SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a hit-and-run incident that critically injured a 26-year-old woman.

Just before 9:30 p.m. Saturday, police responded to a hit-and-run injury accident at Douglas and Greenwood in Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidso

&nbsp;Upon arrival, officers located the victim with critical injuries.&nbsp; EMS transported her to an area hospital for medical treatment.

Investigators learned the woman was crossing the street, leaving a business in the 100 block of South Greenwood and a newer white northbound sedan struck her.It is believed the sedan was traveling at a high rate of speed, according to Davidson.&nbsp; &nbsp;

On Sunday, police found the unoccupied vehicle at a hotel at 36th&nbsp;and Rock Road. Police released no additional details Sunday afternoon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623008016375.png" alt="Police on the scene of the Saturday night investigation-photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the Saturday night investigation-photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a hit-and-run incident that critically injured a 26-year-old woman.Just before 9:30 p.m. Saturday, police responded to a hit-and-run injury accident at Douglas and Greenwood in Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidso&nbsp;Upon arrival, officers located the victim with critical injuries.&nbsp; EMS transported her to an area hospital for medical treatment.Investigators learned the woman was crossing the street, leaving a business in the 100 block of South Greenwood and a newer white northbound sedan struck her.It is believed the sedan was traveling at a high rate of speed, according to Davidson.&nbsp; &nbsp;On Sunday, police found the unoccupied vehicle at a hotel at 36th&nbsp;and Rock Road. Police released no additional details Sunday afternoon.

Police find hit and run car that critically injured Kan. woman

COFFEY COUNTY —Authorities are investigating a boating accident that left a Kansas woman and two children dead Saturday night in Coffey County.

Just after 6:30p.m.&nbsp;Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) game wardens, the Water Rescue Division of the Coffey County Fire District #1, Coffey County Sheriff’s Office, and Burlington Police Department responded to a report of a boat accident on the Neosho River in the area of the Burlington City Dam, according to the Coffey County Sheriff's office.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a family of two adults and two children were boating on the river. As the boat approached the low-head dam, it stalled in rapid, aerated water, at which point the operator lost control of the vessel and all occupants were ejected. 

One adult male, identified as Wesley Sharp of Shawnee, was rescued from the scene and transported to Burlington Hospital and was reported in stable condition on Sunday afternoon.

One adult female, identified as Maribel Moran, and the couple’s two children, ages 3 and 5, were recovered unresponsive at the scene and transported to Burlington Hospital where they were later pronounced deceased. 

KDWPT law enforcement is in charge of the investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623010750853.png" alt="KDWPT law enforcement is in charge of the investigation-photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>KDWPT law enforcement is in charge of the investigation-photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>COFFEY COUNTY —Authorities are investigating a boating accident that left a Kansas woman and two children dead Saturday night in Coffey County.Just after 6:30p.m.&nbsp;Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) game wardens, the Water Rescue Division of the Coffey County Fire District #1, Coffey County Sheriff’s Office, and Burlington Police Department responded to a report of a boat accident on the Neosho River in the area of the Burlington City Dam, according to the Coffey County Sheriff's office.The preliminary investigation revealed that a family of two adults and two children were boating on the river. As the boat approached the low-head dam, it stalled in rapid, aerated water, at which point the operator lost control of the vessel and all occupants were ejected. One adult male, identified as Wesley Sharp of Shawnee, was rescued from the scene and transported to Burlington Hospital and was reported in stable condition on Sunday afternoon.One adult female, identified as Maribel Moran, and the couple’s two children, ages 3 and 5, were recovered unresponsive at the scene and transported to Burlington Hospital where they were later pronounced deceased. KDWPT law enforcement is in charge of the investigation.

Kan. woman, 2 children dead after boating accident

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A state board unanimously recommended Friday that the Kansas Supreme Court disbar a prosecutor who’s accused of misleading juries in two separate cases, actions that caused them to be overturned by higher courts.

The Kansas Board for Discipline of Attorneys argued that Jacqie Spradling embraced a “win at all costs” attitude in two cases: the 2012 double homicide case and a 2016 rape and sodomy case.

Spradling is accused of falsely leading a jury to believe that Dana Chandler in Shawnee County had violated a protection order obtained by her ex-husband, who was killed along with his fiance. No abuse order was ever found to have existed.

Similar accusations were made against Spradling in the case of Jacob Ewing, a Jackson County man convicted in the rape and sodomy case.

In both cases, appeals courts tossed out the convictions.

The report argued that Spradling’s actions undermine confidence in the judicial system and resulted in significant financial costs.

Spradling, who works as a prosecutor in Bourbon and Allen counties, admitted in a December hearing that she erred in handling the cases, although her legal team has said the mistakes don’t rise to the level of misconduct.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607294326646.png" alt="Spradling, who works as a prosecutor in Bourbon and Allen counties, admitted in a December hearing that she erred in handling the cases-photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Spradling, who works as a prosecutor in Bourbon and Allen counties, admitted in a December hearing that she erred in handling the cases-photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A state board unanimously recommended Friday that the Kansas Supreme Court disbar a prosecutor who’s accused of misleading juries in two separate cases, actions that caused them to be overturned by higher courts.The Kansas Board for Discipline of Attorneys argued that Jacqie Spradling embraced a “win at all costs” attitude in two cases: the 2012 double homicide case and a 2016 rape and sodomy case.Spradling is accused of falsely leading a jury to believe that Dana Chandler in Shawnee County had violated a protection order obtained by her ex-husband, who was killed along with his fiance. No abuse order was ever found to have existed.Similar accusations were made against Spradling in the case of Jacob Ewing, a Jackson County man convicted in the rape and sodomy case.In both cases, appeals courts tossed out the convictions.The report argued that Spradling’s actions undermine confidence in the judicial system and resulted in significant financial costs.Spradling, who works as a prosecutor in Bourbon and Allen counties, admitted in a December hearing that she erred in handling the cases, although her legal team has said the mistakes don’t rise to the level of misconduct.

State panel recommends Kansas prosecutor be disbarred

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Some wildlife species that were previously absent or rare in Kansas are appearing more often now, including a mountain lion that was caught on video last month roaming through an alley in Wichita. 

Mountain lion sighting continues a trend in recent decades that has brought an increased presence of wildlife, including elk, black bears, river otters and armadillos. 

Matt Peek of the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism says some animal populations that been reduced significantly by hunting have also gone from very rare to very abundant in Kansas. Those animals include wild turkey, Canada goose and deer populations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620829476424.png" alt="A mountain lion that was caught on video last month roaming through an alley in Wichita-image courtesy KAKE" />
 <figcaption>A mountain lion that was caught on video last month roaming through an alley in Wichita-image courtesy KAKE</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Some wildlife species that were previously absent or rare in Kansas are appearing more often now, including a mountain lion that was caught on video last month roaming through an alley in Wichita. Mountain lion sighting continues a trend in recent decades that has brought an increased presence of wildlife, including elk, black bears, river otters and armadillos. Matt Peek of the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism says some animal populations that been reduced significantly by hunting have also gone from very rare to very abundant in Kansas. Those animals include wild turkey, Canada goose and deer populations.

Kansas seeing more mountain lions, black bears, elk

WASHINGTON
 — The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers who missed the recent 
tax-filing deadline who are due a refund that there is no penalty for 
filing late. Those who owe and missed the deadline without requesting an
 extension should file quickly to limit penalties and interest.

Extra time to file and pay any taxes due without penalties and interest is available for some taxpayers. Included are:

The only way to get a refund is to file a tax return. There is no 
penalty for filing after the deadline if a refund is due. Use electronic
 filing options including IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a> available on IRS.gov through October 15 to prepare and file returns electronically.

COVID-19 continues to cause delays in some IRS services. If a 
taxpayer filed a paper tax return, the IRS will process it in the order 
it was received. Taxpayers should not file a second tax return or call 
the IRS. The IRS issues more than nine out of 10 refunds in less than 21
 days. However, it's possible a tax return may require <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/tax-season-refund-frequently-asked-questions">additional review</a> and take longer.

Taxpayers can track a refund using the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a> tool on IRS.gov, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go</a> and by phone at <a href="tel:800-829-1954">800-829-1954</a>.
 Taxpayers need the primary Social Security number on the tax return, 
the filing status and the expected refund amount. The tool updates once 
daily, usually overnight, so there's no need to check more frequently. 
The Where's My Refund?&nbsp;tool cannot be used to track Economic Impact 
Payments.

