WICHITA —As the COVID-19 pandemic continues and new variants of the virus emerge, Ascension continues to focus on ensuring associates are protected – for the safety of patients and visitors, our associates, our families and loved ones, and the community, according to a media release from the healthcare organization with locations across Kansas.

Like many health systems across the country, we are moving to require our associates to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Ascension conducted a thorough moral and ethical analysis as part of the decision-making process. This decision is rooted in our Mission commitment to leading with quality and safety. As a healthcare provider and as a Catholic ministry, ensuring we have a culture of safety for our associates, patients and communities is foundational to our work.

Tens of thousands of Ascension associates have already been vaccinated with the available vaccines, as have millions of people across the country and the world. But we must do more to overcome this pandemic as we provide safe environments for those we serve.

Ascension will require that all associates be vaccinated against COVID-19, whether or not they provide direct patient care, and whether they work in our sites of care or remotely. This includes associates employed by subsidiaries and partners; physicians and advanced practice providers, whether employed or independent; and volunteers and vendors entering Ascension facilities.

Our timeline for completing the vaccine series and meeting this requirement will be Nov. 12, 2021. This timing is aligned with Ascension’s annual influenza vaccination requirement and we will follow a similar implementation process. In those instances when someone may not be able to get vaccinated due to a medical condition or strongly held religious belief, Ascension will provide a process for requesting an exemption similar to the process we use for the annual influenza vaccine. In addition, this requirement will be implemented in accordance with collective bargaining agreements reached between Ascension business entities and unions representing our associates.

Together, we will put this pandemic behind us so that we can continue to focus on meeting the needs of those who come to us for care.

WICHITA —As the COVID-19 pandemic continues and new variants of the virus emerge, Ascension continues to focus on ensuring associates are protected – for the safety of patients and visitors, our associates, our families and loved ones, and the community, according to a media release from the healthcare organization with locations across Kansas.Like many health systems across the country, we are moving to require our associates to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Ascension conducted a thorough moral and ethical analysis as part of the decision-making process. This decision is rooted in our Mission commitment to leading with quality and safety. As a healthcare provider and as a Catholic ministry, ensuring we have a culture of safety for our associates, patients and communities is foundational to our work.Tens of thousands of Ascension associates have already been vaccinated with the available vaccines, as have millions of people across the country and the world. But we must do more to overcome this pandemic as we provide safe environments for those we serve.Ascension will require that all associates be vaccinated against COVID-19, whether or not they provide direct patient care, and whether they work in our sites of care or remotely. This includes associates employed by subsidiaries and partners; physicians and advanced practice providers, whether employed or independent; and volunteers and vendors entering Ascension facilities.Our timeline for completing the vaccine series and meeting this requirement will be Nov. 12, 2021. This timing is aligned with Ascension’s annual influenza vaccination requirement and we will follow a similar implementation process. In those instances when someone may not be able to get vaccinated due to a medical condition or strongly held religious belief, Ascension will provide a process for requesting an exemption similar to the process we use for the annual influenza vaccine. In addition, this requirement will be implemented in accordance with collective bargaining agreements reached between Ascension business entities and unions representing our associates.Together, we will put this pandemic behind us so that we can continue to focus on meeting the needs of those who come to us for care.

Ascension sets vaccination deadline for employees, vendors

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 2177 to a total of 330,932, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

The state reported 4 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 5247.

<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.

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 2177 to a total of 330,932, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;The state reported 4 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 5247.<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.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627492464818.png" alt="Wednesday July 28, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday July 28, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

MORRIS COUNTY—Two people died in an accident just after 12:30 a.m. Wednesday in Morris County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Yamaha motorcycle was traveling northeast on Dam Road one mile north of Council Grove.

The driver failed to negotiate the curb where the road curves to the left. The motorcycle struck a guard rail. The driver and passenger were ejected.&nbsp;&nbsp;Max Hamilton Byram, 28, and Jordan Patricia Leeann Kelly, 20, both of Council Grove, were pronounced dead at the scene and transported to&nbsp;Swayer Funeral Home. 

They were not wearing helmets, according to the KHP. The agency was not sure who was driving the motorcycle.

MORRIS COUNTY—Two people died in an accident just after 12:30 a.m. Wednesday in Morris County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Yamaha motorcycle was traveling northeast on Dam Road one mile north of Council Grove.The driver failed to negotiate the curb where the road curves to the left. The motorcycle struck a guard rail. The driver and passenger were ejected.&nbsp;&nbsp;Max Hamilton Byram, 28, and Jordan Patricia Leeann Kelly, 20, both of Council Grove, were pronounced dead at the scene and transported to&nbsp;Swayer Funeral Home. They were not wearing helmets, according to the KHP. The agency was not sure who was driving the motorcycle.

Kan. man, woman dead after motorcycle crash

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) — Four people killed last week in a Springfield house fire were a mother and her four children, fire officials said.

The Springfield Fire Department identified the victims in a news release as 40-year-old Marlana Young, 13-year-old Nevaeh Young, 11-year-old Rayden Young, and 6-year-old Samantha Young.

Fire crews were called to the blaze early Friday morning and learned several people were inside the home. Firefighters pulled the four from the burning home and rushed them in critical condition to a Springfield hospital, where Marlana Young and Samantha died shortly after arriving.

The two other children died a day later from their injuries, officials said.

Investigators are still trying to determine how the fire started.

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) — Four people — including three children — have died from injuries received in a house fire at Springfield, officials there said.

Crews were called to the fire early Friday morning and learned that several people were inside the home, the Springfield Fire Department said in a news release. Arriving firefighters pulled a 40-year-old woman and three children — a 13-year-old girl, 11-year-old boy and 6-year-old girl — from the burning home and rushed them in critical condition to a Springfield hospital, where the woman and 6-year-old died shortly after arriving.

Fire officials said Sunday that the 13-year-old and 11-year-old had later died a day later from their injuries.

Authorities have not released their names or said how the fire started.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627311521881.png" alt="Fire officials said Sunday that the 13-year-old and 11-year-old had died a day later from their injuries.-photo courtesy KYTV" />
 <figcaption>Fire officials said Sunday that the 13-year-old and 11-year-old had died a day later from their injuries.-photo courtesy KYTV</figcaption>
 </figure>SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) — Four people killed last week in a Springfield house fire were a mother and her four children, fire officials said.The Springfield Fire Department identified the victims in a news release as 40-year-old Marlana Young, 13-year-old Nevaeh Young, 11-year-old Rayden Young, and 6-year-old Samantha Young.Fire crews were called to the blaze early Friday morning and learned several people were inside the home. Firefighters pulled the four from the burning home and rushed them in critical condition to a Springfield hospital, where Marlana Young and Samantha died shortly after arriving.The two other children died a day later from their injuries, officials said.Investigators are still trying to determine how the fire started.--------SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) — Four people — including three children — have died from injuries received in a house fire at Springfield, officials there said.Crews were called to the fire early Friday morning and learned that several people were inside the home, the Springfield Fire Department said in a news release. Arriving firefighters pulled a 40-year-old woman and three children — a 13-year-old girl, 11-year-old boy and 6-year-old girl — from the burning home and rushed them in critical condition to a Springfield hospital, where the woman and 6-year-old died shortly after arriving.Fire officials said Sunday that the 13-year-old and 11-year-old had later died a day later from their injuries.Authorities have not released their names or said how the fire started.

Officials ID 3 children, mother killed in house fire

KANSAS CITY (AP)—McCormick is voluntarily recalling some seasonings due to<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/voluntary-recall-notice-mccormick-italian-seasoning-products-and-franks-redhot-buffalo-ranch#recall-announcement"> possible salmonella contamination. </a>

The company said this week that it’s recalling McCormick Perfect Pinch Italian Seasoning, McCormick Culinary Italian Seasoning and Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Ranch Seasoning. No illnesses have been reported to date in relation to the recalled products. 

McCormick said that the potential risk was brought to its attention by the Food and Drug Administration during routine testing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627480869640.png" alt="The product was shipped to Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and 30 other states-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The product was shipped to Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and 30 other states-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP)—McCormick is voluntarily recalling some seasonings due to<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/voluntary-recall-notice-mccormick-italian-seasoning-products-and-franks-redhot-buffalo-ranch#recall-announcement"> possible salmonella contamination. </a>The company said this week that it’s recalling McCormick Perfect Pinch Italian Seasoning, McCormick Culinary Italian Seasoning and Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Ranch Seasoning. No illnesses have been reported to date in relation to the recalled products. McCormick said that the potential risk was brought to its attention by the Food and Drug Administration during routine testing.

