By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

SALINE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after he allegedly led police on a chase through multiple parts of Salina early Sunday, at speeds as high as 70-mph.

Just after 1:15 a.m. Sunday, an officer spotted a gold 2005 Pontiac Bonneville in the 400 block of N. Broadway Boulevard in Salina. The officer ran the license plate on the car and found that it had expired in November 2020, according to Police Captain Paul Forrester.

The officer attempted to stop the car near the intersection of N. Broadway Boulevard and University Place but the car took off, driving on many streets during the pursuit, Forrester said.&nbsp;

Officers attempted to deploy stop-sticks near the intersection of W. Iron Avenue/11th Street, but the car drove around them and headed toward W. Crawford Street, where it turned west. It then drove through the neighborhood north of Sunset Park and headed westbound on Franklin Street before heading south to W. Cloud Street, where it turned east, reaching 80 mph.

The pursuit ended when the car left the roadway and struck a tree near the intersection of E. Cloud Street and Lewis Avenue. The driver identified as Jesse Wray, 23, of Salina, exited the car and took off running northbound on Lewis Avenue. Police found him a short while later in the backyard of a residence in the 900 block of Russell Avenue.

Forrester said that when the car was searched, officers allegedly found drug paraphernalia, 67 grams of marijuana, and 30.3 grams of methamphetamine. Wray was arrested on requested charges of Possession of narcotics., Two counts of no drug tax stamp, Two counts of possession of drug paraphernalia, Felony obstruction, Felony flee and elude. Failing to report an accident and Multiple traffic violations.

Wray has 5 previous drug convictions and also convictions for theft and  criminal possession of a weapon, according to the Kan. Dept. of Corrections.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638110289389.png" alt="Wray has 5 previous drug convictions and also convictions for theft and&nbsp; criminal possession of a weapon, according to the Kan. Dept. of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Wray has 5 previous drug convictions and also convictions for theft and&nbsp; criminal possession of a weapon, according to the Kan. Dept. of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostSALINE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after he allegedly led police on a chase through multiple parts of Salina early Sunday, at speeds as high as 70-mph.Just after 1:15 a.m. Sunday, an officer spotted a gold 2005 Pontiac Bonneville in the 400 block of N. Broadway Boulevard in Salina. The officer ran the license plate on the car and found that it had expired in November 2020, according to Police Captain Paul Forrester.The officer attempted to stop the car near the intersection of N. Broadway Boulevard and University Place but the car took off, driving on many streets during the pursuit, Forrester said.&nbsp;Officers attempted to deploy stop-sticks near the intersection of W. Iron Avenue/11th Street, but the car drove around them and headed toward W. Crawford Street, where it turned west. It then drove through the neighborhood north of Sunset Park and headed westbound on Franklin Street before heading south to W. Cloud Street, where it turned east, reaching 80 mph.The pursuit ended when the car left the roadway and struck a tree near the intersection of E. Cloud Street and Lewis Avenue. The driver identified as Jesse Wray, 23, of Salina, exited the car and took off running northbound on Lewis Avenue. Police found him a short while later in the backyard of a residence in the 900 block of Russell Avenue.Forrester said that when the car was searched, officers allegedly found drug paraphernalia, 67 grams of marijuana, and 30.3 grams of methamphetamine. Wray was arrested on requested charges of Possession of narcotics., Two counts of no drug tax stamp, Two counts of possession of drug paraphernalia, Felony obstruction, Felony flee and elude. Failing to report an accident and Multiple traffic violations.Wray has 5 previous drug convictions and also convictions for theft and criminal possession of a weapon, according to the Kan. Dept. of Corrections.&nbsp;

Wanted Kansas felon captured after high-speed chase

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a&nbsp; suspect for alleged attempted murder.&nbsp;

On Sunday, police responded to a call for service in the 1200 Block of SW Polk Street, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith. On arrival, officers discovered the incident was the result of a previous Aggravated Battery, which had taken place at a separate location. 

The victim sustained non life-threatening injuries. Police identified the suspect after their investigation and took 51-year-old John Scott of Topeka into custody without incident.

He is being held on requested charges of Attempted 2nd Degree Murder and City Warrants, according to Monasmith.&nbsp;Scott has previous convictions for aggravated assault, aggravated intimidation of a witness and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638185541832.png" alt="Scott has previous convictions for aggravated assault, aggravated intimidation of a witness and aggravated assault, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections-photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Scott has previous convictions for aggravated assault, aggravated intimidation of a witness and aggravated assault, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections-photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a&nbsp; suspect for alleged attempted murder.&nbsp;On Sunday, police responded to a call for service in the 1200 Block of SW Polk Street, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith. On arrival, officers discovered the incident was the result of a previous Aggravated Battery, which had taken place at a separate location. The victim sustained non life-threatening injuries. Police identified the suspect after their investigation and took 51-year-old John Scott of Topeka into custody without incident.He is being held on requested charges of Attempted 2nd Degree Murder and City Warrants, according to Monasmith.&nbsp;Scott has previous convictions for aggravated assault, aggravated intimidation of a witness and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kan. felon with violent past jailed for alleged attempted murder

By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/11/28/mothers-sisters-and-daughters-after-years-of-rehabilitation-four-women-seek-clemency/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — While serving time at 
the Topeka Correctional Facility for a nonviolent property crime, Sarah 
Jaillite has endeavored to turn her life around and prepare for a 
transition back into her community.

Jaillite is among 108 applicants 
for clemency working with the American Civil Liberties Union of Kansas. 
Beginning May 2020, amid COVID-19, the organization began filing 
clemency applications on behalf of individuals incarcerated in the 
Kansas Department of Corrections that they felt met the criteria for 
early release.

In prison, Jaillite has focused on
 how to better herself, completing a 12-step recovery program and a 
faith-based treatment program. She has organized multiple charity 5k 
races, found a vocation in coding and completed a course through the 
Washburn University School of Law.

Jaillite said she will need the 
support of her family and substance abuse programs to thrive after her 
release, but she also plans to give back to those in similar situations 
as herself.&nbsp;

“I want to engage as an advocate 
for criminal justice reform,” Jaillite said in her clemency application.
 “I really connected with my course at Washburn and would like to 
advocate for reform in how the judicial system approaches addiction and 
sentencing guidelines.”

In June,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/06/24/kansas-governor-grants-clemency-to-8-embracing-political-risk-in-rare-use-of-power/">Gov. Laura Kelly granted clemency to eight individual</a>s,
 including three who worked with the ACLU. Although the governor has not
 commuted additional sentences since then, her use of clemency is 
unprecedented in recent state history, with the past four governors 
using the power a total of just nine times.

As the state approaches the 
two-year mark of the pandemic, the civil liberties group is renewing 
calls to examine applications for release, this time highlighting women 
in KDOC custody.

According to The Sentencing 
Project, a D.C.-based research and advocacy center, the female 
incarcerated population has increased sevenfold from 1980. Among 
incarcerated women, 24% have been convicted of a property crime compared
 to 16% among incarcerated men.&nbsp;

Twenty-six percent of women in 
prison have been convicted of a drug offense, compared to 13% of men. 
The proportion of imprisoned women convicted of a drug offense increased
 from 12% to 26% from 1986 to 2018.

The ACLU of Kansas highlighted four women, including Jaillite in a recent blog post titled <a target="_blank" href="https://www.aclukansas.org/en/publications/women-left-behind">“The Women Left Behind.”</a>

“A lot of the tough on crime 
narratives and the punitive nature of politicians focus on stereotypes 
about men who commit a crime,” said Sharon Brett, legal director for the
 ACLU of Kansas. “It’s really important to know who these women are, 
what their stories are, and that they are people worthy of a second 
chance.”

Among those women convicted of a 
drug offense is clemency candidate Lacey Hutto. She has spent 
considerable time working for a City of Topeka outdoor crew, despite the
 fact her possession and distribution conviction mean the work can not 
count as credit toward early release.

Hutto, 39, suffers from HIV, a 
diagnosis she received while in KDOC custody. Candidates with 
extenuating medical circumstances and weakened immune systems were a 
focus for the ACLU.

Another candidate, Debbie Meyer, 
55, also suffers from several medical ailments, including Lupus, cystic 
fibrosis and COPD. In 1999, while in the Shawnee County Jail, she fell 
down a flight of stairs and suffered hearing loss in one ear, as well as
 seizures.&nbsp;

Meyer has been incarcerated for 20
 years for a manslaughter conviction. Since then, she has completed 
programs on literacy, interpersonal violence, dialectical behavior 
therapy, money management and worked as a gardener and in the kitchen.

Brett said she respects the 
governor’s office taking the steps necessary to ensure the right 
decisions are made and remains optimistic the process will yield further
 action.

“Our clients are waiting and every
 single day that they spend incarcerated and away from their families 
and loved ones is one day too many,” Brett said. “They are mothers, 
sisters and daughters, and they are people who have given their lives 
while they’re incarcerated to the service of others.”

For example, Donise Johnson has been a hospice worker at the Topeka Correctional Facility, helping care for dying women.

Johnson has had a medical scare of
 her own. She was diagnosed with uterine cancer in 2015. She is post-op,
 but has not had access to the medical care required to determine if the
 cancer has returned.

Whether these women are granted clemency remains in the hands of the governor, who continues to review applications.

“Gov. Kelly will continue to 
consider all clemency requests in light of the circumstances of each 
case and will make decisions on each request following a complete and 
thorough review,” said Reeves Oyster, spokesperson for the governor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638208104998.png" alt="Sarah Jaillite is 42 and has ten previous convictions, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Sarah Jaillite is 42 and has ten previous convictions, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/11/28/mothers-sisters-and-daughters-after-years-of-rehabilitation-four-women-seek-clemency/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — While serving time at 
the Topeka Correctional Facility for a nonviolent property crime, Sarah 
Jaillite has endeavored to turn her life around and prepare for a 
transition back into her community.Jaillite is among 108 applicants 
for clemency working with the American Civil Liberties Union of Kansas. 
Beginning May 2020, amid COVID-19, the organization began filing 
clemency applications on behalf of individuals incarcerated in the 
Kansas Department of Corrections that they felt met the criteria for 
early release.In prison, Jaillite has focused on
 how to better herself, completing a 12-step recovery program and a 
faith-based treatment program. She has organized multiple charity 5k 
races, found a vocation in coding and completed a course through the 
Washburn University School of Law.Jaillite said she will need the 
support of her family and substance abuse programs to thrive after her 
release, but she also plans to give back to those in similar situations 
as herself.&nbsp;“I want to engage as an advocate 
for criminal justice reform,” Jaillite said in her clemency application.
 “I really connected with my course at Washburn and would like to 
advocate for reform in how the judicial system approaches addiction and 
sentencing guidelines.”In June,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/06/24/kansas-governor-grants-clemency-to-8-embracing-political-risk-in-rare-use-of-power/">Gov. Laura Kelly granted clemency to eight individual</a>s,
 including three who worked with the ACLU. Although the governor has not
 commuted additional sentences since then, her use of clemency is 
unprecedented in recent state history, with the past four governors 
using the power a total of just nine times.As the state approaches the 
two-year mark of the pandemic, the civil liberties group is renewing 
calls to examine applications for release, this time highlighting women 
in KDOC custody.According to The Sentencing 
Project, a D.C.-based research and advocacy center, the female 
incarcerated population has increased sevenfold from 1980. Among 
incarcerated women, 24% have been convicted of a property crime compared
 to 16% among incarcerated men.&nbsp;Twenty-six percent of women in 
prison have been convicted of a drug offense, compared to 13% of men. 
The proportion of imprisoned women convicted of a drug offense increased
 from 12% to 26% from 1986 to 2018.The ACLU of Kansas highlighted four women, including Jaillite in a recent blog post titled <a target="_blank" href="https://www.aclukansas.org/en/publications/women-left-behind">“The Women Left Behind.”</a>“A lot of the tough on crime 
narratives and the punitive nature of politicians focus on stereotypes 
about men who commit a crime,” said Sharon Brett, legal director for the
 ACLU of Kansas. “It’s really important to know who these women are, 
what their stories are, and that they are people worthy of a second 
chance.”Among those women convicted of a 
drug offense is clemency candidate Lacey Hutto. She has spent 
considerable time working for a City of Topeka outdoor crew, despite the
 fact her possession and distribution conviction mean the work can not 
count as credit toward early release.Hutto, 39, suffers from HIV, a 
diagnosis she received while in KDOC custody. Candidates with 
extenuating medical circumstances and weakened immune systems were a 
focus for the ACLU.Another candidate, Debbie Meyer, 
55, also suffers from several medical ailments, including Lupus, cystic 
fibrosis and COPD. In 1999, while in the Shawnee County Jail, she fell 
down a flight of stairs and suffered hearing loss in one ear, as well as
 seizures.&nbsp;Meyer has been incarcerated for 20
 years for a manslaughter conviction. Since then, she has completed 
programs on literacy, interpersonal violence, dialectical behavior 
therapy, money management and worked as a gardener and in the kitchen.Brett said she respects the 
governor’s office taking the steps necessary to ensure the right 
decisions are made and remains optimistic the process will yield further
 action.“Our clients are waiting and every
 single day that they spend incarcerated and away from their families 
and loved ones is one day too many,” Brett said. “They are mothers, 
sisters and daughters, and they are people who have given their lives 
while they’re incarcerated to the service of others.”For example, Donise Johnson has been a hospice worker at the Topeka Correctional Facility, helping care for dying women.Johnson has had a medical scare of
 her own. She was diagnosed with uterine cancer in 2015. She is post-op,
 but has not had access to the medical care required to determine if the
 cancer has returned.Whether these women are granted clemency remains in the hands of the governor, who continues to review applications.“Gov. Kelly will continue to 
consider all clemency requests in light of the circumstances of each 
case and will make decisions on each request following a complete and 
thorough review,” said Reeves Oyster, spokesperson for the governor.