Normally, taxpayers should file their tax return, or request an 
extension, and pay any taxes they owe by the deadline to avoid penalties
 and interest. An extension to file is not an extension to pay. 
Penalties and interest will apply to taxes owed after May 17.

Even if a taxpayer can't afford to immediately pay the taxes they 
owe, they should still file a tax return as soon as possible to reduce 
possible penalties. The IRS has more information for <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/what-if-i-cant-pay-my-taxes">taxpayers who owe the IRS, but cannot afford to pay</a>.

Ordinarily, the failure to file penalty is 5% of the tax owed for 
each month or part of a month that a tax return is late, up to five 
months, reduced by the failure to pay penalty amount for any month where
 both penalties apply. If a return is filed more than 60 days after the 
due date, the minimum penalty is either $435 or 100% of the unpaid tax, 
whichever is less. Filing and paying as much as possible is important 
because the late-filing penalty and late-payment penalty add up quickly.
 The failure to pay penalty rate is generally 0.5% of unpaid tax owed 
for each month or part of a month until the tax is fully paid or until 
25% is reached. The rate is subject to change. For more information see <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/penalties">IRS.gov/penalties</a>.

Taxpayers who have a history of filing and paying on time often 
qualify for penalty relief. A taxpayer will usually qualify if they have
 filed and paid timely for the past three years and meet other 
requirements. For more information, see the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/penalty-relief-due-to-first-time-penalty-abatement-or-other-administrative-waiver">first-time penalty abatement</a> page on IRS.gov.

Interest is charged on tax and penalties until the balance is <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">paid in full</a>.

Those who owe taxes can pay with IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/direct-pay">Direct Pay</a>, by <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/pay-your-taxes-by-debit-or-credit-card">debit or credit card</a> or <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/online-payment-agreement-application">apply online for a payment plan (including an installment agreement)</a>. For more electronic payment options visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">IRS.gov/payments</a>.
 They are secure and easy to use. Taxpayers paying electronically 
receive immediate confirmation when they submit their payment. With 
Direct Pay and the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/eftps-the-electronic-federal-tax-payment-system">Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS)</a>, taxpayers can opt in to receive email notifications about their payments.

The IRS offers tips to help taxpayers choose a tax return preparer wisely. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/choosing-a-tax-professional">Choosing a Tax Professional</a> page has information about tax return preparer <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/understanding-tax-return-preparer-credentials-and-qualifications">credentials and qualification</a>s and guidance on avoiding unscrupulous tax return preparers

The <a href="https://irs.treasury.gov/rpo/rpo.jsf">Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications</a>
 can help taxpayers find tax return preparers who hold a professional 
credential recognized by the IRS or who have completed the requirements 
for the IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/annual-filing-season-program">Annual Filing Season Program</a>.

Taxpayers have fundamental rights under the law that protect taxpayers when they interact with the IRS. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/taxpayer-bill-of-rights">Taxpayer Bill of Rights</a> presents these rights in 10 categories. IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-1">Publication 1, Your Rights as a Taxpayer</a>, highlights these rights and the agency's obligation to protect them.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON
 — The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers who missed the recent 
tax-filing deadline who are due a refund that there is no penalty for 
filing late. Those who owe and missed the deadline without requesting an
 extension should file quickly to limit penalties and interest.<h2>Extra time to file and pay any taxes due without penalties and interest is available for some taxpayers. Included are:</h2><ul>
 <li>Members of the military who served or are currently in a combat zone. They may qualify for an <a href="https://www.irs.gov/publications/p3#idm139848472538848">additional extension of at least 180 days</a> to file and pay taxes.</li><li>Support personnel in combat zones or a contingency operation in support of the Armed Forces. They may also <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/extension-of-deadlines-combat-zone-service">qualify for a filing and payment extension</a> of at least 180 days.</li><li>Some disaster victims. Those who qualify have <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/disaster-assistance-and-emergency-relief-for-individuals-and-businesses">more time to file and pay</a> what they owe.</li>
 </ul><h2>Here are some tips for late filers:</h2><h2>File to get a tax refund</h2>The only way to get a refund is to file a tax return. There is no 
penalty for filing after the deadline if a refund is due. Use electronic
 filing options including IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a> available on IRS.gov through October 15 to prepare and file returns electronically.COVID-19 continues to cause delays in some IRS services. If a 
taxpayer filed a paper tax return, the IRS will process it in the order 
it was received. Taxpayers should not file a second tax return or call 
the IRS. The IRS issues more than nine out of 10 refunds in less than 21
 days. However, it's possible a tax return may require <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/tax-season-refund-frequently-asked-questions">additional review</a> and take longer.Taxpayers can track a refund using the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a> tool on IRS.gov, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go</a> and by phone at <a href="tel:800-829-1954">800-829-1954</a>.
 Taxpayers need the primary Social Security number on the tax return, 
the filing status and the expected refund amount. The tool updates once 
daily, usually overnight, so there's no need to check more frequently. 
The Where's My Refund?&nbsp;tool cannot be used to track Economic Impact 
Payments.<h2>File to reduce penalties and interest</h2>Normally, taxpayers should file their tax return, or request an 
extension, and pay any taxes they owe by the deadline to avoid penalties
 and interest. An extension to file is not an extension to pay. 
Penalties and interest will apply to taxes owed after May 17.Even if a taxpayer can't afford to immediately pay the taxes they 
owe, they should still file a tax return as soon as possible to reduce 
possible penalties. The IRS has more information for <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/what-if-i-cant-pay-my-taxes">taxpayers who owe the IRS, but cannot afford to pay</a>.Ordinarily, the failure to file penalty is 5% of the tax owed for 
each month or part of a month that a tax return is late, up to five 
months, reduced by the failure to pay penalty amount for any month where
 both penalties apply. If a return is filed more than 60 days after the 
due date, the minimum penalty is either $435 or 100% of the unpaid tax, 
whichever is less. Filing and paying as much as possible is important 
because the late-filing penalty and late-payment penalty add up quickly.
 The failure to pay penalty rate is generally 0.5% of unpaid tax owed 
for each month or part of a month until the tax is fully paid or until 
25% is reached. The rate is subject to change. For more information see <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/penalties">IRS.gov/penalties</a>.Taxpayers who have a history of filing and paying on time often 
qualify for penalty relief. A taxpayer will usually qualify if they have
 filed and paid timely for the past three years and meet other 
requirements. For more information, see the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/penalty-relief-due-to-first-time-penalty-abatement-or-other-administrative-waiver">first-time penalty abatement</a> page on IRS.gov.Interest is charged on tax and penalties until the balance is <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">paid in full</a>.<h2>Pay taxes due electronically</h2>Those who owe taxes can pay with IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/direct-pay">Direct Pay</a>, by <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/pay-your-taxes-by-debit-or-credit-card">debit or credit card</a> or <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/online-payment-agreement-application">apply online for a payment plan (including an installment agreement)</a>. For more electronic payment options visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">IRS.gov/payments</a>.
 They are secure and easy to use. Taxpayers paying electronically 
receive immediate confirmation when they submit their payment. With 
Direct Pay and the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/eftps-the-electronic-federal-tax-payment-system">Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS)</a>, taxpayers can opt in to receive email notifications about their payments.<h2>Selecting a tax professional</h2>The IRS offers tips to help taxpayers choose a tax return preparer wisely. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/choosing-a-tax-professional">Choosing a Tax Professional</a> page has information about tax return preparer <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/understanding-tax-return-preparer-credentials-and-qualifications">credentials and qualification</a>s and guidance on avoiding unscrupulous tax return preparersThe <a href="https://irs.treasury.gov/rpo/rpo.jsf">Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications</a>
 can help taxpayers find tax return preparers who hold a professional 
credential recognized by the IRS or who have completed the requirements 
for the IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/annual-filing-season-program">Annual Filing Season Program</a>.<h2>Taxpayer Bill of Rights</h2>Taxpayers have fundamental rights under the law that protect taxpayers when they interact with the IRS. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/taxpayer-bill-of-rights">Taxpayer Bill of Rights</a> presents these rights in 10 categories. IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-1">Publication 1, Your Rights as a Taxpayer</a>, highlights these rights and the agency's obligation to protect them.