McCormick recalls some seasonings due to salmonella concern

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Officials in two major Kansas health care systems on Tuesday urged people to resume wearing masks indoors even if they’ve been vaccinated against COVID-19 because of the faster spreading delta variant.

The comments from administrator-doctors at Stormont Vail Health in northeastern Kansas and the University of Kansas Health System came just before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-coronavirus-pandemic-79959d313428d98ab8aa905bbe287ba0">the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended</a>&nbsp;that even vaccinated people wear masks indoors in places where the coronavirus is surging. Their comments also came the day after the board of education in one of Kansas’ largest public school districts approved a mandate for elementary students to wear masks when classes resume in mid-August.

Republican U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall of Kansas immediately criticized the CDC’s new guidance, suggesting it would cause more people to hesitate to get vaccinated. Marshall, an obstetrician and not an epidemiologist, also argued that the CDC’s change in guidance was unnecessary.

Kansas has seen its daily average for new COVID-19 cases increase for nearly five weeks because of the delta variant and the state’s low vaccination rate, to numbers last seen in mid-February. State data showed that Kansas averaged 653 new cases a day for the seven days ending Monday. While that’s a fraction of the worst peak in mid-November, it’s more than six times the average of 96 new cases per day for the seven days that ended June 23.

“First, we have to ask those who are unvaccinated to get vaccinated,” Dr. Steve Stites, chief medical officer for the University of Kansas system, said during a daily webcast. “But second, we all need to say to each other, ‘We all need to put our masks back on until we can get you vaccinated.’”

Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly said in a statement that her administration is reviewing the new CDC guidance and “we don’t intend to stop” following its recommendations. She also called for more people to get vaccinated.

The University of Kansas system reported that it had 60 people hospitalized Tuesday at its main Kansas City, Kansas, hospital, compared to only two at one point in March. Stormont Vail reported Tuesday that of its 133 positive COVID-19 tests over seven days, all but 17 of them — or 87% — were in unvaccinated people.

“Both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals need to take precautions. It’s time to return to wearing masks, practice social distancing, and avoid crowded places,” Dr. Robert Kenagy, Stormont Vail’s president and CEO, said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the Shawnee Mission school board in the Kansas City area voted 6-1 on Monday night to require masks in elementary schools but keep them optional in middle and high schools, where children are old enough to get vaccinated,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/education/article253036358.html" target="_blank">The Kansas City Star reported.</a>&nbsp;The district has about 26,000 students and is the state’s third largest, behind Wichita and Olathe.

<a href="https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#vaccinations" target="_blank">The CDC reported</a>&nbsp;that 45% of Kansas’ population — or 1.3 million of its 2.9 million residents — were fully vaccinated as of Tuesday. But no vaccine has been authorized for children under age 12.

In Kansas, confirmed cases of the delta variant have been doubling every two weeks, with the state health department reporting 1,338 as of Monday.

New cases began rising after top Republicans in the GOP-controlled Legislature in mid-June&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-and-politics-ks-state-wire-kansas-coronavirus-pandemic-health-7302d46eef675734fe1343f2640236f9">ended a state of emergency</a>&nbsp;for the coronavirus pandemic. Kelly had wanted to keep it in place at least through August.

Republican state lawmakers also forced Kelly to accept limits on her power and the power of local officials to impose pandemic restrictions. Earlier this month, District Judge David Hauber in Johnson County&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-government-and-politics-coronavirus-pandemic-kansas-2817bd3686e752155c9667d5013c809a">struck down</a>&nbsp;those limits and a new law that would have required unusually speedy decisions in lawsuits challenging pandemic restrictions.

Hauber on Tuesday rejected a request from Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt that the judge not have his order take effect while Schmidt appeals it. Schmidt, a Republican, is running for governor next year.

Kansas Republicans became increasingly hostile to mask mandates as the pandemic continued, particularly when new case numbers declined. Marshall earlier this month co-sponsored a bill to prevent federal agencies from imposing mask mandates for public transportation, a measure that remains in committee.

Marshall said vaccinations and natural immunity from COVID-19 infections “provide exceptional defense” against the delta variant and other variants.

“Science shows us there is no reason to panic,” Marshall said.

Updated 9:40 a.m. Wednesday to correct the Kansas population.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627470760688.png" alt="CDC Map Color-coded map shows where you need to wear a mask again, according to new CDC guidelines The Red area is high level of COVID transmission" />
 <figcaption>CDC Map Color-coded map shows where you need to wear a mask again, according to new CDC guidelines The Red area is high level of COVID transmission</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Officials in two major Kansas health care systems on Tuesday urged people to resume wearing masks indoors even if they’ve been vaccinated against COVID-19 because of the faster spreading delta variant.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Governor Laura Kelly&#39;s statement addressing the updated CDC guidance: <a href="https://t.co/tWZ2iON2Qb">pic.twitter.com/tWZ2iON2Qb</a>&mdash; Governor Laura Kelly (@GovLauraKelly) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovLauraKelly/status/1420125819545006080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The comments from administrator-doctors at Stormont Vail Health in northeastern Kansas and the University of Kansas Health System came just before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-coronavirus-pandemic-79959d313428d98ab8aa905bbe287ba0">the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended</a>&nbsp;that even vaccinated people wear masks indoors in places where the coronavirus is surging. Their comments also came the day after the board of education in one of Kansas’ largest public school districts approved a mandate for elementary students to wear masks when classes resume in mid-August.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Sen. <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RogerMarshallMD</a>: “This is a time to believe in science, not anxiety or panic. Today’s inconsistent CDC guidance will only lead to more vaccine hesitancy. The science does not support a new mask mandate if you’ve been vaccinated or if you’ve had the virus.&quot; <a href="https://twitter.com/KWCH12?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KWCH12</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/wibw?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@wibw</a>&mdash; Alana Austin (@alana_austin) <a href="https://twitter.com/alana_austin/status/1420115343788421128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Republican U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall of Kansas immediately criticized the CDC’s new guidance, suggesting it would cause more people to hesitate to get vaccinated. Marshall, an obstetrician and not an epidemiologist, also argued that the CDC’s change in guidance was unnecessary.Kansas has seen its daily average for new COVID-19 cases increase for nearly five weeks because of the delta variant and the state’s low vaccination rate, to numbers last seen in mid-February. State data showed that Kansas averaged 653 new cases a day for the seven days ending Monday. While that’s a fraction of the worst peak in mid-November, it’s more than six times the average of 96 new cases per day for the seven days that ended June 23.“First, we have to ask those who are unvaccinated to get vaccinated,” Dr. Steve Stites, chief medical officer for the University of Kansas system, said during a daily webcast. “But second, we all need to say to each other, ‘We all need to put our masks back on until we can get you vaccinated.’”Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly said in a statement that her administration is reviewing the new CDC guidance and “we don’t intend to stop” following its recommendations. She also called for more people to get vaccinated.The University of Kansas system reported that it had 60 people hospitalized Tuesday at its main Kansas City, Kansas, hospital, compared to only two at one point in March. Stormont Vail reported Tuesday that of its 133 positive COVID-19 tests over seven days, all but 17 of them — or 87% — were in unvaccinated people.“Both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals need to take precautions. It’s time to return to wearing masks, practice social distancing, and avoid crowded places,” Dr. Robert Kenagy, Stormont Vail’s president and CEO, said in a statement.Meanwhile, the Shawnee Mission school board in the Kansas City area voted 6-1 on Monday night to require masks in elementary schools but keep them optional in middle and high schools, where children are old enough to get vaccinated,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/education/article253036358.html" target="_blank">The Kansas City Star reported.</a>&nbsp;The district has about 26,000 students and is the state’s third largest, behind Wichita and Olathe.<a href="https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#vaccinations" target="_blank">The CDC reported</a>&nbsp;that 45% of Kansas’ population — or 1.3 million of its 2.9 million residents — were fully vaccinated as of Tuesday. But no vaccine has been authorized for children under age 12.In Kansas, confirmed cases of the delta variant have been doubling every two weeks, with the state health department reporting 1,338 as of Monday.New cases began rising after top Republicans in the GOP-controlled Legislature in mid-June&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-and-politics-ks-state-wire-kansas-coronavirus-pandemic-health-7302d46eef675734fe1343f2640236f9">ended a state of emergency</a>&nbsp;for the coronavirus pandemic. Kelly had wanted to keep it in place at least through August.Republican state lawmakers also forced Kelly to accept limits on her power and the power of local officials to impose pandemic restrictions. Earlier this month, District Judge David Hauber in Johnson County&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-government-and-politics-coronavirus-pandemic-kansas-2817bd3686e752155c9667d5013c809a">struck down</a>&nbsp;those limits and a new law that would have required unusually speedy decisions in lawsuits challenging pandemic restrictions.Hauber on Tuesday rejected a request from Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt that the judge not have his order take effect while Schmidt appeals it. Schmidt, a Republican, is running for governor next year.Kansas Republicans became increasingly hostile to mask mandates as the pandemic continued, particularly when new case numbers declined. Marshall earlier this month co-sponsored a bill to prevent federal agencies from imposing mask mandates for public transportation, a measure that remains in committee.Marshall said vaccinations and natural immunity from COVID-19 infections “provide exceptional defense” against the delta variant and other variants.“Science shows us there is no reason to panic,” Marshall said.Updated 9:40 a.m. Wednesday to correct the Kansas population.

