KANSAS CITY —A Missouri farmer accused of attempting to cover up a $215,000 cattle fraud scheme by killing two Wisconsin brothers was indicted Tuesday on a federal mail fraud charge.

Garland Joseph Nelson, 27, is awaiting trial on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michael-brown-us-news-ap-top-news-kansas-city-wisconsin-d979d903133f475f941d1be6a8ce5fe3">state murder and other charges&nbsp;</a>in the deaths of 24-year-old Justin Diemel and 35-year-old Nicholas Diemel, of Shawano County, Wisconsin. The brothers disappeared after visiting Nelson’s farm in July 2019, and their burned remains were later found in Missouri and Nebraska.

The federal charge focuses on the financial deal that brought the brothers to Kansas City.

Nelson agreed to feed and pasture cattle belonging to the brothers’ Wisconsin livestock trade and investment business, the indictment says. The arrangement was supposed to end with Nelson, who worked for J4s Farm Enterprises Inc., a business started by his mother, selling the cattle and sending the brothers the proceeds, minus the costs of raising the cattle.

But the U.S. attorney’s office said in a news release that Nelson sold, traded or killed many of the Diemels’ cattle without paying them.

The indictment also alleges that the cattle in Nelson’s care “had high death rates due to underfeeding, neglect, and/or maltreatment.” In one case, he dropped hay bales in a pasture for calves but did not remove the plastic covering, so calves ate the plastic and died.

Throughout the spring of 2019, Nicholas Diemel pressed Nelson for payment. Nelson responded by fraudulently sending the Diemels a bad check for $215,936 while the account had a balance of 21 cents, according to the U.S. attorney’s office. The check had been intentionally torn and damaged so it could not be submitted for payment.

The brothers eventually flew to Kansas City in July 2019, rented a pickup truck and drove to Nelson’s mother’s farm in Braymer. The indictment alleges that Nelson then killed them.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1564610122687.png" alt="Nelson photo Caldwell County" />
 <figcaption>Nelson photo Caldwell County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Missouri farmer accused of attempting to cover up a $215,000 cattle fraud scheme by killing two Wisconsin brothers was indicted Tuesday on a federal mail fraud charge.Garland Joseph Nelson, 27, is awaiting trial on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michael-brown-us-news-ap-top-news-kansas-city-wisconsin-d979d903133f475f941d1be6a8ce5fe3">state murder and other charges&nbsp;</a>in the deaths of 24-year-old Justin Diemel and 35-year-old Nicholas Diemel, of Shawano County, Wisconsin. The brothers disappeared after visiting Nelson’s farm in July 2019, and their burned remains were later found in Missouri and Nebraska.The federal charge focuses on the financial deal that brought the brothers to Kansas City.Nelson agreed to feed and pasture cattle belonging to the brothers’ Wisconsin livestock trade and investment business, the indictment says. The arrangement was supposed to end with Nelson, who worked for J4s Farm Enterprises Inc., a business started by his mother, selling the cattle and sending the brothers the proceeds, minus the costs of raising the cattle.But the U.S. attorney’s office said in a news release that Nelson sold, traded or killed many of the Diemels’ cattle without paying them.The indictment also alleges that the cattle in Nelson’s care “had high death rates due to underfeeding, neglect, and/or maltreatment.” In one case, he dropped hay bales in a pasture for calves but did not remove the plastic covering, so calves ate the plastic and died.Throughout the spring of 2019, Nicholas Diemel pressed Nelson for payment. Nelson responded by fraudulently sending the Diemels a bad check for $215,936 while the account had a balance of 21 cents, according to the U.S. attorney’s office. The check had been intentionally torn and damaged so it could not be submitted for payment.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565280147807.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The brothers eventually flew to Kansas City in July 2019, rented a pickup truck and drove to Nelson’s mother’s farm in Braymer. The indictment alleges that Nelson then killed them.

KC-area man charged in brother's deaths accused of fraud

SALINA—Law enforcement authorities investigating the murder of a woman in Salina continue their search for a suspect identified as as 35-year-old Nelson Gerrod Hull.

He is wanted for the February 23 shooting death of 36-year-old Courtney Ann Hoffman.&nbsp; The Saline County District Court issued an arrest warrant for Hull for murder in the first degree.

Hull is described as a black male, 6-foot-3, 200 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. A tattoo on the right side of his neck is "Mi Familia."

On Monday, police reported the arrest of Clarence Darnyl Brown, 34, of Salina, in connection with the case.&nbsp;Brown is being held on requested charges of Aiding and abetting first degree murder, Criminal solicitation and Interference with law enforcement.

Just after 11:30a.m. on February 23, police responded to the 700 block of North Fourth Street in Salina for a report of the sound of gunfire and someone screaming, according to a media release.

Upon arrival, Salina Police Officers located a woman identified as Hoffman inside a vehicle at 731 N. 4th Street. She had a gunshot wound and was pronounced deceased by Salina Fire Department EMS personnel.

Police say Hull should be considered armed and dangerous. They encourage anyone with information on Hull's current location to contact 911 immediately.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576681996331.jpeg" alt="Hull photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Hull photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINA—Law enforcement authorities investigating the murder of a woman in Salina continue their search for a suspect identified as as 35-year-old Nelson Gerrod Hull.He is wanted for the February 23 shooting death of 36-year-old Courtney Ann Hoffman.&nbsp; The Saline County District Court issued an arrest warrant for Hull for murder in the first degree.Hull is described as a black male, 6-foot-3, 200 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. A tattoo on the right side of his neck is "Mi Familia."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614348886825.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation Tuesday in Salina. photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation Tuesday in Salina. photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>On Monday, police reported the arrest of Clarence Darnyl Brown, 34, of Salina, in connection with the case.&nbsp;Brown is being held on requested charges of Aiding and abetting first degree murder, Criminal solicitation and Interference with law enforcement.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614629894498.png" alt="Clarence Brown -photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Clarence Brown -photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 11:30a.m. on February 23, police responded to the 700 block of North Fourth Street in Salina for a report of the sound of gunfire and someone screaming, according to a media release.Upon arrival, Salina Police Officers located a woman identified as Hoffman inside a vehicle at 731 N. 4th Street. She had a gunshot wound and was pronounced deceased by Salina Fire Department EMS personnel.Police say Hull should be considered armed and dangerous. They encourage anyone with information on Hull's current location to contact 911 immediately.

After 12 weeks, search continues for suspect in murder of Kan. woman

GRANT COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Tuesday in Grant County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1970 Bell OH58A helicopter used for agricultural aerial spraying and piloted by Ripson Wong, 47, Henderson, Nevada, was applying chemical to a field west of Kansas 25 one mile south of County Road 1, 16 miles south of Lakin.

The helicopter was eastbound at the east edge of the field where the chemicals were being applied and struck a power line, became unstable and crashed in a wheat field.

The helicopter came to rest on its left side facing east, approximately 434 feet east of the two track field entrance road.

EMS transported Wong to Bob Wilson Memorial Hospital in Ulysses. The accident remains under investigation.

GRANT COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Tuesday in Grant County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1970 Bell OH58A helicopter used for agricultural aerial spraying and piloted by Ripson Wong, 47, Henderson, Nevada, was applying chemical to a field west of Kansas 25 one mile south of County Road 1, 16 miles south of Lakin.The helicopter was eastbound at the east edge of the field where the chemicals were being applied and struck a power line, became unstable and crashed in a wheat field.The helicopter came to rest on its left side facing east, approximately 434 feet east of the two track field entrance road.EMS transported Wong to Bob Wilson Memorial Hospital in Ulysses. The accident remains under investigation.

Pilot hospitalized after helicopter crash in Kansas field

TOPEKA – El Dorado Correctional Facility (EDCF) resident Christopher J. Walton died Monday, May 17, 2021 at the facility, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Corrections.

 The cause of death is pending the results of an autopsy. Preliminary assessment indicates the death was not related to COVID-19.

Walton was serving a sentence for possession of opiates, burglary, criminal damage to property and battery. He had been imprisoned with KDOC since November 2020.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621370317974.png" alt="Walton had multiple convictions in Sedgwick County, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>Walton had multiple convictions in Sedgwick County, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – El Dorado Correctional Facility (EDCF) resident Christopher J. Walton died Monday, May 17, 2021 at the facility, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Corrections. The cause of death is pending the results of an autopsy. Preliminary assessment indicates the death was not related to COVID-19.Walton was serving a sentence for possession of opiates, burglary, criminal damage to property and battery. He had been imprisoned with KDOC since November 2020.Per protocol, when a resident dies in the custody of the KDOC, the death is under investigation by the KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.

Death of 36-year-old Kan. inmate under investigation

WASHINGTON
 — The Internal Revenue Service today provided guidance on tax breaks 
under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 for continuation health 
coverage under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 
1985 (COBRA).

<a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/n-21-31.pdf">Notice 2021-31&nbsp;PDF</a>
 provides guidance for employers, plan administrators, and health 
insurers regarding the new credit available to them for providing 
continuation health coverage to certain individuals under COBRA.