Missed your tax filing deadline? There is still time to get help, relief

JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities spent two hours persuading a wanted fugitive from Nemaha County to surrender to law enforcement Friday night, according to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse.

The sheriff’s office received information that Robert Lee Rye III, 35, of Wetmore, was at a residence at 12349 244th&nbsp;Lane, Holton.

Rye was wanted out of Nemaha County on a felony probation warrant, according to Morse.

At 11:16 p.m. Rye surrendered without incident to law enforcement. Rye was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of interference with law enforcement and on a felony probation warrant. The Holton Police and Kansas Highway Patrol assisted with the arrest, according to Morse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622984691829.png" alt="Rye has previous convictions for aggravated battery, aggravated domestic battery, criminal threat and burglary, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections. He had been out of custody since June of of 2020." />
 <figcaption>Rye has previous convictions for aggravated battery, aggravated domestic battery, criminal threat and burglary, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections. He had been out of custody since June of of 2020.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities spent two hours persuading a wanted fugitive from Nemaha County to surrender to law enforcement Friday night, according to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse.The sheriff’s office received information that Robert Lee Rye III, 35, of Wetmore, was at a residence at 12349 244th&nbsp;Lane, Holton.Rye was wanted out of Nemaha County on a felony probation warrant, according to Morse.At 11:16 p.m. Rye surrendered without incident to law enforcement. Rye was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of interference with law enforcement and on a felony probation warrant. The Holton Police and Kansas Highway Patrol assisted with the arrest, according to Morse.

Sheriff: Standoff ends with arrest of wanted Kan. fugitive

TOPEKA– Lansing Correctional Facility resident William Smith&nbsp; died on Friday, June 4, 2021, at the correctional facility, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Smith, 42, was pronounced dead by emergency medical services personnel at approximately 10:00 p.m. The cause of death is pending an autopsy but is not believed to be COVID-19 related.&nbsp;

Per protocol when a resident dies in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC), the death is under investigation by the KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.

Smith was serving a 37-month sentence for a 2018 Sedgwick County conviction for Drug Possession and Theft as well as other prior offenses.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622926366227.png" alt="Smith had previous convictions for theft, criminal threat, aggravated battery and for drugs, according to the KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Smith had previous convictions for theft, criminal threat, aggravated battery and for drugs, according to the KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA– Lansing Correctional Facility resident William Smith&nbsp; died on Friday, June 4, 2021, at the correctional facility, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Corrections.Smith, 42, was pronounced dead by emergency medical services personnel at approximately 10:00 p.m. The cause of death is pending an autopsy but is not believed to be COVID-19 related.&nbsp;Per protocol when a resident dies in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC), the death is under investigation by the KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.Smith was serving a 37-month sentence for a 2018 Sedgwick County conviction for Drug Possession and Theft as well as other prior offenses.

42-year-old inmate dies in Kansas prison

Minority farmers who for decades have faced systemic discrimination will begin to receive debt relief beginning in this month under what Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack called one of the most significant pieces of civil rights legislation in decades.

In an op-ed piece published in USA Today, Vilsack also called the debt relief a “major civil rights victory,” saying it responds to systemic discrimination perpetrated against farmers and ranchers of color by the Agriculture Department.

“It is a historic move that will symbolize that USDA actually cares and that the Biden administration is doing whatever they can to mend fences and show the minority farmers that they do care about them during his administration,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-race-and-ethnicity-tom-vilsack-agriculture-barack-obama-669c46ed87d24d3d14692c4b89eb04de">Abraham Carpenter</a>, a 59-year-old Black farmer whose family grows fruits and vegetables on about 1,500 acres near Grady, Arkansas.

Carpenter expects the debt relief will pay off about $200,000 in farm loans, freeing up money that can now be put toward farm operations like buying seed and equipment instead of making loan payments.

“I know they have said it about a thousand times that they wanted to bring everybody together to make sure everybody was treated fairly. You can say it a million times., but until you show it nobody really believes it,” he said. “But this action of paying off debts for the minority farmers shows they actually do care about treating everybody fairly.”

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency has published the first notice of funding availability under the American Rescue Plan Act for borrowers with qualifying direct farm loans. A subsequent notice for farmers with government-guaranteed agricultural loans held by private lenders will be published within 120 days.

A provision in the pandemic relief law directs USDA to pay off the farm loans of nearly 16,000 minority farmers and begin to address racial equity challenges. It authorizes the Agriculture Department to pay up to 120% of direct and guaranteed loan outstanding balances for socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers.

“I’m feeling really good,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/race-and-ethnicity-discrimination-kansas-cultures-agriculture-871f463bcf1e1e4fac8aa3492f7c8264">Rod Bradshaw</a>, a 68-year-old Black farmer who raises wheat, cattle and milo on 2,000 acres near Jetmore, Kansas. “We knew it was coming, we didn’t know when.”

Bradshaw, who has been farming since buying his first ground in 1976, has made several discrimination complaints with Agriculture Department over the years. He said he has four direct loans totaling more than $300,000 with USDA that he anticipates will be paid off under the debt relief plan.

“It’s going to free us up and let us halfway conduct business as usual,” Bradshaw said upon learning of Friday’s announcement. “This has been going on for so long, this is the first step of getting Black farmers and farmers of color back to where they need to be.”

The Agriculture Department said in its news release that for much of its history, socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers have faced discrimination, sometimes overt and sometimes through deeply embedded rules and policies.

“USDA is recommitting itself to gaining the trust and confidence of America’s farmers and ranchers using a new set of tools provided in the American Rescue Plan to increase opportunity, advance equity and address systemic discrimination in USDA programs,” Vilsack said.

By ROXANA HEGEMAN, Associated PressMinority farmers who for decades have faced systemic discrimination will begin to receive debt relief beginning in this month under what Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack called one of the most significant pieces of civil rights legislation in decades.In an op-ed piece published in USA Today, Vilsack also called the debt relief a “major civil rights victory,” saying it responds to systemic discrimination perpetrated against farmers and ranchers of color by the Agriculture Department.“It is a historic move that will symbolize that USDA actually cares and that the Biden administration is doing whatever they can to mend fences and show the minority farmers that they do care about them during his administration,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-race-and-ethnicity-tom-vilsack-agriculture-barack-obama-669c46ed87d24d3d14692c4b89eb04de">Abraham Carpenter</a>, a 59-year-old Black farmer whose family grows fruits and vegetables on about 1,500 acres near Grady, Arkansas.Carpenter expects the debt relief will pay off about $200,000 in farm loans, freeing up money that can now be put toward farm operations like buying seed and equipment instead of making loan payments.“I know they have said it about a thousand times that they wanted to bring everybody together to make sure everybody was treated fairly. You can say it a million times., but until you show it nobody really believes it,” he said. “But this action of paying off debts for the minority farmers shows they actually do care about treating everybody fairly.”The U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency has published the first notice of funding availability under the American Rescue Plan Act for borrowers with qualifying direct farm loans. A subsequent notice for farmers with government-guaranteed agricultural loans held by private lenders will be published within 120 days.A provision in the pandemic relief law directs USDA to pay off the farm loans of nearly 16,000 minority farmers and begin to address racial equity challenges. It authorizes the Agriculture Department to pay up to 120% of direct and guaranteed loan outstanding balances for socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers.“I’m feeling really good,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/race-and-ethnicity-discrimination-kansas-cultures-agriculture-871f463bcf1e1e4fac8aa3492f7c8264">Rod Bradshaw</a>, a 68-year-old Black farmer who raises wheat, cattle and milo on 2,000 acres near Jetmore, Kansas. “We knew it was coming, we didn’t know when.”Bradshaw, who has been farming since buying his first ground in 1976, has made several discrimination complaints with Agriculture Department over the years. He said he has four direct loans totaling more than $300,000 with USDA that he anticipates will be paid off under the debt relief plan.“It’s going to free us up and let us halfway conduct business as usual,” Bradshaw said upon learning of Friday’s announcement. “This has been going on for so long, this is the first step of getting Black farmers and farmers of color back to where they need to be.”The Agriculture Department said in its news release that for much of its history, socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers have faced discrimination, sometimes overt and sometimes through deeply embedded rules and policies.“USDA is recommitting itself to gaining the trust and confidence of America’s farmers and ranchers using a new set of tools provided in the American Rescue Plan to increase opportunity, advance equity and address systemic discrimination in USDA programs,” Vilsack said.