Governor, Kan. health systems urge return to masks 

RENO COUNTY —A Kansas man was injured in an accident during a sewer line project in Hutchinson.

Just before 5p.m. Tuesday, fire crews were dispatched for a trench rescue incident at 1707 East Blanchard Avenue in Hutchinson, according to Fire Chief Steven Beer.

First arriving fire units found a 24-year-old male buried up to his waist in a 12’x12’x8’ deep hole that had collapsed on him.

He was buried in a wet slurry mix and was unable to extricate himself. Fire crews immediately requested mutual aid from Newton and Sedgwick County Fire Departments due to the high heat and labor-intensive operations.

The man was in the hole replacing a 4-inch sewer line when the collapse occurred. It took fire crews 3 hours and 12 minutes to safely extricate him from the hole. No other injuries occurred.

Fire crews battled a low ground water table which in turn had created a large amount of water seeping into the collapsed hole. Fire crews worked in 30-minute shifts, were then rehydrated, and placed back in the work rotation to keep crews fresh. Once extricated, the individual was transported by Reno County EMS to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, according to Beer. Authorities did have have an update on his condition early Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627435930452.jpeg" alt="The man was buried in a wet slurry mix and was unable to extricate himself. -photo Hutchinson Fire Dept." />
 <figcaption>The man was buried in a wet slurry mix and was unable to extricate himself. -photo Hutchinson Fire Dept.</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY —A Kansas man was injured in an accident during a sewer line project in Hutchinson.Just before 5p.m. Tuesday, fire crews were dispatched for a trench rescue incident at 1707 East Blanchard Avenue in Hutchinson, according to Fire Chief Steven Beer.First arriving fire units found a 24-year-old male buried up to his waist in a 12’x12’x8’ deep hole that had collapsed on him.He was buried in a wet slurry mix and was unable to extricate himself. Fire crews immediately requested mutual aid from Newton and Sedgwick County Fire Departments due to the high heat and labor-intensive operations.The man was in the hole replacing a 4-inch sewer line when the collapse occurred. It took fire crews 3 hours and 12 minutes to safely extricate him from the hole. No other injuries occurred.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627436057484.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Fire crews battled a low ground water table which in turn had created a large amount of water seeping into the collapsed hole. Fire crews worked in 30-minute shifts, were then rehydrated, and placed back in the work rotation to keep crews fresh. Once extricated, the individual was transported by Reno County EMS to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, according to Beer. Authorities did have have an update on his condition early Wednesday.

Rescue crews free man from hole in Hutchinson

WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House is strongly considering requiring federal employees to show proof they’ve been vaccinated against the coronavirus or otherwise submit to regular testing and wear a mask — a potentially major shift in policy that reflects growing concerns about the spread of the more infectious delta variant.

The possible vaccine mandate for federal employees — regardless of the rate of transmission in their area — is one option under consideration by the Biden administration, according to a person familiar with the plans who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss deliberations that have yet to be made public. The White House is expected to announce its final decision after completing a policy review this week.

According to an analysis from the federal Office of Management and Budget, in 2020 there were more than 4.2 million federal workers nationwide, including those in the military.

President Joe Biden suggested Tuesday that expanding that mandate to the entire federal workforce was “under consideration,” but offered no further details. The Department of Veterans Affairs on Monday became the first federal agency to require vaccinations, for its health workers.

The broader requirement under consideration would be the most significant shift by the Biden administration this week as the White House grapples with a surge in coronavirus cases and hospitalizations nationwide driven by the spread of the delta variant and breakthrough infections among vaccinated Americans.

On Tuesday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reversed its masking guidelines and said that all Americans living in areas with substantial or high coronavirus transmission rates should wear masks indoors, regardless of their vaccination status.

And just like that, masks were back at the White House.

By Tuesday afternoon, when the latest CDC data found that Washington, D.C., is facing substantial rates of transmission, White House staff were asked to begin wearing masks indoors starting Wednesday. Press were asked to follow suit, and those staff and reporters remaining in the White House were already masking up.

An aide for Vice President Kamala Harris passed out masks to the reporters covering her events earlier that day, asking them to put them on before walking in to her meeting with Native American leaders on voting rights.

Masks will also be required again at the U.S. House.

Citing the new CDC guidance, the Capitol’s Attending Physician Brian P. Monahan issued a memo late Tuesday reinstating the mask requirement for all individuals, vaccinated and not, when entering the House chamber or other interior spaces in the complex when others are present. Fines that had been established under previous House rules can be imposed for offenders, though exceptions will be allowed when lawmakers are recognized to speak during proceedings.

For the Senate, with far fewer members, the masks are being recommended but not required for the chamber and other indoor spaces.

“All individuals should wear a well-fitted, medical-grade filtration mask,” Monahan wrote in a similar letter obtained by The Associated Press.

Biden dismissed concerns that the new masking guidance from the CDC could create confusion among Americans, saying those who remain unvaccinated are the ones who are “sowing enormous confusion.”

“The more we learn, the more we learn about this virus and the delta variation, the more we have to be worried and concerned. And there’s only one thing we know for sure — if those other 100 million people got vaccinated, we’d be in a very different world,” he told reporters after speaking to intelligence community employees at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence on Tuesday.

But the whiplash on masking and vaccinations — just the day before, White House press secretary Jen Psaki had avoided questions over why the administration had yet to require vaccines for federal workers — reflects the uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus.

Various state and local governments, private companies, hospital administrators and universities across the nation have reverted to indoor mask mandates and instituted vaccine mandates in recent months, but just 60% of American adults have been completely vaccinated, and the latest wave of the coronavirus is hitting those communities with low vaccination rates particularly hard. The nation is averaging more than 57,000 cases a day and 24,000 COVID-19 hospitalizations.

But the Biden administration had thus far avoided embracing a vaccine mandate for its own employees — in part because officials are wary of further politicizing an already fraught issue by coming down too hard on the side of vaccine mandates.

Psaki acknowledged Tuesday that administration officials are aware of the risk that Biden’s support for vaccine mandates could harden opposition to vaccines among his detractors.

