County jail in Richfield, Utah, according to online jail records.

He is being help until until officials can arrange for his extradition back to Kansas.&nbsp;Colt has previous convictions for aggravated sexual battery, theft, forgery, aggravated burglary, interference with parental custody and criminal damage, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

PAWNEE COUNTY — The search for a man who escaped from the Sexual Predator Treatment program at the Larned State hospital in June is over.

The Pawnee County Attorney reported he received messages Tuesday morning confirming the arrest of 42-year-old John Freeman Colt. He is being held in a jail in Utah, according to Sheriff Nathan Curtis.

Few details are available. Check the Post for more information as it is released.

PAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities continue to search for 42-year-old John Freeman Colt according to the Pawnee County Sheriff's Office.

Just after 7a.m. June 30, he walked out of the Sexual Predator Treatment Program at the Larned State Hospital, according to the Pawnee County Sheriff.&nbsp;

He was last seen at 11:10a.m. Wednesday June 30 walking north bound from Kwik Shop on Broadway.

Barton County Sheriff Bellendir explained how Colt made it&nbsp;that far.&nbsp; “He caught a ride into town and gave a story he had a broken-down vehicle,” Bellendir said. “He was dressed in dress clothes. He didn’t look like what you’d expect an inmate to be. He looked more like a social worker, and that’s probably how he managed to escape, which the state investigators for DOC (the Department of Corrections) are over there trying to figure all of that out&nbsp;right now.”&nbsp;

Bellendir said&nbsp;Colt had altered his appearance by cutting his hair and shaving off a beard.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Colt is described as a white male, medium skin tone, 5-foot-7 200 pounds, blue eyes, and&nbsp; short brown hair. 

 He also has a tattoo on his left arm of a heart with the letters BH. 

He was last seen wearing a gray long sleeve shirt, black pants ( possibly dress pants ) and a dark face mask.  Subject possibly has an ID badge "C JONES", and may have a cell phone.&nbsp;

Colt should be considered dangerous.&nbsp;If seen, or you know his whereabouts, please call 911.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632850718422.png" alt="Colt photo Sevier. County" />
 <figcaption>Colt photo Sevier. County</figcaption>
 </figure>WAYNE COUNTY, Utah —U.S. Marshals investigators say viewers in Wayne County saw Colt’s wanted poster on the news Monday evening and recognized Colt, calling in tips to the U.S. Marshals Service and the WayneCounty Sheriff’s Office. As sheriff’s deputies were staging in a parking lot near the target house, they saw Colt roll by on his blue motorcycle and gave chase. Colt eventually decided to give up. He confirmed his identity, and the sheriff confirmed the motorcycle VIN in NCIC.He is being held in the Sevier County jail pending his return to Kansas.“Effective law enforcement in the United States today is enhanced by citizens willing to report what they see,” said U.S. marshal for the District of Kansas Ronald Miller. “That occurred in this case and resulted in a violent predator being recaptured.”The U.S. Marshals elevated Colt’s escape to major case status Sept. 20 and had offered up to $10,000 as reward for information leading to Colt’s arrest. The USMS will continue to collect information and work with Utah USMS to start a failure to register case on him. As the lead federal agency for sex offender violations following passage of the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006, theColt was sentenced on Dec. 14, 2001, to five years in state prison for aggravated sexual battery, attempted rape, aggravated burglary, and four counts of aggravated battery against law enforcement. He was required to register as a sexual offender for the remainder of his life.After his criminal sentence was completed, the State of Kansas courts deemed him a Sexually Violent Predator at high risk to commit a future sex offense and too dangerous to be released. He was indefinitely civilly committed and sent to the Larned State Hospital’s Sexual Predator Treatment Program in 2007, where he has resided until the escape. Investigators believe Colt planned his escape several months in advance, obtaining a replica of a staff ID badge and dress clothes. The morning of his escape he shaved off his long hair and beard. He put blankets under his bed covers making it appear he was still in bed sleeping. He was then able to convince a new staff worker (that he targeted) that he was in fact a new doctor and needed help finding his way out. Posing as a doctor, Colt was able to make his way past five secured doors and ultimately outside the gates.Several hours passed before staff noticed he was missing and alerted the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office. After escaping, Colt received a ride from a local farmer to the town of Larned. From there he rode to Scott City on a motorcycle he’d purchased prior to his escape with the help of an accomplice. --------WAYNE COUNTY, Utah—Thanks to tips from the public, authorities&nbsp; arrested 42-year-old John Colt near Torrey, Utah late Monday without incident, according Sevier County Sheriff Nathan Curtis.&nbsp;Colt escaped from the Sexual Predator Treatment program at the Larned State hospital on June 30 and traveled over 850 miles before his arrest.Just after midnight Tuesday, Colt was booked into the Sevier County jail in Richfield, Utah, according to online jail records.He is being help until until officials can arrange for his extradition back to Kansas.&nbsp;Colt has previous convictions for aggravated sexual battery, theft, forgery, aggravated burglary, interference with parental custody and criminal damage, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.------------PAWNEE COUNTY — The search for a man who escaped from the Sexual Predator Treatment program at the Larned State hospital in June is over.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632842492522.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Pawnee County Attorney reported he received messages Tuesday morning confirming the arrest of 42-year-old John Freeman Colt. He is being held in a jail in Utah, according to Sheriff Nathan Curtis.Few details are available. Check the Post for more information as it is released.--------------PAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities continue to search for 42-year-old John Freeman Colt according to the Pawnee County Sheriff's Office.Just after 7a.m. June 30, he walked out of the Sexual Predator Treatment Program at the Larned State Hospital, according to the Pawnee County Sheriff.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1625086515798.png" alt="Colt has previous convictions for aggravated sexual battery, theft, forgery, aggravated burglary, interference with parental custody and criminal damage, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections photos Pawnee Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Colt has previous convictions for aggravated sexual battery, theft, forgery, aggravated burglary, interference with parental custody and criminal damage, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections photos Pawnee Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>He was last seen at 11:10a.m. Wednesday June 30 walking north bound from Kwik Shop on Broadway.Barton County Sheriff Bellendir explained how Colt made it&nbsp;that far.&nbsp; “He caught a ride into town and gave a story he had a broken-down vehicle,” Bellendir said. “He was dressed in dress clothes. He didn’t look like what you’d expect an inmate to be. He looked more like a social worker, and that’s probably how he managed to escape, which the state investigators for DOC (the Department of Corrections) are over there trying to figure all of that out&nbsp;right now.”&nbsp;Bellendir said&nbsp;Colt had altered his appearance by cutting his hair and shaving off a beard.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Colt is described as a white male, medium skin tone, 5-foot-7 200 pounds, blue eyes, and&nbsp; short brown hair. He also has a tattoo on his left arm of a heart with the letters BH. He was last seen wearing a gray long sleeve shirt, black pants ( possibly dress pants ) and a dark face mask. Subject possibly has an ID badge "C JONES", and may have a cell phone.&nbsp;Colt should be considered dangerous.&nbsp;If seen, or you know his whereabouts, please call 911.

Update: Man who escaped Kan. sex offender program jailed in Utah

WICHITA —A public funeral vigil for Fr. Emil Kapaun was held at Hartman Arena in Wichita on Tuesday evening.&nbsp;

A rosary was prayed at the vigil and Fr. John Hotze, Episcopal Delegate for Fr. Kapaun’s Cause, preach a homily. Fr. Kapaun’s casket was on the stage during the event.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Fr. Kapaun will be celebrated at Hartman Arena at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday.

WICHITA —After 70-years, a public funeral vigil for Fr. Emil Kapaun will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, at Hartman Arena in Wichita. The vigil and the funeral are ticketed events. A few tickets may be available at&nbsp;<a href="https://frkapaun.org/kapaun-comes-home/">KapaunComesHome.com</a>, according to<a href="https://catholicdioceseofwichita.org/fr-kapauns-tomb-in-place-ready-for-his-remains/">&nbsp;the Catholic Diocese of Wichita.</a>

“It will be a beautiful and powerful ceremony with prayer – and music by the Air Force and West Point Catholic Cadet choirs,” said Scott Carter, coordinator of the Father Kapaun Guild.