The American Rescue Plan provides a temporary 100% reduction in the 
premium that individuals would have to pay when they elect COBRA 
continuation health coverage following a reduction in hours or an 
involuntary termination of employment. The new law provides a 
corresponding tax credit for the entities that maintain group health 
plans, such as employers, multiemployer plans, and insurers. The 100% 
reduction in the premium and the credit are also available with respect 
to continuation coverage provided for those events under comparable 
State laws, sometimes referred to as "mini-COBRA."

Notice 2021-31 provides information regarding the calculation of the 
credit, the eligibility of individuals, the premium assistance period, 
and other information vital to employers, plan administrators, and 
insurers to understand the credit.

COBRA provides certain former employees, retirees, spouses, former 
spouses, and dependent children the right to temporary continuation of 
health coverage at group rates. COBRA generally covers health plans 
maintained by private-sector employers with 20 or more full and 
part-time employees. It also covers employee organizations or federal, 
state or local governments. State mini-COBRA laws often provide similar 
benefits for insured small employers not subject to Federal COBRA.

The IRS will continue to update <a href="https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/coronavirus-tax-relief-for-health-plans-and-retirement-plans">information related to health plans</a> on IRS.gov.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON
 — The Internal Revenue Service today provided guidance on tax breaks 
under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 for continuation health 
coverage under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 
1985 (COBRA).<a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/n-21-31.pdf">Notice 2021-31&nbsp;PDF</a>
 provides guidance for employers, plan administrators, and health 
insurers regarding the new credit available to them for providing 
continuation health coverage to certain individuals under COBRA.The American Rescue Plan provides a temporary 100% reduction in the 
premium that individuals would have to pay when they elect COBRA 
continuation health coverage following a reduction in hours or an 
involuntary termination of employment. The new law provides a 
corresponding tax credit for the entities that maintain group health 
plans, such as employers, multiemployer plans, and insurers. The 100% 
reduction in the premium and the credit are also available with respect 
to continuation coverage provided for those events under comparable 
State laws, sometimes referred to as "mini-COBRA."Notice 2021-31 provides information regarding the calculation of the 
credit, the eligibility of individuals, the premium assistance period, 
and other information vital to employers, plan administrators, and 
insurers to understand the credit.COBRA provides certain former employees, retirees, spouses, former 
spouses, and dependent children the right to temporary continuation of 
health coverage at group rates. COBRA generally covers health plans 
maintained by private-sector employers with 20 or more full and 
part-time employees. It also covers employee organizations or federal, 
state or local governments. State mini-COBRA laws often provide similar 
benefits for insured small employers not subject to Federal COBRA.The IRS will continue to update <a href="https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/coronavirus-tax-relief-for-health-plans-and-retirement-plans">information related to health plans</a> on IRS.gov.

IRS outlines tax relief, credits for COBRA health plans

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Police in Kansas City, Kansas, have identified a man killed last week in a wooded residential area on the northwestern edge of the city.

Officers were called to the area the afternoon of May 11 and found Francisco Herrera-Flores, 38, of Kansas City, Kansas, police said in a news release Monday. Herrera-Flores had been shot, investigators said.

Guadalupe Benitez-Pizarro, 36, of Sante Fe, New Mexico, has been arrested and charged with second-degree felony murder in Herrera-Flores’ death, police said in the release. Benitez-Pizarro is being held in the Wyandotte County Jail on a $250,000 bond.

Herrera-Flores’ death marked the 10th homicide for Kansas City, Kansas, this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621357137577.png" alt="Benitez-Pizarro-photo Wyandotte County" />
 <figcaption>Benitez-Pizarro-photo Wyandotte County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Police in Kansas City, Kansas, have identified a man killed last week in a wooded residential area on the northwestern edge of the city.Officers were called to the area the afternoon of May 11 and found Francisco Herrera-Flores, 38, of Kansas City, Kansas, police said in a news release Monday. Herrera-Flores had been shot, investigators said.Guadalupe Benitez-Pizarro, 36, of Sante Fe, New Mexico, has been arrested and charged with second-degree felony murder in Herrera-Flores’ death, police said in the release. Benitez-Pizarro is being held in the Wyandotte County Jail on a $250,000 bond.Herrera-Flores’ death marked the 10th homicide for Kansas City, Kansas, this year.

Suspect from New Mexico jailed for Kan. man's murder

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

SALINE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon in connection to theft and trespassing incidents.

Just after 4:30 p.m. Monday, police were sent to Walmart, 2900 S. Ninth Street, for the report of a person who allegedly rode a green and black bicycle out of the store without paying for it, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester. The bike was valued at $580.

The person was described as a white male wearing a brown shirt, blue jeans, and a camouflage jacket.

Shortly before 5:30 p.m., officers were sent to Wildcat Circle for the report of a burglary in progress. The reporting party and his family were inside the residence when they saw a white male wearing blue jeans and a tan shirt walking into their garage. The resident walked out through the garage and saw the man, who then left the garage and ran from the property carrying a green and black bicycle, Forrester reported. 

The man, who a witness identified as Joshua Swisher, 38, of Salina, ran onto the nearby flood dike and continued northbound.

A short time later, an off-duty officer saw a person matching Swisher's description riding a bike in the 100 block of S. Kansas Ave. Officers located Swisher in the backyard of a residence in the 100 block of S. Kansas Avenue, Forrester noted.

Swisher was arrested on requested charges of Theft, Three counts of trespassing and Interference with law enforcement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621344859760.jpeg" alt="Swisher has previous convictions for burglary, theft, giving worthless checks, obstruction and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections- photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Swisher has previous convictions for burglary, theft, giving worthless checks, obstruction and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections- photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostSALINE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon in connection to theft and trespassing incidents.Just after 4:30 p.m. Monday, police were sent to Walmart, 2900 S. Ninth Street, for the report of a person who allegedly rode a green and black bicycle out of the store without paying for it, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester. The bike was valued at $580.The person was described as a white male wearing a brown shirt, blue jeans, and a camouflage jacket.Shortly before 5:30 p.m., officers were sent to Wildcat Circle for the report of a burglary in progress. The reporting party and his family were inside the residence when they saw a white male wearing blue jeans and a tan shirt walking into their garage. The resident walked out through the garage and saw the man, who then left the garage and ran from the property carrying a green and black bicycle, Forrester reported. The man, who a witness identified as Joshua Swisher, 38, of Salina, ran onto the nearby flood dike and continued northbound.A short time later, an off-duty officer saw a person matching Swisher's description riding a bike in the 100 block of S. Kansas Ave. Officers located Swisher in the backyard of a residence in the 100 block of S. Kansas Avenue, Forrester noted.Swisher was arrested on requested charges of Theft, Three counts of trespassing and Interference with law enforcement.

Police: Kan. felon rode bike out of store without paying

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and working to learn what prompted it.

Just after 4 a.m. Tuesday, police responded to a shooting call in the 2100 block of North Ash in Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidson..&nbsp; A calling party advised of a vehicle also leaving the area.

Upon arrival, officers located the vehicle that left at 17th&nbsp;and Minneapolis.&nbsp; When the officers stopped the vehicle, they contacted a 37-year-old man who had been shot.&nbsp; He was transported to an area hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

Investigators are currently working to determine the circumstances of what occurred.&nbsp; A lack of all cooperation in this investigation has prevented police from learning details of this case, according to Davidson.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and working to learn what prompted it.Just after 4 a.m. Tuesday, police responded to a shooting call in the 2100 block of North Ash in Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidson..&nbsp; A calling party advised of a vehicle also leaving the area.Upon arrival, officers located the vehicle that left at 17th&nbsp;and Minneapolis.&nbsp; When the officers stopped the vehicle, they contacted a 37-year-old man who had been shot.&nbsp; He was transported to an area hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.Investigators are currently working to determine the circumstances of what occurred.&nbsp; A lack of all cooperation in this investigation has prevented police from learning details of this case, according to Davidson.

Police: Victim not cooperating with Kan. shooting investigation

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas schools are stepping up efforts to administer COVID-19 vaccines to newly eligible 12-to 15-year-olds as more districts relax mask rules or face pressure to do so.

Hundreds of students from public and private schools gathered Monday to get immunized at Topeka High School, The Topeka Capital-Journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/coronavirus/2021/05/17/topeka-high-school-kansas-schools-push-students-parents-covid-vaccine/5126233001/" target="_blank">reports.</a>

“We were surprised that so many people were here,” said Richard Bolejack, as he took his daughter, a freshman at nearby Shawnee Heights High School, to the vaccine clinic. “We were like ‘Wow’ because we didn’t think that would be the case.”

The students were joined by Gov. Laura Kelly, who touted the effort as the state aims to increase its vaccination rate. School districts from Manhattan to Olathe are conducting similar clinics, and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas National Guard are chipping in support as needed.

But the governor pointed to a statewide drop in demand for the shots, stressing that the next frontier would be making the shots available at doctor’s offices throughout Kansas.

“We thought it very important to take the vaccines to the people, rather than expecting them to come to something like this,” Kelly said. “They made it very clear that wasn’t going to happen anymore.”

