WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kan.) and U.S. Representatives Ron Estes (KS-04), Jake LaTurner (KS-02) and Tracey Mann (KS-01) today sent a letter to Kansas Governor Laura Kelly calling on her to help get Kansans back to work by halting the increased federal unemployment benefits.

Earlier this year, Democrats passed legislation without any support from Republicans that provided an additional $300 per week in federal unemployment benefits, creating a situation where many Americans are better compensated for staying unemployed rather than returning to work. The letter follows the release of a U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) report showing an uptick in the unemployment rate to 6.1% and employers only adding 266,000 jobs last month, despite widespread projections of over one million jobs to be gained in April.

“Across the state, we’re hearing more and more from businesses searching for the employees they need to reopen yet struggling to make hires due to the generous benefits offered through the unemployment system,”&nbsp;the Kansas GOP delegation wrote.&nbsp;“The extension of the generous $300 per week in additional federal benefits until September, when coupled with the extended state benefits, provides a lucrative government incentive to stay home despite clear signs that the economy is recovering and life is trending toward normal…We must end the federal incentive to stay home so that we can truly reopen the economy, provide Kansans with meaningful and purposeful work, and get our country back to normal.”

Sen. Moran cosponsored the&nbsp;Back to Work Bonus Act&nbsp;last week that would allow states to use Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation funds to provide a one-time, lump sum payment to incentivize workers to return to the workplace after employer verification of their hours and earnings.

The full letter can be found&nbsp;&nbsp;below.

We write today to urge you to end the pandemic-related federal unemployment benefit programs in Kansas. Across the state, we’re hearing more and more from businesses searching for the employees they need to reopen yet struggling to make hires due to the generous benefits offered through the unemployment system.

In April, the U.S. economy was projected to add close to one million jobs, building on the momentum of increasing vaccinations and over 900,000 jobs added in March. However, the April jobs report from the U.S. Department of Labor shows that only 266,000 jobs were added nationally, despite over 8 million jobs being available across the country. The extension of the generous $300 per week in additional federal benefits until September, when coupled with the extended state benefits, provides a lucrative government incentive to stay home despite clear signs that the economy is recovering and life is trending toward normal.

The continuation of the additional federal unemployment compensation benefits means that, on average, recipients are earning $15-20 per hour to stay home. For many in the hospitality or restaurant industries, these extended temporary benefits provide more than or equal to what an employer can offer. Other sectors of the economy, such as manufacturing, construction, and transportation, are also feeling the impacts of these generous federal incentives. Unemployment insurance was never meant to be a permanent salary replacement, rather the benefit is meant to provide temporary assistance to those who had involuntarily lost their jobs while they searched for new employment opportunities.

After months of pandemic related stay-at-home orders and government-imposed lockdowns, businesses are ready to reopen and welcome back customers, but are unable to incentivize workers to return to the job. Vaccination rates are increasing across the country, and in Kansas the coronavirus case count is only 7% of what it was in January of this year. With the sharp decline in new cases nationally, the Centers for Disease Control recently announced that fully vaccinated Americans do not need to social distance or wear masks indoors. It’s clear that we have the virus under control, and now we must do everything we can to get people back to work and kids back in schools.

We have made great strides to develop safe and effective vaccines, allowing people to return to work or school without fear while putting our country on the right track to achieve herd immunity. We must end the federal incentive to stay home so that we can truly reopen the economy, provide Kansans with meaningful and purposeful work, and get our country back to normal.&nbsp;