A rosary will be prayed at the vigil and Fr. John Hotze, Episcopal Delegate for Fr. Kapaun’s Cause, will preach a homily. Fr. Kapaun’s casket will be on the stage during the event.

The remains of Fr. Emil Kapaun were delivered to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Wichita on Monday.

A luncheon was also held Tuesday at the Cathedral in Wichita for special guests, such as the families of the prisoners of war, military officials, and other friends of the Cause. The U.S. Army Chief of Chaplains, Maj. Gen. Thomas Solhjem, is scheduled to share some thoughts at the luncheon. Kelly McKeague, the director of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, may also attend and speak, according to the diocese web site.&nbsp; Kapaun died in a prisoner of war camp during the Korean War.

“We’re looking forward to that moment to honor and share Fr. Kapaun’s story,” said&nbsp;Scott.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Fr. Kapaun will be celebrated at Hartman Arena at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 29.

“Bishop Carroll celebrated a Memorial Mass in 1953 when they found out that Fr. Kapaun had died in a prisoner of war camp,” Carter said.

“The family was there, the military was there, and it was a great way to honor him and pray for the repose of his soul. But a flag was draped over an empty casket. This time will be different.”

A lot of people believe that Fr. Kapaun’s soul is now in heaven, he said, adding that the diocese is still working with the Vatican for validation regarding his cause for beatification and sainthood.

EWTN is scheduled to broadcast both the vigil and funeral Mass, and both will also be live-streamed on the Diocese of Wichita’s YouTube Channel.

After the funeral Fr. Kapaun’s remains will be driven to a site on Central Avenue near Veterans’ Memorial Park where his casket will be placed on a horse-drawn military caisson.

The procession will slowly move east on Central Avenue about a half-mile to the Cathedral.

“The faithful are invited to line the procession route to pay their final respects as he is taken the Cathedral where he will be interred.”

Fr. Kapaun will receive military honors, a 21-gun salute, and Taps, before his remains are carried into the Cathedral by the U.S. Army’s 1st Cavalry Division from Fort Hood, Texas. Fr. Kapaun served with the 1st Cavalry Division in Korea.

Soldiers of the 1st Infantry Division from Fort Riley, Kansas, will also take part in the week’s events.

“There will be opportunities to visit him and pray at the Cathedral beginning the day after the funeral,” Carter said. Details are being finalized and will be available at FrKapaun.org.

He said it is unknown how long Fr. Kapaun will be interred at the Cathedral.

“If Father is beatified I think we will talk more earnestly about the possibility of a dedicated shrine, but for now the Cathedral will be a place people can visit and pray with Father Kapaun,” Carter said.

Fr. Kapaun was known for risking his life on the battlefield during the Korean War to minister to the troops on the frontlines. He was taken a prisoner of war in November of 1950, enduring brutal captivity where he continued to serve and bolster the morale of fellow prisoners. Fr. Kapaun died in the prison camp on May 23, 1951. He was awarded the Medal of Honor in 2013 for his heroic actions on the battlefield.

Fr. Kapaun was among over 800 unidentified Korean War soldiers returned to U.S. custody in 1954 and buried in the National Cemetery of the Pacific in Hawaii.

In 1993, Father Emil Kapaun was named a Servant of God, signifying that his cause for sainthood could begin. A thorough investigation into his life was conducted by the Diocese of Wichita and the details presented to the Congregation for Saints in Rome, where his cause awaits review on the path to what we pray will be his eventual beatification and canonization.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632878413190.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA —A public funeral vigil for Fr. Emil Kapaun was held at Hartman Arena in Wichita on Tuesday evening.&nbsp;<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HSKXSESOLUY" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>A rosary was prayed at the vigil and Fr. John Hotze, Episcopal Delegate for Fr. Kapaun’s Cause, preach a homily. Fr. Kapaun’s casket was on the stage during the event.The Mass of Christian Burial for Fr. Kapaun will be celebrated at Hartman Arena at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday.-------<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632827006453.png" alt="On Monday night, the priests of the Diocese of Wichita reunited with their brother priest, Father Kapaun at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception-photo courtesy Diocese of Wichita" />
 <figcaption>On Monday night, the priests of the Diocese of Wichita reunited with their brother priest, Father Kapaun at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception-photo courtesy Diocese of Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA —After 70-years, a public funeral vigil for Fr. Emil Kapaun will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, at Hartman Arena in Wichita. The vigil and the funeral are ticketed events. A few tickets may be available at&nbsp;<a href="https://frkapaun.org/kapaun-comes-home/">KapaunComesHome.com</a>, according to<a href="https://catholicdioceseofwichita.org/fr-kapauns-tomb-in-place-ready-for-his-remains/">&nbsp;the Catholic Diocese of Wichita.</a>“It will be a beautiful and powerful ceremony with prayer – and music by the Air Force and West Point Catholic Cadet choirs,” said Scott Carter, coordinator of the Father Kapaun Guild.A rosary will be prayed at the vigil and Fr. John Hotze, Episcopal Delegate for Fr. Kapaun’s Cause, will preach a homily. Fr. Kapaun’s casket will be on the stage during the event.The remains of Fr. Emil Kapaun were delivered to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Wichita on Monday.A luncheon was also held Tuesday at the Cathedral in Wichita for special guests, such as the families of the prisoners of war, military officials, and other friends of the Cause. The U.S. Army Chief of Chaplains, Maj. Gen. Thomas Solhjem, is scheduled to share some thoughts at the luncheon. Kelly McKeague, the director of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, may also attend and speak, according to the diocese web site.&nbsp; Kapaun died in a prisoner of war camp during the Korean War.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631705866678.png" alt="Fr. Kapaun’s 5,400 lb. marble tomb placed on the concrete foundation in the east transept of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Wichita-photo Catholic Diocese of Wichita" />
 <figcaption>Fr. Kapaun’s 5,400 lb. marble tomb placed on the concrete foundation in the east transept of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Wichita-photo Catholic Diocese of Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>“We’re looking forward to that moment to honor and share Fr. Kapaun’s story,” said&nbsp;Scott.The Mass of Christian Burial for Fr. Kapaun will be celebrated at Hartman Arena at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 29.“Bishop Carroll celebrated a Memorial Mass in 1953 when they found out that Fr. Kapaun had died in a prisoner of war camp,” Carter said.“The family was there, the military was there, and it was a great way to honor him and pray for the repose of his soul. But a flag was draped over an empty casket. This time will be different.”A lot of people believe that Fr. Kapaun’s soul is now in heaven, he said, adding that the diocese is still working with the Vatican for validation regarding his cause for beatification and sainthood.EWTN is scheduled to broadcast both the vigil and funeral Mass, and both will also be live-streamed on the Diocese of Wichita’s YouTube Channel.After the funeral Fr. Kapaun’s remains will be driven to a site on Central Avenue near Veterans’ Memorial Park where his casket will be placed on a horse-drawn military caisson.The procession will slowly move east on Central Avenue about a half-mile to the Cathedral.“The faithful are invited to line the procession route to pay their final respects as he is taken the Cathedral where he will be interred.”Fr. Kapaun will receive military honors, a 21-gun salute, and Taps, before his remains are carried into the Cathedral by the U.S. Army’s 1st Cavalry Division from Fort Hood, Texas. Fr. Kapaun served with the 1st Cavalry Division in Korea.Soldiers of the 1st Infantry Division from Fort Riley, Kansas, will also take part in the week’s events.“There will be opportunities to visit him and pray at the Cathedral beginning the day after the funeral,” Carter said. Details are being finalized and will be available at FrKapaun.org.He said it is unknown how long Fr. Kapaun will be interred at the Cathedral.“If Father is beatified I think we will talk more earnestly about the possibility of a dedicated shrine, but for now the Cathedral will be a place people can visit and pray with Father Kapaun,” Carter said.Fr. Kapaun was known for risking his life on the battlefield during the Korean War to minister to the troops on the frontlines. He was taken a prisoner of war in November of 1950, enduring brutal captivity where he continued to serve and bolster the morale of fellow prisoners. Fr. Kapaun died in the prison camp on May 23, 1951. He was awarded the Medal of Honor in 2013 for his heroic actions on the battlefield.Fr. Kapaun was among over 800 unidentified Korean War soldiers returned to U.S. custody in 1954 and buried in the National Cemetery of the Pacific in Hawaii.In 1993, Father Emil Kapaun was named a Servant of God, signifying that his cause for sainthood could begin. A thorough investigation into his life was conducted by the Diocese of Wichita and the details presented to the Congregation for Saints in Rome, where his cause awaits review on the path to what we pray will be his eventual beatification and canonization.