“The president certainly recognizes that he is not always the right voice to every community about the benefits of getting vaccinated, which is why we have invested as much as we have in local voices and empowering local, trusted voices,” she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627469104760.png" alt="President Joe Biden suggested Tuesday that expanding that mandate to the entire federal workforce was “under consideration,” but offered no further details. The Department of Veterans Affairs on Monday became the first federal agency to require vaccinations, for its health workers.-photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>President Joe Biden suggested Tuesday that expanding that mandate to the entire federal workforce was “under consideration,” but offered no further details. The Department of Veterans Affairs on Monday became the first federal agency to require vaccinations, for its health workers.-photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House is strongly considering requiring federal employees to show proof they’ve been vaccinated against the coronavirus or otherwise submit to regular testing and wear a mask — a potentially major shift in policy that reflects growing concerns about the spread of the more infectious delta variant.The possible vaccine mandate for federal employees — regardless of the rate of transmission in their area — is one option under consideration by the Biden administration, according to a person familiar with the plans who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss deliberations that have yet to be made public. The White House is expected to announce its final decision after completing a policy review this week.According to an analysis from the federal Office of Management and Budget, in 2020 there were more than 4.2 million federal workers nationwide, including those in the military.President Joe Biden suggested Tuesday that expanding that mandate to the entire federal workforce was “under consideration,” but offered no further details. The Department of Veterans Affairs on Monday became the first federal agency to require vaccinations, for its health workers.The broader requirement under consideration would be the most significant shift by the Biden administration this week as the White House grapples with a surge in coronavirus cases and hospitalizations nationwide driven by the spread of the delta variant and breakthrough infections among vaccinated Americans.On Tuesday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reversed its masking guidelines and said that all Americans living in areas with substantial or high coronavirus transmission rates should wear masks indoors, regardless of their vaccination status.And just like that, masks were back at the White House.By Tuesday afternoon, when the latest CDC data found that Washington, D.C., is facing substantial rates of transmission, White House staff were asked to begin wearing masks indoors starting Wednesday. Press were asked to follow suit, and those staff and reporters remaining in the White House were already masking up.An aide for Vice President Kamala Harris passed out masks to the reporters covering her events earlier that day, asking them to put them on before walking in to her meeting with Native American leaders on voting rights.Masks will also be required again at the U.S. House.Citing the new CDC guidance, the Capitol’s Attending Physician Brian P. Monahan issued a memo late Tuesday reinstating the mask requirement for all individuals, vaccinated and not, when entering the House chamber or other interior spaces in the complex when others are present. Fines that had been established under previous House rules can be imposed for offenders, though exceptions will be allowed when lawmakers are recognized to speak during proceedings.For the Senate, with far fewer members, the masks are being recommended but not required for the chamber and other indoor spaces.“All individuals should wear a well-fitted, medical-grade filtration mask,” Monahan wrote in a similar letter obtained by The Associated Press.Biden dismissed concerns that the new masking guidance from the CDC could create confusion among Americans, saying those who remain unvaccinated are the ones who are “sowing enormous confusion.”“The more we learn, the more we learn about this virus and the delta variation, the more we have to be worried and concerned. And there’s only one thing we know for sure — if those other 100 million people got vaccinated, we’d be in a very different world,” he told reporters after speaking to intelligence community employees at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence on Tuesday.But the whiplash on masking and vaccinations — just the day before, White House press secretary Jen Psaki had avoided questions over why the administration had yet to require vaccines for federal workers — reflects the uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus.Various state and local governments, private companies, hospital administrators and universities across the nation have reverted to indoor mask mandates and instituted vaccine mandates in recent months, but just 60% of American adults have been completely vaccinated, and the latest wave of the coronavirus is hitting those communities with low vaccination rates particularly hard. The nation is averaging more than 57,000 cases a day and 24,000 COVID-19 hospitalizations.But the Biden administration had thus far avoided embracing a vaccine mandate for its own employees — in part because officials are wary of further politicizing an already fraught issue by coming down too hard on the side of vaccine mandates.Psaki acknowledged Tuesday that administration officials are aware of the risk that Biden’s support for vaccine mandates could harden opposition to vaccines among his detractors.“The president certainly recognizes that he is not always the right voice to every community about the benefits of getting vaccinated, which is why we have invested as much as we have in local voices and empowering local, trusted voices,” she said.

Biden considers vaccine mandate for all federal workers

TOKYO (AP) — Simone Biles will not defend her Olympic title.

The American gymnastics superstar withdrew from Thursday’s all-around competition to focus on her mental well-being.

USA Gymnastics said in a statement on Wednesday that the 24-year-old is opting to not compete. The decision comes a day after Biles removed herself from the team final following one rotation because she felt she wasn’t mentally ready.

Jade Carey, who finished ninth in qualifying, will take Biles’ place in the all-around. Carey initially did not qualify because she was the third-ranking American behind Biles and Sunisa Lee. International Gymnastics Federation rules limit countries to two athletes per event in the finals.

The organization said Biles will be evaluated daily before deciding if she will participate in next week’s individual events. Biles qualified for the finals on all four apparatuses, something she didn’t even do during her five-medal haul in Rio de Janeiro in 2016.

The 24-year-old came to Tokyo as arguably the face of the Games following the retirement of swimmer Michael Phelps and sprinter Usain Bolt. She topped qualifying on Sunday despite piling up mandatory deductions on vault, floor and beam following shaky dismounts.

She posted on social media on Monday that she felt the weight of the world on her shoulders. The weight became too heavy after vaulting during team finals. She lost herself in mid-air and completed 1 1/2 twists instead of 2 1/2. She consulted with U.S. team doctor Marcia Faustin before walking off the field of play.

When she returned, she took off her bar grips, hugged teammates Sunisa Lee, Grace McCallum and Jordan Chiles and turned into the team’s head cheerleader as the U.S. claimed silver behind the Russian Olympic Committee.

“Once I came out here (to compete), I was like, ‘No mental is, not there so I just need to let the girls do it and focus on myself,’” Biles said following the medal ceremony.

The decision opens the door wide open for the all-around, a title that was long considered a foregone conclusion. Rebeca Andrade of Brazil finished second to Biles during qualifying, followed by Lee and Russians Angelina Melnikova and Vladislava Urazova. The four were separated by three-tenths of a point on Sunday.

Carey now finds herself in the final, capping a remarkable journey for the 21-year-old from Phoenix. She spent two years traveling the globe in an effort to pile up enough points on the World Cup circuit to earn an individual nominative spot, meaning she would be in the Olympics but technically not be part of the four-woman U.S. team.

Carey posted the second-best score on vault and the third-best on floor during qualifying, earning trips to the event finals in the process. Now she finds herself competing for an all-around medal while replacing the athlete considered the greatest of all-time in the sport

TOKYO (AP) — Simone Biles will not defend her Olympic title.The American gymnastics superstar withdrew from Thursday’s all-around competition to focus on her mental well-being.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">After further medical evaluation, Simone Biles has withdrawn from the final individual all-around competition. We wholeheartedly support Simone’s decision and applaud her bravery in prioritizing her well-being. Her courage shows, yet again, why she is a role model for so many. <a href="https://t.co/6ILdtSQF7o">pic.twitter.com/6ILdtSQF7o</a>&mdash; USA Gymnastics (@USAGym) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAGym/status/1420266286441922562?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>USA Gymnastics said in a statement on Wednesday that the 24-year-old is opting to not compete. The decision comes a day after Biles removed herself from the team final following one rotation because she felt she wasn’t mentally ready.Jade Carey, who finished ninth in qualifying, will take Biles’ place in the all-around. Carey initially did not qualify because she was the third-ranking American behind Biles and Sunisa Lee. International Gymnastics Federation rules limit countries to two athletes per event in the finals.The organization said Biles will be evaluated daily before deciding if she will participate in next week’s individual events. Biles qualified for the finals on all four apparatuses, something she didn’t even do during her five-medal haul in Rio de Janeiro in 2016.The 24-year-old came to Tokyo as arguably the face of the Games following the retirement of swimmer Michael Phelps and sprinter Usain Bolt. She topped qualifying on Sunday despite piling up mandatory deductions on vault, floor and beam following shaky dismounts.She posted on social media on Monday that she felt the weight of the world on her shoulders. The weight became too heavy after vaulting during team finals. She lost herself in mid-air and completed 1 1/2 twists instead of 2 1/2. She consulted with U.S. team doctor Marcia Faustin before walking off the field of play.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We’re thinking of you, Simone. ❤️ Your strength and courage to focus on your wellbeing is something we can all learn from. Thank you for being the leader you are. <a href="https://t.co/Jnaa96AKse">pic.twitter.com/Jnaa96AKse</a>&mdash; Team USA (@TeamUSA) <a href="https://twitter.com/TeamUSA/status/1420306841351819265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>When she returned, she took off her bar grips, hugged teammates Sunisa Lee, Grace McCallum and Jordan Chiles and turned into the team’s head cheerleader as the U.S. claimed silver behind the Russian Olympic Committee.“Once I came out here (to compete), I was like, ‘No mental is, not there so I just need to let the girls do it and focus on myself,’” Biles said following the medal ceremony.The decision opens the door wide open for the all-around, a title that was long considered a foregone conclusion. Rebeca Andrade of Brazil finished second to Biles during qualifying, followed by Lee and Russians Angelina Melnikova and Vladislava Urazova. The four were separated by three-tenths of a point on Sunday.Carey now finds herself in the final, capping a remarkable journey for the 21-year-old from Phoenix. She spent two years traveling the globe in an effort to pile up enough points on the World Cup circuit to earn an individual nominative spot, meaning she would be in the Olympics but technically not be part of the four-woman U.S. team.Carey posted the second-best score on vault and the third-best on floor during qualifying, earning trips to the event finals in the process. Now she finds herself competing for an all-around medal while replacing the athlete considered the greatest of all-time in the sport

Superstar Simone Biles withdraws from all-around competition

WICHITA, KAN. – A federal grand jury indicted a Kansas man on 17 counts of failure to pay over payroll taxes, according to the United State's Attorney's office.