The push comes as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-health-education-abb64bd20748bd95aea2a5e2017704fd">more districts&nbsp;</a>nationwide relax mask requirements. Manhattan-Ogden Unified School District 383 announced Monday, for instance, that fully vaccinated individuals would not need to wear masks on school grounds.

The Shawnee Mission school district, meanwhile, decided Monday to continue to require students and staff members to wear masks in school until the end of the year despite protests, KSHB-TV&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kshb.com/news/coronavirus/shawnee-mission-school-district-retains-mask-requirement-despite-protest?_amp=true" target="_blank">reports</a>.

Kristin Butler, who has two children in the school district, was among about two dozen parents who held signs demonstrating against the mask policy before the decision was made.

“I am fighting for my children’s right to breathe in school,” she said.

Parent Julia Garrard, however, argued that the mask requirement should remain in place, noting that children like her 11-year-old son Oskar aren’t yet eligible to be vaccinated.

“Seems like it’s a no-brainer,” Garrard said.

The school district will likely reevaluate its policies ahead of the upcoming school year after seeking guidance from health officials, said spokesperson David Smith.

“We’re hopeful maybe this summer, younger kids will be eligible,” Smith said. “Clearly the way to move past the pandemic is to get more and more people vaccinated, including younger children, so we just have to work to get through that.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621361902245.png" alt="Kansas Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp;visited the Topeka High school vaccination clinic on Monday" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp;visited the Topeka High school vaccination clinic on Monday</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas schools are stepping up efforts to administer COVID-19 vaccines to newly eligible 12-to 15-year-olds as more districts relax mask rules or face pressure to do so.Hundreds of students from public and private schools gathered Monday to get immunized at Topeka High School, The Topeka Capital-Journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/coronavirus/2021/05/17/topeka-high-school-kansas-schools-push-students-parents-covid-vaccine/5126233001/" target="_blank">reports.</a>“We were surprised that so many people were here,” said Richard Bolejack, as he took his daughter, a freshman at nearby Shawnee Heights High School, to the vaccine clinic. “We were like ‘Wow’ because we didn’t think that would be the case.”The students were joined by Gov. Laura Kelly, who touted the effort as the state aims to increase its vaccination rate. School districts from Manhattan to Olathe are conducting similar clinics, and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas National Guard are chipping in support as needed.But the governor pointed to a statewide drop in demand for the shots, stressing that the next frontier would be making the shots available at doctor’s offices throughout Kansas.“We thought it very important to take the vaccines to the people, rather than expecting them to come to something like this,” Kelly said. “They made it very clear that wasn’t going to happen anymore.”The push comes as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-health-education-abb64bd20748bd95aea2a5e2017704fd">more districts&nbsp;</a>nationwide relax mask requirements. Manhattan-Ogden Unified School District 383 announced Monday, for instance, that fully vaccinated individuals would not need to wear masks on school grounds.The Shawnee Mission school district, meanwhile, decided Monday to continue to require students and staff members to wear masks in school until the end of the year despite protests, KSHB-TV&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kshb.com/news/coronavirus/shawnee-mission-school-district-retains-mask-requirement-despite-protest?_amp=true" target="_blank">reports</a>.Kristin Butler, who has two children in the school district, was among about two dozen parents who held signs demonstrating against the mask policy before the decision was made.“I am fighting for my children’s right to breathe in school,” she said.Parent Julia Garrard, however, argued that the mask requirement should remain in place, noting that children like her 11-year-old son Oskar aren’t yet eligible to be vaccinated.“Seems like it’s a no-brainer,” Garrard said.The school district will likely reevaluate its policies ahead of the upcoming school year after seeking guidance from health officials, said spokesperson David Smith.“We’re hopeful maybe this summer, younger kids will be eligible,” Smith said. “Clearly the way to move past the pandemic is to get more and more people vaccinated, including younger children, so we just have to work to get through that.”

Students line up for vaccines amid push to relax masking

LEAVENWORTH, Kan. (AP) — A 21-year-old Leavenworth man has been charged with first-degree murder in a shooting death in Leavenworth on May 4. County Attorney Todd Thompson said Monday that Cordell Marqueise Stewart was charged in the death of 31-year-old Floyd Ross Jr. 

Police responded to a report of shots fired in Leavenworth. They found Ross lying in the street suffering from gunshot wounds. He was taken to a hospital, where he was declared dead. Steward surrendered to detectives at the police station on Friday.

LEAVENWORTH COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a fatal shooting in Leavenworth have a suspect in custody.

Just after 4p.m. Friday, a 21-year-old man wanted in the shooting death of 31-year-old Floyd Ross, Jr.&nbsp;surrendered to detectives at the police station, according Leavenworth Police Chief Pat Kitchens.

On May 4,&nbsp;police responded to reports of shots fired at a city intersection. They found Ross suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at a hospital.

The suspect, whose name had not been released, faces a charge of first-degree murder.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621299487557.png" alt="Stewart photo Leavenworth County" />
 <figcaption>Stewart photo Leavenworth County</figcaption>
 </figure>LEAVENWORTH, Kan. (AP) — A 21-year-old Leavenworth man has been charged with first-degree murder in a shooting death in Leavenworth on May 4. County Attorney Todd Thompson said Monday that Cordell Marqueise Stewart was charged in the death of 31-year-old Floyd Ross Jr. Police responded to a report of shots fired in Leavenworth. They found Ross lying in the street suffering from gunshot wounds. He was taken to a hospital, where he was declared dead. Steward surrendered to detectives at the police station on Friday.----------LEAVENWORTH COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a fatal shooting in Leavenworth have a suspect in custody.Just after 4p.m. Friday, a 21-year-old man wanted in the shooting death of 31-year-old Floyd Ross, Jr.&nbsp;surrendered to detectives at the police station, according Leavenworth Police Chief Pat Kitchens.On May 4,&nbsp;police responded to reports of shots fired at a city intersection. They found Ross suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at a hospital.The suspect, whose name had not been released, faces a charge of first-degree murder.

Kan. man who turned himself in to police charged with murder

GODDARD, Kan. (AP) — Sedgwick County authorities say a 3-year-old boy died after being accidentally run over by a truck driven by a family member. 

Sedgwick County Sheriff Jeff Easter says officers responding to a home in Goddard Monday evening found the identified as&nbsp;The Sedgwick County’s Sheriff’s office identified the three-year-old who died in Goddard Monday evening as Kannon Agnew dead at the scene. 

The sheriff says Kannon was outside with his father and three other children when he stopped to change his shoes, which were on the wrong feet. 

The driver was moving the vehicle to hook it to a trailer and didn't see the child sitting there. Easter says the investigation will continue but the death appears to be “a horrible accident.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621351092644.png" alt="First responders at the home Monday evening photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>First responders at the home Monday evening photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>GODDARD, Kan. (AP) — Sedgwick County authorities say a 3-year-old boy died after being accidentally run over by a truck driven by a family member. Sedgwick County Sheriff Jeff Easter says officers responding to a home in Goddard Monday evening found the identified as&nbsp;The Sedgwick County’s Sheriff’s office identified the three-year-old who died in Goddard Monday evening as Kannon Agnew dead at the scene. The sheriff says Kannon was outside with his father and three other children when he stopped to change his shoes, which were on the wrong feet. The driver was moving the vehicle to hook it to a trailer and didn't see the child sitting there. Easter says the investigation will continue but the death appears to be “a horrible accident.”

Update: 3-year-old dies after run over near his Kan. home

WASHINGTON (AP) — Colorado Rep. Jason Crow, a former Army Ranger who served three tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, says it took time for him to stop constantly scanning his environment for threats when he returned from war 15 years ago. But after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-capitol-lockdown-2f56a611445df15fb9640893bb9f7a93">the violent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol</a>&nbsp;on Jan. 6, he says he’s picked the habit up again.

Crow was trapped with several other members of Congress in the upper gallery of the U.S. House that day while&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-joe-biden-donald-trump-media-elections-73dacf9bc0d906f4efe358279520eeac">a mob of President Donald Trump’s supporters</a>&nbsp;tried to beat down the doors to the chamber and stop the certification of President Joe Biden’s victory.

Crow says he never would have thought “in a million years” he’d be in that situation in the Capitol, but some of his old training has since kicked in, like looking in his rear-view mirror and assessing if people around him might be carrying a gun. Like almost every other member of Congress, his office has received threats against his life.

“There’s no doubt that members are on edge right now,” Crow says, and the threats from outside “are unfortunately the reality of congressional life.”

Those threats have more than doubled this year, according to the U.S. Capitol Police, and many members of Congress say they fear for their personal safety more than they did before the siege. Several say they have boosted security measures to protect themselves and their families, money for which will be part of a broad $1.9 billion spending bill that the House will vote on this week, along with a separate measure that would create a bipartisan commission to investigate the Jan. 6 attack. Democrats, in particular, say both bills are crucial to try to reconcile the trauma that many still feel.

“This was an armed assault on our democracy, and I’m a witness — I’m a victim and a witness to it,” says New Hampshire Rep. Annie Kuster. She received treatment for post-traumatic stress after she was also trapped in the House gallery that day and heard rioters trying to break through the doors close to where she was hiding.