🎥  Public funeral vigil for revered Kansas priest

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?514537-1/joint-chiefs-chair-general-milley-testify-afghanistan-withdrawal&amp;live&amp;vod">Click here </a>to watch his testimony

WASHINGTON (AP) — The top U.S. military officer told Congress on Tuesday that he knew former President Donald Trump wasn’t planning to attack China and that it was his job to reassure the Chinese of this in the phone calls that have triggered outrage from some lawmakers.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-afghanistan-lloyd-austin-joint-chiefs-of-staff-b93c6da6e9fdf61b2a185df9baa4e2a7">Army Gen. Mark Milley</a>, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, delivered a vehement defense of two calls he made to his Chinese counterpart, saying he was responding to a “significant degree of intelligence” that China was worried about a U.S. attack.

“I know, I am certain, that President Trump did not intend to attack the Chinese. ... And it was my directed responsibility by the secretary to convey that intent to the Chinese,” Milley told the Senate Armed Services Committee. “My task at that time was to de-escalate. My message again was consistent: Stay calm, steady, and de-escalate. We are not going to attack you.”

Milley has been at the center of controversy after reports that he made two calls to Gen. Li Zuocheng of the People’s Liberation Army to assure him that the United States was not suddenly going to go to war with or attack China. Details of the calls were first aired in excerpts from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-united-states-china-bob-woodward-joint-chiefs-of-staff-ee2577288a524ab846fd91e9da689176">the recently released book “Peril”</a>&nbsp;by Washington Post journalists Bob Woodward and Robert Costa.

While Tuesday’s hearing largely focused on the troop withdrawal from Afghanistan and the chaotic evacuation of Americans, Afghans and others from the country, a few senators condemned Milley for what they saw as inappropriate communications with Li.

In his most extensive comments to date on the matter, Milley said the calls on Oct. 30 and Jan. 8 were fully coordinated with the defense secretaries at the time as well as other U.S. national security agencies. And he said that such military-to-military communications are critical to prevent war between great powers that possess nuclear weapons.

The calls came during Trump’s turbulent last months in office as he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-government-and-politics-elections-ap-fact-check-election-2020-b3905c30c8bb585e20850da3c3f022e8">challenged the results of the 2020 election</a>. The second call came two days after Jan. 6, when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-confirm-joe-biden-78104aea082995bbd7412a6e6cd13818">a violent mob attacked the U.S. Capitol</a>&nbsp;in an effort to prevent Congress from certifying Biden’s White House victory.

Milley said the October call was made at the direction of then-Defense Secretary Mark Esper and the second was done at the request of the Chinese and coordinated with then-acting Defense Secretary Chris Miller’s office.

Asked if he spoke with the book’s authors and if his remarks were “accurately represented,” Milley said he spoke with Woodward and that he has not read the book but has seen press reports on it.

Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., asked that he provide more answers once he’s read the book. She and Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., questioned whether Milley shared private presidential conversations with the authors.

Milley said he did not leak private conversations he had with Trump, and said he routinely speaks with the media to provide information and transparency to the American people.

Milley also addressed a call he received from House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. He said Pelosi “called me to inquire about the president’s ability to launch nuclear weapons. I sought to assure her that nuclear launch is governed by a very specific and deliberate process.”

He said he assured her that while the president is the sole nuclear launch authority, “he doesn’t launch them alone.” He said that as chairman he is part of the launch decision process.

“There are processes, protocols and procedures in place, and I repeatedly assured her there is no chance of an illegal, unauthorized or accidental launch,” Milley said.

The book asserts that during the call, Milley agreed with Pelosi’s statement that Trump was suffering a mental decline after the election. During Tuesday’s hearing, Milley appeared to discount that, saying “I am not qualified to determine the mental health of the president of the United States.”

He said that after the call was over, he had a short meeting with staff to go over the process. He also said he informed Miller of the call at the time.

“At no time was I attempting to change or influence the process, usurp authority or insert myself in the chain of command, but I am expected, I am required, to give my advice and ensure that the president is fully informed,” Milley said.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The top U.S. military officer called the 20-year war in Afghanistan a “strategic failure” and told Congress on Tuesday that he believes the U.S. should have kept several thousand troops in the country to prevent the unexpectedly rapid takeover by the Taliban.

In his first congressional testimony on the tumultuous withdrawal, Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, refused to say what advice he gave President Joe Biden last spring when Biden was considering whether to keep any troops in Afghanistan.

But he told the Senate Armed Services Committee it was his personal opinion that at least 2,500 were needed to guard against a collapse of the Kabul government and a return to Taliban rule.

In a blunt assessment of a war that cost 2,461 American lives, Milley said the result was years in the making.

“Outcomes in a war like this, an outcome that is a strategic failure — the enemy is in charge in Kabul, there’s no way else to describe that — that is a cumulative effect of 20 years,” he said, adding that lessons need to be learned, including whether the U.S. military made the Afghans overly dependent on American technology in a mistaken effort to make the Afghan army look like the American army.

Gen. Frank McKenzie, who as head of Central Command had overseen the final months of the U.S. war, said he agreed with Milley that a few thousand troops should have been kept in Afghanistan, despite the Trump administration’s agreement with the Taliban in 2020 that all U.S. troops would leave by May 2021.

“I recommended that we maintain 2,500 troops in Afghanistan, and I also recommended early in the fall of 2020 that we maintain 4,500 at that time, those were my personal views,” McKenzie said. “I also had a view that the withdrawal of those forces would lead inevitably to the collapse of the Afghan military forces and eventually the Afghan government.”

The Senate hearing was at times contentious, as Republicans sought to portray Biden as having ignored advice from military officers and mischaracterized the military options he was presented last spring and summer. Several Republicans tried unsuccessfully to draw Milley, McKenzie and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin into commenting on the truthfulness of Biden’s statement to ABC News on Aug. 18, three days after the Taliban took control of Kabul, that no senior military commander had recommended against a full troop withdrawal when it was under discussion in the first months of Biden’s term.

Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., asked Milley why he did not choose to resign after his advice was rejected.

Milley, who was appointed to his position as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff by President Donald Trump and retained by Biden, said it was his responsibility to provide the commander in chief with his best advice.

“The president doesn’t have to agree with that advice,” Milley said. “He doesn’t have to make those decisions just because we are generals. And it would be an incredible act of political defiance for a commissioned officer to resign just because my advice was not taken.”

Testifying alongside Milley and McKenzie, Austin defended the military’s execution of a frantic airlift from Kabul in August and asserted it will be “difficult but absolutely possible” to contain future threats from Afghanistan without troops on the ground. Under questioning, he, too, declined to say what advice he had given Biden about whether to make a full troop withdrawal.