After years of rehabilitation, 4 Kan. women seek clemency

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — A 21-year-old embattled&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/kansas">Kansas</a>&nbsp;lawmaker was arrested on suspicion of drunken driving — his second arrest in less than a month — and is facing fresh calls for his resignation or removal from office.

A Kansas trooper arrested Aaron Coleman around 1 a.m. Saturday on Interstate 70 near Lawrence, the Kansas Highway Patrol said. Coleman was taken to the Douglas County Jail, where he bonded out hours later.

Coleman did not immediately return phone and email messages left Monday morning by The Associated Press seeking comment.

At the time of the arrest, Coleman was already out on bond from an Oct. 30 domestic battery arrest. In that case, he allegedly pushed, hit and spit on his 18-year-old brother in a fight that erupted because the brother was going to get baptized, according to court documents.

The Kansas City, Kansas, Democrat has been embroiled in controversy since before he took office after being elected in 2020 and has acknowledged past abuses against girls and young women. A legislative committee reprimanded Coleman in writing in February over those abuses.

Last month, Coleman also was banned from the Kansas Department of Labor’s offices over allegations of disruptive behavior. Coleman said he was trying to help constituents.

On Monday, six freshman Democratic House members filed a formal complaint with House leadership alleging that Coleman had failed to comply with terms outlined in the February warning, The Kansas City Star reported. The complaint triggers the appointment of a House committee to investigate. That panel can recommend disciplinary action, including censure or expulsion from the Legislature. Both would require a two-thirds vote of the House.

Both Kansas House Speaker Ron Ryckman, a Republican, and Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly have joined the chorus of those calling for Coleman to resign. If he refuses to resign, Kelly said, the Legislature should remove his from office, saying his latest arrest “is further evidence that he is not fit to serve in the Kansas House of Representatives.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635804497310.png" alt="Coleman from his Oct. 30 domestic battery arrest in Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Coleman from his Oct. 30 domestic battery arrest in Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — A 21-year-old embattled&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/kansas">Kansas</a>&nbsp;lawmaker was arrested on suspicion of drunken driving — his second arrest in less than a month — and is facing fresh calls for his resignation or removal from office.A Kansas trooper arrested Aaron Coleman around 1 a.m. Saturday on Interstate 70 near Lawrence, the Kansas Highway Patrol said. Coleman was taken to the Douglas County Jail, where he bonded out hours later.Coleman did not immediately return phone and email messages left Monday morning by The Associated Press seeking comment.At the time of the arrest, Coleman was already out on bond from an Oct. 30 domestic battery arrest. In that case, he allegedly pushed, hit and spit on his 18-year-old brother in a fight that erupted because the brother was going to get baptized, according to court documents.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Vic Miller. DUI while In office?... Very intrigued Does <a href="https://twitter.com/RepTomSawyer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RepTomSawyer</a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/KSHouseDems?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KSHouseDems</a> have any remarks on my motion to expel? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ksleg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ksleg</a> <a href="https://t.co/2uEL6JGKPq">https://t.co/2uEL6JGKPq</a>&mdash; Rep. Aaron Coleman 🌹✡️ (@Aaron4KS37) <a href="https://twitter.com/Aaron4KS37/status/1464400540209664000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Kansas City, Kansas, Democrat has been embroiled in controversy since before he took office after being elected in 2020 and has acknowledged past abuses against girls and young women. A legislative committee reprimanded Coleman in writing in February over those abuses.Last month, Coleman also was banned from the Kansas Department of Labor’s offices over allegations of disruptive behavior. Coleman said he was trying to help constituents.On Monday, six freshman Democratic House members filed a formal complaint with House leadership alleging that Coleman had failed to comply with terms outlined in the February warning, The Kansas City Star reported. The complaint triggers the appointment of a House committee to investigate. That panel can recommend disciplinary action, including censure or expulsion from the Legislature. Both would require a two-thirds vote of the House.Both Kansas House Speaker Ron Ryckman, a Republican, and Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly have joined the chorus of those calling for Coleman to resign. If he refuses to resign, Kelly said, the Legislature should remove his from office, saying his latest arrest “is further evidence that he is not fit to serve in the Kansas House of Representatives.”

Formal complaint filed against Rep. Coleman in the Kansas House

Dwane Roth of Holcomb has been selected as the recipient of the 2021 Kansas Leopold Conservation Award®.

Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award recognizes farmers, ranchers and forestland owners who inspire others with their dedication to land, water and wildlife resources in their care.

In&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;the award is presented annually by&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2FrsFmm1DyLZH2YJDeOh0Tu10dIH13bXsbEER7PyikDm-2Bai-2BMzPN27xTIsB5pnGIT8TYC_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFly3pMOhpINivEvyInDGU7k8jRhyW5LfQIncpdPtiGxXY-2FDUVJKsV1MOgFQqNA1QA8SeoHBC4Cyba-2Fl1LrvhQuSBCFp8joGH5RyqosajsF0crbuNTJZNHn0j9bILqNss1FZqgCmQzVt7paMqnYn3im6LPNSm4vtBvlGiJ-2BRlJn3ei2Yq86bKgHzOXc2x8Q-2F9L1m5Lil7iBmhdkbbCGvDejmX6-2BsQCu1SU7VXP6hBzaDmPuyJ7kXl-2F-2BsBo92h2M78d55CewF9WVsD1qv2pRcRLZgaZSkk-2FDbUfzTErZMxqfrJAlwNF6w-2BZRbrecZGMdsW2KIOWXf5cSP9-2BG0xN4yHX8xsA-3D-3D" target="_blank">Sand County Foundation</a>&nbsp;and national sponsor&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=JjyQUoVmYurjzTy6hCWthJZjV-2B-2BoBMwgWKaYjFP7WN4-3Dzwhh_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFly3pMOhpINivEvyInDGU7k8jRhyW5LfQIncpdPtiGxXY-2FDUVJKsV1MOgFQqNA1QA8SeoHBC4Cyba-2Fl1LrvhQuSBCFp8joGH5RyqosajsF0crbuNTJZNHn0j9bILqNss1FZqgCmQzVt7paMqnYn3im6LPNSm4vtBvlGiJ-2BRlJn3ei3DRbJ0Qky0F8TPncjq-2Bnwbfh8a2WQ8H61pMZwiHsO8vFvW4hwQaQhu095Dge3WkwQ6fNJEwDl-2FckW9SP9xpGPuc-2Bsf-2FSQ2GG7AqSorbj8qi2b3a5oUxvxPEk3U9EKPZrSO4v2xx3Xgag-2FnC1PwBP3ewV88WseIwO5JmBKixjMDBQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">American Farmland Trust</a>, with state partners:&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2FrsFmm1DyLZH2YJDeOh0TlAh-2Fwkr9O-2FK9u-2BV2PzMW8ksV8YQtSwUDFFYOR-2BNK9bbCwg7_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFly3pMOhpINivEvyInDGU7k8jRhyW5LfQIncpdPtiGxXY-2FDUVJKsV1MOgFQqNA1QA8SeoHBC4Cyba-2Fl1LrvhQuSBCFp8joGH5RyqosajsF0crbuNTJZNHn0j9bILqNss1FZqgCmQzVt7paMqnYn3im6LPNSm4vtBvlGiJ-2BRlJn3ei1ae4gjNl21lD2qV4j3wMlN1ZGpnupuLc1RksEyBCgnBqXD0-2F9Jfd28eWiBZ5q-2BZDKSTFzP3m8C-2B49Zt9iMIxnVJYU3EdqKy8b8XzSOR5-2BZ3yKpXOaZvk8O5dQSlaSnW2X7fW9AO3incmmRvTpMXMpKPj0-2BNwf0rPt7hxFIFnPYxg-3D-3D" target="_blank">Kansas Association of Conservation Districts</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2FrsFmm1DyLZH2YJDeOh0ThlfF9uAiI46EhM-2BCWEvU2Zvco6lW3OMrNPzqzlv0fvN4uJ2_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFly3pMOhpINivEvyInDGU7k8jRhyW5LfQIncpdPtiGxXY-2FDUVJKsV1MOgFQqNA1QA8SeoHBC4Cyba-2Fl1LrvhQuSBCFp8joGH5RyqosajsF0crbuNTJZNHn0j9bILqNss1FZqgCmQzVt7paMqnYn3im6LPNSm4vtBvlGiJ-2BRlJn3ei0FF-2BMnQqjkOjvIW12Ar2CK6kPZ1jMI-2FDOY-2B-2FhOYlFkbSgUXe1SAkdPVprM3XVFPBAIV-2Ftux58J-2BOeiRCLS-2FBnM2MDsq3rYKMDOiNxT-2BxO8VEdlFUMR4VUSLLHDY01-2BvNVf8wl4ji3QnDkjGRGJVr9P71Xgf7zA2iyCaVXDUgLX0g-3D-3D" target="_blank">Ranchland Trust of Kansas</a>.

Roth is a grain farmer with a strong interest in water conservation and irrigation technology. He was announced as the recipient of the award at the Kansas Association of Conservation Districts’ 77th&nbsp;Annual Convention in Wichita, and receives $10,000 and a crystal award for being selected.

“Dwane’s passion and excitement for conserving groundwater, without sacrificing economic returns in one of the most productive agricultural regions of the world, is inspiring and should foster hope to future generations of irrigated farm families,” said Mike Beam, Kansas Secretary of Agriculture.

“Dwane is passionate in his quest to promote water conservation and reduce the decline of the Ogallala aquifer. Using new technologies and innovative ideas, he has demonstrated on his own farm that reducing irrigation is possible without negatively affecting the economic bottom line,” said Dan Meyerhoff, Kansas Association of Conservation Districts Executive Director. “Dwane recently shared with me ‘I’ve only just begun.’ He exemplifies the extraordinary commitment celebrated by the Leopold Conservation Award.”

“Dwane is a lifelong learner and also a teacher. His land ethic, desire to conserve water, and expertise in irrigation technology make him a great representation of this award. Congratulations to Dwane Roth and his family,” said Chelsea Good, Ranchland Trust of Kansas Chair of the Board.

“Recipients of this award are real life examples of conservation-minded agriculture,” said Kevin McAleese, Sand County Foundation President and Chief Executive Officer. “These hard-working families are essential to our environment, food system and rural economy.”

“As the national sponsor for Sand County Foundation’s Leopold Conservation Award, American Farmland Trust celebrates the hard work and dedication of the Kansas recipient,” said John Piotti, AFT President and CEO. “At AFT we believe that conservation in agriculture requires a focus on the land, the practices and the people and this award recognizes the integral role of all three.”

Earlier this year, Kansas landowners were encouraged to apply (or be nominated) for the award. Applications were reviewed by an independent panel of agricultural and conservation leaders.&nbsp;Among the many outstanding Kansas landowners nominated for the award were finalists: Vance and Louise Ehmke of Healy, Ray and Susan Flickner of Witchita, and Glenn and Barbara Walker of Brookville.