According to court documents, Jesus Perez-Aguayo, 38, served as owner, operator, and president of two companies, JLP Construction and JP Remodeling. Between 2015 and 2019.

Perez-Aguayo is accused of collecting but not forwarding hundreds of thousands of dollars in employee payroll taxes to the Internal Revenue Service.

If there is a conviction, each count of Failure to Pay Over Payroll Taxes carries a penalty of up to five years in prison.

Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627331553120.png" alt="Perez-Aguayo -photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Perez-Aguayo -photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, KAN. – A federal grand jury indicted a Kansas man on 17 counts of failure to pay over payroll taxes, according to the United State's Attorney's office.According to court documents, Jesus Perez-Aguayo, 38, served as owner, operator, and president of two companies, JLP Construction and JP Remodeling. Between 2015 and 2019.Perez-Aguayo is accused of collecting but not forwarding hundreds of thousands of dollars in employee payroll taxes to the Internal Revenue Service.If there is a conviction, each count of Failure to Pay Over Payroll Taxes carries a penalty of up to five years in prison.Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.

Indictment: Kan. construction firm skipped payroll taxes

SALINA —The USD 305 Board of Education wants students and employees safe and in school.

To that end, the board decided Tuesday night that masks will be required for all students, employees, and visitors in USD 305 buildings beginning Wednesday. That's the word in a notice from USD 305 Superintendent Linn Exline.

The USD 305 Board of Education met Tuesday afternoon to discuss the district's Return to Instruction Plan. The masking decision was made during the meeting. 

Exline noted in her message to employees that the district's Return to Instruction Plan would be updated to reflect the board's decision.

Following is Exline's message to employees.

SALINA —The USD 305 Board of Education wants students and employees safe and in school.To that end, the board decided Tuesday night that masks will be required for all students, employees, and visitors in USD 305 buildings beginning Wednesday. That's the word in a notice from USD 305 Superintendent Linn Exline.The USD 305 Board of Education met Tuesday afternoon to discuss the district's Return to Instruction Plan. The masking decision was made during the meeting. Exline noted in her message to employees that the district's Return to Instruction Plan would be updated to reflect the board's decision.Following is Exline's message to employees.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627438093965.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Salina public schools to require masks beginning Wednesday

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas teacher accused of alleged sex crimes made his first court appearance in the case Monday.

Shawn Wingfield, 48, was charged with two counts of sexual exploitation of a child, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

In June, police in Wichita were alerted to a concerning text messages sent by 48-year-old Shawn Wingfield, according to Officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp;

USD 259 listed Wingfield as a gifted-6 teacher at Wichita Northwest High School. His linkdin profile said he also was involved with debate and forensics.

Further investigation into the text messages led police to arrest Wingfield on Saturday and he was booked&nbsp; into the Sedgwick County Jail <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=305200">on requested</a> charges of sexual exploitation of a child.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, Wingfield wrote on social media," This morning, for reasons involving personal health and well being, I resigned from Wichita Public Schools. Without going into details, I have come to believe that this is not only the best decision for myself, but also for the district and my students. And while I do regret the timing of this decision so close to the start of the new school year, I believe that to stay any longer would prove to be a greater inconvenience to everyone in the end."

On Saturday Wingfield&nbsp; wrote on social media, "Time for me to check out for a while.  A little earlier than I had hoped.  See everyone, I hope, on the other side."

&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=305200">He remains jailed on a $50,000 </a>bond, according to online jail records&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627295318183.png" alt="Wingfield-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Wingfield-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas teacher accused of alleged sex crimes made his first court appearance in the case Monday.Shawn Wingfield, 48, was charged with two counts of sexual exploitation of a child, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.In June, police in Wichita were alerted to a concerning text messages sent by 48-year-old Shawn Wingfield, according to Officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp;USD 259 listed Wingfield as a gifted-6 teacher at Wichita Northwest High School. His linkdin profile said he also was involved with debate and forensics.Further investigation into the text messages led police to arrest Wingfield on Saturday and he was booked&nbsp; into the Sedgwick County Jail <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=305200">on requested</a> charges of sexual exploitation of a child.&nbsp;Earlier this month, Wingfield wrote on social media," This morning, for reasons involving personal health and well being, I resigned from Wichita Public Schools. Without going into details, I have come to believe that this is not only the best decision for myself, but also for the district and my students. And while I do regret the timing of this decision so close to the start of the new school year, I believe that to stay any longer would prove to be a greater inconvenience to everyone in the end."On Saturday Wingfield&nbsp; wrote on social media, "Time for me to check out for a while. A little earlier than I had hoped. See everyone, I hope, on the other side."&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=305200">He remains jailed on a $50,000 </a>bond, according to online jail records&nbsp;

Kan. teacher charged with sex crimes after text message investigation

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon after an early morning traffic stop.

Just after 2a.m. Monday,&nbsp;&nbsp;a deputy conducted a traffic stop on white 1996 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck at North Kansas Avenue and NE Fairchild Street for a broken taillight, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

 As the officer approached the pickup truck, the driver later identified as 22-year-old Austin D. Reisinger  sped away, struck a curb and fled from the pickup on foot. 

Within minutes, deputies located Reisinger and took him into custody.&nbsp;During the investigation, deputies found a loaded firearm and drug paraphernalia inside the pickup truck.

Reisinger was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of felon in possession of a firearm, possession of drug paraphernalia, flee and elude and multiple traffic offenses.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627419025194.png" alt="Reisinger photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Reisinger photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon after an early morning traffic stop.Just after 2a.m. Monday,&nbsp;&nbsp;a deputy conducted a traffic stop on white 1996 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck at North Kansas Avenue and NE Fairchild Street for a broken taillight, according to Deputy Abigail Christian. As the officer approached the pickup truck, the driver later identified as 22-year-old Austin D. Reisinger sped away, struck a curb and fled from the pickup on foot. Within minutes, deputies located Reisinger and took him into custody.&nbsp;During the investigation, deputies found a loaded firearm and drug paraphernalia inside the pickup truck.Reisinger was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of felon in possession of a firearm, possession of drug paraphernalia, flee and elude and multiple traffic offenses.

Kan. deputies find loaded firearm, drugs during traffic stop

JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating the theft of a John Deere Gator are offering a reward for information that leads to an arrest in the cast.

The theft occurred just before 4 a.m. Tuesday from a residence&nbsp;in the 12000 Block of 166th Road in Jackson County, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

The landowner reported that he was notified by game cameras of trespassers on the property.