Milley also told Congress he knew former President Donald Trump wasn’t planning to attack China and it was his job to reassure the Chinese of that fact in the phone calls that have triggered outrage from some lawmakers.&nbsp; Milley delivered a vehement defense of two calls he made to his Chinese counterpart, saying he was responding to “concerning intelligence” China was worried about a U.S. attack. Milley says his task was “to de-escalate.” Details of Milley’s calls were first aired in excerpts from the book “Peril” by Washington Post journalists Bob Woodward and Robert Costa.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632855649721.png" alt="Joint Chiefs Chair Gen. Mark Milley testified on the Afghanistan withdrawal Tuesday -photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Joint Chiefs Chair Gen. Mark Milley testified on the Afghanistan withdrawal Tuesday -photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?514537-1/joint-chiefs-chair-general-milley-testify-afghanistan-withdrawal&amp;live&amp;vod">Click here </a>to watch his testimonyWASHINGTON (AP) — The top U.S. military officer told Congress on Tuesday that he knew former President Donald Trump wasn’t planning to attack China and that it was his job to reassure the Chinese of this in the phone calls that have triggered outrage from some lawmakers.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-afghanistan-lloyd-austin-joint-chiefs-of-staff-b93c6da6e9fdf61b2a185df9baa4e2a7">Army Gen. Mark Milley</a>, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, delivered a vehement defense of two calls he made to his Chinese counterpart, saying he was responding to a “significant degree of intelligence” that China was worried about a U.S. attack.“I know, I am certain, that President Trump did not intend to attack the Chinese. ... And it was my directed responsibility by the secretary to convey that intent to the Chinese,” Milley told the Senate Armed Services Committee. “My task at that time was to de-escalate. My message again was consistent: Stay calm, steady, and de-escalate. We are not going to attack you.”Milley has been at the center of controversy after reports that he made two calls to Gen. Li Zuocheng of the People’s Liberation Army to assure him that the United States was not suddenly going to go to war with or attack China. Details of the calls were first aired in excerpts from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-united-states-china-bob-woodward-joint-chiefs-of-staff-ee2577288a524ab846fd91e9da689176">the recently released book “Peril”</a>&nbsp;by Washington Post journalists Bob Woodward and Robert Costa.ADVERTISEMENTWhile Tuesday’s hearing largely focused on the troop withdrawal from Afghanistan and the chaotic evacuation of Americans, Afghans and others from the country, a few senators condemned Milley for what they saw as inappropriate communications with Li.In his most extensive comments to date on the matter, Milley said the calls on Oct. 30 and Jan. 8 were fully coordinated with the defense secretaries at the time as well as other U.S. national security agencies. And he said that such military-to-military communications are critical to prevent war between great powers that possess nuclear weapons.The calls came during Trump’s turbulent last months in office as he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-government-and-politics-elections-ap-fact-check-election-2020-b3905c30c8bb585e20850da3c3f022e8">challenged the results of the 2020 election</a>. The second call came two days after Jan. 6, when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-confirm-joe-biden-78104aea082995bbd7412a6e6cd13818">a violent mob attacked the U.S. Capitol</a>&nbsp;in an effort to prevent Congress from certifying Biden’s White House victory.Milley said the October call was made at the direction of then-Defense Secretary Mark Esper and the second was done at the request of the Chinese and coordinated with then-acting Defense Secretary Chris Miller’s office.Asked if he spoke with the book’s authors and if his remarks were “accurately represented,” Milley said he spoke with Woodward and that he has not read the book but has seen press reports on it.Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., asked that he provide more answers once he’s read the book. She and Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., questioned whether Milley shared private presidential conversations with the authors.Milley said he did not leak private conversations he had with Trump, and said he routinely speaks with the media to provide information and transparency to the American people.Milley also addressed a call he received from House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. He said Pelosi “called me to inquire about the president’s ability to launch nuclear weapons. I sought to assure her that nuclear launch is governed by a very specific and deliberate process.”He said he assured her that while the president is the sole nuclear launch authority, “he doesn’t launch them alone.” He said that as chairman he is part of the launch decision process.“There are processes, protocols and procedures in place, and I repeatedly assured her there is no chance of an illegal, unauthorized or accidental launch,” Milley said.The book asserts that during the call, Milley agreed with Pelosi’s statement that Trump was suffering a mental decline after the election. During Tuesday’s hearing, Milley appeared to discount that, saying “I am not qualified to determine the mental health of the president of the United States.”He said that after the call was over, he had a short meeting with staff to go over the process. He also said he informed Miller of the call at the time.“At no time was I attempting to change or influence the process, usurp authority or insert myself in the chain of command, but I am expected, I am required, to give my advice and ensure that the president is fully informed,” Milley said.-----------WASHINGTON (AP) — The top U.S. military officer called the 20-year war in Afghanistan a “strategic failure” and told Congress on Tuesday that he believes the U.S. should have kept several thousand troops in the country to prevent the unexpectedly rapid takeover by the Taliban.In his first congressional testimony on the tumultuous withdrawal, Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, refused to say what advice he gave President Joe Biden last spring when Biden was considering whether to keep any troops in Afghanistan.But he told the Senate Armed Services Committee it was his personal opinion that at least 2,500 were needed to guard against a collapse of the Kabul government and a return to Taliban rule.In a blunt assessment of a war that cost 2,461 American lives, Milley said the result was years in the making.“Outcomes in a war like this, an outcome that is a strategic failure — the enemy is in charge in Kabul, there’s no way else to describe that — that is a cumulative effect of 20 years,” he said, adding that lessons need to be learned, including whether the U.S. military made the Afghans overly dependent on American technology in a mistaken effort to make the Afghan army look like the American army.Gen. Frank McKenzie, who as head of Central Command had overseen the final months of the U.S. war, said he agreed with Milley that a few thousand troops should have been kept in Afghanistan, despite the Trump administration’s agreement with the Taliban in 2020 that all U.S. troops would leave by May 2021.“I recommended that we maintain 2,500 troops in Afghanistan, and I also recommended early in the fall of 2020 that we maintain 4,500 at that time, those were my personal views,” McKenzie said. “I also had a view that the withdrawal of those forces would lead inevitably to the collapse of the Afghan military forces and eventually the Afghan government.”The Senate hearing was at times contentious, as Republicans sought to portray Biden as having ignored advice from military officers and mischaracterized the military options he was presented last spring and summer. Several Republicans tried unsuccessfully to draw Milley, McKenzie and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin into commenting on the truthfulness of Biden’s statement to ABC News on Aug. 18, three days after the Taliban took control of Kabul, that no senior military commander had recommended against a full troop withdrawal when it was under discussion in the first months of Biden’s term.Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., asked Milley why he did not choose to resign after his advice was rejected.Milley, who was appointed to his position as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff by President Donald Trump and retained by Biden, said it was his responsibility to provide the commander in chief with his best advice.“The president doesn’t have to agree with that advice,” Milley said. “He doesn’t have to make those decisions just because we are generals. And it would be an incredible act of political defiance for a commissioned officer to resign just because my advice was not taken.”Testifying alongside Milley and McKenzie, Austin defended the military’s execution of a frantic airlift from Kabul in August and asserted it will be “difficult but absolutely possible” to contain future threats from Afghanistan without troops on the ground. Under questioning, he, too, declined to say what advice he had given Biden about whether to make a full troop withdrawal.Milley also told Congress he knew former President Donald Trump wasn’t planning to attack China and it was his job to reassure the Chinese of that fact in the phone calls that have triggered outrage from some lawmakers.&nbsp; Milley delivered a vehement defense of two calls he made to his Chinese counterpart, saying he was responding to “concerning intelligence” China was worried about a U.S. attack. Milley says his task was “to de-escalate.” Details of Milley’s calls were first aired in excerpts from the book “Peril” by Washington Post journalists Bob Woodward and Robert Costa.

🎥  Milley defends calls to Chinese at end of Trump presidency

WASHINGTON (AP) — Homicides in the U.S. in 2020 increased nearly 30% over the previous year, the largest one-year jump since the FBI began keeping records, according to figures released Monday by the agency.

Homicides and non-negligent manslaughters climbed an estimated 29.4% to 21,570, an increase of 4,901 over 2019, FBI data showed. It is the highest estimated total since the early 1990s, when homicides stayed above 23,000 a year as drug wars played out in many places in the U.S.

Violent crimes in 2020 went up by a more moderate 5.6% over the previous year while property crimes continued a nearly two-decade decline, falling 7.8%. Robbery and rape dropped 9.3% and 12% respectively.

James Alan Fox, a criminologist at Northeastern University in Boston, said he considered 2020 a “unique situation” and not part of any sort of long-term trend. He attributed the dramatic uptick to a confluence of factors, including the coronavirus pandemic, conflicts over politics and race and people just generally having too much free time.

“I don’t want to minimize what’s happened. I just don’t want people to believe that the sky is falling and that this is a permanent” trend, Fox added. Even with the huge homicide rise, he noted, the number is still far lower than what the country endured during the crack cocaine epidemic 30 years ago.

While the drops in other crime categories are positive news, homicides were the stunning trend — one that has continued this year. A number of communities, rural and metropolitan, have experienced continued increases in homicides. The rising violence has become a political battleground in the year after protests over policing erupted in the aftermath of George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis. Several candidates with law enforcement backgrounds are running or plan to run for various offices around the country.