In 2015 the first Kansas Leopold Conservation Award was presented to Sproul Ranch of Sedan. Last year’s recipient was Flying W Ranch (Josh and Gwen Hoy) of Cedar Point. &nbsp;

The Leopold Conservation Award in Kansas is made possible thanks to the generous support of American Farmland Trust, Kansas Association of Conservation Districts, Ranchland Trust of Kansas, Sand County Foundation, Farm Credit Associations of Kansas, ITC Great Plains, Evergy, Kansas Department of Agriculture (Division of Conservation), Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, Kansas Forest Service, McDonald’s, The Nature Conservancy, USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service and a Kansas Leopold Conservation Award recipient.

In his influential 1949 book,&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=JjyQUoVmYurjzTy6hCWthGENtMaX706EE89GDme1es5GrDM1b-2FZiEdSGqyPVwiMnnKCK8hMQ2l-2FS0PaeoC6WdA-3D-3DLPxi_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFly3pMOhpINivEvyInDGU7k8jRhyW5LfQIncpdPtiGxXY-2FDUVJKsV1MOgFQqNA1QA8SeoHBC4Cyba-2Fl1LrvhQuSBCFp8joGH5RyqosajsF0crbuNTJZNHn0j9bILqNss1FZqgCmQzVt7paMqnYn3im6LPNSm4vtBvlGiJ-2BRlJn3ei1zwxH-2FbGCOiEGPIeeWdGdf8nQC73aHatlOIpjpev6d5ZlHd2s3cCTqKsYMDFC7efttrnXXY8hHkzQvz2BqRMU-2FDjneprhpKQl5XfWMjS4RURhAUL1sIzFK77HiDrMGt5ZWQixCD-2FSg8sgNkjSSvGLr4WySPs4HiYd44kJ7z-2FiaFQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">A Sand County Almanac</a>, Leopold called for an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage, which he called “an evolutionary possibility and an ecological necessity.” Sand County Foundation presents the Leopold Conservation Award to private landowners in 23 states for extraordinary achievement in voluntary conservation. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2FrsFmm1DyLZH2YJDeOh0Tpr6xNhpzmLJpqwqrRiSYSlnTnPI7aaF-2FPGfuoj2SYxXYY8BnU-2FL0EynhQUdYclEwQ-3D-3D56LU_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFly3pMOhpINivEvyInDGU7k8jRhyW5LfQIncpdPtiGxXY-2FDUVJKsV1MOgFQqNA1QA8SeoHBC4Cyba-2Fl1LrvhQuSBCFp8joGH5RyqosajsF0crbuNTJZNHn0j9bILqNss1FZqgCmQzVt7paMqnYn3im6LPNSm4vtBvlGiJ-2BRlJn3ei1GhmmuoEs6NSqhrktmriJ3HDs48Y6Ld3ohFNKGYiv-2B2vEMCcb8Fk-2Bnd8zD-2FcoSMWy07eeVqQwBQBOTwaJ67ocdRC2NIzS6wBNtT5JHVKXRHTGJqzr7WivnbgB2VdiK7RZdOoVPRaXNdsJC-2F4S5sJGoOQWh3dFxV62OcdAN7-2F8-2B-2BQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">www.leopoldconservationaward.org</a>.&nbsp;

Grow crops with less water. That challenge spurred an ever-expanding land ethic in Dwane Roth. &nbsp;

Dwane knew of the declining water level in the Ogallala aquifer he farms above. He felt he was already doing his part by increasing crop yields with reduced equipment and labor costs. Then a cropland landlord challenged him to look into irrigation technology.

Despite droughts and sandy soils prone to wind erosion, he quickly met the challenge and became a sought-after expert on the role of soil moisture management technology’s role in water conservation.

As one of Kansas’ first “Water Technology Farms” he began demonstrating emerging irrigation technologies, cropping patterns, and management techniques in 2016. Energy-efficient bubblers, probes, cameras and drones delivered irrigation, measured soil moisture, and enabled seamless data collection. Dwane acquired an insatiable appetite for information that showed how innovation could extend the aquifer’s lifetime while improving his soil’s health.

Dwane soon volunteered more of his 6,000 acres of farmland for the project. Testing irrigation technologies would ultimately lead to adoption by other farmers, but he wasn’t willing to wait. He spearheaded an effort that resulted in other area farmers saving more than 35,000 acre-feet of water per year.

With a knack for getting others to see themselves as a community of water users, he organized a summit in 2019 of food supply chain interests in Finney County. With a goal of making the county a model of sustainability in food production, his leadership sustained the effort through 2020’s shutdown.

Dwane serves as a technology farm advisor to universities, state agencies and Syngenta. He also works to identify ways to streamline conservation cost-share programs and simplify decision-making processes for farmers. He regularly attends GreenBiz events that bring together companies, cities and industries to drive technology and sustainability initiatives. It’s there where corporate leaders value hearing directly from this innovative fourth-generation Kansas farmer.

Dwane and wife Kim have three daughters. His land ethic has rubbed off on their daughter Grace. Her FFA project began the Kansas Youth Water Advocates Program, which teaches high school students to appreciate and advocate for local water resources.

Dwane is aware that water availability is not the only challenge facing Kansas agriculture. Poor water quality from increasing salinity and heavy metals harms soil and crops. High density cropping with limited crop diversity impacts the region’s wildlife. In response, he’s seeking other ways to improve the entire ecological community.

He has utilized the Conservation Reserve Program to plant native grasses on more than 100 acres of field corners to improve wildlife habitat. Dwane is experimenting to determine which cover crops provide cattle feed while improving soil health and erosion control in his region. His farming practices have also caught the interest of companies whose mission is reversing climate change.

More than three decades into his farming career, Dwane has begun transitioning ownership of some of his farmland to his nephews. The greatest motivation of this tireless agricultural conservation proponent is making sure the next generation has a chance to grow food while improving the landscape.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638150607948.jpeg" alt="Dwane Roth, right, and his nephew, Zion. Photo courtesy Sand County Foundation" />
 <figcaption>Dwane Roth, right, and his nephew, Zion. Photo courtesy Sand County Foundation</figcaption>
 </figure>By SAND COUNTY FOUNDATIONDwane Roth of Holcomb has been selected as the recipient of the 2021 Kansas Leopold Conservation Award®.Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award recognizes farmers, ranchers and forestland owners who inspire others with their dedication to land, water and wildlife resources in their care.In&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;the award is presented annually by&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2FrsFmm1DyLZH2YJDeOh0Tu10dIH13bXsbEER7PyikDm-2Bai-2BMzPN27xTIsB5pnGIT8TYC_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFly3pMOhpINivEvyInDGU7k8jRhyW5LfQIncpdPtiGxXY-2FDUVJKsV1MOgFQqNA1QA8SeoHBC4Cyba-2Fl1LrvhQuSBCFp8joGH5RyqosajsF0crbuNTJZNHn0j9bILqNss1FZqgCmQzVt7paMqnYn3im6LPNSm4vtBvlGiJ-2BRlJn3ei2Yq86bKgHzOXc2x8Q-2F9L1m5Lil7iBmhdkbbCGvDejmX6-2BsQCu1SU7VXP6hBzaDmPuyJ7kXl-2F-2BsBo92h2M78d55CewF9WVsD1qv2pRcRLZgaZSkk-2FDbUfzTErZMxqfrJAlwNF6w-2BZRbrecZGMdsW2KIOWXf5cSP9-2BG0xN4yHX8xsA-3D-3D" target="_blank">Sand County Foundation</a>&nbsp;and national sponsor&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=JjyQUoVmYurjzTy6hCWthJZjV-2B-2BoBMwgWKaYjFP7WN4-3Dzwhh_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFly3pMOhpINivEvyInDGU7k8jRhyW5LfQIncpdPtiGxXY-2FDUVJKsV1MOgFQqNA1QA8SeoHBC4Cyba-2Fl1LrvhQuSBCFp8joGH5RyqosajsF0crbuNTJZNHn0j9bILqNss1FZqgCmQzVt7paMqnYn3im6LPNSm4vtBvlGiJ-2BRlJn3ei3DRbJ0Qky0F8TPncjq-2Bnwbfh8a2WQ8H61pMZwiHsO8vFvW4hwQaQhu095Dge3WkwQ6fNJEwDl-2FckW9SP9xpGPuc-2Bsf-2FSQ2GG7AqSorbj8qi2b3a5oUxvxPEk3U9EKPZrSO4v2xx3Xgag-2FnC1PwBP3ewV88WseIwO5JmBKixjMDBQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">American Farmland Trust</a>, with state partners:&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2FrsFmm1DyLZH2YJDeOh0TlAh-2Fwkr9O-2FK9u-2BV2PzMW8ksV8YQtSwUDFFYOR-2BNK9bbCwg7_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFly3pMOhpINivEvyInDGU7k8jRhyW5LfQIncpdPtiGxXY-2FDUVJKsV1MOgFQqNA1QA8SeoHBC4Cyba-2Fl1LrvhQuSBCFp8joGH5RyqosajsF0crbuNTJZNHn0j9bILqNss1FZqgCmQzVt7paMqnYn3im6LPNSm4vtBvlGiJ-2BRlJn3ei1ae4gjNl21lD2qV4j3wMlN1ZGpnupuLc1RksEyBCgnBqXD0-2F9Jfd28eWiBZ5q-2BZDKSTFzP3m8C-2B49Zt9iMIxnVJYU3EdqKy8b8XzSOR5-2BZ3yKpXOaZvk8O5dQSlaSnW2X7fW9AO3incmmRvTpMXMpKPj0-2BNwf0rPt7hxFIFnPYxg-3D-3D" target="_blank">Kansas Association of Conservation Districts</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2FrsFmm1DyLZH2YJDeOh0ThlfF9uAiI46EhM-2BCWEvU2Zvco6lW3OMrNPzqzlv0fvN4uJ2_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFly3pMOhpINivEvyInDGU7k8jRhyW5LfQIncpdPtiGxXY-2FDUVJKsV1MOgFQqNA1QA8SeoHBC4Cyba-2Fl1LrvhQuSBCFp8joGH5RyqosajsF0crbuNTJZNHn0j9bILqNss1FZqgCmQzVt7paMqnYn3im6LPNSm4vtBvlGiJ-2BRlJn3ei0FF-2BMnQqjkOjvIW12Ar2CK6kPZ1jMI-2FDOY-2B-2FhOYlFkbSgUXe1SAkdPVprM3XVFPBAIV-2Ftux58J-2BOeiRCLS-2FBnM2MDsq3rYKMDOiNxT-2BxO8VEdlFUMR4VUSLLHDY01-2BvNVf8wl4ji3QnDkjGRGJVr9P71Xgf7zA2iyCaVXDUgLX0g-3D-3D" target="_blank">Ranchland Trust of Kansas</a>.Roth is a grain farmer with a strong interest in water conservation and irrigation technology. He was announced as the recipient of the award at the Kansas Association of Conservation Districts’ 77th&nbsp;Annual Convention in Wichita, and receives $10,000 and a crystal award for being selected.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Qb4kgQtmrCM" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>“Dwane’s passion and excitement for conserving groundwater, without sacrificing economic returns in one of the most productive agricultural regions of the world, is inspiring and should foster hope to future generations of irrigated farm families,” said Mike Beam, Kansas Secretary of Agriculture.“Dwane is passionate in his quest to promote water conservation and reduce the decline of the Ogallala aquifer. Using new technologies and innovative ideas, he has demonstrated on his own farm that reducing irrigation is possible without negatively affecting the economic bottom line,” said Dan Meyerhoff, Kansas Association of Conservation Districts Executive Director. “Dwane recently shared with me ‘I’ve only just begun.’ He exemplifies the extraordinary commitment celebrated by the Leopold Conservation Award.”“Dwane is a lifelong learner and also a teacher. His land ethic, desire to conserve water, and expertise in irrigation technology make him a great representation of this award. Congratulations to Dwane Roth and his family,” said Chelsea Good, Ranchland Trust of Kansas Chair of the Board.“Recipients of this award are real life examples of conservation-minded agriculture,” said Kevin McAleese, Sand County Foundation President and Chief Executive Officer. “These hard-working families are essential to our environment, food system and rural economy.”“As the national sponsor for Sand County Foundation’s Leopold Conservation Award, American Farmland Trust celebrates the hard work and dedication of the Kansas recipient,” said John Piotti, AFT President and CEO. “At AFT we believe that conservation in agriculture requires a focus on the land, the practices and the people and this award recognizes the integral role of all three.”Earlier this year, Kansas landowners were encouraged to apply (or be nominated) for the award. Applications were reviewed by an independent panel of agricultural and conservation leaders.&nbsp;Among the many outstanding Kansas landowners nominated for the award were finalists: Vance and Louise Ehmke of Healy, Ray and Susan Flickner of Witchita, and Glenn and Barbara Walker of Brookville.In 2015 the first Kansas Leopold Conservation Award was presented to Sproul Ranch of Sedan. Last year’s recipient was Flying W Ranch (Josh and Gwen Hoy) of Cedar Point. &nbsp;The Leopold Conservation Award in Kansas is made possible thanks to the generous support of American Farmland Trust, Kansas Association of Conservation Districts, Ranchland Trust of Kansas, Sand County Foundation, Farm Credit Associations of Kansas, ITC Great Plains, Evergy, Kansas Department of Agriculture (Division of Conservation), Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, Kansas Forest Service, McDonald’s, The Nature Conservancy, USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service and a Kansas Leopold Conservation Award recipient.In his influential 1949 book,&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=JjyQUoVmYurjzTy6hCWthGENtMaX706EE89GDme1es5GrDM1b-2FZiEdSGqyPVwiMnnKCK8hMQ2l-2FS0PaeoC6WdA-3D-3DLPxi_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFly3pMOhpINivEvyInDGU7k8jRhyW5LfQIncpdPtiGxXY-2FDUVJKsV1MOgFQqNA1QA8SeoHBC4Cyba-2Fl1LrvhQuSBCFp8joGH5RyqosajsF0crbuNTJZNHn0j9bILqNss1FZqgCmQzVt7paMqnYn3im6LPNSm4vtBvlGiJ-2BRlJn3ei1zwxH-2FbGCOiEGPIeeWdGdf8nQC73aHatlOIpjpev6d5ZlHd2s3cCTqKsYMDFC7efttrnXXY8hHkzQvz2BqRMU-2FDjneprhpKQl5XfWMjS4RURhAUL1sIzFK77HiDrMGt5ZWQixCD-2FSg8sgNkjSSvGLr4WySPs4HiYd44kJ7z-2FiaFQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">A Sand County Almanac</a>, Leopold called for an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage, which he called “an evolutionary possibility and an ecological necessity.” Sand County Foundation presents the Leopold Conservation Award to private landowners in 23 states for extraordinary achievement in voluntary conservation. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2FrsFmm1DyLZH2YJDeOh0Tpr6xNhpzmLJpqwqrRiSYSlnTnPI7aaF-2FPGfuoj2SYxXYY8BnU-2FL0EynhQUdYclEwQ-3D-3D56LU_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFly3pMOhpINivEvyInDGU7k8jRhyW5LfQIncpdPtiGxXY-2FDUVJKsV1MOgFQqNA1QA8SeoHBC4Cyba-2Fl1LrvhQuSBCFp8joGH5RyqosajsF0crbuNTJZNHn0j9bILqNss1FZqgCmQzVt7paMqnYn3im6LPNSm4vtBvlGiJ-2BRlJn3ei1GhmmuoEs6NSqhrktmriJ3HDs48Y6Ld3ohFNKGYiv-2B2vEMCcb8Fk-2Bnd8zD-2FcoSMWy07eeVqQwBQBOTwaJ67ocdRC2NIzS6wBNtT5JHVKXRHTGJqzr7WivnbgB2VdiK7RZdOoVPRaXNdsJC-2F4S5sJGoOQWh3dFxV62OcdAN7-2F8-2B-2BQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">www.leopoldconservationaward.org</a>.&nbsp;ABOUT DWANE ROTHGrow crops with less water. That challenge spurred an ever-expanding land ethic in Dwane Roth. &nbsp;Dwane knew of the declining water level in the Ogallala aquifer he farms above. He felt he was already doing his part by increasing crop yields with reduced equipment and labor costs. Then a cropland landlord challenged him to look into irrigation technology.Despite droughts and sandy soils prone to wind erosion, he quickly met the challenge and became a sought-after expert on the role of soil moisture management technology’s role in water conservation.As one of Kansas’ first “Water Technology Farms” he began demonstrating emerging irrigation technologies, cropping patterns, and management techniques in 2016. Energy-efficient bubblers, probes, cameras and drones delivered irrigation, measured soil moisture, and enabled seamless data collection. Dwane acquired an insatiable appetite for information that showed how innovation could extend the aquifer’s lifetime while improving his soil’s health.Dwane soon volunteered more of his 6,000 acres of farmland for the project. Testing irrigation technologies would ultimately lead to adoption by other farmers, but he wasn’t willing to wait. He spearheaded an effort that resulted in other area farmers saving more than 35,000 acre-feet of water per year.With a knack for getting others to see themselves as a community of water users, he organized a summit in 2019 of food supply chain interests in Finney County. With a goal of making the county a model of sustainability in food production, his leadership sustained the effort through 2020’s shutdown.Dwane serves as a technology farm advisor to universities, state agencies and Syngenta. He also works to identify ways to streamline conservation cost-share programs and simplify decision-making processes for farmers. He regularly attends GreenBiz events that bring together companies, cities and industries to drive technology and sustainability initiatives. It’s there where corporate leaders value hearing directly from this innovative fourth-generation Kansas farmer.Dwane and wife Kim have three daughters. His land ethic has rubbed off on their daughter Grace. Her FFA project began the Kansas Youth Water Advocates Program, which teaches high school students to appreciate and advocate for local water resources.Dwane is aware that water availability is not the only challenge facing Kansas agriculture. Poor water quality from increasing salinity and heavy metals harms soil and crops. High density cropping with limited crop diversity impacts the region’s wildlife. In response, he’s seeking other ways to improve the entire ecological community.He has utilized the Conservation Reserve Program to plant native grasses on more than 100 acres of field corners to improve wildlife habitat. Dwane is experimenting to determine which cover crops provide cattle feed while improving soil health and erosion control in his region. His farming practices have also caught the interest of companies whose mission is reversing climate change.More than three decades into his farming career, Dwane has begun transitioning ownership of some of his farmland to his nephews. The greatest motivation of this tireless agricultural conservation proponent is making sure the next generation has a chance to grow food while improving the landscape.