The land owner and deputies discovered another newer model John Deere Gator in a wooded area on the property.&nbsp; The Gator was taken from the 100 Block of East Central Street in Mayetta.&nbsp;

 At approximately 10:45 pm Monday evening, the owner’s game cameras alerted once again capturing a photo of a vehicle and a man wearing a tank top and glasses.&nbsp;

 If you have any information regarding the identity of the individual in this photo or those involved in the theft, please notify the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office at 785-364-2251.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627416101330.png" alt="Trail camera images from Jackson Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Trail camera images from Jackson Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating the theft of a John Deere Gator are offering a reward for information that leads to an arrest in the cast.The theft occurred just before 4 a.m. Tuesday from a residence&nbsp;in the 12000 Block of 166th Road in Jackson County, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.The landowner reported that he was notified by game cameras of trespassers on the property.The land owner and deputies discovered another newer model John Deere Gator in a wooded area on the property.&nbsp; The Gator was taken from the 100 Block of East Central Street in Mayetta.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627416262503.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure> At approximately 10:45 pm Monday evening, the owner’s game cameras alerted once again capturing a photo of a vehicle and a man wearing a tank top and glasses.&nbsp; If you have any information regarding the identity of the individual in this photo or those involved in the theft, please notify the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office at 785-364-2251.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Reward offered for capture of suspects in Kan. ATV thefts

<a href="https://hosted.ap.org/semissourian/article/4732ad26ef9ce4dd580dd96c23c95fd4/missouri-works-boost-vaccinations-covid-19-worsens#">By HEATHER HOLLINGSWORTH</a>

As COVID-19 hospitalizations climb, St. Louis is offering incentives for some city employees to get immunized, while thousands are registering for a statewide vaccine lottery.

St. Louis said in a news release Tuesday that nearly 6,000 of its workers will be eligible to receive $100 in gift cards and can use paid time off to get vaccinated. The announcement comes one day after a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-coronavirus-pandemic-79959d313428d98ab8aa905bbe287ba0">mask mandate</a>&nbsp;took effect&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/23f9b3da8c866cfffc617699b28caacb">in the city and St. Louis County.</a>

Missouri has the nation’s fourth-worst COVID-19 diagnosis rate over the past week, with one in every 360 people diagnosed with COVID-19.

“Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 remains the best way for St. Louisans to protect their families and greatly reduce their chance of ending up in the ICU, and we are using many different tools in our toolbox to encourage vaccination,” said St. Louis Mayor Tishaura O. Jones in the release.

Statewide, COVID-19 hospitalization jumped by 168% from a low point of 628 of May 23 to 1,684 on Aug. 24, state data shows. But the jump was much sharper in sparsely vaccinated southwest Missouri, where the number of hospitalizations leapt by 443% and reached pandemic highs.

To help, the state rolled out a vaccine&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-coronavirus-pandemic-michael-brown-c5cf37ca59327da018687038b5ec8870">incentive program&nbsp;</a>last week that includes $10,000 prizes for 900 lottery winners. About 250,000 people have registered so far, said health department spokeswoman Lisa Cox.

Only 47.4% of Missourians have received at least one dose of the vaccine, compared with 56.8% nationally, state and federal data shows. The rate is far lower for younger residents, with just 26.5% of 12- to 14-year-olds and 36.5% of 15- to 24-year-olds getting at least one dose.

Hospital officials in Springfield have been begging on social media for people to get vaccinated.

Erik Frederick, chief administrative officer of Mercy Springfield, retweeted a message Monday night from a COVID-19 nurse who wrote that the situation was “getting worse" and that there was “no end in sight."

Rising cases also are putting a strain on contact tracers in St. Joseph in northwest Missouri, said Connie Werner, health department clinic coordinator. The vaccination rate in surrounding Buchanan County is just 22.3%.

“It’s not that the vaccine isn’t available, and it’s not that there’s not multiple opportunities and multiple times for people to get it, it’s just that they’re not going to get it,” Werner told the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newspressnow.com/news/local_news/coronavirus/health-department-struggling-to-keep-up-with-contact-tracing/article_8e033414-ee54-11eb-9d32-2f1cbda66db7.html">St. Joseph News-Press</a>. “It does take the community to have accountability as well, instead of us walking up to you and begging you to take it.”

<a href="https://hosted.ap.org/semissourian/article/4732ad26ef9ce4dd580dd96c23c95fd4/missouri-works-boost-vaccinations-covid-19-worsens#">By HEATHER HOLLINGSWORTH</a>As COVID-19 hospitalizations climb, St. Louis is offering incentives for some city employees to get immunized, while thousands are registering for a statewide vaccine lottery.St. Louis said in a news release Tuesday that nearly 6,000 of its workers will be eligible to receive $100 in gift cards and can use paid time off to get vaccinated. The announcement comes one day after a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-coronavirus-pandemic-79959d313428d98ab8aa905bbe287ba0">mask mandate</a>&nbsp;took effect&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/23f9b3da8c866cfffc617699b28caacb">in the city and St. Louis County.</a>Missouri has the nation’s fourth-worst COVID-19 diagnosis rate over the past week, with one in every 360 people diagnosed with COVID-19.“Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 remains the best way for St. Louisans to protect their families and greatly reduce their chance of ending up in the ICU, and we are using many different tools in our toolbox to encourage vaccination,” said St. Louis Mayor Tishaura O. Jones in the release.Statewide, COVID-19 hospitalization jumped by 168% from a low point of 628 of May 23 to 1,684 on Aug. 24, state data shows. But the jump was much sharper in sparsely vaccinated southwest Missouri, where the number of hospitalizations leapt by 443% and reached pandemic highs.To help, the state rolled out a vaccine&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-coronavirus-pandemic-michael-brown-c5cf37ca59327da018687038b5ec8870">incentive program&nbsp;</a>last week that includes $10,000 prizes for 900 lottery winners. About 250,000 people have registered so far, said health department spokeswoman Lisa Cox.Only 47.4% of Missourians have received at least one dose of the vaccine, compared with 56.8% nationally, state and federal data shows. The rate is far lower for younger residents, with just 26.5% of 12- to 14-year-olds and 36.5% of 15- to 24-year-olds getting at least one dose.Hospital officials in Springfield have been begging on social media for people to get vaccinated.Erik Frederick, chief administrative officer of Mercy Springfield, retweeted a message Monday night from a COVID-19 nurse who wrote that the situation was “getting worse" and that there was “no end in sight."Rising cases also are putting a strain on contact tracers in St. Joseph in northwest Missouri, said Connie Werner, health department clinic coordinator. The vaccination rate in surrounding Buchanan County is just 22.3%.“It’s not that the vaccine isn’t available, and it’s not that there’s not multiple opportunities and multiple times for people to get it, it’s just that they’re not going to get it,” Werner told the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newspressnow.com/news/local_news/coronavirus/health-department-struggling-to-keep-up-with-contact-tracing/article_8e033414-ee54-11eb-9d32-2f1cbda66db7.html">St. Joseph News-Press</a>. “It does take the community to have accountability as well, instead of us walking up to you and begging you to take it.”

Missouri among the nation's worst COVID-19 diagnosis rate

KANSAS CITY (AP) — The fuel needle is moving closer to “empty” at some U.S. airports.

American Airlines says it’s running into fuel shortages at some smaller and mid-size airports, and in some cases the airline will add refueling stops or fly fuel into locations where the supply is tight.

The airline said that the shortages showed up first in the West, where they&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-health-government-and-politics-fires-environment-and-nature-29b3eb2572c64109ecce45258a93f78c">could affect efforts to fight wildfires.</a>&nbsp;They are now being reported in other parts of the country and will last through mid-August, according to a company memo to pilots on Monday. It asked pilots to conserve fuel by, for example, leaving one engine off while taxiing.

American said fuel supplies are being squeezed at “several” airports, which it didn’t name, mostly because of a shortage of tanker trucks or drivers.

Delta Air Lines, meanwhile, said Reno, Nevada, is the most affected location. Delta said pipelines have been devoting more space to gasoline and diesel and less to jet fuel during the pandemic. Nevada politicians worry that the situation could&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-health-government-and-politics-nevada-coronavirus-pandemic-de990bb6053cab4b938d56bbd1186e10">limit the flow of tourism dollars</a>.

Southwest said the fuel situation hasn’t affected its flights, but it has added more fuel on some planes to limit the amount needed at airports with shortages.

Trade group Airlines for America said it is talking to federal authorities and pipeline operators about the situation, which it said mostly affects smaller airports in the West.

The jet fuel supply is being taxed by a strong recovery in travel, which means more planes in the air. U.S. air travel has reached about 80% of its pre-pandemic levels, with about 2 million people a day are flying in the U.S., double the number in early March.