Gun control groups noted that firearms were the primary driver of the violence.

“This jump in murders is just the latest proof that we are experiencing a gun violence epidemic within the COVID pandemic,” John Feinblatt, president of Everytown for Gun Safety, said in a statement. “This death spiral will continue until we stem the flow of illegal guns and invest in proven intervention programs.”

The Uniform Crime Report program is run by the FBI and collects data annually from law enforcement agencies in a number of categories, among them violent crimes, rape, robbery and aggravated assault as well as property crimes. The data is estimated because not all agencies submit information. The FBI said about 85% of the 18,619 law enforcement agencies eligible submitted data in 2020. As a result, the FBI cautions against using its report to rank cities.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Homicides in the U.S. in 2020 increased nearly 30% over the previous year, the largest one-year jump since the FBI began keeping records, according to figures released Monday by the agency.Homicides and non-negligent manslaughters climbed an estimated 29.4% to 21,570, an increase of 4,901 over 2019, FBI data showed. It is the highest estimated total since the early 1990s, when homicides stayed above 23,000 a year as drug wars played out in many places in the U.S.Violent crimes in 2020 went up by a more moderate 5.6% over the previous year while property crimes continued a nearly two-decade decline, falling 7.8%. Robbery and rape dropped 9.3% and 12% respectively.James Alan Fox, a criminologist at Northeastern University in Boston, said he considered 2020 a “unique situation” and not part of any sort of long-term trend. He attributed the dramatic uptick to a confluence of factors, including the coronavirus pandemic, conflicts over politics and race and people just generally having too much free time.“I don’t want to minimize what’s happened. I just don’t want people to believe that the sky is falling and that this is a permanent” trend, Fox added. Even with the huge homicide rise, he noted, the number is still far lower than what the country endured during the crack cocaine epidemic 30 years ago.While the drops in other crime categories are positive news, homicides were the stunning trend — one that has continued this year. A number of communities, rural and metropolitan, have experienced continued increases in homicides. The rising violence has become a political battleground in the year after protests over policing erupted in the aftermath of George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis. Several candidates with law enforcement backgrounds are running or plan to run for various offices around the country.Gun control groups noted that firearms were the primary driver of the violence.“This jump in murders is just the latest proof that we are experiencing a gun violence epidemic within the COVID pandemic,” John Feinblatt, president of Everytown for Gun Safety, said in a statement. “This death spiral will continue until we stem the flow of illegal guns and invest in proven intervention programs.”The Uniform Crime Report program is run by the FBI and collects data annually from law enforcement agencies in a number of categories, among them violent crimes, rape, robbery and aggravated assault as well as property crimes. The data is estimated because not all agencies submit information. The FBI said about 85% of the 18,619 law enforcement agencies eligible submitted data in 2020. As a result, the FBI cautions against using its report to rank cities.

FBI: 2020 homicides up nearly 30%, largest 1-year jump ever

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas teen died from injuries in an accident that occurred just after 2:30 p.m. Monday in Sedgwick County.

According to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick, a Kenworth semi driven by a 38-year-old woman was eastbound on MacArthur at 135th Street west and struck a southbound Chevy Cruze driven by a 43-year-old man.

EMS transported the driver of the Chevy and a 17-year-old female passenger for treatment. The teen suffered critical injuries and died Tuesday morning, according to Blick. The semi driver was not injured.

Investigators determined the driver of the Chevy Cruze failed to stop at the posted stop sign for southbound traffic at the intersection or failed to yield to the crossing Kenworth. The circumstances of the collision remain under investigation.&nbsp; The sheriff's department has not released names of those involved.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632855091273.png" alt="Sheriff's investigators at the scene of the Monday afternoon crash -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Sheriff's investigators at the scene of the Monday afternoon crash -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas teen died from injuries in an accident that occurred just after 2:30 p.m. Monday in Sedgwick County.According to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick, a Kenworth semi driven by a 38-year-old woman was eastbound on MacArthur at 135th Street west and struck a southbound Chevy Cruze driven by a 43-year-old man.EMS transported the driver of the Chevy and a 17-year-old female passenger for treatment. The teen suffered critical injuries and died Tuesday morning, according to Blick. The semi driver was not injured.Investigators determined the driver of the Chevy Cruze failed to stop at the posted stop sign for southbound traffic at the intersection or failed to yield to the crossing Kenworth. The circumstances of the collision remain under investigation.&nbsp; The sheriff's department has not released names of those involved.

Kansas teen dies from injuries in crash with semi

FORD COUNTY —On Monday, the Dodge City Police Department concluded a three-month investigation into high-level cocaine trafficking in the Dodge City area, according to a media release.

During the investigation, police identified 63-year-old Juan Dominguez-Fierro of Dodge City as selling multiple ounces of cocaine. 

Just before 5 a.m. Monday, police arrested Dominguez-Fierro&nbsp; on an arrest warrant issued by the Ford County District Court on four counts of Distribution of Cocaine and four counts of Unlawful Distribution of a Controlled Substance using a Communication Facility. 

At approximately 7:47 am, the DCPD, with assistance from The Kansas Highway Patrol and Alcohol Beverage Control, executed a search warrant in the 2300 block of Hart. The investigation led to the seizure of approximately three ounces of cocaine, a vehicle, and more than $32,000.00 in cash.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632780729405.png" alt="Dominguez-Fierro remains in custody in Ford County" />
 <figcaption>Dominguez-Fierro remains in custody in Ford County</figcaption>
 </figure>FORD COUNTY —On Monday, the Dodge City Police Department concluded a three-month investigation into high-level cocaine trafficking in the Dodge City area, according to a media release.During the investigation, police identified 63-year-old Juan Dominguez-Fierro of Dodge City as selling multiple ounces of cocaine. Just before 5 a.m. Monday, police arrested Dominguez-Fierro&nbsp; on an arrest warrant issued by the Ford County District Court on four counts of Distribution of Cocaine and four counts of Unlawful Distribution of a Controlled Substance using a Communication Facility. At approximately 7:47 am, the DCPD, with assistance from The Kansas Highway Patrol and Alcohol Beverage Control, executed a search warrant in the 2300 block of Hart. The investigation led to the seizure of approximately three ounces of cocaine, a vehicle, and more than $32,000.00 in cash.&nbsp;

Police: Southwest Kansas man jailed for selling cocaine 

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A judge has refused to block Creighton University’s requirement that all students get vaccinated against COVID-19 despite the objections of a handful of students who said getting the shots would violate their religious beliefs against abortion.

Douglas County District Judge Marlon Polk said last week that he wouldn’t issue a temporary order blocking the vaccine mandate, and he doesn’t believe the students will ultimately prevail with their challenge to the rule because they had signed a form promising to get vaccinated as soon as a vaccine was fully approved by regulators.

The students’ attorney didn’t immediately respond to questions on Monday, so it wasn’t immediately clear if they will continue to press the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-health-religion-education-lawsuits-b6b704b93d8d42a17f2481705f6afd4d">lawsuit</a>.

The private university in Omaha is affiliated with the Jesuit order of the Catholic Church. It mandated that all students get vaccinated in August, after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-vaccine-pfizer-approval-1361ff61d06b815652a08a7cc0683a72">granted full approval&nbsp;</a>to a vaccine made by Pfizer. The university does allow medical exemptions to its vaccine requirements, but not religious ones.

University spokeswoman Cindy Workman said Creighton has long had a policy of not allowing religious waivers for any of its vaccine requirements. The university&nbsp;<a href="https://www.creighton.edu/about/covid-19-response" target="_blank">says it believes students</a>&nbsp;have a moral responsibility to get the coronavirus vaccine to protect the community.

“Creighton University, like so many institutions of higher learning around the country, has consistently stated that vaccinations remain our single greatest defense against the COVID-19 virus,” Workman said. “In addition to the requirement that all Creighton students receive the vaccination, staff and faculty were strongly encouraged to do so, and very nearly 100 percent of all Creighton employees have been vaccinated.”

The lawsuit said the ten students who signed on as plaintiffs all had religious objections to COVID-19 vaccines because “the vaccines were developed and/or tested using abortion derived fetal cell lines.”