🎥SW Kan. farmer receives Leopold Conservation Award

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — A federal judge has blocked President Joe Biden's administration from enforcing a coronavirus vaccine mandate on health care workers in Kansas and 9 other states.

<a href="https://ag.ks.gov/docs/default-source/documents/missouri-v-biden-(cms)---memo-and-order-granting-pi.pdf?sfvrsn=d341a41a_2">Click here to read a</a> copy of the ruling regarding the CMS mandate&nbsp;

The preliminary injunction issued Monday applies to a coalition of suing states. They are Alaska, Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming. 

A federal judge in Missouri said the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid had no clear authority from Congress to enact the vaccine mandate for health care providers that participate in the two government programs. The rule requires workers to receive their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine by Dec. 6 and their second dose by Jan. 4.

See the statement below from Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt.

TOPEKA — A federal court Monday blocked the second of the Biden administration's federal vaccine mandates, according to Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt.

The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri&nbsp; placed a temporary injunction on the mandate from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) that required nearly all health care employees, volunteers and third-party contractors to be vaccinated against COVID-19 as a condition of employment. Schmidt and nine other state attorneys general filed the lawsuit November 10, arguing that the mandate will threaten numerous already short-staffed nursing homes, hospitals and other facilities with closure. Small rural facilities are at particular risk of closure.

“I continue to encourage Kansans to be vaccinated, but that personal health care decision should be made by each individual and not mandated by any federal government agency,” Schmidt said. “This overreaching, one-size-fits-all mandate would further disrupt and impede the efforts of health care facilities and their employees all across Kansas to provide the care Kansans expect and deserve.”

The injunction&nbsp;covers Medicare- and Medicaid-certified providers in Kansas, Alaska, Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming. The mandate will remain on hold in these states pending further court proceedings.

Today’s injunction is the second Schmidt has obtained blocking a Biden administration vaccine mandate.&nbsp;A different federal court has stayed the so-called OSHA mandate that applied to private employers with more than 100 employees. A third lawsuit filed by Schmidt challenges the mandate for federal contractors and is scheduled for a hearing Friday on the state’s request for a preliminary injunction.

In addition, new state legislation that became effective last week requires all employers, both public or private sector, to accommodate employee requests for relief from COVID-19 vaccine requirements on medical grounds or the ground that the requirement would violate a sincerely held religious belief of the employee and for religious requests forbids employers from “inquiring into the sincerity of the request” by the employee. Schmidt said the new state law is meant to protect workers, not punish employers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638212151203.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — A federal judge has blocked President Joe Biden's administration from enforcing a coronavirus vaccine mandate on health care workers in Kansas and 9 other states.<a href="https://ag.ks.gov/docs/default-source/documents/missouri-v-biden-(cms)---memo-and-order-granting-pi.pdf?sfvrsn=d341a41a_2">Click here to read a</a> copy of the ruling regarding the CMS mandate&nbsp;The preliminary injunction issued Monday applies to a coalition of suing states. They are Alaska, Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming. A federal judge in Missouri said the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid had no clear authority from Congress to enact the vaccine mandate for health care providers that participate in the two government programs. The rule requires workers to receive their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine by Dec. 6 and their second dose by Jan. 4.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623421939632.png" alt=" Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt" />
 <figcaption> Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt</figcaption>
 </figure>See the statement below from Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt.TOPEKA — A federal court Monday blocked the second of the Biden administration's federal vaccine mandates, according to Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt.The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri&nbsp; placed a temporary injunction on the mandate from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) that required nearly all health care employees, volunteers and third-party contractors to be vaccinated against COVID-19 as a condition of employment. Schmidt and nine other state attorneys general filed the lawsuit November 10, arguing that the mandate will threaten numerous already short-staffed nursing homes, hospitals and other facilities with closure. Small rural facilities are at particular risk of closure.“I continue to encourage Kansans to be vaccinated, but that personal health care decision should be made by each individual and not mandated by any federal government agency,” Schmidt said. “This overreaching, one-size-fits-all mandate would further disrupt and impede the efforts of health care facilities and their employees all across Kansas to provide the care Kansans expect and deserve.”The injunction&nbsp;covers Medicare- and Medicaid-certified providers in Kansas, Alaska, Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming. The mandate will remain on hold in these states pending further court proceedings.Today’s injunction is the second Schmidt has obtained blocking a Biden administration vaccine mandate.&nbsp;A different federal court has stayed the so-called OSHA mandate that applied to private employers with more than 100 employees. A third lawsuit filed by Schmidt challenges the mandate for federal contractors and is scheduled for a hearing Friday on the state’s request for a preliminary injunction.In addition, new state legislation that became effective last week requires all employers, both public or private sector, to accommodate employee requests for relief from COVID-19 vaccine requirements on medical grounds or the ground that the requirement would violate a sincerely held religious belief of the employee and for religious requests forbids employers from “inquiring into the sincerity of the request” by the employee. Schmidt said the new state law is meant to protect workers, not punish employers.

Biden vaccine rule for health workers blocked in Kansas, 9 other states

Orders Walmart, Amazon, Kroger, others to turn over information

The
 Federal Trade Commission is ordering nine large retailers, wholesalers,
 and consumer good suppliers to provide detailed information that will 
help the FTC shed light on the causes behind ongoing supply chain 
disruptions and how these disruptions are causing serious and ongoing 
hardships for consumers and harming competition in the U.S. economy. 

The FTC is issuing the orders under
 Section 6(b) of the FTC Act, which authorizes the Commission to conduct
 wide-ranging studies that do not have a specific law enforcement 
purpose. The orders are being sent to Walmart Inc., Amazon.com, Inc., 
Kroger Co., C&amp;S Wholesale Grocers, Inc., Associated Wholesale 
Grocers, Inc., McLane Co, Inc. Procter &amp; Gamble Co., Tyson Foods, 
Inc., and Kraft Heinz Co. The companies will have 45 days from the date 
they received the order to respond.