USDA begins paying off loans of minority farmers 

LINCOLN COUNTY, NE — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol arrested an Arizona man following the discovery of 55 pounds of cocaine in a vehicle in Cozad, according to a media release.

Just after 1:00 p.m. June 3, a trooper contacted a motorist at the Cozad interchange of Interstate 80. During the encounter, the trooper became suspicious of criminal activity.

Troopers searched the vehicle and found 55 pounds of cocaine hidden in floor compartments of the vehicle. There was also a small amount of marijuana in the vehicle. The driver of the vehicle was accompanied by an adult female passenger and a small child.

The driver, Donovan Grange, 31, of Scottsdale, Arizona, was arrested for possession of more than 140 grams of cocaine, possession with intent to deliver, possession of less than one ounce of marijuana, child abuse/neglect, and no drug tax stamp.

He was lodged in Dawson County Jail. The female passenger was released with the child. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622832494420.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN COUNTY, NE — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol arrested an Arizona man following the discovery of 55 pounds of cocaine in a vehicle in Cozad, according to a media release.Just after 1:00 p.m. June 3, a trooper contacted a motorist at the Cozad interchange of Interstate 80. During the encounter, the trooper became suspicious of criminal activity.Troopers searched the vehicle and found 55 pounds of cocaine hidden in floor compartments of the vehicle. There was also a small amount of marijuana in the vehicle. The driver of the vehicle was accompanied by an adult female passenger and a small child.The driver, Donovan Grange, 31, of Scottsdale, Arizona, was arrested for possession of more than 140 grams of cocaine, possession with intent to deliver, possession of less than one ounce of marijuana, child abuse/neglect, and no drug tax stamp.He was lodged in Dawson County Jail. The female passenger was released with the child.

Troopers find 55 pounds of cocaine during traffic stop

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — A Republican House member said Friday he and other state lawmakers will ask Missouri Gov. Mike Parson to pardon Kevin Strickland, who has spent more than 40 years in prison for a triple murder that prosecutors now say he did not commit.

Rep. Andrew McDaniel of Deering, chairman of the House Corrections and Public Institutions Committee, said three other Republican and five Democratic legislators plan to join him in signing a letter asking for a pardon for Strickland, The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article251902038.html">reported</a>.

“Why’s he still in there?” he said. “I’m pretty strong on keeping people locked up that did crimes but if there’s somebody that’s in there that’s innocent, just let him out.”

Strickland has maintained his innocence since he was arrested and convicted in a 1978 triple murder in Kansas City.

Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mo-state-wire-michael-brown-06e726b7ef07be53ba7bdb6088282548">called for his release.&nbsp;</a>Federal prosecutors in the Western District of Missouri, Jackson County’s presiding judge, Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas and members of the team that convicted Strickland four decades ago also have said he deserves to be exonerated.

Strickland's name was not on a list of 36 pardons Parson issued this week and the Missouri Supreme Court this week declined to hear his petition for freedom. The court did not give a reason for its decision.

A law passed this session that awaits Parson's signature would give local prosecutors the power to right wrongful convictions themselves. Baker said Thursday that if the governor signs the bill, she'll file a motion on the first day it is allowed to get Strickland released.

The Star reported in September that two men who pleaded guilty in the killings for decades swore Strickland was not with them and two other accomplices during the shooting. The only eyewitness also recanted and wanted Strickland released.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620695920927.png" alt="Strickland photo MODOC" />
 <figcaption>Strickland photo MODOC</figcaption>
 </figure>JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — A Republican House member said Friday he and other state lawmakers will ask Missouri Gov. Mike Parson to pardon Kevin Strickland, who has spent more than 40 years in prison for a triple murder that prosecutors now say he did not commit.Rep. Andrew McDaniel of Deering, chairman of the House Corrections and Public Institutions Committee, said three other Republican and five Democratic legislators plan to join him in signing a letter asking for a pardon for Strickland, The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article251902038.html">reported</a>.“Why’s he still in there?” he said. “I’m pretty strong on keeping people locked up that did crimes but if there’s somebody that’s in there that’s innocent, just let him out.”Strickland has maintained his innocence since he was arrested and convicted in a 1978 triple murder in Kansas City.Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mo-state-wire-michael-brown-06e726b7ef07be53ba7bdb6088282548">called for his release.&nbsp;</a>Federal prosecutors in the Western District of Missouri, Jackson County’s presiding judge, Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas and members of the team that convicted Strickland four decades ago also have said he deserves to be exonerated.Strickland's name was not on a list of 36 pardons Parson issued this week and the Missouri Supreme Court this week declined to hear his petition for freedom. The court did not give a reason for its decision.A law passed this session that awaits Parson's signature would give local prosecutors the power to right wrongful convictions themselves. Baker said Thursday that if the governor signs the bill, she'll file a motion on the first day it is allowed to get Strickland released.The Star reported in September that two men who pleaded guilty in the killings for decades swore Strickland was not with them and two other accomplices during the shooting. The only eyewitness also recanted and wanted Strickland released.

GOP House leader asks Governor to pardon Kansas City inmate

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after an altercation at a grocery store.

Just before 9p.m.&nbsp; Wednesday, police responded to a disturbance at the Dillions in the 3200 block of South Seneca in Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidson.

Upon arrival, officers contacted private security and Dillon’s employees, who reported a 37-year-old James Hirsh of Wichita entered the business and got into a disturbance with an employee regarding Chick-Fil-A sauce being on sale.&nbsp; 

Hirsh was asked to calm down or leave the store when he began throwing punches.&nbsp; Private security detained Hirsh until he calmed down.&nbsp; Hirsh then threatened staff, exited the store, and got into his car.&nbsp; He drove his vehicle toward the entrance doors of the business, where staff were standing before leaving.

Police arrested him on requested charges of aggravated assault and one count of aggravated criminal threat.

There were no injuries in this case.&nbsp; It&nbsp;will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622832704991.png" alt="Hirsh photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Hirsh photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after an altercation at a grocery store.Just before 9p.m.&nbsp; Wednesday, police responded to a disturbance at the Dillions in the 3200 block of South Seneca in Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidson.Upon arrival, officers contacted private security and Dillon’s employees, who reported a 37-year-old James Hirsh of Wichita entered the business and got into a disturbance with an employee regarding Chick-Fil-A sauce being on sale.&nbsp; Hirsh was asked to calm down or leave the store when he began throwing punches.&nbsp; Private security detained Hirsh until he calmed down.&nbsp; Hirsh then threatened staff, exited the store, and got into his car.&nbsp; He drove his vehicle toward the entrance doors of the business, where staff were standing before leaving.Police arrested him on requested charges of aggravated assault and one count of aggravated criminal threat.There were no injuries in this case.&nbsp; It&nbsp;will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.

Kan. man jailed after fight over sauce sale at grocery store

SHAWNEE COUNTY–Law enforcement authorities are investigating an attempted armed robbery and have made an arrest.

Just before 8a.m. Friday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call regarding an attempted armed robbery that just occurred in the 7100block of SW Montara Parkway, according to Deputy Shayna Anderson.

 The armed suspect attempted to steal an occupied vehicle and then fled. Deputies arrived on scene and located the suspect identified as 40-year-old James McKay IV of Topeka nearby and took him into custody.

McKay was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charge of aggravated robbery and interference with law enforcement.

The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office’s Patrol Unit, Detectives Unit, K9 Unit and Crime Scene Unit are still actively searching for a firearm that was used in this armed robbery.

Investigators believe the suspect may have discarded the firearm somewhere in the Montara neighborhood between the 7100 block of SW Montara Parkway and the 1700 block of SW Clearview Lane.