Kuster says she thought she was going to die before officers cleared the hallways and hustled her and others out. “I think we need a full investigation with a Jan. 6th commission, and I believe that the Capitol Police who saved our lives that day deserve more support,” she says.

Democrats say a bipartisan commission investigating the attack, including what led to it, is more important than ever after some Republicans have recently started to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-michael-pence-donald-trump-election-2020-capitol-siege-549829098c84b9b8de3012673a104a4c">downplay the severity of the insurrection</a>, portraying the rioters who brutally beat officers with flagpoles and other weapons and broke into the Capitol through windows and doors as peaceful patriots.

Many Republicans who initially condemned Trump for telling his supporters to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fact-check-trump-us-capitol-remarks-221518bc174f9bc3dd6e108e653ed08d">“fight like hell”</a>&nbsp;that day have increasingly stayed quiet on his repeated false claims that the election was stolen, even though that was rebuked by numerous courts, bipartisan election officials across the country and Trump’s own attorney general. It’s unclear how many in the GOP will vote for either bill.

Rep. Andrew Clyde, R-Ga., said at a hearing last week that a video feed of the rioters looked like they were on a “normal tourist visit.” Rep. Paul Gosar, R-Ariz., said a woman who was shot and killed by police as she tried to break through a window adjacent to the House chamber was “executed,” and he argued that the Justice Department is harassing those who have been arrested.

Michigan Rep. Dan Kildee, a Democrat who also says he suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder after the attack, said those comments were “really hard to take” after witnessing the insurrection. He says he’s received an increased number of threats since January, especially when he has spoken on TV about treatment he received in the aftermath. Some of the calls and messages are specific and credible threats, he says, while many others are “abusive, threatening type language.”

The security spending bill would provide congressional offices with more money to combat those threats, including enhanced travel security, upgrades to home-district offices and better intelligence to track people down. The bill would also “harden” the complex by reinforcing doors and windows, adding security vestibules and cameras and providing dollars for removable fencing that could quickly be erected during a threatening situation while leaving the Capitol open to visitors.

Like many members, Republican Rep. Rodney Davis of Illinois says he feels as if the threats are more acute in his home district, where there is less security. On Capitol Hill, lawmakers are currently protected by a tall fence and National Guard troops who have been there since Jan. 6. Members are “as safe as ever” there, he says, but “it’s those times when you’re not in the Capitol, I think that’s where the threats seem to emanate from the most.”

Davis knows that well, as one of several Republican members who was at a baseball practice four years ago in Alexandria, Virginia, when a gunman wounded Rep. Steve Scalise, R-La., and four other people. And in 2019, an Illinois man was arrested for “threatening to blow my head off,” as Davis puts it. Randall Tarr pleaded guilty to federal charges and was sentenced to probation.

As the top Republican on the House Administration Committee, which oversees the Capitol Police, Davis has pushed for the force to be more aggressive in arresting those who threaten members and to reform the arcane command structure in Congress that forces the chief to ask for permission before making major decisions. The security spending bill would not do that, but it would boost Capitol Police training and pay for new equipment after the force was badly overrun on Jan. 6.

In the meantime, members are upgrading their personal security. Rep. Jim Himes, D-Conn., says he’s started using his house alarm more often and has been more cautious in recent months. “I’ve definitely felt less secure since Jan. 6 than I did before,” says Himes, who sits on the House intelligence committee.

Some say it’s easier not to know what’s going on. Illinois Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, a Democrat, said he’s generally adopted a “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy with his staff on security matters since the insurrection, and he doesn’t ask why when a police car sometimes shows up in front of his house to guard it.

“I don’t necessarily want to know the full story,” says Krishnamoorthi, who has young children. “I just trust that law enforcement is doing their job.”

Kuster says she is feeling better these days after taking advantage of employee assistance resources in the Capitol. Still, she says her experience was “really, really difficult,” especially because she received a death threat as soon as she arrived home to New Hampshire after the insurrection. Home was the one place “I can usually feel safe,” she says.

She said she regularly talks to and texts with her colleagues who have also had post-traumatic stress, and she says some of them are still hurting.

“We need a security plan so that everyone can feel safe here,” Kuster says. “I want the ‘people’s house’ to be able to reopen.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615213886851.png" alt="Fence around&nbsp; portion of the U.S. Capitol image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Fence around&nbsp; portion of the U.S. Capitol image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Colorado Rep. Jason Crow, a former Army Ranger who served three tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, says it took time for him to stop constantly scanning his environment for threats when he returned from war 15 years ago. But after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-capitol-lockdown-2f56a611445df15fb9640893bb9f7a93">the violent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol</a>&nbsp;on Jan. 6, he says he’s picked the habit up again.Crow was trapped with several other members of Congress in the upper gallery of the U.S. House that day while&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-joe-biden-donald-trump-media-elections-73dacf9bc0d906f4efe358279520eeac">a mob of President Donald Trump’s supporters</a>&nbsp;tried to beat down the doors to the chamber and stop the certification of President Joe Biden’s victory.Crow says he never would have thought “in a million years” he’d be in that situation in the Capitol, but some of his old training has since kicked in, like looking in his rear-view mirror and assessing if people around him might be carrying a gun. Like almost every other member of Congress, his office has received threats against his life.“There’s no doubt that members are on edge right now,” Crow says, and the threats from outside “are unfortunately the reality of congressional life.”Those threats have more than doubled this year, according to the U.S. Capitol Police, and many members of Congress say they fear for their personal safety more than they did before the siege. Several say they have boosted security measures to protect themselves and their families, money for which will be part of a broad $1.9 billion spending bill that the House will vote on this week, along with a separate measure that would create a bipartisan commission to investigate the Jan. 6 attack. Democrats, in particular, say both bills are crucial to try to reconcile the trauma that many still feel.“This was an armed assault on our democracy, and I’m a witness — I’m a victim and a witness to it,” says New Hampshire Rep. Annie Kuster. She received treatment for post-traumatic stress after she was also trapped in the House gallery that day and heard rioters trying to break through the doors close to where she was hiding.Kuster says she thought she was going to die before officers cleared the hallways and hustled her and others out. “I think we need a full investigation with a Jan. 6th commission, and I believe that the Capitol Police who saved our lives that day deserve more support,” she says.Democrats say a bipartisan commission investigating the attack, including what led to it, is more important than ever after some Republicans have recently started to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-michael-pence-donald-trump-election-2020-capitol-siege-549829098c84b9b8de3012673a104a4c">downplay the severity of the insurrection</a>, portraying the rioters who brutally beat officers with flagpoles and other weapons and broke into the Capitol through windows and doors as peaceful patriots.Many Republicans who initially condemned Trump for telling his supporters to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fact-check-trump-us-capitol-remarks-221518bc174f9bc3dd6e108e653ed08d">“fight like hell”</a>&nbsp;that day have increasingly stayed quiet on his repeated false claims that the election was stolen, even though that was rebuked by numerous courts, bipartisan election officials across the country and Trump’s own attorney general. It’s unclear how many in the GOP will vote for either bill.Rep. Andrew Clyde, R-Ga., said at a hearing last week that a video feed of the rioters looked like they were on a “normal tourist visit.” Rep. Paul Gosar, R-Ariz., said a woman who was shot and killed by police as she tried to break through a window adjacent to the House chamber was “executed,” and he argued that the Justice Department is harassing those who have been arrested.Michigan Rep. Dan Kildee, a Democrat who also says he suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder after the attack, said those comments were “really hard to take” after witnessing the insurrection. He says he’s received an increased number of threats since January, especially when he has spoken on TV about treatment he received in the aftermath. Some of the calls and messages are specific and credible threats, he says, while many others are “abusive, threatening type language.”The security spending bill would provide congressional offices with more money to combat those threats, including enhanced travel security, upgrades to home-district offices and better intelligence to track people down. The bill would also “harden” the complex by reinforcing doors and windows, adding security vestibules and cameras and providing dollars for removable fencing that could quickly be erected during a threatening situation while leaving the Capitol open to visitors.Like many members, Republican Rep. Rodney Davis of Illinois says he feels as if the threats are more acute in his home district, where there is less security. On Capitol Hill, lawmakers are currently protected by a tall fence and National Guard troops who have been there since Jan. 6. Members are “as safe as ever” there, he says, but “it’s those times when you’re not in the Capitol, I think that’s where the threats seem to emanate from the most.”Davis knows that well, as one of several Republican members who was at a baseball practice four years ago in Alexandria, Virginia, when a gunman wounded Rep. Steve Scalise, R-La., and four other people. And in 2019, an Illinois man was arrested for “threatening to blow my head off,” as Davis puts it. Randall Tarr pleaded guilty to federal charges and was sentenced to probation.As the top Republican on the House Administration Committee, which oversees the Capitol Police, Davis has pushed for the force to be more aggressive in arresting those who threaten members and to reform the arcane command structure in Congress that forces the chief to ask for permission before making major decisions. The security spending bill would not do that, but it would boost Capitol Police training and pay for new equipment after the force was badly overrun on Jan. 6.In the meantime, members are upgrading their personal security. Rep. Jim Himes, D-Conn., says he’s started using his house alarm more often and has been more cautious in recent months. “I’ve definitely felt less secure since Jan. 6 than I did before,” says Himes, who sits on the House intelligence committee.Some say it’s easier not to know what’s going on. Illinois Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, a Democrat, said he’s generally adopted a “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy with his staff on security matters since the insurrection, and he doesn’t ask why when a police car sometimes shows up in front of his house to guard it.“I don’t necessarily want to know the full story,” says Krishnamoorthi, who has young children. “I just trust that law enforcement is doing their job.”Kuster says she is feeling better these days after taking advantage of employee assistance resources in the Capitol. Still, she says her experience was “really, really difficult,” especially because she received a death threat as soon as she arrived home to New Hampshire after the insurrection. Home was the one place “I can usually feel safe,” she says.She said she regularly talks to and texts with her colleagues who have also had post-traumatic stress, and she says some of them are still hurting.“We need a security plan so that everyone can feel safe here,” Kuster says. “I want the ‘people’s house’ to be able to reopen.”