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kan.) and U.S. Representatives Ron Estes (KS-04), Jake LaTurner (KS-02) and Tracey Mann (KS-01) today sent a letter to Kansas Governor Laura Kelly calling on her to help get Kansans back to work by halting the increased federal unemployment benefits.Earlier this year, Democrats passed legislation without any support from Republicans that provided an additional $300 per week in federal unemployment benefits, creating a situation where many Americans are better compensated for staying unemployed rather than returning to work. The letter follows the release of a U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) report showing an uptick in the unemployment rate to 6.1% and employers only adding 266,000 jobs last month, despite widespread projections of over one million jobs to be gained in April.“Across the state, we’re hearing more and more from businesses searching for the employees they need to reopen yet struggling to make hires due to the generous benefits offered through the unemployment system,”&nbsp;the Kansas GOP delegation wrote.&nbsp;“The extension of the generous $300 per week in additional federal benefits until September, when coupled with the extended state benefits, provides a lucrative government incentive to stay home despite clear signs that the economy is recovering and life is trending toward normal…We must end the federal incentive to stay home so that we can truly reopen the economy, provide Kansans with meaningful and purposeful work, and get our country back to normal.”Sen. Moran cosponsored the&nbsp;Back to Work Bonus Act&nbsp;last week that would allow states to use Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation funds to provide a one-time, lump sum payment to incentivize workers to return to the workplace after employer verification of their hours and earnings.The full letter can be found&nbsp;&nbsp;below.Dear Governor Kelly,We write today to urge you to end the pandemic-related federal unemployment benefit programs in Kansas. Across the state, we’re hearing more and more from businesses searching for the employees they need to reopen yet struggling to make hires due to the generous benefits offered through the unemployment system.In April, the U.S. economy was projected to add close to one million jobs, building on the momentum of increasing vaccinations and over 900,000 jobs added in March. However, the April jobs report from the U.S. Department of Labor shows that only 266,000 jobs were added nationally, despite over 8 million jobs being available across the country. The extension of the generous $300 per week in additional federal benefits until September, when coupled with the extended state benefits, provides a lucrative government incentive to stay home despite clear signs that the economy is recovering and life is trending toward normal.The continuation of the additional federal unemployment compensation benefits means that, on average, recipients are earning $15-20 per hour to stay home. For many in the hospitality or restaurant industries, these extended temporary benefits provide more than or equal to what an employer can offer. Other sectors of the economy, such as manufacturing, construction, and transportation, are also feeling the impacts of these generous federal incentives. Unemployment insurance was never meant to be a permanent salary replacement, rather the benefit is meant to provide temporary assistance to those who had involuntarily lost their jobs while they searched for new employment opportunities.After months of pandemic related stay-at-home orders and government-imposed lockdowns, businesses are ready to reopen and welcome back customers, but are unable to incentivize workers to return to the job. Vaccination rates are increasing across the country, and in Kansas the coronavirus case count is only 7% of what it was in January of this year. With the sharp decline in new cases nationally, the Centers for Disease Control recently announced that fully vaccinated Americans do not need to social distance or wear masks indoors. It’s clear that we have the virus under control, and now we must do everything we can to get people back to work and kids back in schools.We have made great strides to develop safe and effective vaccines, allowing people to return to work or school without fear while putting our country on the right track to achieve herd immunity. We must end the federal incentive to stay home so that we can truly reopen the economy, provide Kansans with meaningful and purposeful work, and get our country back to normal.&nbsp;

Kan. GOP delegation: End increase in unemployment benefits 

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A Kansas City-area man was charged with second-degree murder in the shooting death of his girlfriend in December.

Brandon McDaniel, 26, Independence, was also charged with armed criminal action in the death of Oriana Starr, the Jackson County Prosecutor's office said Friday.

Prosecutors said McDaniel's mother notified police that her son said he shot and killed his girlfriend on Dec. 16. He claimed the shooting was in self-defense after Starr wrapped a cord around his neck during a fight, prosecutors said.

McDaniel was arrested in Arkansas in January on a parole violation warrant.