Police asked any citizen that may encounter this unsecured firearm to immediately notify law enforcement and not touch the firearm.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622911038803.png" alt="McKay photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>McKay photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY–Law enforcement authorities are investigating an attempted armed robbery and have made an arrest.Just before 8a.m. Friday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call regarding an attempted armed robbery that just occurred in the 7100block of SW Montara Parkway, according to Deputy Shayna Anderson. The armed suspect attempted to steal an occupied vehicle and then fled. Deputies arrived on scene and located the suspect identified as 40-year-old James McKay IV of Topeka nearby and took him into custody.McKay was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charge of aggravated robbery and interference with law enforcement.The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office’s Patrol Unit, Detectives Unit, K9 Unit and Crime Scene Unit are still actively searching for a firearm that was used in this armed robbery.Investigators believe the suspect may have discarded the firearm somewhere in the Montara neighborhood between the 7100 block of SW Montara Parkway and the 1700 block of SW Clearview Lane.Police asked any citizen that may encounter this unsecured firearm to immediately notify law enforcement and not touch the firearm.&nbsp;

Deputies arrest Kan. attempted carjacking suspect

TOPEKA&nbsp;– As part of her efforts to build a better, more resilient economy in Kansas, Governor Laura Kelly on Friday announced the bipartisan members of the executive committee of the second Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) Taskforce.

The Taskforce, originally established in May 2020 to oversee the distribution of funds from the federal CARES Act, is charged with leading Kansas forward in continued recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

“Through the SPARK process, we have transparently and equitably allocated more than $1 billion in CARES Act funds to support businesses, keep Kansans healthy, improve access to broadband, and boost our economy,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“I’m pleased to reignite the Taskforce this year to maintain that transparent process and show Kansans that we’re using these relief funds to make strategic investments where they are needed most.” &nbsp;

Similar to the CARES funding distribution process, the Kansas Office of Recovery will again be responsible for the statewide distribution of federal coronavirus relief funds allocated to Kansas through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of March 2021.

A new and expanded seven-member executive committee will oversee the funding distribution process, assisted by an advisory committee with additional members. The advisory committee recommends investments to the executive committee, and the executive committee then makes recommendations to the State Finance Council, which makes the final determination.

Appointments to the advisory committee will be announced in the following weeks.

The members of the SPARK Executive Committee are as follows:

“Through its combination of public and private partners, I know that the SPARK Taskforce will look past immediate COVID-19 recovery to build a better, more inclusive and resilient economy for future generations,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“I&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622897612622.png" alt="House Speaker Ron Ryckman appointeed former independent candidate for Kansas governor Greg Orman to serve on the task force." />
 <figcaption>House Speaker Ron Ryckman appointeed former independent candidate for Kansas governor Greg Orman to serve on the task force.</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;– As part of her efforts to build a better, more resilient economy in Kansas, Governor Laura Kelly on Friday announced the bipartisan members of the executive committee of the second Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) Taskforce.The Taskforce, originally established in May 2020 to oversee the distribution of funds from the federal CARES Act, is charged with leading Kansas forward in continued recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;“Through the SPARK process, we have transparently and equitably allocated more than $1 billion in CARES Act funds to support businesses, keep Kansans healthy, improve access to broadband, and boost our economy,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“I’m pleased to reignite the Taskforce this year to maintain that transparent process and show Kansans that we’re using these relief funds to make strategic investments where they are needed most.” &nbsp;Similar to the CARES funding distribution process, the Kansas Office of Recovery will again be responsible for the statewide distribution of federal coronavirus relief funds allocated to Kansas through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of March 2021.A new and expanded seven-member executive committee will oversee the funding distribution process, assisted by an advisory committee with additional members. The advisory committee recommends investments to the executive committee, and the executive committee then makes recommendations to the State Finance Council, which makes the final determination.Appointments to the advisory committee will be announced in the following weeks.The members of the SPARK Executive Committee are as follows:<ul>
 <li>Lt. Governor David Toland -&nbsp;Chair</li><li>Secretary of Administration DeAngela Burns-Wallace –&nbsp;Governor’s Public Sector Appointee</li><li>Jon Rolph,&nbsp;Governor’s Private Sector Appointee</li><li>Speaker of the House Ron Ryckman</li><li>Senate President Ty Masterson</li><li>Greg Orman –&nbsp;Speaker Ryckman’s Appointee</li><li>Bill Pickert –&nbsp;President Masterson’s Appointee</li>
 </ul>“Through its combination of public and private partners, I know that the SPARK Taskforce will look past immediate COVID-19 recovery to build a better, more inclusive and resilient economy for future generations,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“I&nbsp;

Former candidate for Kan. governor will serve on Spark Task Force

HARVEY COUNTY —A Kansas man avoided injury just after 10:30a.m. Saturday while flying in Harvey County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Fisher Classic piloted by David Brett Hansen, 55, Wichita, was flying in the&nbsp; 1500 block of North Woodlawn just east of Newton Airport.

The airplane ran out fuel and landed in a field just short of Newton Airport. There were no injuries.

HARVEY COUNTY —A Kansas man avoided injury just after 10:30a.m. Saturday while flying in Harvey County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Fisher Classic piloted by David Brett Hansen, 55, Wichita, was flying in the&nbsp; 1500 block of North Woodlawn just east of Newton Airport.The airplane ran out fuel and landed in a field just short of Newton Airport. There were no injuries.

Kan. pilot avoids injury after small plane runs out of fuel

MANHATTAN– Friday night, USD 383 was made aware of the arrest of Aaron Zachry, former paraprofessional at Northview Elementary School on requested charges of sexual exploitation of a child; possess media of a child under 18.

He was a USD 383 employee from August, 2018 through the end of the 2020-2021 school year.

USD 383 will fully cooperate with the Riley County Police Department’s investigation.

At the request of RCPD, anyone with additional information is asked to contact RCPD at (785) 537-2112 or Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777. Using the Crime Stoppers service allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward up to $1,000. You can also submit tips anonymously here: https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=353

MANHATTAN–&nbsp;Police in Manhattan arrested a Junction City man Friday for alleged sexual exploitation of a child after nude photographs of minors were found on his cell phone, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.&nbsp;

Just after 3p.m. Friday, officers were called to the Northview Park Pool in the 500 block of Griffith Drive in Manhattan for the report of an unwanted person accused of suspicious activity at the pool.&nbsp;

Initial investigation revealed the subject possessed sexual pictures of children on his cell phone.

Aaron Zachry, 31, of Junction City is being held on requested charges of sexual exploitation of a child; possess media of a child under 18. Zachry was issued a total bond of $60,000, according to the release. He had worked as a paraeducator at Northview Elementary, according to the USD 383 website.

MANHATTAN– Friday night, USD 383 was made aware of the arrest of Aaron Zachry, former paraprofessional at Northview Elementary School on requested charges of sexual exploitation of a child; possess media of a child under 18.He was a USD 383 employee from August, 2018 through the end of the 2020-2021 school year.USD 383 will fully cooperate with the Riley County Police Department’s investigation.At the request of RCPD, anyone with additional information is asked to contact RCPD at (785) 537-2112 or Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777. Using the Crime Stoppers service allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward up to $1,000. You can also submit tips anonymously here: https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=353--------MANHATTAN–&nbsp;Police in Manhattan arrested a Junction City man Friday for alleged sexual exploitation of a child after nude photographs of minors were found on his cell phone, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.&nbsp;Just after 3p.m. Friday, officers were called to the Northview Park Pool in the 500 block of Griffith Drive in Manhattan for the report of an unwanted person accused of suspicious activity at the pool.&nbsp;Initial investigation revealed the subject possessed sexual pictures of children on his cell phone.Aaron Zachry, 31, of Junction City is being held on requested charges of sexual exploitation of a child; possess media of a child under 18. Zachry was issued a total bond of $60,000, according to the release. He had worked as a paraeducator at Northview Elementary, according to the USD 383 website.

Update: Kan. man had sexual pics of kids on phone at pool

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman on multiple charges following a traffic stop in Shawnee Kansas.

Just&nbsp; before 9:30 p.m. Thursday, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 2002 Chrysler Town &amp; Country minivan near NW Morse Street and NW Jackson Street for an equipment violation, according Deputy Shayna Anderson. During the investigation, illegal narcotics were located.