“Supply 
chain disruptions are upending the provision and delivery of a wide 
array of goods, ranging from computer chips and medicines to meat and 
lumber. I am hopeful the FTC’s new 6(b) study will shed light on market 
conditions and business practices that may have worsened these 
disruptions or led to asymmetric effects,” said Chair Lina M. Khan. “The
 FTC has a long history of pursuing market studies to deepen our 
understanding of economic conditions and business conduct, and we should
 continue to make nimble and timely use of these information-gathering 
tools and authorities.”

In addition to better 
understanding the reasons behind the disruptions, the study will examine
 whether supply chain disruptions are leading to specific bottlenecks, 
shortages, anticompetitive practices, or contributing to rising consumer
 prices.

The orders require the companies to 
detail the primary factors disrupting their ability to obtain, transport
 and distribute their products; the impact these disruptions are having 
in terms of delayed and canceled orders, increased costs and prices; the
 products, suppliers and inputs most affected; and the steps the 
companies are taking to alleviate disruptions; and how they allocate 
products among their stores when they are in short supply.

The
 FTC also is requiring the companies to provide internal documents 
regarding the supply chain disruptions, including strategies related to 
supply chains; pricing; marketing and promotions; costs, profit margins 
and sales volumes; selection of suppliers and brands; and market shares.
 

In addition, the agency is soliciting 
voluntary comments from retailers, consumer goods suppliers, 
wholesalers, and consumers regarding their views on how supply chain 
issues are affecting competition in consumer goods markets. These 
comments provide an opportunity for market participants to surface 
additional issues and examples of how supply chain disruptions are 
affecting competition.

The Commission vote to approve issuing the Special Orders was 4-0. 

The Federal Trade Commission works to <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/bureau-competition">promote competition</a>, and protect and educate consumers. You can learn more about <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/attachments/competition-counts/pdf-0116_competition-counts.pdf">how competition benefits consumers</a> or <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/faq/competition/report-antitrust-violation">file an antitrust complaint</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;For the latest news and resources, <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/social-media">follow the FTC on social media</a>, <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/stay-connected">subscribe to press releases</a> and <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/blogs/competition-matters">read our blog</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619632629588.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Orders Walmart, Amazon, Kroger, others to turn over information</h2>FTCThe
 Federal Trade Commission is ordering nine large retailers, wholesalers,
 and consumer good suppliers to provide detailed information that will 
help the FTC shed light on the causes behind ongoing supply chain 
disruptions and how these disruptions are causing serious and ongoing 
hardships for consumers and harming competition in the U.S. economy. The FTC is issuing the orders under
 Section 6(b) of the FTC Act, which authorizes the Commission to conduct
 wide-ranging studies that do not have a specific law enforcement 
purpose. The orders are being sent to Walmart Inc., Amazon.com, Inc., 
Kroger Co., C&amp;S Wholesale Grocers, Inc., Associated Wholesale 
Grocers, Inc., McLane Co, Inc. Procter &amp; Gamble Co., Tyson Foods, 
Inc., and Kraft Heinz Co. The companies will have 45 days from the date 
they received the order to respond.“Supply 
chain disruptions are upending the provision and delivery of a wide 
array of goods, ranging from computer chips and medicines to meat and 
lumber. I am hopeful the FTC’s new 6(b) study will shed light on market 
conditions and business practices that may have worsened these 
disruptions or led to asymmetric effects,” said Chair Lina M. Khan. “The
 FTC has a long history of pursuing market studies to deepen our 
understanding of economic conditions and business conduct, and we should
 continue to make nimble and timely use of these information-gathering 
tools and authorities.”In addition to better 
understanding the reasons behind the disruptions, the study will examine
 whether supply chain disruptions are leading to specific bottlenecks, 
shortages, anticompetitive practices, or contributing to rising consumer
 prices.The orders require the companies to 
detail the primary factors disrupting their ability to obtain, transport
 and distribute their products; the impact these disruptions are having 
in terms of delayed and canceled orders, increased costs and prices; the
 products, suppliers and inputs most affected; and the steps the 
companies are taking to alleviate disruptions; and how they allocate 
products among their stores when they are in short supply.The
 FTC also is requiring the companies to provide internal documents 
regarding the supply chain disruptions, including strategies related to 
supply chains; pricing; marketing and promotions; costs, profit margins 
and sales volumes; selection of suppliers and brands; and market shares.
 In addition, the agency is soliciting 
voluntary comments from retailers, consumer goods suppliers, 
wholesalers, and consumers regarding their views on how supply chain 
issues are affecting competition in consumer goods markets. These 
comments provide an opportunity for market participants to surface 
additional issues and examples of how supply chain disruptions are 
affecting competition.The Commission vote to approve issuing the Special Orders was 4-0. The Federal Trade Commission works to <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/bureau-competition">promote competition</a>, and protect and educate consumers. You can learn more about <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/attachments/competition-counts/pdf-0116_competition-counts.pdf">how competition benefits consumers</a> or <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/faq/competition/report-antitrust-violation">file an antitrust complaint</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;For the latest news and resources, <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/social-media">follow the FTC on social media</a>, <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/stay-connected">subscribe to press releases</a> and <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/blogs/competition-matters">read our blog</a>.

FTC launches inquiry into supply chain disruptions

<a href="https://salinapost.com">Courtesy Salina Post</a>

The legendary group Earth, Wind &amp; Fire is coming to the Stiefel Theatre in May!

Jane
 Gates, Stiefel executive director, announced this morning that the 
group is scheduled to perform at 8 p.m. May 15. Please see the Stiefel 
Theatre <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org">website</a> for all current Covid protocols.&nbsp;

Tickets
 start at $96, plus fees, and will go on sale at noon Friday. You can 
purchase tickets at the walk-up window box office next to the main 
entrance to the Stiefel Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue, from noon-5 
p.m. Monday through Friday. You also can buy direct by calling the 
Stiefel at 785-827-1998 or buy online at <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a>.

Artist information as provided by the Stiefel Theatre

Earth,
 Wind &amp; Fire is a musical institution. 2020 marked a year-long 
celebration of their 50th anniversary in entertainment – one that has 
taken them all around the globe playing sold out concerts. In 2019, 
their contributions to arts and culture were acknowledged in Washington,
 D.C. with the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors. The Smithsonian 
National Portrait Gallery also awarded Earth, Wind &amp; Fire with its 
Portrait of a Nation Prize. 

The band has scored eight number one 
hits, have sold over 100 million albums worldwide and released 23 
albums. Eight of those albums went Double Platinum and hit the Top 10, 
making them one of the best-selling artists of all time. They've won an 
impressive nine Grammy Awards including one for Lifetime Achievement 
(2012). In 2000, Earth, Wind &amp; Fire was inducted into the Rock and 
Roll Hall of Fame, cementing their lasting impact on popular music. 

For
 their record-breaking success, they’ve also been awarded with Lifetime 
Achievement honors from ASCAP, NAACP, BET, and have star on the 
Hollywood Walk of Fame. Their reach ex-tends to heads-of- state. They 
have been invited to perform for Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack 
Obama, who said in an interview with Rolling Stone that Earth, Wind 
&amp; Fire was a “rhythm and blues and pop staple.” 

Their 
achievements are equally matched by their generosity. Over the years the
 band has supported various charity organizations including the Make a 
Wish Foundation, Race to Erase MS, the American Cancer Society, and the 
Human Society. In 2007, leader Philip Bailey founded Music Is Unity, 
which helps youth in foster care successfully transition into adulthood 
and pro-vides music instruments to youth with musical aspirations but 
lacking the resources. Co- founder, Verdine White has led important 
initiatives with the Girls &amp; Boys Club of America and opened The 
Verdine White Foundation in Los Angeles as a mecca to serve youth with 
music scholarships and other programs. 

The music of Earth, Wind 
&amp; Fire is more alive than ever as they continue to inspire new 
audiences and thrill those who have been with them from the beginning. 
Like the elements in their name, Earth, Wind &amp; Fire’s music has 
withstood ever-changing trends in the world and shows no sign of 
vanishing as they continue to create joy and uplifting music that will 
forever reach a sacred universal atmosphere. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638211239138.jpeg" alt="Earth, Wind &amp; Fire. Photo courtesy Stiefel Theatre" />
 <figcaption>Earth, Wind &amp; Fire. Photo courtesy Stiefel Theatre</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://salinapost.com">Courtesy Salina Post</a>The legendary group Earth, Wind &amp; Fire is coming to the Stiefel Theatre in May!Jane
 Gates, Stiefel executive director, announced this morning that the 
group is scheduled to perform at 8 p.m. May 15. Please see the Stiefel 
Theatre <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org">website</a> for all current Covid protocols.&nbsp;Tickets
 start at $96, plus fees, and will go on sale at noon Friday. You can 
purchase tickets at the walk-up window box office next to the main 
entrance to the Stiefel Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue, from noon-5 
p.m. Monday through Friday. You also can buy direct by calling the 
Stiefel at 785-827-1998 or buy online at <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a>.Artist information as provided by the Stiefel TheatreEarth,
 Wind &amp; Fire is a musical institution. 2020 marked a year-long 
celebration of their 50th anniversary in entertainment – one that has 
taken them all around the globe playing sold out concerts. In 2019, 
their contributions to arts and culture were acknowledged in Washington,
 D.C. with the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors. The Smithsonian 
National Portrait Gallery also awarded Earth, Wind &amp; Fire with its 
Portrait of a Nation Prize. The band has scored eight number one 
hits, have sold over 100 million albums worldwide and released 23 
albums. Eight of those albums went Double Platinum and hit the Top 10, 
making them one of the best-selling artists of all time. They've won an 
impressive nine Grammy Awards including one for Lifetime Achievement 
(2012). In 2000, Earth, Wind &amp; Fire was inducted into the Rock and 
Roll Hall of Fame, cementing their lasting impact on popular music. For
 their record-breaking success, they’ve also been awarded with Lifetime 
Achievement honors from ASCAP, NAACP, BET, and have star on the 
Hollywood Walk of Fame. Their reach ex-tends to heads-of- state. They 
have been invited to perform for Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack 
Obama, who said in an interview with Rolling Stone that Earth, Wind 
&amp; Fire was a “rhythm and blues and pop staple.” Their 
achievements are equally matched by their generosity. Over the years the
 band has supported various charity organizations including the Make a 
Wish Foundation, Race to Erase MS, the American Cancer Society, and the 
Human Society. In 2007, leader Philip Bailey founded Music Is Unity, 
which helps youth in foster care successfully transition into adulthood 
and pro-vides music instruments to youth with musical aspirations but 
lacking the resources. Co- founder, Verdine White has led important 
initiatives with the Girls &amp; Boys Club of America and opened The 
Verdine White Foundation in Los Angeles as a mecca to serve youth with 
music scholarships and other programs. The music of Earth, Wind 
&amp; Fire is more alive than ever as they continue to inspire new 
audiences and thrill those who have been with them from the beginning. 
Like the elements in their name, Earth, Wind &amp; Fire’s music has 
withstood ever-changing trends in the world and shows no sign of 
vanishing as they continue to create joy and uplifting music that will 
forever reach a sacred universal atmosphere.

Let's groove: Earth, Wind & Fire will play theater in Salina 

TOPEKA, Kan. — The number of confirmed coronavirus cases* (see below) in Kansas increased by 4,127 to a total of 465,290, the state health department reported Monday afternoon.&nbsp;

The state reported 13 additional COVID-19 deaths for a total of 6,686.

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

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

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

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

TOPEKA, Kan. — The number of confirmed coronavirus cases* (see below) in Kansas increased by 4,127 to a total of 465,290, the state health department reported Monday afternoon.&nbsp;The state reported 13 additional COVID-19 deaths for a total of 6,686.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638209415522.png" alt="Monday November 29, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Monday November 29, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.As of August 1, 2021, in accordance with an&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">updated CDC/CSTE surveillance case definition</a>, a confirmed case is defined as a person who tested positive by molecular detection (e.g., PCR, NAA) or identification of SARS-CoV-2 through genetic sequencing. A probable case is defined as a person with: a) presumptive lab evidence (antigen) or b) no lab testing but meeting clinical case criteria and is epi-linked. A person will be counted as a new surveillance case (e.g. reinfection) if they test positive for SARS-CoV-2 by a diagnostic test (i.e., molecular, antigen) and it has been greater than 90 days since the previous positive diagnostic test. In addition, a person with sequencing results identifying different SARS-CoV-2 lineages regardless of the time since the previous specimen sequenced will be counted as a new surveillance case.&nbsp;Cases occurring between&nbsp;September 1, 2020&nbsp;and July 29, 2021 were classified by&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">previous CDC/CSTE case definition,&nbsp;</a>and cases prior to September 1, 2020 were classified by the&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/case-definitions/coronavirus-disease-2019-2020/" target="_blank">original case definition</a>.