Prosecutors asked for $250,000 bond. Online court records do not name an attorney for McDaniel.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621107553580.png" alt="Police arrested McDaniel in Arkansas in January-photo Independence Police" />
 <figcaption>Police arrested McDaniel in Arkansas in January-photo Independence Police</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — A Kansas City-area man was charged with second-degree murder in the shooting death of his girlfriend in December.Brandon McDaniel, 26, Independence, was also charged with armed criminal action in the death of Oriana Starr, the Jackson County Prosecutor's office said Friday.Prosecutors said McDaniel's mother notified police that her son said he shot and killed his girlfriend on Dec. 16. He claimed the shooting was in self-defense after Starr wrapped a cord around his neck during a fight, prosecutors said.McDaniel was arrested in Arkansas in January on a parole violation warrant.Prosecutors asked for $250,000 bond. Online court records do not name an attorney for McDaniel.

KC-area man charged with murder of his girlfriend

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas House member was charged Monday with three counts of misdemeanor battery over his behavior toward students while working as a substitute teacher.

The charges against Republican state Rep. Mark Samsel, of Wellsville, arose from a student reporting an April 28 incident involving Samsel. He was arrested the next day and released on $1,000 bond. His first appearance in Franklin County District Court by video conference is scheduled for 8 a.m. Wednesday.

Franklin County Attorney Brandon Jones declined to comment after filing the charges. Samsel did not immediately return telephone and email messages seeking comment.

Kansas law says battery is either causing bodily harm to another person or physical contact with someone else “in a rude, insulting or angry manner,” and is punished by up to six months in jail.

One video provided by a parent of Wellsville students from that day, which the parent said was shot by students, showed grabbing a boy, pushing him against a wall and telling him, “I could put the wrath of God on you right now,” before the boy breaks free and runs away, yelling.

Other videos showed Samsel talking about suicide, sex, masturbation, God and the Bible.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619814603053.png" alt="Rep. Samsel's April booking photo from Franklin County" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Samsel's April booking photo from Franklin County</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas House member was charged Monday with three counts of misdemeanor battery over his behavior toward students while working as a substitute teacher.The charges against Republican state Rep. Mark Samsel, of Wellsville, arose from a student reporting an April 28 incident involving Samsel. He was arrested the next day and released on $1,000 bond. His first appearance in Franklin County District Court by video conference is scheduled for 8 a.m. Wednesday.Franklin County Attorney Brandon Jones declined to comment after filing the charges. Samsel did not immediately return telephone and email messages seeking comment.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620329182480.png" alt="&nbsp;Rep. Samsel during a May 6, House debate on medical marijuana." />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Rep. Samsel during a May 6, House debate on medical marijuana.</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas law says battery is either causing bodily harm to another person or physical contact with someone else “in a rude, insulting or angry manner,” and is punished by up to six months in jail.One video provided by a parent of Wellsville students from that day, which the parent said was shot by students, showed grabbing a boy, pushing him against a wall and telling him, “I could put the wrath of God on you right now,” before the boy breaks free and runs away, yelling.Other videos showed Samsel talking about suicide, sex, masturbation, God and the Bible.___

Kan. lawmaker charged over incident while working at school 

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — The University of Kansas says graduation for the class of 2021 will be held this coming Sunday. The school had to cancel graduation ceremonies on Sunday because of the threat of severe weather and lightning. Chancellor Douglas Girod announced Monday the ceremonies are now scheduled for this coming Sunday afternoon at Memorial Stadium. They will be held at the same time as graduation for the class of 2020, which was canceled last year because of the coronavirus pandemic. Further details of the graduation ceremonies will be released later.

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Hundreds of University of Kansas graduates had to make do without commencement ceremonies on Sunday, due to the threat of severe weather. 

The university called off all three ceremonies for the class of 2021 amid worries about lightning. It marked the second straight year the university had to call off commencement. 

The 2020 ceremonies were postponed after the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. The class of 2020 is scheduled to celebrate its commencement next Sunday. Class of 2021 KU graduates still made the most of the day. 