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-coronavirus-pandemic-vatican-city-pope-francis-476fedf6a30e32c4c3d294027dd3c606">Vatican declared&nbsp;</a>in December that it is “morally acceptable” for Roman Catholics to receive COVID-19 vaccines based on research that used cells derived from aborted fetuses, when “ethically irreproachable” vaccines aren’t available.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A judge has refused to block Creighton University’s requirement that all students get vaccinated against COVID-19 despite the objections of a handful of students who said getting the shots would violate their religious beliefs against abortion.Douglas County District Judge Marlon Polk said last week that he wouldn’t issue a temporary order blocking the vaccine mandate, and he doesn’t believe the students will ultimately prevail with their challenge to the rule because they had signed a form promising to get vaccinated as soon as a vaccine was fully approved by regulators.The students’ attorney didn’t immediately respond to questions on Monday, so it wasn’t immediately clear if they will continue to press the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-health-religion-education-lawsuits-b6b704b93d8d42a17f2481705f6afd4d">lawsuit</a>.The private university in Omaha is affiliated with the Jesuit order of the Catholic Church. It mandated that all students get vaccinated in August, after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-vaccine-pfizer-approval-1361ff61d06b815652a08a7cc0683a72">granted full approval&nbsp;</a>to a vaccine made by Pfizer. The university does allow medical exemptions to its vaccine requirements, but not religious ones.University spokeswoman Cindy Workman said Creighton has long had a policy of not allowing religious waivers for any of its vaccine requirements. The university&nbsp;<a href="https://www.creighton.edu/about/covid-19-response" target="_blank">says it believes students</a>&nbsp;have a moral responsibility to get the coronavirus vaccine to protect the community.“Creighton University, like so many institutions of higher learning around the country, has consistently stated that vaccinations remain our single greatest defense against the COVID-19 virus,” Workman said. “In addition to the requirement that all Creighton students receive the vaccination, staff and faculty were strongly encouraged to do so, and very nearly 100 percent of all Creighton employees have been vaccinated.”The lawsuit said the ten students who signed on as plaintiffs all had religious objections to COVID-19 vaccines because “the vaccines were developed and/or tested using abortion derived fetal cell lines.”The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-coronavirus-pandemic-vatican-city-pope-francis-476fedf6a30e32c4c3d294027dd3c606">Vatican declared&nbsp;</a>in December that it is “morally acceptable” for Roman Catholics to receive COVID-19 vaccines based on research that used cells derived from aborted fetuses, when “ethically irreproachable” vaccines aren’t available.

Judge refused to block Creighton University's vaccine mandate

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A former Kansas utility worker accused of remotely tampering with a public water system’s cleaning procedures has notified a federal court that he plans to change his plea.

Wyatt Travnichek, 22, of Ellsworth County was indicted in March with remotely accessing the Post Rock Rural Water District’s systems in March 2019, about two months after he quit his job with the utility.

He initially pleaded not guilty to the charge. He’s accused of shutting down the facility’s cleaning and disinfecting procedures. When he worked for the utility, he would monitor the water plant remotely by logging into its computer system. A notation entered in the docket on Monday shows his change-of-plea hearing is set for Oct. 20 before U.S. District Judge Toby Crouse in Topeka.

TOPEKA, KAN. – A Kansas man has been indicted on a federal charge accusing him of tampering with a public water system, according to Acting U.S. Attorney Duston Slinkard.

Wyatt A. Travnichek, 22, of Ellsworth County, Kansas is charged with one count of tampering with a public water system and one count of reckless damage to a protected computer during unauthorized access.

“Our office is committed to maintaining and improving its partnership with the state of Kansas in the administration and implementation of the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Duston Slinkard. “Drinking water that is considered safe is essential to the protection of the public’s health.”

The indictment alleges that on or about March 27, 2019, in the District of Kansas, Travnichek knowingly accessed the Ellsworth County Rural Water District’s protected computer system without authorization. During this unauthorized access, it is alleged Travnichek performed activities that shut down the processes at the facility which affect the facilities cleaning and disinfecting procedures with the intention of harming the Ellsworth Rural Water District No. 1, also known as Post Rock Rural Water District.

“By illegally tampering with a public drinking water system, the defendant threatened the safety and health of an entire community,” said Lance Ehrig, Special Agent in Charge of EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division in Kansas. “EPA and its law enforcement partners are committed to upholding the laws designed to protect our drinking water systems from harm or threat of harm. Today’s indictment sends a clear message that individuals who intentionally violate these laws will be vigorously prosecuted.”

Upon conviction, the alleged crimes carry the following penalties:

Tampering with a Public Water System: Up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.

Reckless Damage to a Protected Computer During Unauthorized Access: Up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A former Kansas utility worker accused of remotely tampering with a public water system’s cleaning procedures has notified a federal court that he plans to change his plea.Wyatt Travnichek, 22, of Ellsworth County was indicted in March with remotely accessing the Post Rock Rural Water District’s systems in March 2019, about two months after he quit his job with the utility.He initially pleaded not guilty to the charge. He’s accused of shutting down the facility’s cleaning and disinfecting procedures. When he worked for the utility, he would monitor the water plant remotely by logging into its computer system. A notation entered in the docket on Monday shows his change-of-plea hearing is set for Oct. 20 before U.S. District Judge Toby Crouse in Topeka.------TOPEKA, KAN. – A Kansas man has been indicted on a federal charge accusing him of tampering with a public water system, according to Acting U.S. Attorney Duston Slinkard.Wyatt A. Travnichek, 22, of Ellsworth County, Kansas is charged with one count of tampering with a public water system and one count of reckless damage to a protected computer during unauthorized access.“Our office is committed to maintaining and improving its partnership with the state of Kansas in the administration and implementation of the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Duston Slinkard. “Drinking water that is considered safe is essential to the protection of the public’s health.”The indictment alleges that on or about March 27, 2019, in the District of Kansas, Travnichek knowingly accessed the Ellsworth County Rural Water District’s protected computer system without authorization. During this unauthorized access, it is alleged Travnichek performed activities that shut down the processes at the facility which affect the facilities cleaning and disinfecting procedures with the intention of harming the Ellsworth Rural Water District No. 1, also known as Post Rock Rural Water District.“By illegally tampering with a public drinking water system, the defendant threatened the safety and health of an entire community,” said Lance Ehrig, Special Agent in Charge of EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division in Kansas. “EPA and its law enforcement partners are committed to upholding the laws designed to protect our drinking water systems from harm or threat of harm. Today’s indictment sends a clear message that individuals who intentionally violate these laws will be vigorously prosecuted.”Upon conviction, the alleged crimes carry the following penalties:Tampering with a Public Water System: Up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.Reckless Damage to a Protected Computer During Unauthorized Access: Up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.

Change of plea: Kan. man tampered with water system computer

EDITOR'S Note: Police originally reported Mr. Zimmerman was from Topeka.

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal accident and have identified the victim as&nbsp;31-year old Robert A. Zimmerman of Osage City.

Just after 3p.m. Monday, police responded the area of the 2000 Block of SW Fairlawn Road for accident involving a van and motorcyclist, according to Lt. Edward Stanley. The motorcyclist identified as Zimmerman was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;

SW Fairlawn Rd between SW 19th St. and SW 20th street was closed off while officers investigated. The accident remains under investigation, according to Lt. Manuel Munoz.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632838092435.png" alt="photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>EDITOR'S Note: Police originally reported Mr. Zimmerman was from Topeka.SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal accident and have identified the victim as&nbsp;31-year old Robert A. Zimmerman of Osage City.Just after 3p.m. Monday, police responded the area of the 2000 Block of SW Fairlawn Road for accident involving a van and motorcyclist, according to Lt. Edward Stanley. The motorcyclist identified as Zimmerman was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;SW Fairlawn Rd between SW 19th St. and SW 20th street was closed off while officers investigated. The accident remains under investigation, according to Lt. Manuel Munoz.

Police: Kansas man dies after motorcycle, van crash

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Leaders of the Republican-controlled Kansas Legislature on Monday agreed to create a committee to examine the impact of COVID-19 mandates and what they called government overreach, partly in response to Democratic President Joe Biden’s federal vaccine requirements.

“We need to check the federal government pretty hard and stop them,” said Senate Vice President Rick Wilborn, a McPherson Republican.