KDHE: 4,100 new cases, 13 more COVID deaths

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden called the new COVID-19 variant omicron a cause for concern but “not a cause for panic” Monday and said he was not considering any widespread U.S. lockdown. He urged Americans anew to get fully vaccinated, including booster shots, and return to face masks indoors in public settings to slow any spread.

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?516362-1/president-biden-omicron-variant">Click here to watch</a> the President's comments

Speaking Monday at the White House, Biden said it was inevitable that the new variant would reach the U.S., but he also said the country has the tools necessary to protect Americans — particularly the approved vaccines and booster shots.

When omicron arrives, and it will, Biden said, America will “face this new threat just as we’ve faced those that have come before it.”

He appealed to the roughly 80 million unvaccinated Americans aged 5 and up to get their shots, and for the rest of the country to seek out booster shots six months after their second dose. He also encouraged everyone to get back to wearing face masks in all indoor public settings — a pandemic precaution that has fallen out of use across much of the country.

Biden was joined by Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert and the president’s COVID-19 adviser, who said earlier Monday that scientists hope to know in the next week or two how well the existing COVID-19 vaccines protect against the varian t, and how dangerous it is compared to earlier strains.

“We really don’t know,” Fauci told ABC’s “Good Morning America,” calling speculation premature.

The new variant poses the latest test to Biden’s efforts to contain the pandemic, mitigate its impacts on the economy and return a sense of normalcy to the U.S. during the holiday season.

“This variant is a cause for concern, not a cause for panic,” Biden said.

Biden last week moved to restrict travel from South Africa and seven other countries in southern Africa, effective Monday, in a bid to give scientists time to learn more about the new variant, and for more Americans to get vaccinated before it hits the U.S.

Some other nations are reinstating severe travel and business lockdowns to prevent the omicron variant from spreading, but Biden indicated the U.S. was not following suit.

“If people are vaccinated and wear their mask, there’s no need for lockdowns,” he said.

The move to limit most travel from the countries where omicron was first identified was meant to provide time for the U.S to learn more about the variant and to “intensify” the domestic vaccination campaign, Fauci said earlier Monday.

“It buys you a couple of weeks because if you can keep things out in force for a couple of weeks you can do a lot of things,” he told “CBS Mornings.”

Pharmaceutical companies are already adjusting their existing COVID-19 vaccines to better attack the omicron variant, but Fauci said Americans should make it a priority to get either their first shots or a booster dose now, rather than waiting for a new formulation.

“I would strongly suggest you get boosted now,” he said.

He added that depending on what scientists learn about the omicron variant in the coming weeks “we may not need” targeted boosters to contain that strain of the virus.

Biden said his administration was “sparing no effort at removing all roadblocks to keep the American people safe,” including working with drug manufacturers on potential new boosters and testing targeted specifically at the new variant.

Any omicron-specific vaccine probably could not begin to be produced for another two or three months, so getting boosters now is a “very important initial line of defense,” Dr. Paul Burton, chief medical officer for the vaccine-maker Moderna, said Monday.

Burton said Moderna and other vaccine companies are testing existing COVID-19 vaccines to determine how effective they are against the omicron variant.

“If we need to manufacture an omicron-specific variant, it’s going to take some weeks, two to three months is probably what we’re looking at to be able to really begin to manufacture,” Burton told ABC.

Noting that the new variant, like earlier ones, sprang up overseas in areas with lower vaccination rates, Biden said it was both a moral imperative and in America’s self-interest to speed up global vaccinations. He noted that the U.S. has already donated more than 275 million doses — more than the rest of the world combined — and is on pace to deliver more than 1.1 billion doses globally by September 2022.

“Now we need the rest of the world to step up as well,” Biden said. “We can’t let up until the world is vaccinated.”

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden is encouraging Americans to get vaccinated and receive a booster shot as he seeks to quell concerns&nbsp; over the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-omicron-variant-covid-restrictions-82e53a7a17d1a4c30031065d389bda37">new COVID-19 variant omicron</a>.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert and Biden’s leading COVID-19 adviser, said Monday that there were as yet still no cases of the variant identified in the U.S. but that it was “inevitable” that it would make its way into the country eventually.

Speaking on ABC’s “Good Morning America,” Fauci said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-new-variant-omicron-explainer-116ef818ac4a8e7bc23bb28d6511ecad">scientists hope to know in the next week or two how well the existing COVID-19 vaccines protect against the varian</a>&nbsp;t, and how dangerous it is compared to earlier strains.

“We really don’t know,” Fauci said, calling speculation “premature.”

Any omicron-specific vaccine probably could not begin to be produced for another two or three months, so getting boosters now is a “very important initial line of defense,” said Dr. Paul Burton, chief medical officer for the vaccine-maker Moderna, said Monday.

Biden is set to speak later Monday about the urgency of getting vaccinated against COVID-19 to protect against variants, especially as roughly 80 million Americans aged 5 and up haven’t yet received a shot. But Biden was not expected to announce any new virus-related restrictions, beyond last week’s move to restrict travel from South Africa and seven other countries in the region, effective Monday.

Other nations were also moving to close their borders or reinstate lockdowns amid a host of severe measures to prevent the omicron variant from spreading, but Fauci indicated that the U.S. was not following suit.

Asked if more U.S. restrictions were imminent, Fauci said, “I don’t think so at all.” Later, on “CBS Mornings,” he said, “Let’s not be talking about lockdowns.”

Fauci said there was no need to panic about the new variant, but “We should be concerned, and our concern should spur us to do the things that we know work,” such as vaccinations.

The move to limit most travel from the countries where omicron was first identified was meant to buy time for the U.S to learn more about the variant and to “intensify” the domestic vaccination campaign, Fauci said.

“It buys you a couple of weeks because if you can keep things out in force for a couple of weeks you can do a lot of things,” he told CBS.

Still, he said omicron would eventually reach the U.S. and could, like the delta variant before it, become the dominant strain, since omicron “has a transmissibility advantage” over other variants.

Pharmaceutical companies are already tweaking their existing COVID-19 vaccines to better attack the omicron variant, but Fauci said Americans should make it a priority to get either their first shots or a booster dose now, rather than waiting for a newly formulated shot.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638206072787.png" alt="President Biden and Dr. Anthony Fauci during Monday's press briefing-White House photo" />
 <figcaption>President Biden and Dr. Anthony Fauci during Monday's press briefing-White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden called the new COVID-19 variant omicron a cause for concern but “not a cause for panic” Monday and said he was not considering any widespread U.S. lockdown. He urged Americans anew to get fully vaccinated, including booster shots, and return to face masks indoors in public settings to slow any spread.<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?516362-1/president-biden-omicron-variant">Click here to watch</a> the President's commentsSpeaking Monday at the White House, Biden said it was inevitable that the new variant would reach the U.S., but he also said the country has the tools necessary to protect Americans — particularly the approved vaccines and booster shots.When omicron arrives, and it will, Biden said, America will “face this new threat just as we’ve faced those that have come before it.”He appealed to the roughly 80 million unvaccinated Americans aged 5 and up to get their shots, and for the rest of the country to seek out booster shots six months after their second dose. He also encouraged everyone to get back to wearing face masks in all indoor public settings — a pandemic precaution that has fallen out of use across much of the country.Biden was joined by Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert and the president’s COVID-19 adviser, who said earlier Monday that scientists hope to know in the next week or two how well the existing COVID-19 vaccines protect against the varian t, and how dangerous it is compared to earlier strains.“We really don’t know,” Fauci told ABC’s “Good Morning America,” calling speculation premature.The new variant poses the latest test to Biden’s efforts to contain the pandemic, mitigate its impacts on the economy and return a sense of normalcy to the U.S. during the holiday season.“This variant is a cause for concern, not a cause for panic,” Biden said.Biden last week moved to restrict travel from South Africa and seven other countries in southern Africa, effective Monday, in a bid to give scientists time to learn more about the new variant, and for more Americans to get vaccinated before it hits the U.S.Some other nations are reinstating severe travel and business lockdowns to prevent the omicron variant from spreading, but Biden indicated the U.S. was not following suit.“If people are vaccinated and wear their mask, there’s no need for lockdowns,” he said.The move to limit most travel from the countries where omicron was first identified was meant to provide time for the U.S to learn more about the variant and to “intensify” the domestic vaccination campaign, Fauci said earlier Monday.“It buys you a couple of weeks because if you can keep things out in force for a couple of weeks you can do a lot of things,” he told “CBS Mornings.”Pharmaceutical companies are already adjusting their existing COVID-19 vaccines to better attack the omicron variant, but Fauci said Americans should make it a priority to get either their first shots or a booster dose now, rather than waiting for a new formulation.“I would strongly suggest you get boosted now,” he said.He added that depending on what scientists learn about the omicron variant in the coming weeks “we may not need” targeted boosters to contain that strain of the virus.Biden said his administration was “sparing no effort at removing all roadblocks to keep the American people safe,” including working with drug manufacturers on potential new boosters and testing targeted specifically at the new variant.Any omicron-specific vaccine probably could not begin to be produced for another two or three months, so getting boosters now is a “very important initial line of defense,” Dr. Paul Burton, chief medical officer for the vaccine-maker Moderna, said Monday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638195321228.png" alt="On Sunday, President Joe Biden met with Dr. Anthony Fauci and other members of his COVID-19 Response Team on the latest developments related to the Omicron variant-White House photo" />
 <figcaption>On Sunday, President Joe Biden met with Dr. Anthony Fauci and other members of his COVID-19 Response Team on the latest developments related to the Omicron variant-White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Burton said Moderna and other vaccine companies are testing existing COVID-19 vaccines to determine how effective they are against the omicron variant.“If we need to manufacture an omicron-specific variant, it’s going to take some weeks, two to three months is probably what we’re looking at to be able to really begin to manufacture,” Burton told ABC.Noting that the new variant, like earlier ones, sprang up overseas in areas with lower vaccination rates, Biden said it was both a moral imperative and in America’s self-interest to speed up global vaccinations. He noted that the U.S. has already donated more than 275 million doses — more than the rest of the world combined — and is on pace to deliver more than 1.1 billion doses globally by September 2022.“Now we need the rest of the world to step up as well,” Biden said. “We can’t let up until the world is vaccinated.”----------WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden is encouraging Americans to get vaccinated and receive a booster shot as he seeks to quell concerns&nbsp; over the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-omicron-variant-covid-restrictions-82e53a7a17d1a4c30031065d389bda37">new COVID-19 variant omicron</a>. Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert and Biden’s leading COVID-19 adviser, said Monday that there were as yet still no cases of the variant identified in the U.S. but that it was “inevitable” that it would make its way into the country eventually.Speaking on ABC’s “Good Morning America,” Fauci said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-new-variant-omicron-explainer-116ef818ac4a8e7bc23bb28d6511ecad">scientists hope to know in the next week or two how well the existing COVID-19 vaccines protect against the varian</a>&nbsp;t, and how dangerous it is compared to earlier strains.“We really don’t know,” Fauci said, calling speculation “premature.”Any omicron-specific vaccine probably could not begin to be produced for another two or three months, so getting boosters now is a “very important initial line of defense,” said Dr. Paul Burton, chief medical officer for the vaccine-maker Moderna, said Monday.Biden is set to speak later Monday about the urgency of getting vaccinated against COVID-19 to protect against variants, especially as roughly 80 million Americans aged 5 and up haven’t yet received a shot. But Biden was not expected to announce any new virus-related restrictions, beyond last week’s move to restrict travel from South Africa and seven other countries in the region, effective Monday.Other nations were also moving to close their borders or reinstate lockdowns amid a host of severe measures to prevent the omicron variant from spreading, but Fauci indicated that the U.S. was not following suit.Asked if more U.S. restrictions were imminent, Fauci said, “I don’t think so at all.” Later, on “CBS Mornings,” he said, “Let’s not be talking about lockdowns.”Fauci said there was no need to panic about the new variant, but “We should be concerned, and our concern should spur us to do the things that we know work,” such as vaccinations.The move to limit most travel from the countries where omicron was first identified was meant to buy time for the U.S to learn more about the variant and to “intensify” the domestic vaccination campaign, Fauci said.“It buys you a couple of weeks because if you can keep things out in force for a couple of weeks you can do a lot of things,” he told CBS.Still, he said omicron would eventually reach the U.S. and could, like the delta variant before it, become the dominant strain, since omicron “has a transmissibility advantage” over other variants.Pharmaceutical companies are already tweaking their existing COVID-19 vaccines to better attack the omicron variant, but Fauci said Americans should make it a priority to get either their first shots or a booster dose now, rather than waiting for a newly formulated shot.“I would strongly suggest you get boosted now,” he said.He added that depending on what scientists learn about the omicron variant in the coming weeks “we may not need” targeted boosters to contain that strain of the virus.Burton said Moderna and other vaccine companies are testing existing COVID-19 vaccines to determine how effective they are against the omicron variant.“If we need to manufacture an omicron-specific variant, it’s going to take some weeks, two to three months is probably what we’re looking at to be able to really begin to manufacture,” Burton told ABC.