Students and their families congregated for photos, and graduates took turns walking through the Campanile.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621269417178.png" alt="Members of the KU men's basketball team took graduation photos Sunday -photo courtesy University of Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Members of the KU men's basketball team took graduation photos Sunday -photo courtesy University of Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — The University of Kansas says graduation for the class of 2021 will be held this coming Sunday. The school had to cancel graduation ceremonies on Sunday because of the threat of severe weather and lightning. Chancellor Douglas Girod announced Monday the ceremonies are now scheduled for this coming Sunday afternoon at Memorial Stadium. They will be held at the same time as graduation for the class of 2020, which was canceled last year because of the coronavirus pandemic. Further details of the graduation ceremonies will be released later.--------LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Hundreds of University of Kansas graduates had to make do without commencement ceremonies on Sunday, due to the threat of severe weather. The university called off all three ceremonies for the class of 2021 amid worries about lightning. It marked the second straight year the university had to call off commencement. The 2020 ceremonies were postponed after the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. The class of 2020 is scheduled to celebrate its commencement next Sunday. Class of 2021 KU graduates still made the most of the day. Students and their families congregated for photos, and graduates took turns walking through the Campanile.

Severe weather forecast prompts KU to call off, reschedule  2021 commencement

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

HUTCHINSON —&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/c4da66b3-9483-480b-b8f5-0e2619d38264">Jimmie Nelms, the killer of Kansas State Trooper Conroy O'Brien, will remain behind bars, but that's only guaranteed for three years.</a>

"Obviously, I was happy that they are keeping him in prison for three more years," said Conroy's brother, Kelvin. "I was disappointed that they didn't take advantage of passing him for ten years, because they could have done that."

That's exactly what the parole board did previously in 2011.

"Prior to the parole hearing, the Zoom hearing we had in March, the parole board actually said they were going to use the 1993 crime bill as a guideline on this particular case, or any case of a crime that was committed prior to 1993. The crime bill of 1993 states life in prison without parole or the death penalty, one of the two, so here we are, going to be up for parole again in three years."

O'Brien thanked those who sent letters in support of the denial of Nelms' parole.

"There was an overwhelming response from the public to deny parole," O'Brien said. "I know there were letters that came from California, from Massachusetts, Florida, all over, to ask the parole board to deny parole, so I think he was denied parole was the public response."

Nelms is 74 years old and according to public records is incarcerated at the Norton Correctional Facility.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616524259181.jpeg" alt="Conroy O'Brien / KHP" />
 <figcaption>Conroy O'Brien / KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELL <a href="https://hutchpost.com/">Hutch Post</a>HUTCHINSON —&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/c4da66b3-9483-480b-b8f5-0e2619d38264">Jimmie Nelms, the killer of Kansas State Trooper Conroy O'Brien, will remain behind bars, but that's only guaranteed for three years.</a>"Obviously, I was happy that they are keeping him in prison for three more years," said Conroy's brother, Kelvin. "I was disappointed that they didn't take advantage of passing him for ten years, because they could have done that."That's exactly what the parole board did previously in 2011."Prior to the parole hearing, the Zoom hearing we had in March, the parole board actually said they were going to use the 1993 crime bill as a guideline on this particular case, or any case of a crime that was committed prior to 1993. The crime bill of 1993 states life in prison without parole or the death penalty, one of the two, so here we are, going to be up for parole again in three years."O'Brien thanked those who sent letters in support of the denial of Nelms' parole."There was an overwhelming response from the public to deny parole," O'Brien said. "I know there were letters that came from California, from Massachusetts, Florida, all over, to ask the parole board to deny parole, so I think he was denied parole was the public response."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621279333007.png" alt="Nelms photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Nelms photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>Nelms is 74 years old and according to public records is incarcerated at the Norton Correctional Facility.

Parole denied for state trooper's killer, but just for three years

JACKSON COUNTY—Authorities investigating the fatal home explosion and fire in rural Jackson County say propane caused the disaster, according to&nbsp;&nbsp;Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse.

Just after 6p.m. May 10, callers notified the Jackson County Sheriff's office of a large explosion that could be heard over 10 miles away, according to Morse.

Rescue units responded to the residence located at 27284 Q.4 Road three miles north of Holton or ¾ of a mile northeast of Jackson Heights School.&nbsp;First responders found the home to be completely leveled and on fire. 