Amid threats to members, House of Representatives to vote on new security

ATCHISON, Kansas — The chaplain of Benedictine College, the private liberal arts college in Atchison, who admitted an inappropriate relationship with a student is no longer working for the school.

In April, Fr. Simon Baker, OSB, the chaplain of Benedictine College, self-disclosed to St. Benedict’s Abbey leadership that he had engaged in inappropriate conduct with an adult, female student at the College, according to a media statement from the school.

Following his disclosure, the Abbey convened its internal review board to investigate. The review board determined that Fr. Simon displayed inappropriate affection and favoritism toward the woman. The board recommended that certain boundaries be placed on Fr. Simon, and that counseling and support be offered to the female involved.

This week, immediately after the Abbey learned that Fr. Simon was not complying with these boundaries, he was removed from ministry. Since his removal, the College has received additional reports that Fr. Simon crossed physical and emotional boundaries in pastoral relationships with other adult women. 

At this point these reports do not involve a minor or any alleged criminal behavior. Benedictine College and St. Benedict’s Abbey are commencing a third-party investigation of these reports. Fr. Simon is prohibited from being present on campus pending the conclusion of the investigation.

The school said they&nbsp; are reaching out to all those who may be affected by these reports and those with information about Fr. Simon pertinent to this investigation, or those affected by this and would like to seek support, should contact the victim’s advocate at 913-426-5769.

The school also apologized to all those affected by Fr. Simon’s inappropriate behavior.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621353048269.png" alt="Fr. Simon Baker -photo courtesy&nbsp;St. Benedict’s Abbey " />
 <figcaption>Fr. Simon Baker -photo courtesy&nbsp;St. Benedict’s Abbey </figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON, Kansas — The chaplain of Benedictine College, the private liberal arts college in Atchison, who admitted an inappropriate relationship with a student is no longer working for the school.In April, Fr. Simon Baker, OSB, the chaplain of Benedictine College, self-disclosed to St. Benedict’s Abbey leadership that he had engaged in inappropriate conduct with an adult, female student at the College, according to a media statement from the school.Following his disclosure, the Abbey convened its internal review board to investigate. The review board determined that Fr. Simon displayed inappropriate affection and favoritism toward the woman. The board recommended that certain boundaries be placed on Fr. Simon, and that counseling and support be offered to the female involved.This week, immediately after the Abbey learned that Fr. Simon was not complying with these boundaries, he was removed from ministry. Since his removal, the College has received additional reports that Fr. Simon crossed physical and emotional boundaries in pastoral relationships with other adult women. At this point these reports do not involve a minor or any alleged criminal behavior. Benedictine College and St. Benedict’s Abbey are commencing a third-party investigation of these reports. Fr. Simon is prohibited from being present on campus pending the conclusion of the investigation.The school said they&nbsp; are reaching out to all those who may be affected by these reports and those with information about Fr. Simon pertinent to this investigation, or those affected by this and would like to seek support, should contact the victim’s advocate at 913-426-5769.The school also apologized to all those affected by Fr. Simon’s inappropriate behavior.

Kan. college investigates priest for inappropriate conduct

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


HUTCHINSON —&nbsp;As part of its 100th anniversary celebration, Dillons is working 
on a book so everyone who wants one can have a piece of their history.

"We're
 putting together a complete book of all of the wonderful photos from 
our history," said Sheila Regehr with Dillons. "The archives at Dillons 
are absolutely amazing. In this book, we've captured our history with 
timelines, with wonderful photos, with pieces from the archive. Whether 
its the original ticker tape from the very first appearance on the New 
York Stock Exchange, to some of the ad templates that we may have used 
back in the '70s and the '80s, captured all of that history together in 
one book."

The hope is to have those out well before the Kansas State Fair. 

"We're
 looking at late July, early August, where the book will be available, 
but when you think about our reach across the state of Kansas, for me 
personally, it's so humbling to hear those very kind words," Regehr 
said. "I can't tell you how many times I've heard a customer refer to 
one of our locations as 'their Dillons.' That's another reason why I 
think people will love to see this book and love to see the history laid
 out."

The plan is to have a big presence for employees, former 
employees and the public at the Kansas State Fair and also to help the 
hungry across the Sunflower State.

"Throughout 2020, we were able 
to provide more than $2 million back to our Kansas communities," Regehr 
said. "With our 100th anniversary, we're dedicating $100,000 from our 
Zero Hunger, Zero Waste Foundation, specifically to support hunger 
relief efforts in Kansas."

The official 100th anniversary of the incorporation of Dillons was May 13.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620849641973.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy Dillons Stores" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy Dillons Stores</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL <a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch
Post</a>
HUTCHINSON —&nbsp;As part of its 100th anniversary celebration, Dillons is working 
on a book so everyone who wants one can have a piece of their history."We're
 putting together a complete book of all of the wonderful photos from 
our history," said Sheila Regehr with Dillons. "The archives at Dillons 
are absolutely amazing. In this book, we've captured our history with 
timelines, with wonderful photos, with pieces from the archive. Whether 
its the original ticker tape from the very first appearance on the New 
York Stock Exchange, to some of the ad templates that we may have used 
back in the '70s and the '80s, captured all of that history together in 
one book."The hope is to have those out well before the Kansas State Fair. "We're
 looking at late July, early August, where the book will be available, 
but when you think about our reach across the state of Kansas, for me 
personally, it's so humbling to hear those very kind words," Regehr 
said. "I can't tell you how many times I've heard a customer refer to 
one of our locations as 'their Dillons.' That's another reason why I 
think people will love to see this book and love to see the history laid
 out."The plan is to have a big presence for employees, former 
employees and the public at the Kansas State Fair and also to help the 
hungry across the Sunflower State."Throughout 2020, we were able 
to provide more than $2 million back to our Kansas communities," Regehr 
said. "With our 100th anniversary, we're dedicating $100,000 from our 
Zero Hunger, Zero Waste Foundation, specifically to support hunger 
relief efforts in Kansas."The official 100th anniversary of the incorporation of Dillons was May 13.

Dillons putting together book to commemorate 100 years

RENO COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident during a chase just before 7a.m. Tuesday in Reno County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a Reno County sheriff's deputy was in pursuit of a 2000 Suzuki&nbsp;GSX 750FY Katana driven by Michael Scot Gaston,&nbsp; 29, Wichita, in the 1100 Block of East 17th Avenue.

The driver was reported as an erratic driver.&nbsp; Gaston lost control of the motorcycle and then laid the bike over.

EMS transported Gaston and a passenger Breann Elizabeth Bowles, 26, Wichita, to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. They were not wearing helmets or riding equipment, according to the KHP.

RENO COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident during a chase just before 7a.m. Tuesday in Reno County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a Reno County sheriff's deputy was in pursuit of a 2000 Suzuki&nbsp;GSX 750FY Katana driven by Michael Scot Gaston,&nbsp; 29, Wichita, in the 1100 Block of East 17th Avenue.The driver was reported as an erratic driver.&nbsp; Gaston lost control of the motorcycle and then laid the bike over.EMS transported Gaston and a passenger Breann Elizabeth Bowles, 26, Wichita, to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. They were not wearing helmets or riding equipment, according to the KHP.

2 hospitalized after Kan. motorcycle crash during chase

<a href="https://northplattepost.com/">North Platte Post</a>

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — The Advanced Video Production students, under the direction of Philep Willey, at North Platte High School showed off their skills by producing a hilarious lipdub to end the year.

The students created the video over a two-day period on the campus of the high school.

<a href="https://northplattepost.com/">North Platte Post</a>NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — The Advanced Video Production students, under the direction of Philep Willey, at North Platte High School showed off their skills by producing a hilarious lipdub to end the year.The students created the video over a two-day period on the campus of the high school.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/g5JgGZ9xkCo"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Neb. high school students produce hilarious lipdub to end year

The Emergency Broadband Benefit is an <a href="https://www.fcc.gov/emergency-broadband-benefit-program">FCC program</a>
 to help families and households struggling to afford internet service 
during the COVID-19 pandemic. This new benefit will connect eligible 
households to jobs, critical healthcare services, virtual classrooms, 
and so much more.