One senior Democrat said the formation of such a committee would further politicize the pandemic. Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly and all state House members are up for reelection in 2022.

Republican Senate President Ty Masterson and Republican House Speaker Ron Ryckman will appoint the 11 committee members, who will meet for up to five days and hear public testimony.

Backlash came swiftly from Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes, a Lenexa Democrat, who said legislative leaders need to protect Kansans from COVID-19 and keep the economy growing.

“We’ve had 6,000 deaths in Kansas because of COVID and, you know, I just don’t want this committee to politicize this anymore,” Sykes said.

Masterson, an Andover Republican, responded: “The bad news is I don’t think we can make it more political than the Biden administration has made it. So I’m with you on solutions.”

House Minority Leader Tom Sawyer, a Wichita Democrat, said the panel could also examine how the state can encourage Kansas residents to follow U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance or get vaccinated.

Earlier this month, Biden unveiled new rules that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-26bace6485d88ad1ae3ef2aea60fbb65">mandate</a>&nbsp;all employers with more than 100 workers require them to be vaccinated or test for the virus weekly.

The spread of the more-contagious delta variant has caused a surge in new COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in Kansas for three months, stressing hospitals and causing outbreaks in schools, even as some parents and officials objected to mask mandates.

Kansas lags behind the national vaccination rate. The CDC reported Monday that 50.8% of the state’s 2.9 million residents have been fully vaccinated, compared with 55.3% of the U.S. Five New England states had more than 67% of their residents fully vaccinated.

Who has authority to issue mandates has been debated throughout the pandemic in Kansas. Last year, Kelly ordered all K-12 buildings&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/topeka-legislature-ks-state-wire-virus-outbreak-public-health-85b7cde685dff1a61aeddc24e77bdd17">closed</a>&nbsp;in mid-March for the rest of the spring semester to check the spread of the coronavirus. She also ordered a statewide stay-at-home order that closed businesses for five weeks starting March 30.

Last year, the Legislature passed and Kelly signed a law to give county officials authority to issue mask mandates and public health restrictions for businesses and public gatherings. It also gave legislative leaders the power to block the governor’s executive orders and stripped appointed local health officers of their power to impose restrictions, leaving decisions to elected county commissions.

Kelly didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628552053408.png" alt="Earlier this month, President Biden unveiled new rules that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-26bace6485d88ad1ae3ef2aea60fbb65">mandate</a>&nbsp;all employers with more than 100 workers require them to be vaccinated or test for the virus weekly-photo courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>Earlier this month, President Biden unveiled new rules that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-26bace6485d88ad1ae3ef2aea60fbb65">mandate</a>&nbsp;all employers with more than 100 workers require them to be vaccinated or test for the virus weekly-photo courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Leaders of the Republican-controlled Kansas Legislature on Monday agreed to create a committee to examine the impact of COVID-19 mandates and what they called government overreach, partly in response to Democratic President Joe Biden’s federal vaccine requirements.“We need to check the federal government pretty hard and stop them,” said Senate Vice President Rick Wilborn, a McPherson Republican.One senior Democrat said the formation of such a committee would further politicize the pandemic. Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly and all state House members are up for reelection in 2022.Republican Senate President Ty Masterson and Republican House Speaker Ron Ryckman will appoint the 11 committee members, who will meet for up to five days and hear public testimony.Backlash came swiftly from Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes, a Lenexa Democrat, who said legislative leaders need to protect Kansans from COVID-19 and keep the economy growing.“We’ve had 6,000 deaths in Kansas because of COVID and, you know, I just don’t want this committee to politicize this anymore,” Sykes said.Masterson, an Andover Republican, responded: “The bad news is I don’t think we can make it more political than the Biden administration has made it. So I’m with you on solutions.”House Minority Leader Tom Sawyer, a Wichita Democrat, said the panel could also examine how the state can encourage Kansas residents to follow U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance or get vaccinated.Earlier this month, Biden unveiled new rules that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-26bace6485d88ad1ae3ef2aea60fbb65">mandate</a>&nbsp;all employers with more than 100 workers require them to be vaccinated or test for the virus weekly.The spread of the more-contagious delta variant has caused a surge in new COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in Kansas for three months, stressing hospitals and causing outbreaks in schools, even as some parents and officials objected to mask mandates.Kansas lags behind the national vaccination rate. The CDC reported Monday that 50.8% of the state’s 2.9 million residents have been fully vaccinated, compared with 55.3% of the U.S. Five New England states had more than 67% of their residents fully vaccinated.Who has authority to issue mandates has been debated throughout the pandemic in Kansas. Last year, Kelly ordered all K-12 buildings&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/topeka-legislature-ks-state-wire-virus-outbreak-public-health-85b7cde685dff1a61aeddc24e77bdd17">closed</a>&nbsp;in mid-March for the rest of the spring semester to check the spread of the coronavirus. She also ordered a statewide stay-at-home order that closed businesses for five weeks starting March 30.Last year, the Legislature passed and Kelly signed a law to give county officials authority to issue mask mandates and public health restrictions for businesses and public gatherings. It also gave legislative leaders the power to block the governor’s executive orders and stripped appointed local health officers of their power to impose restrictions, leaving decisions to elected county commissions.Kelly didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.

Kansas lawmakers to examine impact of COVID mandates

MANHATTAN —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting in Riley County.

Just after 3p.m. Monday, officers responded to the report of a gunshot victim on Robyler Road. in Riley County, according to police spokesperson Aaron Wintermote.

When officers arrived on scene, they found a 66-year-old man suffering from apparent gunshot wounds.

The victim reported being shot by Larry Wurtz, 69, of Manhattan after an altercation between the two men.

The victim was transported to Via Christ for treatment of his gunshot wounds. Wurtz was also transported to Via Christi for treatment of an unrelated medical issue and then to the Riley County Jail after his release. He is being held in lieu of bond.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting in Riley County and have made an arrest.

Just after 3p.m. Monday,&nbsp; officers responded to a shooting on Roblyer Road off Tuttle Creek Blvd north of Randolph, according to a social media report.

EMS transported a 66-year-old gunshot victim to a local hospital for treatment. Police took a 69-year-old man into custody without incident. Police have not released names of those involved.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632824179844.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation Monday evening -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation Monday evening -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting in Riley County.Just after 3p.m. Monday, officers responded to the report of a gunshot victim on Robyler Road. in Riley County, according to police spokesperson Aaron Wintermote.When officers arrived on scene, they found a 66-year-old man suffering from apparent gunshot wounds.The victim reported being shot by Larry Wurtz, 69, of Manhattan after an altercation between the two men.The victim was transported to Via Christ for treatment of his gunshot wounds. Wurtz was also transported to Via Christi for treatment of an unrelated medical issue and then to the Riley County Jail after his release. He is being held in lieu of bond.-------------RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting in Riley County and have made an arrest.Just after 3p.m. Monday,&nbsp; officers responded to a shooting on Roblyer Road off Tuttle Creek Blvd north of Randolph, according to a social media report.EMS transported a 66-year-old gunshot victim to a local hospital for treatment. Police took a 69-year-old man into custody without incident. Police have not released names of those involved.

Police ID 66-year-old Kansas man injured in shooting

WASHINGTON (AP) — Republican senators blocked a bill to keep the government operating and allow federal borrowing, but Democrats aiming to avert a shutdown pledged to try again — at the same time pressing ahead on President Joe Biden’s big plans to reshape government.

The efforts are not necessarily linked, but the fiscal yearend deadline to fund the government past Thursday is bumping up against the Democrats’ desire to make progress on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-business-financial-markets-nancy-pelosi-3b591443b048d2fbfb7a9f9b6f646f7a">Biden’s expansive $3.5 trillion federal overhaul.</a>

It’s all making for a tumultuous moment for Biden and his party, with consequences certain to shape his presidency and the lawmakers’ own political futures.

Success would mean a landmark accomplishment, if Democrats can helm Biden’s big bill to passage. Failure — or a highly unlikely government shutdown and debt crisis — could derail careers.

“You know me, I’m a born optimist,” Biden told reporters Monday, as he rolled up his sleeve for a COVID-19 booster shot. “We’re gonna get it done.”