Deputies located an injured woman outside the residence. She was was airlifted to a Kansas City hospital with serious injuries, according to Morse.

 Responders later located a man dead outside the residence. He was identified as 61-year-old Billy "Lu" Griffiths of Holton.&nbsp;It is believed that the home owners had been working on remodeling the residence, according to Morse.

On Friday, an area around the residence was excavated to allow officials to investigate. According to Morse, the explosion was not the result of a criminal act. A large&nbsp; amount of propane is believed to be missing from the propane tank, which potentially leaked into the residence. 

It is believed that an unidentifiable leak occurred inside the residence. Little to no part of the residence remains intact. This makes the investigation even more challenging.

Officials do not k unknown what source ignited the explosion Both victims were inside the residence at the time of the explosion.&nbsp;

The body of&nbsp;Billy "Lu" Griffiths of Holton underwent an autopsy, and investigators will be reviewing those results when they become available, according to Morse. Further testing and investigation is expected to be conducted by the home owner’s insurance company.

JACKSON COUNTY—A Kansas man died in a home explosion Monday in rural Jackson County.

Just after 6p.m., callers notified the Jackson County Sheriff's office of a large explosion that could be heard over 10 miles away, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

Rescue units responded to the residence located at 27284 Q.4 Road three miles north of Holton or ¾ of a mile northeast of Jackson Heights School. 

First responders found the home to be completely leveled and on fire. 

The Kansas Fire Marshal’s Office and Jackson County Sheriff's office are working to determine the exact cause of the explosion.

The incident remains under investigation by the Kansas State Fire Marshal and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620741074340.png" alt="Fire responders on the scene of Monday's home explosion and fire -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Fire responders on the scene of Monday's home explosion and fire -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY—Authorities investigating the fatal home explosion and fire in rural Jackson County say propane caused the disaster, according to&nbsp;&nbsp;Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse.Just after 6p.m. May 10, callers notified the Jackson County Sheriff's office of a large explosion that could be heard over 10 miles away, according to Morse.Rescue units responded to the residence located at 27284 Q.4 Road three miles north of Holton or ¾ of a mile northeast of Jackson Heights School.&nbsp;First responders found the home to be completely leveled and on fire. Deputies located an injured woman outside the residence. She was was airlifted to a Kansas City hospital with serious injuries, according to Morse. Responders later located a man dead outside the residence. He was identified as 61-year-old Billy "Lu" Griffiths of Holton.&nbsp;It is believed that the home owners had been working on remodeling the residence, according to Morse.On Friday, an area around the residence was excavated to allow officials to investigate. According to Morse, the explosion was not the result of a criminal act. A large&nbsp; amount of propane is believed to be missing from the propane tank, which potentially leaked into the residence. It is believed that an unidentifiable leak occurred inside the residence. Little to no part of the residence remains intact. This makes the investigation even more challenging.Officials do not k unknown what source ignited the explosion Both victims were inside the residence at the time of the explosion.&nbsp;The body of&nbsp;Billy "Lu" Griffiths of Holton underwent an autopsy, and investigators will be reviewing those results when they become available, according to Morse. Further testing and investigation is expected to be conducted by the home owner’s insurance company.--------JACKSON COUNTY—A Kansas man died in a home explosion Monday in rural Jackson County.Just after 6p.m., callers notified the Jackson County Sheriff's office of a large explosion that could be heard over 10 miles away, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.Rescue units responded to the residence located at 27284 Q.4 Road three miles north of Holton or ¾ of a mile northeast of Jackson Heights School. First responders found the home to be completely leveled and on fire. Deputies located an injured woman outside the residence. She was was airlifted to a Kansas City hospital with serious injuries, according to Morse. Responders later located a man dead outside the residence. He was identified as 61-year-old Billy "Lu" Griffiths of Holton.&nbsp;It is believed that the home owners had been working on remodeling the residence, according to Morse.The Kansas Fire Marshal’s Office and Jackson County Sheriff's office are working to determine the exact cause of the explosion.The incident remains under investigation by the Kansas State Fire Marshal and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff reports cause of fatal Kansas home explosion and fire

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 368 to a total of 312,073, the state health department reported Monday afternoon.&nbsp;

The state reported 2 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 5040.