The American Airlines memo to pilots was reported earlier by CNBC.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — The fuel needle is moving closer to “empty” at some U.S. airports.American Airlines says it’s running into fuel shortages at some smaller and mid-size airports, and in some cases the airline will add refueling stops or fly fuel into locations where the supply is tight.The airline said that the shortages showed up first in the West, where they&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-health-government-and-politics-fires-environment-and-nature-29b3eb2572c64109ecce45258a93f78c">could affect efforts to fight wildfires.</a>&nbsp;They are now being reported in other parts of the country and will last through mid-August, according to a company memo to pilots on Monday. It asked pilots to conserve fuel by, for example, leaving one engine off while taxiing.American said fuel supplies are being squeezed at “several” airports, which it didn’t name, mostly because of a shortage of tanker trucks or drivers.Delta Air Lines, meanwhile, said Reno, Nevada, is the most affected location. Delta said pipelines have been devoting more space to gasoline and diesel and less to jet fuel during the pandemic. Nevada politicians worry that the situation could&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-health-government-and-politics-nevada-coronavirus-pandemic-de990bb6053cab4b938d56bbd1186e10">limit the flow of tourism dollars</a>.Southwest said the fuel situation hasn’t affected its flights, but it has added more fuel on some planes to limit the amount needed at airports with shortages.Trade group Airlines for America said it is talking to federal authorities and pipeline operators about the situation, which it said mostly affects smaller airports in the West.The jet fuel supply is being taxed by a strong recovery in travel, which means more planes in the air. U.S. air travel has reached about 80% of its pre-pandemic levels, with about 2 million people a day are flying in the U.S., double the number in early March.The American Airlines memo to pilots was reported earlier by CNBC.

Airlines cite concerns about fuel shortages at some airports

TOKYO (AP) — Simone Biles arrived in Tokyo as the star of the U.S. Olympic movement and perhaps the Games themselves. She convinced herself she was prepared for the pressure. That she was ready to carry the burden of outsized expectations.

Only, as the women’s gymnastics team final approached on Tuesday night, something felt off. And the athlete widely considered the Greatest of All Time in her sport knew it.

So rather than push through the doubts that crept into her head as she’s done so many times in the past, Biles decided enough was enough. She was done. For now.

The American star withdrew from the competition following one rotation, opening the door for the team of Russian athletes to win gold for the first time in nearly three decades.

Jordan Chiles, Sunisa Lee and Grace McCallum guided the U.S. to silver while Biles cheered from the sideline in a white sweatsuit, at peace with a decision that revealed a shift not only in Biles but perhaps the sport she’s redefined.

“We also have to focus on ourselves, because at the end of the day we’re human, too,” Biles said. “So, we have to protect our mind and our body, rather than just go out there and do what the world wants us to do.”

The Americans — fueled by an uneven bars routine by Lee that not even Biles could match — drew within eight-tenths of a point through three rotations. ROC, however, never wavered on floor. And they erupted when 21-year-old Angelina Melnikova’s score assured them of the top spot on the podium for the first time since the Unified Team won in Barcelona in 1992.

The victory came a day after ROC men’s team edged Japan for the top spot in the men’s final. Great Britain edged Italy for bronze.

“The impossible is possible now,” Melnikova said.

In the five years since Biles and the U.S. put on a dazzling display on their way to gold in Rio de Janeiro, gymnastics has undergone a reckoning. The tectonic plates in a sport where obedience, discipline and silence were long considered as important as talent and artistry are moving.

Biles has become an outspoken advocate for athlete’s rights and the importance of proper mental health. There was a time, there were many times actually, where she felt she wasn’t right and just powered through because that’s what people expected of her.

Not anymore. And the stand she took could resonate far beyond the color of any medal she may win in Tokyo.

Biles is the latest in a series of high-profile athletes, including tennis star Naomi Osaka, who have used their platforms to discuss their mental heath struggles. A subject that was once taboo has become far more accepted and embraced.

U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee CEO Sarah Hirshland applauded Biles for prioritizing her “mental wellness over all else” and offered the organization’s full support. USA Gymnastics women’s program vice-president called Biles’ act “incredibly selfless.”

Biles posted on social media Monday that she felt the weight of the world on her shoulders after an uncharacteristically sloppy showing during qualifying left the Americans looking up at the ROC on the scoreboard.

The tension affected her practice. It affected her confidence. And when she stepped onto the vault runway, it finally found its way to her performance, too.

She was scheduled to do an “Amanar” vault that requires a roundoff back handspring onto the table followed by 2 1/2 twists. Biles instead did just 1 1/2 twists with a big leap forward after landing. She sat down and talked to U.S. team doctor Marcia Faustin, then headed to the back while the rest of the Americans moved on to uneven bars without her.

When Biles returned several minutes later, she hugged her teammates and took off her bar grips. And just like that, her night was over.

“To see her kind of go out like that is very sad because this Olympic Games, I feel like, is kind of hers,” Lee said.

Biles is scheduled to defend her Olympic title in the all-around final on Thursday. She also qualified for all four event finals later in the Games. She said she will regroup on Wednesday before deciding whether to continue.

Biles’ abrupt absence forced the Americans to scramble a bit. The finals are a three-up/three-count format, meaning each country enters three of their four athletes on an apparatus, with all three scores counting.

Chiles stepped in to take Biles’ place on uneven bars and balance beam. The 20-year-old who made the team with her steady consistency pulled off a solid bars routine and drilled her balance beam set two days after falling twice on the event.

Thanks in part to a little help from ROC — which counted a pair of falls on beam — the U.S. drew within striking distance heading to floor, the final rotation.

Without Biles and her otherworldly tumbling, the U.S. needed to be near perfect to close the gap. It didn’t happen. Chiles stumbled to the mat at the end of her second pass, and any chance the U.S. had of chasing down ROC went right along with it.

Not that Chiles or the rest of the Americans particularly cared. The gold might be gone, but something more significant may have happened instead. It’s a tradeoff they can live with.

“This medal is definitely for (Biles),” said Chiles. “If it wasn’t if it wasn’t for her, we wouldn’t be here where we are right now. We wouldn’t be a silver medalist because of who she is as a person.”

Chiles then turned to her good friend. Biles helped convince her to move to Houston to train alongside her two years ago, a decision that turned Chiles into an Olympian. In an empty arena in the middle of Japan with the world watching, Chiles did for Biles what Biles has done for so many for so long. She had her back.

“Kudos to you girl,” Chiles said. “This is all for you.”

TOKYO (AP) — Simone Biles came to Tokyo as the star of the U.S. Olympic movement and perhaps the Games themselves. It all came to a stunning halt in the women’s gymnastics final on Tuesday night with an uncertain vault.

In a flash, the rest of the American star’s Games came into question. And the United States’ long run at the top of the sport came to an end.

The team representing the Russia Olympic Committee surged past the shorthanded U.S. to the top of the podium, posting a score of 169.258 to win the country’s first Olympic team gold in nearly 30 years.

The Americans, with Biles serving as head cheerleader while clad in a white sweatsuit and dealing with what USA Gymnastics called a “medical issue,” hung on for silver.

Grace McCallum, Sunisa Lee and Jordan Chiles drew the U.S. within eight-tenths of a point through three rotations. ROC, however, never wavered on floor. And they erupted when 21-year-old Angelina Melnikova’s score assured them of the top spot on the podium.

The victory came a day after ROC men’s team edged Japan for the top spot in the men’s final.

The U.S. entered the finals hoping to bounce back from a shaky performance in qualifying, when the Americans came in second to the ROC. It marked the first time in 11 years the U.S. found itself looking up at the scoreboard at someone else.

The team declined to talk to the media afterward, though the 24-year-old did post on social media that she felt the weight of the world on her shoulders and that the Olympics were “no joke.”

Yet, something happened during the first rotation. She attempted an Amanar vault during warmups only to roll out of it upon landing. The code for that vault posted when she saluted the judges, but in midair things went awry.