Deputies arrested the passenger, Tarji J. Marks, 31, of Topeka and booked her into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on the requested charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia as well as two misdemeanor warrants out of the City of Topeka.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622910050077.png" alt="Marks photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Marks photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman on multiple charges following a traffic stop in Shawnee Kansas.Just&nbsp; before 9:30 p.m. Thursday, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 2002 Chrysler Town &amp; Country minivan near NW Morse Street and NW Jackson Street for an equipment violation, according Deputy Shayna Anderson. During the investigation, illegal narcotics were located.Deputies arrested the passenger, Tarji J. Marks, 31, of Topeka and booked her into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on the requested charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia as well as two misdemeanor warrants out of the City of Topeka.

Deputies find drugs in van during Kan. traffic stop

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas ordered less than 1% of its vaccine allocation from the federal government for this week, the state health department reported Friday.

The disclosure came as the department’s data showed that Kansas still had nearly 593,000 unused doses as of Friday, about 21% of the 2.8 million shipped to the state.

Demand for inoculations has dropped, prompting the state and county health departments to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ks-state-wire-kansas-coronavirus-pandemic-health-government-and-politics-a9d76246ddba18a0d776b90717efc707">increase mobile clinics and bring vaccines</a>&nbsp;to churches and work sites.

The state, Wyandotte County and the University of Kansas Health System partnered with Kansas Speedway to promote vaccinations Thursday and Friday at the Kansas City, Kansas, NASCAR track. The speedway offered people who got vaccinated two laps around its track and entered them in a raffle for prizes that included tickets to the NASCAR Cup Series race there in October.

The state health department said it ordered only 1,020 or 0.7% of its federal allocation of 147,660 vaccine doses for this week.

Its data showed that an average of 4,348 vaccine shots a day were administered during the seven days ending Friday, its lowest seven-day average since Jan. 21.

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data" target="_blank">The department said</a>&nbsp;42.5% of the state’s 2.9 million residents had received at least one vaccine shot as of Friday.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas ordered less than 1% of its vaccine allocation from the federal government for this week, the state health department reported Friday.The disclosure came as the department’s data showed that Kansas still had nearly 593,000 unused doses as of Friday, about 21% of the 2.8 million shipped to the state.Demand for inoculations has dropped, prompting the state and county health departments to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ks-state-wire-kansas-coronavirus-pandemic-health-government-and-politics-a9d76246ddba18a0d776b90717efc707">increase mobile clinics and bring vaccines</a>&nbsp;to churches and work sites.The state, Wyandotte County and the University of Kansas Health System partnered with Kansas Speedway to promote vaccinations Thursday and Friday at the Kansas City, Kansas, NASCAR track. The speedway offered people who got vaccinated two laps around its track and entered them in a raffle for prizes that included tickets to the NASCAR Cup Series race there in October.The state health department said it ordered only 1,020 or 0.7% of its federal allocation of 147,660 vaccine doses for this week.Its data showed that an average of 4,348 vaccine shots a day were administered during the seven days ending Friday, its lowest seven-day average since Jan. 21.<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data" target="_blank">The department said</a>&nbsp;42.5% of the state’s 2.9 million residents had received at least one vaccine shot as of Friday.

Kansas orders less than 1% of its COVID vaccine allocation

WASHINGTON
 — The Internal Revenue Service is sending more than 2.8 million refunds
 this week to taxpayers who paid taxes on unemployment compensation that
 new legislation now excludes as income.

IRS efforts to correct unemployment compensation overpayments will 
help most affected taxpayers avoid filing an amended tax return. So far,
 the IRS has identified 13 million taxpayers that may be eligible for 
the adjustment. Some will receive refunds, which will be issued 
periodically, and some will have the overpayment applied to taxes due or
 other debts. For some there will be no change.

The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) excluded up to $10,200 in
 unemployment compensation per taxpayer paid in 2020. The $10,200 is the
 maximum amount that can be excluded when calculating taxable income; it
 is not the amount of refunds.

Earlier this month, the IRS began its programming review of tax 
returns filed prior to the enactment of ARPA to identify the excludible 
unemployment compensation. The IRS also is making corrections for the 
Earned Income Tax Credit, Premium Tax Credit and Recovery Rebate Credit 
affected by the exclusion.

Taxpayers who have qualifying children and who become eligible for 
EITC after the exclusion is calculated may have to file an amended 
return to claim any new benefits. The IRS can adjust tax returns for 
those who are single with no children and who become eligible for EITC. 
The IRS also can adjust tax returns where EITC was claimed and 
qualifying children identified.

To date, the IRS has reviewed over 3.1 million returns, with more than 2.8 million receiving refunds.

The IRS plans to issue the next set of refunds in mid-June. The 
review of returns and processing corrections will continue during the 
summer as the IRS continues to review the simplest returns and then 
turns to more complex returns.

Taxpayers will receive letters from the IRS, generally within 30 days
 of the adjustment, informing them of what kind of adjustment was made 
(such as refund, payment of IRS debt payment or payment offset for other
 authorized debts) and the amount of the adjustment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON
 — The Internal Revenue Service is sending more than 2.8 million refunds
 this week to taxpayers who paid taxes on unemployment compensation that
 new legislation now excludes as income.IRS efforts to correct unemployment compensation overpayments will 
help most affected taxpayers avoid filing an amended tax return. So far,
 the IRS has identified 13 million taxpayers that may be eligible for 
the adjustment. Some will receive refunds, which will be issued 
periodically, and some will have the overpayment applied to taxes due or
 other debts. For some there will be no change.The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) excluded up to $10,200 in
 unemployment compensation per taxpayer paid in 2020. The $10,200 is the
 maximum amount that can be excluded when calculating taxable income; it
 is not the amount of refunds.Earlier this month, the IRS began its programming review of tax 
returns filed prior to the enactment of ARPA to identify the excludible 
unemployment compensation. The IRS also is making corrections for the 
Earned Income Tax Credit, Premium Tax Credit and Recovery Rebate Credit 
affected by the exclusion.Taxpayers who have qualifying children and who become eligible for 
EITC after the exclusion is calculated may have to file an amended 
return to claim any new benefits. The IRS can adjust tax returns for 
those who are single with no children and who become eligible for EITC. 
The IRS also can adjust tax returns where EITC was claimed and 
qualifying children identified.To date, the IRS has reviewed over 3.1 million returns, with more than 2.8 million receiving refunds.The IRS plans to issue the next set of refunds in mid-June. The 
review of returns and processing corrections will continue during the 
summer as the IRS continues to review the simplest returns and then 
turns to more complex returns.Taxpayers will receive letters from the IRS, generally within 30 days
 of the adjustment, informing them of what kind of adjustment was made 
(such as refund, payment of IRS debt payment or payment offset for other
 authorized debts) and the amount of the adjustment.

More than 2.8 million refunds sent those who paid taxes on 2020 unemployment compensation

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Republicans on Friday panned President Joe Biden’s latest&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-technology-coronavirus-pandemic-pittsburgh-jen-psaki-8865ffc8f5ad3142155a5bd3c3a3e6d3">infrastructure proposal&nbsp;</a>and were expected to make a revised offer as talks grind toward next week’s slipping deadline for progress on a bipartisan deal.

Speaking after the release of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-coronavirus-pandemic-business-bb295afe6ec8d8b88b1b944f3eba7931">modest May jobs report</a>, Biden made the case for his robust investment package to push the economy past the COVID-19 crisis and downturn, and into a new era.

“Now is the time to build on the progress we’ve made,” Biden told reporters in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. “We need to make those investments today to continue to succeed tomorrow.”

Biden was talking again Friday with the lead GOP negotiator, Sen. Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia, in what the White House characterized as a discussion rather than an exchange of formal proposals.

Capito’s office released a statement with few details except to say the two spoke by telephone on a bipartisan infrastructure package and “agreed to connect again on Monday.”

The White House had been eyeing a deadline early next week as Congress returns from its Memorial Day break to see progress toward a deal and Democrats are setting ground work for a go-it-alone approach. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has indicated that Biden will look to act without Republican support if there is no consensus.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki downplayed any hard-set deadline Friday and said the administration continues to talk to lawmakers from both parties, giving a nod to a group of bipartisan senators who are privately working on possible areas of compromise with the White House.

“There’s runway left,” Psaki told reporters at the White House. “We’re going to keep a range of pathways open.”

For weeks, the president has been engaged in talks with GOP senators trying to strike a compromise on Biden’s top legislative a priority, the big infrastructure investment package. While the two sides appear to have narrowed the price gap between his initial $2.3 trillion proposal and the GOP’s $568 billion opening bid, they remain far apart on how to pay for what could be a compromise $1 trillion investment.