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

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

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 368 to a total of 312,073, the state health department reported Monday afternoon.&nbsp;The state reported 2 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 5040.<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621270769141.png" alt="Monday May 17, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Monday May 17, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

MANHATTAN —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an aggravated robbery in Manhattan

Just after 4p.m. Sunday, officers responded to the 500 block of Dornoch Way in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department Activity Report.

A 22-year-old man reported two unknown men paid him for a pair of shoes he was selling in fake cash and hit him in the face with a handgun. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $500.00. 

Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.00.&nbsp;

MANHATTAN —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an aggravated robbery in ManhattanJust after 4p.m. Sunday, officers responded to the 500 block of Dornoch Way in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department Activity Report.A 22-year-old man reported two unknown men paid him for a pair of shoes he was selling in fake cash and hit him in the face with a handgun. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $500.00. Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.00.&nbsp;

Police: Suspects paid in fake cash, hit Kan. man with handgun

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

A vehicle stolen in central Salina Friday morning was found burning in eastern Saline County that night.

Shawn Blazier, 38, of Salina, told police that between 6-8 a.m. Friday, his 1992 Ford Mustang was stolen from in front of his garage behind his residence, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester.&nbsp; The Mustang was a Fox body, painted primer black. There were approximately $1,000 worth of clothes and a LG cellphone in the vehicle as well. 

Blazier told police that two acquaintances had spent the night at the house and that the keys to the car had been on the coffee table. Total loss was estimated at $2,950.

At approximately 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Saline County Sheriff's deputies were sent to the 8400 block of E. Cloud Street, where they found the Mustang on fire, Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning. Soldan said it appeared that the Mustang had driven through water over the roadway before catching fire.

According to Forrester, a witness reported giving two people a ride to Salina prior to the vehicle being reported to be on fire. The car was a total loss, he added.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621263245799.jpeg" alt="A Mustang stolen from Salina burns on a Saline County road east of the city. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>A Mustang stolen from Salina burns on a Saline County road east of the city. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA vehicle stolen in central Salina Friday morning was found burning in eastern Saline County that night.Shawn Blazier, 38, of Salina, told police that between 6-8 a.m. Friday, his 1992 Ford Mustang was stolen from in front of his garage behind his residence, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester.&nbsp; The Mustang was a Fox body, painted primer black. There were approximately $1,000 worth of clothes and a LG cellphone in the vehicle as well. Blazier told police that two acquaintances had spent the night at the house and that the keys to the car had been on the coffee table. Total loss was estimated at $2,950.At approximately 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Saline County Sheriff's deputies were sent to the 8400 block of E. Cloud Street, where they found the Mustang on fire, Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning. Soldan said it appeared that the Mustang had driven through water over the roadway before catching fire.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621263586446.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>According to Forrester, a witness reported giving two people a ride to Salina prior to the vehicle being reported to be on fire. The car was a total loss, he added.

Deputies find stolen car burning on rural Kan. road

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/720b5a74-d4d5-4931-86dd-91cfd95459ee">RELATED: Facing a surprise tax bill? Be sure to still file by May 17</a>

<a href="https://jcpost.com/posts/e0c16571-b94f-49a6-a03f-dce7d9213149">RELATED:&nbsp;IRS begins correcting tax returns for unemployment payments</a>

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service and the U.S. Department of 
the Treasury announced today that the first monthly payment of the 
expanded and newly-advanceable Child Tax Credit (CTC) from the American 
Rescue Plan will be made on July 15. Roughly 39 million households — 
covering 88% of children in the United States — are slated to begin 
receiving monthly payments without any further action required.