🎥Pres. Biden, Dr. Fauci update U.S. response to omicron variant 

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced Janet Stanek as the new Secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE). Stanek will serve in an acting capacity until the Kansas Senate confirms her as the new head of the agency. She had previously served as the Director of the State Employee Health Benefits Program (SEHBP), according to a media release from her office.

“As we move to this next phase of the pandemic, from emergency response to steady state, it was important that we find a Secretary to oversee both the state’s COVID response and the many other services performed by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“With Janet’s decades of experience as well as the relationships she has built across the medical community in Kansas, I have no doubt that she will be able to step into this role immediately and continue the agency’s critical work.”

Prior to her role at SEHBP, Stanek spent more than 35 years in various healthcare leadership positions in Pennsylvania, western New York and Kansas, including 21 years of her career at Stormont Vail Health Topeka where she last served as chief operating officer and senior vice president. While with Stormont Vail, she oversaw a wide array of clinical and non-clinical functions and departments, as well as the strategic selection and rollout of a sophisticated electronic health record system across the region. Her most recent work involved focusing on population health, accountable care organization development and the transition to value-based care delivery.

“I’m honored to be selected by Governor Kelly to serve as the next Secretary for the Kansas Department of Health and Environment,”&nbsp;Stanek said.&nbsp;“Since the start of the pandemic, the agency has done a remarkable job helping lead the state’s response to this once-in-a-century crisis. I look forward to working with the entire KDHE team to build on their outstanding work.”

Stanek holds a graduate certificate in population health from Thomas Jefferson University, an MBA from Alfred University (NY) and a Bachelor of Science degree in health information management from the State University of New York Polytechnic Institute, Utica, New York. She is also a Fellow of &nbsp;the American College of Healthcare Executives and the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society, and is a Registered Health Information Administrator. Additionally, Stanek currently serves as the Chair of the Kansas Health Institute Board of Directors.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638203429600.png" alt="Janet Stanek photo courtesy Kansas Health Institute Board of Directors" />
 <figcaption>Janet Stanek photo courtesy Kansas Health Institute Board of Directors</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced Janet Stanek as the new Secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE). Stanek will serve in an acting capacity until the Kansas Senate confirms her as the new head of the agency. She had previously served as the Director of the State Employee Health Benefits Program (SEHBP), according to a media release from her office.“As we move to this next phase of the pandemic, from emergency response to steady state, it was important that we find a Secretary to oversee both the state’s COVID response and the many other services performed by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“With Janet’s decades of experience as well as the relationships she has built across the medical community in Kansas, I have no doubt that she will be able to step into this role immediately and continue the agency’s critical work.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606994872566.png" alt="Dr. Lee Norman stepped down as the top administrator at the state Department and Health and Environment and as state health officer November 19.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Lee Norman stepped down as the top administrator at the state Department and Health and Environment and as state health officer November 19.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Prior to her role at SEHBP, Stanek spent more than 35 years in various healthcare leadership positions in Pennsylvania, western New York and Kansas, including 21 years of her career at Stormont Vail Health Topeka where she last served as chief operating officer and senior vice president. While with Stormont Vail, she oversaw a wide array of clinical and non-clinical functions and departments, as well as the strategic selection and rollout of a sophisticated electronic health record system across the region. Her most recent work involved focusing on population health, accountable care organization development and the transition to value-based care delivery.“I’m honored to be selected by Governor Kelly to serve as the next Secretary for the Kansas Department of Health and Environment,”&nbsp;Stanek said.&nbsp;“Since the start of the pandemic, the agency has done a remarkable job helping lead the state’s response to this once-in-a-century crisis. I look forward to working with the entire KDHE team to build on their outstanding work.”Stanek holds a graduate certificate in population health from Thomas Jefferson University, an MBA from Alfred University (NY) and a Bachelor of Science degree in health information management from the State University of New York Polytechnic Institute, Utica, New York. She is also a Fellow of &nbsp;the American College of Healthcare Executives and the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society, and is a Registered Health Information Administrator. Additionally, Stanek currently serves as the Chair of the Kansas Health Institute Board of Directors.

Gov. names replacement for Dr. Lee Norman to lead KDHE

WASHINGTON — Kicking off a special week, the Internal Revenue Service and the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/security-summit">Security Summit</a>
 partners today warned taxpayers and tax professionals to beware of a 
dangerous combination of events that can increase their exposure to tax 
scams or identity theft.

The combination of the holiday shopping season, the upcoming tax 
season and the pandemic create additional opportunities for criminals to
 steal sensitive personal or finance information. People should take 
extra care while shopping online or viewing emails and texts.

The IRS, state tax agencies and the nation's tax industry – working 
together as the Security Summit – mark today's start of the 6th annual 
National Tax Security Awareness Week with tips on basic safeguards 
everyone should take. These can help protect against identity theft as 
well as help safeguard sensitive tax information that criminals can use 
to try filing fake tax returns and obtaining refunds.

"Don't let this be the most wonderful time of the year for identity 
thieves," said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. "The approach of the 
holidays and tax season increases risk for taxpayers and opportunities 
for criminals. We urge people to be extra careful with their personal 
and financial information during this period while shopping online or 
getting suspicious emails or text. Taking a few simple steps can keep 
people from becoming victims of identity theft and protect their 
sensitive personal information needed for tax returns and refunds."

Since 2015, the IRS and Security Summit partners have taken important
 steps to protect taxpayers and the nation's tax professionals from 
tax-related identity theft. But progress in this area led identity 
thieves to evolve their tactics, trying to obtain sensitive information 
from taxpayers and tax professionals to help prepare fraudulent tax 
returns. Taxpayers can help in this fight by protecting their financial 
and tax information. Summit partners continue to highlight safety steps 
in the "Taxes.Security.Together" effort.

As part of that effort, National Tax Security Awareness Week is 
designed to help share information with taxpayers and tax professionals 
during this critical period. The special week includes special 
informational graphics and social media efforts on platforms including 
Twitter and Instagram through @IRSnews and #TaxSecurity.

A special emphasis for this year on social media will be focusing tax
 security awareness on younger and older Americans. Even if someone 
doesn't file a tax return, their online interactions can lead to scam 
artists obtaining sensitive information and using it to try obtaining a 
refund.

10 key steps to protect sensitive information:

To help taxpayers and tax professionals, the Security Summit offers 
10 basic steps everyone should remember during the holidays and as the 
2022 tax season approaches:

Other common warning signs; additional places for information

The IRS and Summit partners continue to see identity thieves trying 
to look like government agencies and others in the tax community by 
emailing or texting about tax refunds, stimulus payments or other items.
 Remember, the IRS will not call or send unexpected texts or emails 
about things like refunds. More information about these common scams is 
available at <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/common-tax-scams-and-tips-to-help-taxpayers-avoid-them">IRS Tax Tip: Common tax scams and tips to help taxpayers avoid them</a>.

The IRS and Security Summit partners are sharing YouTube videos on 
security steps for taxpayers. The videos can be viewed or downloaded at <a href="https://youtu.be/V3hdiCtKj5s">Easy Steps to Protect Your Computer and Phone</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6JAKqrUNf-0">Here's How to Avoid IRS Text Message Scams</a>.

Employers also can share <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p4524.pdf">Publication 4524, Security Awareness for Taxpayers</a>&nbsp;PDF, with their employees and customers while tax professionals can share with clients.

In addition, the Summit partners remind people these security 
measures include mobile phones – an area that people sometimes can 
overlook. Thieves have become more adept at compromising mobile phones. 
Phone users also are more prone to open a scam email from their phone 
than from their computer.

Taxpayers can check out security recommendations for their specific 
mobile phone by reviewing the Federal Communications Commission's <a href="https://www.fcc.gov/smartphone-security">Smartphone Security Checker</a>.
 Since phones are used for shopping and even for doing taxes, remember 
to make sure phones and tablets are just as secure as computers.

During the pandemic, there continue to be numerous scams related to 
COVID-19. These can be attempts to gain sensitive personal or financial 
information. The Federal Trade Commission also has issued <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/coronavirus/scams-consumer-advice">alerts</a>; consumers can keep atop the latest scam information and report COVID-related scams.