The Emergency Broadband Benefit will provide a discount of up to $50 
per month towards broadband service for eligible households and up to 
$75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. Eligible 
households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to 
purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating 
providers if they contribute more than $10 and less than $50 toward the 
purchase price.

The Emergency Broadband Benefit is limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household.

Who Is Eligible for the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program?

A household is eligible if a member of the household meets one of the criteria below:

<a href="https://getemergencybroadband.org" target="_blank">Apply Now</a>

There are three ways for eligible households to apply:

Emergency Broadband Support Center 
P.O. Box 7081 
London, KY 40742

After receiving an eligibility determination, households can contact 
their preferred service provider to select an Emergency Broadband 
Benefit eligible service plan.

Check out the <a href="https://www.fcc.gov/consumer-faq-emergency-broadband-benefit">Broadband Benefit Consumer FAQ for more information about the benefit</a>.

Which Broadband Providers Are Participating in the Emergency Broadband Benefit?

Various broadband providers, including those offering landline and 
wireless broadband, are participating in the Emergency Broadband 
Benefit.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fcc.gov/emergency-broadband-benefit-providers">Find broadband service providers</a> offering the Emergency Broadband Benefit in your state or territory.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621351546049.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FCCThe Emergency Broadband Benefit is an <a href="https://www.fcc.gov/emergency-broadband-benefit-program">FCC program</a>
 to help families and households struggling to afford internet service 
during the COVID-19 pandemic. This new benefit will connect eligible 
households to jobs, critical healthcare services, virtual classrooms, 
and so much more.<h2>About the Emergency Broadband Benefit</h2>The Emergency Broadband Benefit will provide a discount of up to $50 
per month towards broadband service for eligible households and up to 
$75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. Eligible 
households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to 
purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating 
providers if they contribute more than $10 and less than $50 toward the 
purchase price.The Emergency Broadband Benefit is limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household.<h2>Who Is Eligible for the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program?</h2>A household is eligible if a member of the household meets one of the criteria below:<ul>
 <li>Has an income that is at or below 135% of the <a href="https://aspe.hhs.gov/poverty-guidelines" target="_blank">Federal Poverty Guidelines</a> or participates in certain assistance programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid, or <a href="https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers">Lifeline</a>;</li><li>Approved to receive benefits under the free and reduced-price 
school lunch program or the school breakfast program, including through 
the USDA Community Eligibility Provision in the 2019-2020 or 2020-2021 
school year;</li><li>Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year;</li><li>Experienced a substantial loss of income due to job loss or 
furlough since February 29, 2020 and the household had a total income in
 2020 at or below $99,000 for single filers and $198,000 for joint 
filers; or</li><li>Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating provider's existing low-income or COVID-19 program.</li>
 </ul><h2>How to Apply</h2><a href="https://getemergencybroadband.org" target="_blank">Apply Now</a>There are three ways for eligible households to apply:<ol>
 <li>Contact your preferred participating broadband provider directly to learn about their application process.</li><li>Go to <a href="http://GetEmergencyBroadband.org" target="_blank">GetEmergencyBroadband.org</a> to apply online and to find participating providers near you.</li><li>Call 833-511-0311 for a mail-in application, and return it along with copies of documents showing proof of eligibility to:</li>
 </ol>Emergency Broadband Support Center 
P.O. Box 7081 
London, KY 40742After receiving an eligibility determination, households can contact 
their preferred service provider to select an Emergency Broadband 
Benefit eligible service plan.<h2>Get More Consumer Information</h2>Check out the <a href="https://www.fcc.gov/consumer-faq-emergency-broadband-benefit">Broadband Benefit Consumer FAQ for more information about the benefit</a>.Which Broadband Providers Are Participating in the Emergency Broadband Benefit?Various broadband providers, including those offering landline and 
wireless broadband, are participating in the Emergency Broadband 
Benefit.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fcc.gov/emergency-broadband-benefit-providers">Find broadband service providers</a> offering the Emergency Broadband Benefit in your state or territory.&nbsp;

Millions eligible for government-funded internet service

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating a fatal accident have made an arrest and&nbsp; identified the victim as 24-year-old Fernando Arambula of Wichita.

Just after 11:30 p.m. on Sunday, officers responded to an injury accident at Kellogg and Eisenhower Parkway in Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidson.

Investigators learned a 2006 Honda CRX driven by Arambula was eastbound on Kellogg and clipped the rear-end of a 2002 Acura RSX driven by Abel Olivarez, 24, of Wichita.

Arambula lost control of the Honda and the vehicle struck the base of the Eisenhower bridge crossing Kellogg.&nbsp;

Upon arrival, officers located Arambula, who had been ejected from his vehicle in critical condition.&nbsp; EMS transported him to an area hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Police&nbsp; contacted Olivarez at the the scene and later booked him into jail on a requested charge of driving under the influence, according to Davidson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621265542071.png" alt="First responders at the scene of the fatal crash investigation photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>First responders at the scene of the fatal crash investigation photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating a fatal accident have made an arrest and&nbsp; identified the victim as 24-year-old Fernando Arambula of Wichita.Just after 11:30 p.m. on Sunday, officers responded to an injury accident at Kellogg and Eisenhower Parkway in Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidson.Investigators learned a 2006 Honda CRX driven by Arambula was eastbound on Kellogg and clipped the rear-end of a 2002 Acura RSX driven by Abel Olivarez, 24, of Wichita.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621265158243.png" alt="Olivarez is no longer in custody, according to Sedgwick Co. online booking records" />
 <figcaption>Olivarez is no longer in custody, according to Sedgwick Co. online booking records</figcaption>
 </figure>Arambula lost control of the Honda and the vehicle struck the base of the Eisenhower bridge crossing Kellogg.&nbsp;Upon arrival, officers located Arambula, who had been ejected from his vehicle in critical condition.&nbsp; EMS transported him to an area hospital, where he was pronounced dead.Police&nbsp; contacted Olivarez at the the scene and later booked him into jail on a requested charge of driving under the influence, according to Davidson.

Police: Kansas man accused of DUI in fatal crash

With support from the Walton Family Foundation, KCUR has asked 
student teachers in the Kansas City area to write about their 
experiences learning how to teach during a pandemic. We'll be running 
their stories as a series of teacher diaries in the coming weeks.&nbsp;Para leer este artículo en Español, <a href="https://www.kcur.org/education/2021-05-17/una-maestra-de-kansas-se-preocupa-por-ponerse-al-dia-a-los-alumnos-que-iniciaron-la-escuela-durante-la-pandemia">haga clic aquí.</a>

By MARIA MARTINEZ <a href="https://www.kcur.org/education/2021-05-14/a-kansas-teacher-worries-about-catching-up-kids-who-started-school-during-the-pandemic">For the Kansas News Service</a>

The pandemic has affected early childhood in more ways than families,
 teachers and schools can even know at the present moment. Students in 
the Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools were online from mid-March 2020 
until the end of March 2021. Some students are still learning online due
 to the individual decisions of families. That means there are 
kindergarteners who only just started experiencing the classroom — and 
others that will for the first time as first graders in August.

First
 graders will come in knowing what it looks like to follow rules in 
school, the letters in the alphabet, various digraphs and blends (sounds
 like /sh/, /th/, and /ch/ for example), various sight words, writing 
their numbers to 20 and reciting them to 100, as well as grade-level 
science and social studies skills. Kindergarteners practice this and 
more as they go through their first year of public school. The goal is 
to make sure that each student is ready to start first grade by the end 
of the year. As the mantra for the classroom I am in goes, students are 
learning all these things “to become better readers and writers.”

Unfortunately,
 there will be students who will not have all the skills needed to move 
on, and there will be students who struggle to catch up. As we have come
 back to school, some students are still learning to follow rules, how 
to write their names or how to read, write and recognize numbers. 
Because of the pandemic, schools and teachers are preparing for students
 who need additional support in regaining lost ground from this school 
year. This can come in the form of reading resources that provide 
students with a gamified version of learning to motivate each to 
practice their skills at home or in the form of pull-out services where 
students are meeting with a specialist one-on-one and in small groups to
 work on improving their academic or social-emotional skills.

This "gamification of learning" actually plays to this particular set
 of students’ strengths because these apps are virtual games. Though I 
have seen students struggle with other skills in the classroom, they are
 better at navigating their technological devices than many adults. 
These technological skills they learned are skills that can be played to
 when supporting students in the months to come.

These are methods
 already used to help students who need extra support in learning. With 
the unusual academic year that has been 2020-2021, schools and teachers 
are expecting to have more students in this place of need. Teachers can 
adapt activities and expectations to students’ needs throughout the 
year. 

For me, this is especially important for this incoming 
group of students. As I move into my own classroom next year, I’m trying
 to keep in mind that my students are coming in with bits and pieces of 
the previous academic year. They may not be coming in with all the 
skills they need to be successful according to what the standards will 
require of them. Many students will be in vastly different places based 
on how they were able to cope with this academic year. The question of 
equity in an academic year like this one with hybrid and remote learning
 models is that students did not have a choice in how well-suited their 
environment was for learning.