IRS and Treasury also announced the increased CTC payments will be 
made on the 15th of each month unless the 15th falls on a weekend or 
holiday. Families who receive the credit by direct deposit can plan 
their budgets around receipt of the benefit. Eligible families will 
receive a payment of up to $300 per month for each child under age 6 and
 up to $250 per month for each child age 6 and above.

The American Rescue Plan increased the maximum Child Tax Credit in 
2021 to $3,600 for children under the age of 6 and to $3,000 per child 
for children between ages 6 and 17. The American Rescue Plan is 
projected to lift more than five million children out of poverty this 
year, cutting child poverty by more than half.

Households covering more than 65 million children will receive the 
monthly CTC payments through direct deposit, paper check, or debit 
cards, and IRS and Treasury are committed to maximizing the use of 
direct deposit to ensure fast and secure delivery. While most taxpayers 
will not be required to take any action to receive their payments, 
Treasury and the IRS will continue outreach efforts with partner 
organizations over the coming months to make more families aware of 
their eligibility.

Today's announcement represents the latest collaboration between the 
IRS and Bureau of the Fiscal Service—and between Treasury and the White 
House American Rescue Plan Implementation Team—to ensure help quickly 
reaches Americans in need as they recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. 
Since March 12, the IRS has also distributed approximately 165 million 
Economic Impact Payments with a value of approximately $388 billion as a
 part of the American Rescue Plan.

Additional information for taxpayers on how they can access the Child Tax Credit will be available soon at <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">IRS.gov/childtaxcredit2021</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/720b5a74-d4d5-4931-86dd-91cfd95459ee">RELATED: Facing a surprise tax bill? Be sure to still file by May 17</a><a href="https://jcpost.com/posts/e0c16571-b94f-49a6-a03f-dce7d9213149">RELATED:&nbsp;IRS begins correcting tax returns for unemployment payments</a>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service and the U.S. Department of 
the Treasury announced today that the first monthly payment of the 
expanded and newly-advanceable Child Tax Credit (CTC) from the American 
Rescue Plan will be made on July 15. Roughly 39 million households — 
covering 88% of children in the United States — are slated to begin 
receiving monthly payments without any further action required.IRS and Treasury also announced the increased CTC payments will be 
made on the 15th of each month unless the 15th falls on a weekend or 
holiday. Families who receive the credit by direct deposit can plan 
their budgets around receipt of the benefit. Eligible families will 
receive a payment of up to $300 per month for each child under age 6 and
 up to $250 per month for each child age 6 and above.The American Rescue Plan increased the maximum Child Tax Credit in 
2021 to $3,600 for children under the age of 6 and to $3,000 per child 
for children between ages 6 and 17. The American Rescue Plan is 
projected to lift more than five million children out of poverty this 
year, cutting child poverty by more than half.Households covering more than 65 million children will receive the 
monthly CTC payments through direct deposit, paper check, or debit 
cards, and IRS and Treasury are committed to maximizing the use of 
direct deposit to ensure fast and secure delivery. While most taxpayers 
will not be required to take any action to receive their payments, 
Treasury and the IRS will continue outreach efforts with partner 
organizations over the coming months to make more families aware of 
their eligibility.Today's announcement represents the latest collaboration between the 
IRS and Bureau of the Fiscal Service—and between Treasury and the White 
House American Rescue Plan Implementation Team—to ensure help quickly 
reaches Americans in need as they recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. 
Since March 12, the IRS has also distributed approximately 165 million 
Economic Impact Payments with a value of approximately $388 billion as a
 part of the American Rescue Plan.Additional information for taxpayers on how they can access the Child Tax Credit will be available soon at <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">IRS.gov/childtaxcredit2021</a>.

IRS begins sending monthly Child Tax Credit to bank accounts in July

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after a weekend altercation in Atchison.