Republicans are showing no interest in Biden’s latest proposal for a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-donald-trump-business-government-and-politics-767504f2366617e89a35375a0786e59a">15% corporate minimum tax rate&nbsp;</a>that would ensure all companies pay something in taxes, rather than allowing so many write-offs or deductions that they contribute zero to the treasury.

A Republican familiar with the talks and granted anonymity to discuss the private assessment said the GOP senators view Biden’s latest idea as an unnecessary tax hike.

Instead, Republicans were poised to submit a revised offer when Capito spoke with Biden again Friday, the person said. They will insist on using untapped COVID-19 relief funds to pay for the infrastructure investments, the Republican said. Biden’s team has rejected that approach.

Still, neither Biden nor the GOP senators appear ready to call off talks, even as Democrats prepare to use budget rules to pass any big package on their own, without Republican votes.

On Friday, House Democrats released a plan for spending $547 billion over the next five years on road, mass transit and rail projects, a blueprint of their priorities and a potential building block for Biden’s broader package.

The proposal from Oregon Rep. Peter DeFazio, the Democratic chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, continues existing programs set to expire and adds key pieces of the larger measure Biden is negotiating with Republicans.

DeFazio’s legislation, a reauthorization of surface transportation programs set to expire Sept. 30, doesn’t address how to pay for the projects. He called the effort a “once-in-a-generation opportunity to move our transportation planning out of the 1950s and toward our clean energy future.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-donald-trump-business-government-and-politics-767504f2366617e89a35375a0786e59a">In addition to Biden’s proposed 15% minimum tax on corporations</a>&nbsp;— there’s no minimum tax now on corporate profits — he envisions additional revenues from increased IRS enforcement. He is seeking roughly $1 trillion in new infrastructure spending. Senate Republicans have countered with only $257 billion in additional spending.

The House bill would authorize up to $343 billion for roads, bridges and safety improvements. Another $109 billion would go to public transit programs and $95 billion would go to freight and passenger rail system, including a tripling of funding for Amtrak.

DeFazio’s bill is not expected to attract much GOP support, as Republicans unveiled their own legislation recently that would authorize about $400 billion over five years for road, bridge and transit programs.

Republicans on the House panel panned the bill in a statement. “Instead of working with Republicans to find common ground on a bill that could earn strong bipartisan support – something our Senate counterparts did successfully last month – this bill moves even further to the left to appease the most progressive members in the Majority’s party.”

A Senate panel recently passed its version of the highway bill unanimously, but the lawmakers didn’t have to vote yet on how they would pay for it, a focal point of negotiations between GOP senators and the White House.

Business groups such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Business Roundtable have called on lawmakers to continue negotiations and work toward a bipartisan compromise.

But some Democrats have questioned the merits of that approach and are already unhappy with some of the compromises that Biden has offered. They support using a process that would allow Democrats to pass an infrastructure boost with a simple majority, which they did through a COVID-19 relief measure that delivered&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/retail-sales-economy-2f20ee18d72ed056412fde0fe94f9fae">$1,400 payments</a>&nbsp;to most Americans.

“Getting Republicans on board is not necessary. Getting the American people back on their feet is,” Rep. Jamaal Bowman, D-N.Y., said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622232957258.png" alt="&nbsp;President Biden dismissed a fresh Republican infrastructure proposal offering modestly more spending. White House press secretary Jen Psaki says the $50 billion increase the GOP offered fell short of the president's objectives for growing the economy.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;President Biden dismissed a fresh Republican infrastructure proposal offering modestly more spending. White House press secretary Jen Psaki says the $50 billion increase the GOP offered fell short of the president's objectives for growing the economy.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Republicans on Friday panned President Joe Biden’s latest&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-technology-coronavirus-pandemic-pittsburgh-jen-psaki-8865ffc8f5ad3142155a5bd3c3a3e6d3">infrastructure proposal&nbsp;</a>and were expected to make a revised offer as talks grind toward next week’s slipping deadline for progress on a bipartisan deal.Speaking after the release of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-coronavirus-pandemic-business-bb295afe6ec8d8b88b1b944f3eba7931">modest May jobs report</a>, Biden made the case for his robust investment package to push the economy past the COVID-19 crisis and downturn, and into a new era.“Now is the time to build on the progress we’ve made,” Biden told reporters in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. “We need to make those investments today to continue to succeed tomorrow.”Biden was talking again Friday with the lead GOP negotiator, Sen. Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia, in what the White House characterized as a discussion rather than an exchange of formal proposals.Capito’s office released a statement with few details except to say the two spoke by telephone on a bipartisan infrastructure package and “agreed to connect again on Monday.”The White House had been eyeing a deadline early next week as Congress returns from its Memorial Day break to see progress toward a deal and Democrats are setting ground work for a go-it-alone approach. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has indicated that Biden will look to act without Republican support if there is no consensus.White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki downplayed any hard-set deadline Friday and said the administration continues to talk to lawmakers from both parties, giving a nod to a group of bipartisan senators who are privately working on possible areas of compromise with the White House.“There’s runway left,” Psaki told reporters at the White House. “We’re going to keep a range of pathways open.”For weeks, the president has been engaged in talks with GOP senators trying to strike a compromise on Biden’s top legislative a priority, the big infrastructure investment package. While the two sides appear to have narrowed the price gap between his initial $2.3 trillion proposal and the GOP’s $568 billion opening bid, they remain far apart on how to pay for what could be a compromise $1 trillion investment.Republicans are showing no interest in Biden’s latest proposal for a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-donald-trump-business-government-and-politics-767504f2366617e89a35375a0786e59a">15% corporate minimum tax rate&nbsp;</a>that would ensure all companies pay something in taxes, rather than allowing so many write-offs or deductions that they contribute zero to the treasury.A Republican familiar with the talks and granted anonymity to discuss the private assessment said the GOP senators view Biden’s latest idea as an unnecessary tax hike.Instead, Republicans were poised to submit a revised offer when Capito spoke with Biden again Friday, the person said. They will insist on using untapped COVID-19 relief funds to pay for the infrastructure investments, the Republican said. Biden’s team has rejected that approach.Still, neither Biden nor the GOP senators appear ready to call off talks, even as Democrats prepare to use budget rules to pass any big package on their own, without Republican votes.On Friday, House Democrats released a plan for spending $547 billion over the next five years on road, mass transit and rail projects, a blueprint of their priorities and a potential building block for Biden’s broader package.The proposal from Oregon Rep. Peter DeFazio, the Democratic chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, continues existing programs set to expire and adds key pieces of the larger measure Biden is negotiating with Republicans.DeFazio’s legislation, a reauthorization of surface transportation programs set to expire Sept. 30, doesn’t address how to pay for the projects. He called the effort a “once-in-a-generation opportunity to move our transportation planning out of the 1950s and toward our clean energy future.”<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-donald-trump-business-government-and-politics-767504f2366617e89a35375a0786e59a">In addition to Biden’s proposed 15% minimum tax on corporations</a>&nbsp;— there’s no minimum tax now on corporate profits — he envisions additional revenues from increased IRS enforcement. He is seeking roughly $1 trillion in new infrastructure spending. Senate Republicans have countered with only $257 billion in additional spending.The House bill would authorize up to $343 billion for roads, bridges and safety improvements. Another $109 billion would go to public transit programs and $95 billion would go to freight and passenger rail system, including a tripling of funding for Amtrak.DeFazio’s bill is not expected to attract much GOP support, as Republicans unveiled their own legislation recently that would authorize about $400 billion over five years for road, bridge and transit programs.Republicans on the House panel panned the bill in a statement. “Instead of working with Republicans to find common ground on a bill that could earn strong bipartisan support – something our Senate counterparts did successfully last month – this bill moves even further to the left to appease the most progressive members in the Majority’s party.”A Senate panel recently passed its version of the highway bill unanimously, but the lawmakers didn’t have to vote yet on how they would pay for it, a focal point of negotiations between GOP senators and the White House.Business groups such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Business Roundtable have called on lawmakers to continue negotiations and work toward a bipartisan compromise.But some Democrats have questioned the merits of that approach and are already unhappy with some of the compromises that Biden has offered. They support using a process that would allow Democrats to pass an infrastructure boost with a simple majority, which they did through a COVID-19 relief measure that delivered&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/retail-sales-economy-2f20ee18d72ed056412fde0fe94f9fae">$1,400 payments</a>&nbsp;to most Americans.“Getting Republicans on board is not necessary. Getting the American people back on their feet is,” Rep. Jamaal Bowman, D-N.Y., said.