It is my job as a teacher to not 
only give students a fair learning experience but make the learning 
experience equitable. This comes from my own teaching philosophy of 
giving every student what they need to be successful and recognizing 
that this will not be the same for every student because their starting 
points will be in different places. My hope is that the students coming 
in with “bits and pieces” will hopefully regain what they need to have 
the “whole” next school year.

Maria Martinez is a senior at Emporia State University in Kansas. She is currently a student teacher in a kindergarten classroom in the Kansas City, Kansas, Public Schools. She is one of two Walton education fellows sharing her experiences in the classroom this semester.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621261714276.png" alt="Student teacher Maria Martinez helps a kindergartener at Mark Twain Elementary in Kansas City, Kansas, with her backpack. Carlos Moreno / KCUR 89.3" />
 <figcaption>Student teacher Maria Martinez helps a kindergartener at Mark Twain Elementary in Kansas City, Kansas, with her backpack. Carlos Moreno / KCUR 89.3</figcaption>
 </figure>With support from the Walton Family Foundation, KCUR has asked 
student teachers in the Kansas City area to write about their 
experiences learning how to teach during a pandemic. We'll be running 
their stories as a series of teacher diaries in the coming weeks.&nbsp;Para leer este artículo en Español, <a href="https://www.kcur.org/education/2021-05-17/una-maestra-de-kansas-se-preocupa-por-ponerse-al-dia-a-los-alumnos-que-iniciaron-la-escuela-durante-la-pandemia">haga clic aquí.</a>By MARIA MARTINEZ <a href="https://www.kcur.org/education/2021-05-14/a-kansas-teacher-worries-about-catching-up-kids-who-started-school-during-the-pandemic">For the Kansas News Service</a>The pandemic has affected early childhood in more ways than families,
 teachers and schools can even know at the present moment. Students in 
the Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools were online from mid-March 2020 
until the end of March 2021. Some students are still learning online due
 to the individual decisions of families. That means there are 
kindergarteners who only just started experiencing the classroom — and 
others that will for the first time as first graders in August.First
 graders will come in knowing what it looks like to follow rules in 
school, the letters in the alphabet, various digraphs and blends (sounds
 like /sh/, /th/, and /ch/ for example), various sight words, writing 
their numbers to 20 and reciting them to 100, as well as grade-level 
science and social studies skills. Kindergarteners practice this and 
more as they go through their first year of public school. The goal is 
to make sure that each student is ready to start first grade by the end 
of the year. As the mantra for the classroom I am in goes, students are 
learning all these things “to become better readers and writers.”Unfortunately,
 there will be students who will not have all the skills needed to move 
on, and there will be students who struggle to catch up. As we have come
 back to school, some students are still learning to follow rules, how 
to write their names or how to read, write and recognize numbers. 
Because of the pandemic, schools and teachers are preparing for students
 who need additional support in regaining lost ground from this school 
year. This can come in the form of reading resources that provide 
students with a gamified version of learning to motivate each to 
practice their skills at home or in the form of pull-out services where 
students are meeting with a specialist one-on-one and in small groups to
 work on improving their academic or social-emotional skills.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621261819410.png" alt="Maria Martinez welcomes kindergarteners back to Mark Twain Elementary in the Kansas City, Kansas, Public Schools. Carlos Moreno/KCUR 89.3" />
 <figcaption>Maria Martinez welcomes kindergarteners back to Mark Twain Elementary in the Kansas City, Kansas, Public Schools. Carlos Moreno/KCUR 89.3</figcaption>
 </figure>This "gamification of learning" actually plays to this particular set
 of students’ strengths because these apps are virtual games. Though I 
have seen students struggle with other skills in the classroom, they are
 better at navigating their technological devices than many adults. 
These technological skills they learned are skills that can be played to
 when supporting students in the months to come.These are methods
 already used to help students who need extra support in learning. With 
the unusual academic year that has been 2020-2021, schools and teachers 
are expecting to have more students in this place of need. Teachers can 
adapt activities and expectations to students’ needs throughout the 
year. For me, this is especially important for this incoming 
group of students. As I move into my own classroom next year, I’m trying
 to keep in mind that my students are coming in with bits and pieces of 
the previous academic year. They may not be coming in with all the 
skills they need to be successful according to what the standards will 
require of them. Many students will be in vastly different places based 
on how they were able to cope with this academic year. The question of 
equity in an academic year like this one with hybrid and remote learning
 models is that students did not have a choice in how well-suited their 
environment was for learning.It is my job as a teacher to not 
only give students a fair learning experience but make the learning 
experience equitable. This comes from my own teaching philosophy of 
giving every student what they need to be successful and recognizing 
that this will not be the same for every student because their starting 
points will be in different places. My hope is that the students coming 
in with “bits and pieces” will hopefully regain what they need to have 
the “whole” next school year.Maria Martinez is a senior at Emporia State University in Kansas. She is currently a student teacher in a kindergarten classroom in the Kansas City, Kansas, Public Schools. She is one of two Walton education fellows sharing her experiences in the classroom this semester.&nbsp;

Kan. teacher worries about catching up kids who started school during pandemic

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Kansas Chamber of Commerce has cut ties with its national counterpart over the national group’s support last year for reelecting the only Democrat in the state’s congressional delegation.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s endorsement of Rep. Sharice Davids over Republican challenger Amanda Adkins in their Kansas City-area district prompted the state chamber to not renew its membership in the national group.

The national group’s endorsement caught Kansas business leaders by surprise, and Alan Cobb, the state chamber’s president and CEO, said some of the state group’s members were frustrated.

Adkins is a former Kansas Republican Party chair and executive with the healthcare information technology firm Cerner Corp. She served 12 years on the Kansas chamber’s board, and Cerner is a “Cornerstone” member by donating at least $5,000 annually.

The U.S. Chamber’s endorsement of Davids and other Democrats represented a strategic shift intended to gain favor with Democrats in anticipation that they would maintain their House majority. Davids defeated Adkins by 10 percentage points.

The state chamber does not make endorsements in congressional and U.S. Senate races. In state races, it typically supports Republicans who align with it on tax cuts and deregulation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619534744085.png" alt="Kansas Congresswoman Sharice Davids waved the flag that represents the transgender community last month on the steps of the U.S. Capitol&nbsp; "Happy&nbsp;#TransDayOfVisibility!&nbsp; We celebrate the courage and contributions of our trans and non-binary community, while also acknowledging the work that needs to be done to ensure true equality for all," she wrote on social media." />
 <figcaption>Kansas Congresswoman Sharice Davids waved the flag that represents the transgender community last month on the steps of the U.S. Capitol&nbsp; "Happy&nbsp;#TransDayOfVisibility!&nbsp; We celebrate the courage and contributions of our trans and non-binary community, while also acknowledging the work that needs to be done to ensure true equality for all," she wrote on social media.</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Kansas Chamber of Commerce has cut ties with its national counterpart over the national group’s support last year for reelecting the only Democrat in the state’s congressional delegation.The U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s endorsement of Rep. Sharice Davids over Republican challenger Amanda Adkins in their Kansas City-area district prompted the state chamber to not renew its membership in the national group.The national group’s endorsement caught Kansas business leaders by surprise, and Alan Cobb, the state chamber’s president and CEO, said some of the state group’s members were frustrated.Adkins is a former Kansas Republican Party chair and executive with the healthcare information technology firm Cerner Corp. She served 12 years on the Kansas chamber’s board, and Cerner is a “Cornerstone” member by donating at least $5,000 annually.The U.S. Chamber’s endorsement of Davids and other Democrats represented a strategic shift intended to gain favor with Democrats in anticipation that they would maintain their House majority. Davids defeated Adkins by 10 percentage points.The state chamber does not make endorsements in congressional and U.S. Senate races. In state races, it typically supports Republicans who align with it on tax cuts and deregulation.

Kan. chamber cuts ties with US group for endorsing Rep. Davids

HUTCHINSON— Formal Charges have been filed against a Hutchinson man who was arrested after an altercation with a woman May 9.

Charges against 56-year-old Thomas Lee Boyd include one count of kidnapping and one count of stalking. Depending on his past criminal history, he could be facing as many as 20 years in prison if he is tried and convicted of the kidnapping charge.

Boyd allegedly got into a confrontation with the woman after following her in a vehicle May 9.

Boyd is still being held in the Reno County Correctional Facility on a bond of $125,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621278723823.jpeg" alt="Boyd has previous convictions for indent liberties with a child, battery, aggravated battery, violation of a protection order of abuse, obstruction and drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Boyd has previous convictions for indent liberties with a child, battery, aggravated battery, violation of a protection order of abuse, obstruction and drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON— Formal Charges have been filed against a Hutchinson man who was arrested after an altercation with a woman May 9.Charges against 56-year-old Thomas Lee Boyd include one count of kidnapping and one count of stalking. Depending on his past criminal history, he could be facing as many as 20 years in prison if he is tried and convicted of the kidnapping charge.Boyd allegedly got into a confrontation with the woman after following her in a vehicle May 9.Boyd is still being held in the Reno County Correctional Facility on a bond of $125,000.