The IRS, state tax agencies, the private sector tax industry, 
including tax professionals, work in partnership as the Security Summit 
to help protect taxpayers from identity theft and refund fraud. This is 
the first in a week-long series of tips to raise awareness about 
identity theft. See <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/security-summit">IRS.gov/securitysummit</a> for more details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRS<h2>IRS YouTube Video:</h2><ul>
 <li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJYQL89qMfI">Security Measures Protect Against Tax-Related Identity Theft</a></li>
 </ul>WASHINGTON — Kicking off a special week, the Internal Revenue Service and the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/security-summit">Security Summit</a>
 partners today warned taxpayers and tax professionals to beware of a 
dangerous combination of events that can increase their exposure to tax 
scams or identity theft.The combination of the holiday shopping season, the upcoming tax 
season and the pandemic create additional opportunities for criminals to
 steal sensitive personal or finance information. People should take 
extra care while shopping online or viewing emails and texts.The IRS, state tax agencies and the nation's tax industry – working 
together as the Security Summit – mark today's start of the 6th annual 
National Tax Security Awareness Week with tips on basic safeguards 
everyone should take. These can help protect against identity theft as 
well as help safeguard sensitive tax information that criminals can use 
to try filing fake tax returns and obtaining refunds."Don't let this be the most wonderful time of the year for identity 
thieves," said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. "The approach of the 
holidays and tax season increases risk for taxpayers and opportunities 
for criminals. We urge people to be extra careful with their personal 
and financial information during this period while shopping online or 
getting suspicious emails or text. Taking a few simple steps can keep 
people from becoming victims of identity theft and protect their 
sensitive personal information needed for tax returns and refunds."Since 2015, the IRS and Security Summit partners have taken important
 steps to protect taxpayers and the nation's tax professionals from 
tax-related identity theft. But progress in this area led identity 
thieves to evolve their tactics, trying to obtain sensitive information 
from taxpayers and tax professionals to help prepare fraudulent tax 
returns. Taxpayers can help in this fight by protecting their financial 
and tax information. Summit partners continue to highlight safety steps 
in the "Taxes.Security.Together" effort.As part of that effort, National Tax Security Awareness Week is 
designed to help share information with taxpayers and tax professionals 
during this critical period. The special week includes special 
informational graphics and social media efforts on platforms including 
Twitter and Instagram through @IRSnews and #TaxSecurity.A special emphasis for this year on social media will be focusing tax
 security awareness on younger and older Americans. Even if someone 
doesn't file a tax return, their online interactions can lead to scam 
artists obtaining sensitive information and using it to try obtaining a 
refund.<h2>10 key steps to protect sensitive information:</h2>To help taxpayers and tax professionals, the Security Summit offers 
10 basic steps everyone should remember during the holidays and as the 
2022 tax season approaches:<ul>
 <li>Don't forget to use security software for computers, tablets and
 mobile phones – and keep it updated. Protect electronic devices of 
family members, especially teens and young children.</li><li>Make sure anti-virus software for computers has a feature to stop 
malware, and there is a firewall enabled that can prevent intrusions.</li><li>Phishing scams – like imposter emails, calls and texts -- are the 
No. 1 way thieves steal personal data. Don't open links or attachments 
on suspicious emails. This year, fraud scams related to COVID-19, 
Economic Impact Payments and other tax law changes are common.</li><li>Use strong and unique passwords for online accounts. Use a phrase 
or series of words that can be easily remembered or use a password 
manager.</li><li>Use multi-factor authentication whenever possible. Many email 
providers and social media sites offer this feature. It helps prevent 
thieves from easily hacking accounts.</li><li>Shop at sites where the web address begins with "https" – the "s" 
is for secure communications over the computer network. Also, look for 
the "padlock" icon in the browser window.</li><li>Don't shop on unsecured public Wi-Fi in places like a mall. Remember, thieves can eavesdrop.</li><li>At home, secure home Wi-Fis with a password. With more homes 
connected to the web, secured systems become more important, from 
wireless printers, wireless door locks to wireless thermometers. These 
can be access points for identity thieves.</li><li>Back up files on computers and mobile phones. A cloud service or an
 external hard drive can be used to copy information from computers or 
phones – providing an important place to recover financial or tax data.</li><li>Working from home? Consider creating a virtual private network (VPN) to securely connect to your workplace.</li>
 </ul><h2>Other common warning signs; additional places for information</h2>The IRS and Summit partners continue to see identity thieves trying 
to look like government agencies and others in the tax community by 
emailing or texting about tax refunds, stimulus payments or other items.
 Remember, the IRS will not call or send unexpected texts or emails 
about things like refunds. More information about these common scams is 
available at <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/common-tax-scams-and-tips-to-help-taxpayers-avoid-them">IRS Tax Tip: Common tax scams and tips to help taxpayers avoid them</a>.The IRS and Security Summit partners are sharing YouTube videos on 
security steps for taxpayers. The videos can be viewed or downloaded at <a href="https://youtu.be/V3hdiCtKj5s">Easy Steps to Protect Your Computer and Phone</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6JAKqrUNf-0">Here's How to Avoid IRS Text Message Scams</a>.Employers also can share <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p4524.pdf">Publication 4524, Security Awareness for Taxpayers</a>&nbsp;PDF, with their employees and customers while tax professionals can share with clients.In addition, the Summit partners remind people these security 
measures include mobile phones – an area that people sometimes can 
overlook. Thieves have become more adept at compromising mobile phones. 
Phone users also are more prone to open a scam email from their phone 
than from their computer.Taxpayers can check out security recommendations for their specific 
mobile phone by reviewing the Federal Communications Commission's <a href="https://www.fcc.gov/smartphone-security">Smartphone Security Checker</a>.
 Since phones are used for shopping and even for doing taxes, remember 
to make sure phones and tablets are just as secure as computers.During the pandemic, there continue to be numerous scams related to 
COVID-19. These can be attempts to gain sensitive personal or financial 
information. The Federal Trade Commission also has issued <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/coronavirus/scams-consumer-advice">alerts</a>; consumers can keep atop the latest scam information and report COVID-related scams.The IRS, state tax agencies, the private sector tax industry, 
including tax professionals, work in partnership as the Security Summit 
to help protect taxpayers from identity theft and refund fraud. This is 
the first in a week-long series of tips to raise awareness about 
identity theft. See <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/security-summit">IRS.gov/securitysummit</a> for more details.

Taxpayer alert for holidays, tax season: Watch out for scams, protect financial information

By
NICK GOSNELL<a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch
Post</a>


HUTCHINSON — 
Democratic Rep. and House Assistant Minority Leader Jason Probst sees 
the continuing issues with fellow Democratic Rep. Aaron Coleman as 
serious enough that he should step down. Coleman has been arrested twice
 this fall, the latest on alleged DUI over the weekend.

"The best 
option would be for him to recognize that he is struggling," Probst said
 Monday. "It's very apparent to everyone around him that he has some 
mental health needs. A judge in a previous case had indicated that he 
needs mental health help. The best option would be for him to resign, 
get that help that he needs, develop the tools that he needs to manage 
himself better and the legislature is not an environment that's 
conducive to that."

Probst thinks there may be additional appetite for the members of the House to vote him out that wasn't there before.

"I
 think there's more of an appetite now than there was previously," 
Probst said. "We did file an attempt to use the process in the 
legislature to expel him. That committee met and made some 
recommendations, including securing mental health treatment. It was 
pretty toothless at the time, but, then again, most of what had happened
 up to that point had occurred before he was elected to the legislature.
 Now that we've had several incidents that have arisen, since he's been a
 member of the legislature, I think there's maybe a renewed call and 
maybe a renewed appetite to address that further."

The key that 
makes Coleman's incidents different than the DUI charges that have come 
against other members during their tenures is that this isn't a one-time
 single issue.

"What we see with Rep. Coleman is a pattern," 
Probst said. "I think you could look at some of the other cases and say 
they might be, you know, there might be a case where there was a one-off
 case or something like that. Certainly, with this individual, we're 
seeing a repeated pattern over and over and over again that doesn't seem
 to be changing at all."

Online records indicate that the 
21-year-old Coleman, who represents the state's 37th District in Kansas 
City, Kansas was jailed briefly Saturday in Douglas County for DUI.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600960659626.jpeg" alt="Jason Probst" />
 <figcaption>Jason Probst</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL<a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch
Post</a> 
HUTCHINSON — 
Democratic Rep. and House Assistant Minority Leader Jason Probst sees 
the continuing issues with fellow Democratic Rep. Aaron Coleman as 
serious enough that he should step down. Coleman has been arrested twice
 this fall, the latest on alleged DUI over the weekend."The best 
option would be for him to recognize that he is struggling," Probst said
 Monday. "It's very apparent to everyone around him that he has some 
mental health needs. A judge in a previous case had indicated that he 
needs mental health help. The best option would be for him to resign, 
get that help that he needs, develop the tools that he needs to manage 
himself better and the legislature is not an environment that's 
conducive to that."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635804497310.png" alt="Coleman" />
 <figcaption>Coleman</figcaption>
 </figure>Probst thinks there may be additional appetite for the members of the House to vote him out that wasn't there before."I
 think there's more of an appetite now than there was previously," 
Probst said. "We did file an attempt to use the process in the 
legislature to expel him. That committee met and made some 
recommendations, including securing mental health treatment. It was 
pretty toothless at the time, but, then again, most of what had happened
 up to that point had occurred before he was elected to the legislature.
 Now that we've had several incidents that have arisen, since he's been a
 member of the legislature, I think there's maybe a renewed call and 
maybe a renewed appetite to address that further."The key that 
makes Coleman's incidents different than the DUI charges that have come 
against other members during their tenures is that this isn't a one-time
 single issue."What we see with Rep. Coleman is a pattern," 
Probst said. "I think you could look at some of the other cases and say 
they might be, you know, there might be a case where there was a one-off
 case or something like that. Certainly, with this individual, we're 
seeing a repeated pattern over and over and over again that doesn't seem
 to be changing at all."Online records indicate that the 
21-year-old Coleman, who represents the state's 37th District in Kansas 
City, Kansas was jailed briefly Saturday in Douglas County for DUI.

Hutch Dem: Coleman should step down, may be appetite for removal

NEW YORK (AP) — With an expanded definition to reflect the times, Merriam-Webster has declared an omnipresent truth as its 2021 word of the year: vaccine.

“This was a word that was extremely high in our data every single day in 2021,” Peter Sokolowski, Merriam-Webster's editor-at-large, told The Associated Press ahead of Monday's announcement.

“It really represents two different stories. One is the science story, which is this remarkable speed with which the vaccines were developed. But there's also the debates regarding policy, politics and political affiliation. It's one word that carries these two huge stories,” he said.

The selection follows “vax” as word of the year from the folks who publish the Oxford English Dictionary. And it comes after Merriam-Webster chose “pandemic” as tops in lookups last year on its online site.

“The pandemic was the gun going off and now we have the aftereffects,” Sokolowski said.

At Merriam-Webster, lookups for “vaccine” increased 601% over 2020, when the first U.S. shot was administered in New York in December after quick development, and months of speculation and discussion over efficacy. The world's first jab occurred earlier that month in the UK.

NEW YORK (AP) — With an expanded definition to reflect the times, Merriam-Webster has declared an omnipresent truth as its 2021 word of the year: vaccine.“This was a word that was extremely high in our data every single day in 2021,” Peter Sokolowski, Merriam-Webster's editor-at-large, told The Associated Press ahead of Monday's announcement.“It really represents two different stories. One is the science story, which is this remarkable speed with which the vaccines were developed. But there's also the debates regarding policy, politics and political affiliation. It's one word that carries these two huge stories,” he said.The selection follows “vax” as word of the year from the folks who publish the Oxford English Dictionary. And it comes after Merriam-Webster chose “pandemic” as tops in lookups last year on its online site.“The pandemic was the gun going off and now we have the aftereffects,” Sokolowski said.At Merriam-Webster, lookups for “vaccine” increased 601% over 2020, when the first U.S. shot was administered in New York in December after quick development, and months of speculation and discussion over efficacy. The world's first jab occurred earlier that month in the UK.Compared to 2019, when there was little urgency or chatter about vaccines, Merriam-Webster logged an increase of 1,048% in lookups this year. Debates over inequitable distribution, vaccine mandates and boosters kept interest high, Sokolowski said. So did vaccine hesitancy and friction over vaccine passports.The word “vaccine” wasn't birthed in a day, or due to a single pandemic. The first known use stretches back to 1882 but references pop up earlier related to fluid from cowpox pustules used in inoculations, Sokolowski said. It was borrowed from the New Latin “vaccina,” which goes back to Latin's feminine “vaccinus,” meaning “of or from a cow.” The Latin for cow is “vacca,” a word that might be akin to the Sanskrit “vasa," according to Merriam-Webster.Inoculation, on the other hand, dates to 1714, in one sense referring to the act of injecting an “inoculum.”Earlier this year, Merriam-Webster added to its online entry for “vaccine” to cover all the talk of mRNA vaccines, or messenger vaccines such as those for COVID-19 developed by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna.While other dictionary companies choose words of the year by committee, Merriam-Webster bases its selection on lookup data, paying close attention to spikes and, more recently, year-over-year increases in searches after weeding out evergreens. The company has been declaring a word of the year since 2008. Among its runners-up in the word biography of 2021:INSURRECTION: Interest was driven by the deadly Jan. 6 siege on the U.S. Capitol. Arrests continue, as do congressional hearings over the attack by supporters of President Donald Trump. Some of Trump’s allies have resisted subpoenas, including Steve Bannon.Searches for the word increased by 61,000% over 2020, Sokolowksi said.INFRASTRUCTURE: President Joe Biden was able to deliver what Trump often spoke of but never achieved: A bipartisan infrastructure bill signed into law. When Biden proposed help with broadband access, eldercare and preschool, conversation changed from not only roads and bridges but “figurative infrastructure,” Sokolowski said.“Many people asked, what is infrastructure if it’s not made out of steel or concrete? Infrastructure, in Latin, means underneath the structure,” he said.PERSEVERANCE: It's the name of NASA's latest Mars rover. It landed Feb. 18, 2021. “Perseverance is the most sophisticated rover NASA has ever sent to the Red Planet, with a name that embodies NASA’s passion, and our nation’s capability, to take on and overcome challenges,” the space agency said.The name was thought up by Alexander Mather, a 14-year-old seventh-grader at Lake Braddock Secondary School in Burke, Virginia. He participated in an essay contest organized by NASA. He was one of 28,000 K-12 students to submit entries.NOMAD: The word had its moment with the 2020 release of the film “Nomadland.” It went on to win three Oscars in April 2021, including best picture, director (Chloé Zhao) and actress (Frances McDormand). Zhao became the first woman of color to win best director.The AP's film writer Jake Coyle called the indie success “a plain-spoken meditation on solitude, grief and grit. He wrote that it “struck a chord in a pandemic-ravaged year. It made for an unlikely Oscar champ: A film about people who gravitate to the margins took center stage."Other words in Merriam-Webster's Top 10: Cicada (we had an invasion), guardian (the Cleveland Indians became the Cleveland Guardians), meta (the lofty new name of Facebook's parent company), cisgender (a gender identity that corresponds to one's sex assigned at birth), woke (charged with politics and political correctness) and murraya (a tropical tree and the word that won the 2021 Scripps National Spelling Bee for 14-year-old Zaila Avant-garde).___