Monday’s 50-48 vote against taking up the bill fell well short of the 60 needed to proceed over a GOP filibuster. Democratic Majority Leader Chuck Schumer switched his vote to “no,” a procedural step to allow him to bring the measure back for consideration, which he said would happen this week.

With days to go, Democrats said they will try again before Thursday’s deadline to pass a bill funding government operations past the Sept. 30 fiscal yearend, stripping out the debate over the debt limit for another day, closer to a separate October deadline.

Meanwhile, the real action is unfolding behind the scenes over the $3.5 trillion measure, with Biden and his Democratic allies in Congress seeking a once-in-a-generation reworking of the nation’s balance sheets.

From free pre-kindergarten and child care subsidies for families with small children to dental care and hearing aids for seniors with Medicare, there’s a lot in the president’s proposal — all to be paid for with higher taxes on corporations and the wealthy.

With Republicans solidly opposed, Democrats are rushing to trim the total and win holdouts within their own party.

“We just have to make difficult choices,” Speaker Nancy Pelosi told House Democrats during an evening caucus meeting, according to a person granted anonymity to discuss the private session.

As the overall price tag comes down, Pelosi said the president is “working on that piece,” referring to talks underway with the Senate. Despite the rush to amass votes, Pelosi said the House Democrats would not move ahead on a bill until it is acceptable to their colleagues in the Senate. “We’re not there yet,” she said.

Exiting the caucus meeting, Rep. Richard Neal, D-Mass., the chairman of the Way &amp; Means Committee, said as momentum builds toward Thursday, he was expecting a new total amount: “Let’s pop the number.”

Building on a separate $1 trillion bipartisan public works package that’s already cleared the Senate and is heading for a House vote, also Thursday, Biden is seeking major spending for health care, education and efforts to tackle climate change. The total price tag, he contends, is actually “zero” — covered by the expected increase in tax revenue.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632787812475.png" alt="During comments in the Senate last week, Senator Jerry Moran said, "Now is the time for fiscal constraint, not a reckless tax-and-spend spree that will lead to more inflation and higher prices for American families."" />
 <figcaption>During comments in the Senate last week, Senator Jerry Moran said, "Now is the time for fiscal constraint, not a reckless tax-and-spend spree that will lead to more inflation and higher prices for American families."</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Republican senators blocked a bill to keep the government operating and allow federal borrowing, but Democrats aiming to avert a shutdown pledged to try again — at the same time pressing ahead on President Joe Biden’s big plans to reshape government.The efforts are not necessarily linked, but the fiscal yearend deadline to fund the government past Thursday is bumping up against the Democrats’ desire to make progress on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-business-financial-markets-nancy-pelosi-3b591443b048d2fbfb7a9f9b6f646f7a">Biden’s expansive $3.5 trillion federal overhaul.</a>It’s all making for a tumultuous moment for Biden and his party, with consequences certain to shape his presidency and the lawmakers’ own political futures.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">As Americans face higher prices at the gas station &amp; grocery store, I will not support the Democrats’ efforts to suspend the debt limit to facilitate their out-of-control spending that is jeopardizing our economy &amp; hurting American families.&mdash; Senator Jerry Moran (@JerryMoran) <a href="https://twitter.com/JerryMoran/status/1442618868124594176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Success would mean a landmark accomplishment, if Democrats can helm Biden’s big bill to passage. Failure — or a highly unlikely government shutdown and debt crisis — could derail careers.“You know me, I’m a born optimist,” Biden told reporters Monday, as he rolled up his sleeve for a COVID-19 booster shot. “We’re gonna get it done.”Monday’s 50-48 vote against taking up the bill fell well short of the 60 needed to proceed over a GOP filibuster. Democratic Majority Leader Chuck Schumer switched his vote to “no,” a procedural step to allow him to bring the measure back for consideration, which he said would happen this week.With days to go, Democrats said they will try again before Thursday’s deadline to pass a bill funding government operations past the Sept. 30 fiscal yearend, stripping out the debate over the debt limit for another day, closer to a separate October deadline.Meanwhile, the real action is unfolding behind the scenes over the $3.5 trillion measure, with Biden and his Democratic allies in Congress seeking a once-in-a-generation reworking of the nation’s balance sheets.From free pre-kindergarten and child care subsidies for families with small children to dental care and hearing aids for seniors with Medicare, there’s a lot in the president’s proposal — all to be paid for with higher taxes on corporations and the wealthy.With Republicans solidly opposed, Democrats are rushing to trim the total and win holdouts within their own party.“We just have to make difficult choices,” Speaker Nancy Pelosi told House Democrats during an evening caucus meeting, according to a person granted anonymity to discuss the private session.As the overall price tag comes down, Pelosi said the president is “working on that piece,” referring to talks underway with the Senate. Despite the rush to amass votes, Pelosi said the House Democrats would not move ahead on a bill until it is acceptable to their colleagues in the Senate. “We’re not there yet,” she said.Exiting the caucus meeting, Rep. Richard Neal, D-Mass., the chairman of the Way &amp; Means Committee, said as momentum builds toward Thursday, he was expecting a new total amount: “Let’s pop the number.”Building on a separate $1 trillion bipartisan public works package that’s already cleared the Senate and is heading for a House vote, also Thursday, Biden is seeking major spending for health care, education and efforts to tackle climate change. The total price tag, he contends, is actually “zero” — covered by the expected increase in tax revenue.He is personally calling fellow Democrats in Congress an effort to resolve differences and bring his sweeping domestic policy vision forward.Ticking off the weighty list of goals along with meeting the other deadlines, Biden said, “If we do that, the country’s going to be in great shape.”Biden, Pelosi and Schumer conferred in the afternoon on the path forward and will “continue their close coordination over the coming days,” the White House said in a readout of the call.But Republicans say it’s real spending that can’t be afforded, and a reflection of the Democrats’ drive to insert government into people’s lives.And so far, the bill is also too big for key Democrats whose votes are needed in the face of the GOP opposition. Two Democratic holdouts, Sens. Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona, have said they won’t support a bill of that size. Manchin has previously proposed spending of $1 trillion to $1.5 trillion.Progressive lawmakers said they’ve already compromised enough with more centrist Democrats, but in one potential development, Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., the chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, confirmed she and Sinema have been in talks.With all Republicans opposed, Democratic leaders can’t spare a single vote in the 50-50 Senate, relying on Vice President Kamala Harris to break a tie to pass the eventual package.All this comes as other deadlines swirl this week to pay for government operations and allow more borrowing or risk a devastating federal shutdown or debt default — though those dire scenarios appear unlikely.The bill Senate Republicans rejected Monday night would have funded government operations temporarily, to early December, while also providing emergency funds for Hurricane Ida and other disaster relief and for Afghan refugees.Republican leader Mitch McConnell rejected that approach because Democrats also included a provision to suspend the debt limit, which would allow continued borrowing to pay off the nation’s bills.Once a routine matter, raising the debt limit is now a political weapon of choice wielded by Republicans to attack Democrats — even though both parties have been responsible for piling on debt.“The Democrats will do the responsible thing — the right thing, the thing that has been done for decades by both parties — and vote yes,” said Schumer ahead of the vote.He called the Republican opposition “unhinged.”McConnell has said he wants to fund the government and prevent a devastating debt default, but wants to force Democrats to split the package in two and take the politically uncomfortable debt ceiling vote on their own.“Republicans are not rooting for a shutdown or a debt limit breach,” he said.The House began debating the public works bill late Monday, and while it won bipartisan support in the Senate, House Republican leaders are wary of supporting it. Donald Trump, the former president who tried and failed to secure an infrastructure deal when he was in the White House, is rallying opposition to it.As Pelosi huddled privately Monday with House Democrats, it was clear she is pressing ahead to move as swiftly as possible on Biden’s broader package.Biden’s proposal is to be paid for by increasing the corporate tax rate, from 21% to 26.5% on businesses earning more than $5 million a year, and raising the top rate on individuals from 37% to 39.6% for those earning more than $400,000 a year, or $450,000 for couples.While Democrats are largely in agreement on Biden’s vision — many ran their campaigns on the longstanding party priorities — stubborn disputes remain, including how to push toward cleaner energy or to lower prescription drug costs.___