Kan. man with a history of violent crime accused of stalking woman

TOPEKA&nbsp;– On Monday, Governor Laura Kelly signed 7 pieces of bipartisan legislation into law.

“Today, I signed seven bipartisan bills that will enhance consumer protections and protect Kansas families from mistreatment and extortion,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“This is the kind of success that can be achieved when we work together – not as Republicans or Democrats – but as Kansans. I want to thank my colleagues in the legislature, on both sides of the aisle, for their efforts.”

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MTcuNDA1OTQyODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8va3NsZWdpc2xhdHVyZS5vcmcvbGkvYjIwMjFfMjIvbWVhc3VyZXMvZG9jdW1lbnRzL2hiMjA3N19lbnJvbGxlZC5wZGYifQ.wYDuHYjWsloH0GMdHCZzYP-mLaKAPCWKiWWjrYEIaBE/s/1303160919/br/106480710757-l" target="_blank">House Bill 2077</a>

Extending the Kansas closed case task force, providing for staff assistance and renaming the task force the Alvin Sykes cold case DNA task force, extending&nbsp;the Kansas criminal justice reform commission, limiting the commission's scope of study and adding a public defender, and authorizing the crime victims compensation board to waive application time restrictions for certain victims to receive compensation for mental health counseling and adding certain children to the definition of victim.

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MTcuNDA1OTQyODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8va3NsZWdpc2xhdHVyZS5vcmcvbGkvYjIwMjFfMjIvbWVhc3VyZXMvZG9jdW1lbnRzL2hiMjEyMV9lbnJvbGxlZC5wZGYifQ.q5UjdDKcEkT_mzVGio3Uf4lLCdXMKheBVBqZJkN0u08/s/1303160919/br/106480710757-l" target="_blank">House Bill 2121</a>

Increasing the criminal penalty for mistreatment of a dependent adult or elder person when the victim is a resident of an adult care home, adding&nbsp;definitions related to defendants who abscond from supervision in the criminal procedure code and for parole and clarifying that bond agents seeking discharge as a surety are required to return the person released on bond to the court in the county where the complaint subject to the bond was filed, requiring the department of corrections to develop guidance to be used by parole officers when responding to violations of parole and postrelease supervision and that incentivize compliant behavior, and authorizing court services officers and community corrections officers to provide a certification of identification to offenders for use to obtain a new driver's license.

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MTcuNDA1OTQyODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8va3NsZWdpc2xhdHVyZS5vcmcvbGkvYjIwMjFfMjIvbWVhc3VyZXMvZG9jdW1lbnRzL2hiMjE4N19lbnJvbGxlZC5wZGYifQ.Ht5RNyC1oVixF0QgbKAmViaEO2-aXVQTMvx_Tuy3RGw/s/1303160919/br/106480710757-l" target="_blank">House Bill 2187</a>

Enacting the first-time home buyer savings account act.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621333400820.png" alt="Kansas Governor Laura Kelly at Topeka High Monday for their school vaccination clinic." />
 <figcaption>Kansas Governor Laura Kelly at Topeka High Monday for their school vaccination clinic.</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;– On Monday, Governor Laura Kelly signed 7 pieces of bipartisan legislation into law.“Today, I signed seven bipartisan bills that will enhance consumer protections and protect Kansas families from mistreatment and extortion,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“This is the kind of success that can be achieved when we work together – not as Republicans or Democrats – but as Kansans. I want to thank my colleagues in the legislature, on both sides of the aisle, for their efforts.”<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MTcuNDA1OTQyODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8va3NsZWdpc2xhdHVyZS5vcmcvbGkvYjIwMjFfMjIvbWVhc3VyZXMvZG9jdW1lbnRzL2hiMjA3N19lbnJvbGxlZC5wZGYifQ.wYDuHYjWsloH0GMdHCZzYP-mLaKAPCWKiWWjrYEIaBE/s/1303160919/br/106480710757-l" target="_blank">House Bill 2077</a>Extending the Kansas closed case task force, providing for staff assistance and renaming the task force the Alvin Sykes cold case DNA task force, extending&nbsp;the Kansas criminal justice reform commission, limiting the commission's scope of study and adding a public defender, and authorizing the crime victims compensation board to waive application time restrictions for certain victims to receive compensation for mental health counseling and adding certain children to the definition of victim.<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MTcuNDA1OTQyODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8va3NsZWdpc2xhdHVyZS5vcmcvbGkvYjIwMjFfMjIvbWVhc3VyZXMvZG9jdW1lbnRzL2hiMjEyMV9lbnJvbGxlZC5wZGYifQ.q5UjdDKcEkT_mzVGio3Uf4lLCdXMKheBVBqZJkN0u08/s/1303160919/br/106480710757-l" target="_blank">House Bill 2121</a>Increasing the criminal penalty for mistreatment of a dependent adult or elder person when the victim is a resident of an adult care home, adding&nbsp;definitions related to defendants who abscond from supervision in the criminal procedure code and for parole and clarifying that bond agents seeking discharge as a surety are required to return the person released on bond to the court in the county where the complaint subject to the bond was filed, requiring the department of corrections to develop guidance to be used by parole officers when responding to violations of parole and postrelease supervision and that incentivize compliant behavior, and authorizing court services officers and community corrections officers to provide a certification of identification to offenders for use to obtain a new driver's license.<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MTcuNDA1OTQyODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8va3NsZWdpc2xhdHVyZS5vcmcvbGkvYjIwMjFfMjIvbWVhc3VyZXMvZG9jdW1lbnRzL2hiMjE4N19lbnJvbGxlZC5wZGYifQ.Ht5RNyC1oVixF0QgbKAmViaEO2-aXVQTMvx_Tuy3RGw/s/1303160919/br/106480710757-l" target="_blank">House Bill 2187</a>Enacting the first-time home buyer savings account act.<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MTcuNDA1OTQyODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8va3NsZWdpc2xhdHVyZS5vcmcvbGkvYjIwMjFfMjIvbWVhc3VyZXMvZG9jdW1lbnRzL3NiMzlfZW5yb2xsZWQucGRmIn0.EmgU5Knk7NHVqF9S44u5IldX052Hl4pFbxpM8-5-sIk/s/1303160919/br/106480710757-l" target="_blank">Senate Bill 39</a>Senate Bill 39 changes Kansas department of agriculture division of animal health license, permit and registration renewal deadlines and allows the animal health commissioner to recover the actual&nbsp;cost of official calfhood vaccination tags.<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MTcuNDA1OTQyODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8va3NsZWdpc2xhdHVyZS5vcmcvbGkvYjIwMjFfMjIvbWVhc3VyZXMvZG9jdW1lbnRzL3NiNDdfZW5yb2xsZWQucGRmIn0.xG4i_FhbKfvyImR4k4dpU-CihcVRDazgiiN-STqwZTs/s/1303160919/br/106480710757-l" target="_blank">Senate Bill 47</a>Enacting the Kansas taxpayer protection act requiring the signature and tax identification number of paid tax return preparers on income tax returns and authorizing actions&nbsp;to enjoin paid tax return preparers from engaging in certain conduct, exempting compensation attributable as a result of identity fraud, extending the dates when corporate returns are required to be filed, providing conformity with the federal return due date for returns other than corporate returns, providing a temporary withholding option for certain teleworking employees, establishing the Eisenhower foundation contribution credit and the friends of cedar crest association contribution credit, extending the time period and expanding eligibility for the single city port authority credit, extending the time period for eligibility in the loan repayment program and income tax credit related to rural opportunity zones and defining rural opportunity zone on the basis of population.<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MTcuNDA1OTQyODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8va3NsZWdpc2xhdHVyZS5vcmcvbGkvYjIwMjFfMjIvbWVhc3VyZXMvZG9jdW1lbnRzL3NiNjBfZW5yb2xsZWQucGRmIn0.jzthtRhSGidFS35cZtFuM9RgIktiXRYiFR_HNDBw5dg/s/1303160919/br/106480710757-l" target="_blank">Senate Bill 60</a>Creating the crime of sexual extortion and requiring an offender to register under the Kansas offender registration act, prohibiting a court from requiring psychiatric or&nbsp;psychological examinations of an alleged victim of any crime, increasing criminal penalties for fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer when operating a stolen vehicle, committing certain driving violations or causing a collision involving another driver, defining proximate result for purposes of determining when a crime is committed partly within this state, removing the spousal exception from the crime of sexual battery and making fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer evidence of intent to commit theft of a vehicle.<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MTcuNDA1OTQyODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8va3NsZWdpc2xhdHVyZS5vcmcvbGkvYjIwMjFfMjIvbWVhc3VyZXMvZG9jdW1lbnRzL3NiMTcwX2Vucm9sbGVkLnBkZiJ9.KA1VyYZI47jmXyEYEI5JSpzfSKA7Lrvk-5g9SHdKJgQ/s/1303160919/br/106480710757-l" target="_blank">Senate Bill 170</a>Enacting the psychology interjurisdictional compact to provide for interjurisdictional authorization to practice telepsychology and temporary in-person, face-to-face psychology and enacting the physical therapy licensure compact&nbsp;and authorizing criminal history record checks in the physical therapy practice act.