TOKYO (AP) — Simone Biles arrived in Tokyo as the star of the U.S. Olympic movement and perhaps the Games themselves. She convinced herself she was prepared for the pressure. That she was ready to carry the burden of outsized expectations.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Official statement: &quot;Simone Biles has withdrawn from the team final competition due to a medical issue. She will be assessed daily to determine medical clearance for future competitions.&quot; Thinking of you, Simone! <a href="https://t.co/QA1GYHwWTv">pic.twitter.com/QA1GYHwWTv</a>&mdash; USA Gymnastics (@USAGym) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAGym/status/1419992728352526339?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Only, as the women’s gymnastics team final approached on Tuesday night, something felt off. And the athlete widely considered the Greatest of All Time in her sport knew it.So rather than push through the doubts that crept into her head as she’s done so many times in the past, Biles decided enough was enough. She was done. For now.The American star withdrew from the competition following one rotation, opening the door for the team of Russian athletes to win gold for the first time in nearly three decades.Jordan Chiles, Sunisa Lee and Grace McCallum guided the U.S. to silver while Biles cheered from the sideline in a white sweatsuit, at peace with a decision that revealed a shift not only in Biles but perhaps the sport she’s redefined.“We also have to focus on ourselves, because at the end of the day we’re human, too,” Biles said. “So, we have to protect our mind and our body, rather than just go out there and do what the world wants us to do.”The Americans — fueled by an uneven bars routine by Lee that not even Biles could match — drew within eight-tenths of a point through three rotations. ROC, however, never wavered on floor. And they erupted when 21-year-old Angelina Melnikova’s score assured them of the top spot on the podium for the first time since the Unified Team won in Barcelona in 1992.The victory came a day after ROC men’s team edged Japan for the top spot in the men’s final. Great Britain edged Italy for bronze.“The impossible is possible now,” Melnikova said.Perhaps in more ways than one.In the five years since Biles and the U.S. put on a dazzling display on their way to gold in Rio de Janeiro, gymnastics has undergone a reckoning. The tectonic plates in a sport where obedience, discipline and silence were long considered as important as talent and artistry are moving.Biles has become an outspoken advocate for athlete’s rights and the importance of proper mental health. There was a time, there were many times actually, where she felt she wasn’t right and just powered through because that’s what people expected of her.Not anymore. And the stand she took could resonate far beyond the color of any medal she may win in Tokyo.Biles is the latest in a series of high-profile athletes, including tennis star Naomi Osaka, who have used their platforms to discuss their mental heath struggles. A subject that was once taboo has become far more accepted and embraced.U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee CEO Sarah Hirshland applauded Biles for prioritizing her “mental wellness over all else” and offered the organization’s full support. USA Gymnastics women’s program vice-president called Biles’ act “incredibly selfless.”Biles posted on social media Monday that she felt the weight of the world on her shoulders after an uncharacteristically sloppy showing during qualifying left the Americans looking up at the ROC on the scoreboard.The tension affected her practice. It affected her confidence. And when she stepped onto the vault runway, it finally found its way to her performance, too.She was scheduled to do an “Amanar” vault that requires a roundoff back handspring onto the table followed by 2 1/2 twists. Biles instead did just 1 1/2 twists with a big leap forward after landing. She sat down and talked to U.S. team doctor Marcia Faustin, then headed to the back while the rest of the Americans moved on to uneven bars without her.When Biles returned several minutes later, she hugged her teammates and took off her bar grips. And just like that, her night was over.“To see her kind of go out like that is very sad because this Olympic Games, I feel like, is kind of hers,” Lee said.Biles is scheduled to defend her Olympic title in the all-around final on Thursday. She also qualified for all four event finals later in the Games. She said she will regroup on Wednesday before deciding whether to continue.Biles’ abrupt absence forced the Americans to scramble a bit. The finals are a three-up/three-count format, meaning each country enters three of their four athletes on an apparatus, with all three scores counting.Chiles stepped in to take Biles’ place on uneven bars and balance beam. The 20-year-old who made the team with her steady consistency pulled off a solid bars routine and drilled her balance beam set two days after falling twice on the event.Thanks in part to a little help from ROC — which counted a pair of falls on beam — the U.S. drew within striking distance heading to floor, the final rotation.Without Biles and her otherworldly tumbling, the U.S. needed to be near perfect to close the gap. It didn’t happen. Chiles stumbled to the mat at the end of her second pass, and any chance the U.S. had of chasing down ROC went right along with it.Not that Chiles or the rest of the Americans particularly cared. The gold might be gone, but something more significant may have happened instead. It’s a tradeoff they can live with.“This medal is definitely for (Biles),” said Chiles. “If it wasn’t if it wasn’t for her, we wouldn’t be here where we are right now. We wouldn’t be a silver medalist because of who she is as a person.”Chiles then turned to her good friend. Biles helped convince her to move to Houston to train alongside her two years ago, a decision that turned Chiles into an Olympian. In an empty arena in the middle of Japan with the world watching, Chiles did for Biles what Biles has done for so many for so long. She had her back.“Kudos to you girl,” Chiles said. “This is all for you.”-------TOKYO (AP) — Simone Biles came to Tokyo as the star of the U.S. Olympic movement and perhaps the Games themselves. It all came to a stunning halt in the women’s gymnastics final on Tuesday night with an uncertain vault.In a flash, the rest of the American star’s Games came into question. And the United States’ long run at the top of the sport came to an end.The team representing the Russia Olympic Committee surged past the shorthanded U.S. to the top of the podium, posting a score of 169.258 to win the country’s first Olympic team gold in nearly 30 years.The Americans, with Biles serving as head cheerleader while clad in a white sweatsuit and dealing with what USA Gymnastics called a “medical issue,” hung on for silver.Grace McCallum, Sunisa Lee and Jordan Chiles drew the U.S. within eight-tenths of a point through three rotations. ROC, however, never wavered on floor. And they erupted when 21-year-old Angelina Melnikova’s score assured them of the top spot on the podium.The victory came a day after ROC men’s team edged Japan for the top spot in the men’s final.Great Britain edged Italy for bronzeThe U.S. entered the finals hoping to bounce back from a shaky performance in qualifying, when the Americans came in second to the ROC. It marked the first time in 11 years the U.S. found itself looking up at the scoreboard at someone else.The team declined to talk to the media afterward, though the 24-year-old did post on social media that she felt the weight of the world on her shoulders and that the Olympics were “no joke.”Yet, something happened during the first rotation. She attempted an Amanar vault during warmups only to roll out of it upon landing. The code for that vault posted when she saluted the judges, but in midair things went awry.The vault requires a roundoff back handspring onto the table followed by 2 1/2 twists. Biles instead did just 1 1/2 twists with a big leap forward after landing. She sat down and talked to U.S. team doctor Marcia Faustin, then headed to the back while her teammates moved on to uneven bars without her.When Biles returned several minutes later, she hugged her teammates and took off her bar grips. And just like that, the greatest of all-time’s night was over.USA Gymnastics did not specify the nature of Biles’ medical issue, saying in a statement she “will be assessed daily to determine medical clearance for future competitions.”Biles is scheduled to defend her Olympic title in the all-around final on Thursday. She also qualified for all four event finals later in the Games.Whether she will get that opportunity remains to be seen.Biles’ abrupt absence forced the Americans to scramble a bit. The finals are a three-up/three-count format, meaning each country puts three of their four athletes up on an apparatus, with all three scores counting.Chiles stepped in to take Biles’ place on uneven bars and balance beam. The 20-year-old who made the team with her steady consistency pulled off a solid bars routine and drilled her balance beam set two days after falling twice on the event.Thanks in part to a little help from ROC — which recorded a pair of falls on beam — the U.S. drew within striking distance heading to floor, the final rotation.Yet the Americans — without Biles and her otherworldly tumbling — needed to be near perfect to close the gap. It didn’t happen. Chiles stumbled to the mat at the end of her second pass, and any chance the U.S. had of chasing down ROC went right along with it.---------TOKYO (AP) — Reigning Olympic gymnastics champion Simone Biles is out of the team finals after apparently suffering an injury during the vault.The 24-year-old U.S. star, considered to be the greatest gymnast of all time, huddled with a trainer after landing her vault. She then exited the competition floor with the team doctor.Biles returned several minutes later with her right leg wrapped. She took off her bar grips, and hugged teammates Grace McCallum, Sunisa Lee and Jordan Chiles before putting on a jacket and sweatpants.&nbsp;Chiles replaced Biles on uneven bars and balance bream.The Americans will be forced to finish the rest of the competition without her, severely hampering their bid to claim a third straight Olympic title.Biles arrived in Tokyo as the unquestioned star of the Games but struggled, at least by her high standards, during qualifying.