Battle growing over Biden's $1 Trillion infrastructure plan 

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspect following a burglary in Shawnee County.

Just after 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call regarding a vehicle burglary and theft that just occurred in the 5800 block of NW 75 Highway, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

Deputies responded and, with information from a citizen, were able to locate the suspect vehicle. The red 2018 Chevrolet Colorado was stopped near NE 24 Highway and NE Goldwater Road.

During the investigation deputies located multiple stolen items from the recent burglary and items associated with other Jefferson County cases. They arrested Lindsey L. Wabaunsee, 34, Topeka and Jessica, D. Garza, 32, of Horton and booked them Shawnee County Department of Corrections.

Wabaunsee is being held on requested charges of burglary, theft, possession of stolen property, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and transporting an open container. Garza is being held on requested charges of burglary, theft, possession of stolen property and felony criminal damage to property.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622807938243.png" alt="Wabaunsee photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Wabaunsee photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspect following a burglary in Shawnee County.Just after 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call regarding a vehicle burglary and theft that just occurred in the 5800 block of NW 75 Highway, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.Deputies responded and, with information from a citizen, were able to locate the suspect vehicle. The red 2018 Chevrolet Colorado was stopped near NE 24 Highway and NE Goldwater Road.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622807911297.png" alt="Garza photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Garza photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>During the investigation deputies located multiple stolen items from the recent burglary and items associated with other Jefferson County cases. They arrested Lindsey L. Wabaunsee, 34, Topeka and Jessica, D. Garza, 32, of Horton and booked them Shawnee County Department of Corrections.Wabaunsee is being held on requested charges of burglary, theft, possession of stolen property, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and transporting an open container. Garza is being held on requested charges of burglary, theft, possession of stolen property and felony criminal damage to property.

Kan. deputies find items taken in series of burglaries

CRAWFORD COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Friday in Crawford County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Ford Fusion driven by Michael Anthony Semones, 66,&nbsp; Pittsburg, was southbound on U.S. 69 nine miles north of Kansas 47.

The Ford traveled left of center and struck&nbsp; a northbound 2015 Peterbilt semi driven by&nbsp;Lowe, John R. Lowe, 68, Shawnee, on the driver's side.&nbsp;

Semones was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Frontier Forensics. EMS transported&nbsp;Lowe to Overland Park Regional Medical Center. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

CRAWFORD COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Friday in Crawford County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Ford Fusion driven by Michael Anthony Semones, 66,&nbsp; Pittsburg, was southbound on U.S. 69 nine miles north of Kansas 47.The Ford traveled left of center and struck&nbsp; a northbound 2015 Peterbilt semi driven by&nbsp;Lowe, John R. Lowe, 68, Shawnee, on the driver's side.&nbsp;Semones was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Frontier Forensics. EMS transported&nbsp;Lowe to Overland Park Regional Medical Center. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies after near head-on semi crash

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. government cannot give a definitive explanation of aerial phenomena spotted by military pilots but has found no evidence that they are linked to aliens, according to two officials briefed on an intelligence report examining the issue.

<a href="https://www.navair.navy.mil/foia/sites/g/files/jejdrs566/files/2020-04/1%20-%20FLIR.mp4">Click here to watch </a>the video

The report due to Congress later this month examines multiple unexplained sightings from recent years that in some cases have been captured on video of pilots exclaiming about objects flying in front of them. The two people briefed on the report said it found no proof of an extraterrestrial link and does not rule out that what pilots have seen may be new technologies developed by other countries. One of the officials said there is no indication that the unexplained phenomena are from secret U.S. programs.

The two officials were not authorized to discuss the information publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity. Findings of the report were first published Thursday by The New York Times.

Congress in December required the Director of National Intelligence to summarize and report on the U.S. government’s knowledge of unidentified aerial phenomena, or UAPs — better known to the public as unidentified flying objects or UFOs. The effort has included officials on a Defense Department UAP task force established last year. The expected public release of an unclassified version of the report this month will amount to a status report, not the final word, according to one official.

A Pentagon spokeswoman, Sue Gough, declined Friday to comment on news reports about the intelligence report. She said the Pentagon’s UAP task force is “actively working with the Office of the Director of National Intelligence on the report, and DNI will provide the findings to Congress.”

The Pentagon and Central Intelligence Agency have for decades looked into reports of aircraft or other objects in the sky flying at inexplicable speeds or trajectories.

The U.S. government takes unidentified aerial phenomena seriously given the potential national security risk of an adversary flying novel technology over a military base or another sensitive site, or the prospect of Russian or Chinese development exceeding current U.S. capabilities. It also is seen by the U.S. military as a security and safety issue, given that in many cases the pilots who reported seeing unexplained aerial phenomena were conducting combat training flights.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622822273014.png" alt="UFO image courtesy U.S. Department of Defense Naval Air System Command" />
 <figcaption>UFO image courtesy U.S. Department of Defense Naval Air System Command</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. government cannot give a definitive explanation of aerial phenomena spotted by military pilots but has found no evidence that they are linked to aliens, according to two officials briefed on an intelligence report examining the issue.<a href="https://www.navair.navy.mil/foia/sites/g/files/jejdrs566/files/2020-04/1%20-%20FLIR.mp4">Click here to watch </a>the videoThe report due to Congress later this month examines multiple unexplained sightings from recent years that in some cases have been captured on video of pilots exclaiming about objects flying in front of them. The two people briefed on the report said it found no proof of an extraterrestrial link and does not rule out that what pilots have seen may be new technologies developed by other countries. One of the officials said there is no indication that the unexplained phenomena are from secret U.S. programs.The two officials were not authorized to discuss the information publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity. Findings of the report were first published Thursday by The New York Times.Congress in December required the Director of National Intelligence to summarize and report on the U.S. government’s knowledge of unidentified aerial phenomena, or UAPs — better known to the public as unidentified flying objects or UFOs. The effort has included officials on a Defense Department UAP task force established last year. The expected public release of an unclassified version of the report this month will amount to a status report, not the final word, according to one official.A Pentagon spokeswoman, Sue Gough, declined Friday to comment on news reports about the intelligence report. She said the Pentagon’s UAP task force is “actively working with the Office of the Director of National Intelligence on the report, and DNI will provide the findings to Congress.”The Pentagon and Central Intelligence Agency have for decades looked into reports of aircraft or other objects in the sky flying at inexplicable speeds or trajectories.The U.S. government takes unidentified aerial phenomena seriously given the potential national security risk of an adversary flying novel technology over a military base or another sensitive site, or the prospect of Russian or Chinese development exceeding current U.S. capabilities. It also is seen by the U.S. military as a security and safety issue, given that in many cases the pilots who reported seeing unexplained aerial phenomena were conducting combat training flights.The report’s lack of firm conclusions will likely disappoint people anticipating the report given many Americans’ long-standing fascination with UFOs and the prospect of aliens having reached humankind. A recent story on CBS’ “60 Minutes” further bolstered interest in the government report.But skeptics caution that the videos and reported sightings have plausible Earth-bound explanations. Mick West, an author, investigator, and longtime skeptic of UFO sightings, said he supported the military looking into any possible incursion of U.S. airspace, especially by an adversary.“People are conflating this issue with the idea that these UFOs demonstrate amazing physics and possibly even aliens,” West said. He added, “The idea that this is some kind of secret warp drive or it’s defying physics as we know it, there really isn’t any good evidence for that.”The Pentagon last year announced a task force to investigate the issue and the Navy in recent years created a protocol for its pilots to report any possible sightings. And lawmakers in recent years have pushed for more public disclosure.“There’s a stigma on Capitol Hill,” Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Florida, told “60 Minutes” in May. “I mean, some of my colleagues are very interested in this topic and some kind of, you know, giggle when you bring it up. But I don’t think we can allow the stigma to keep us from having an answer to a very fundamental question.”