Shortly after 4p.m. Sunday, officers responded to a disturbance in the 600 block South 5th Street in Atchison involving a subject threatening a 51-year-old victim with a knife, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Officers located 51-year-old Kelley J. Rutledge as he ran from the scene. Police took him into custody and he was booked into the Atchison County Jail on requested charges of aggravated assault. The male victim was not injured, according to Wilson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621257332838.png" alt="Rutledge photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Rutledge photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after a weekend altercation in Atchison.Shortly after 4p.m. Sunday, officers responded to a disturbance in the 600 block South 5th Street in Atchison involving a subject threatening a 51-year-old victim with a knife, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.Officers located 51-year-old Kelley J. Rutledge as he ran from the scene. Police took him into custody and he was booked into the Atchison County Jail on requested charges of aggravated assault. The male victim was not injured, according to Wilson.

Police: Kan. man caught running from attempted knife attack

MISSION, Kan. (AP) — Children are having their noses swabbed or saliva sampled at school to test for the coronavirus in cities such as Baltimore, New York and Chicago. In other parts of the U.S., school districts are reluctant to check even students showing signs of illness for COVID-19.

Education and health officials around the country have taken different approaches to testing students and staff members — and widely varying positions or whether to test them at all as more children give up virtual classrooms for in-person learning. Some states have rejected their share of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-pandemics-summits-coronavirus-pandemic-miguel-cardona-afb12a9276bf05fa6275b03b7b40250d">billions of dollars the Biden administration made available</a>&nbsp;for conducting virus tests in schools.

Officials in districts that have embraced testing describe it as an important tool for making sure schools reopen safely and infections remain under control. They note that the virus might otherwise elude detection since young people with the virus often are asymptomatic and most teachers have been vaccinated.

But many school administrators and families, weary of pandemic-related disruptions, see little benefit in screening children, who tend not to become as sick from COVID-19 as adults. Meanwhile, each positive test that turns up at a school can trigger quarantine orders that force students back into learning from home.

In Nebraska, Superintendent Bryce Jorgenson said he doubts parents with children in the Southern Valley Public School District would embrace school-based virus tests. His rural, 370-student district eliminated its mandatory&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-health-education-abb64bd20748bd95aea2a5e2017704fd">mask policy&nbsp;</a>in March.

“I can tell you right now, I would say that not just in our district, but in many districts around, there is not an appetite for that at all,” he said of ongoing screening. “I don’t know as a leader, too, if I want to get into testing kids because we don’t test kids for any other virus, really.”

Elected officials in Iowa and Idaho made their opinions known by turning down millions in federal aid for voluntary COVID-19 testing in schools.

“Here’s your $95 million back,” Iowa&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iowa-health-coronavirus-22ef463b6ff766281d3a0dbf613d518c">Gov. Kim Reynolds,</a>&nbsp;a Republican, declared on Fox News after commenting that in her view, President Joe Biden “thinks that COVID just started.”

In Idaho, the state House of Representatives rejected $40.3 million in offered funding.

“Schools are not medical facilities, and we shouldn’t want to place that responsibility and liability on our schools,” Republican state Rep. Tammy Nichols said in an email. “That is why we have medical facilities and staff who are licensed, certified and insured to handle those things.”

Experts are divided about how worthwhile it is to test for the coronavirus inside schools as more people are vaccinated and confirmed cases decline.

Joshua Salomon, a professor of medicine at Stanford University who supports screening students, said the procedure could help curb outbreaks involving more contagious variants.

“Basically, it gives you an insurance policy against things we may not be able to anticipate,” Salomon said. “The virus has really kind of caught us off guard in a few instances.”

But Dr. Monica Gandhi, a professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco, said the nation’s vaccination program makes the tests less useful because immunized individuals are so much less likely to get infected. At the same time, she said, false positives in school settings carry significant consequences when they cause a return to online learning.

Screening tests have played a key role in reopening plans for schools in New York City and liberal-leaning states like California and Massachusetts.

Some districts, like Baltimore City Public Schools, use so-called pooled testing methods that combine multiple samples from students in kindergarten to eighth grade; a positive result leads to everyone in the pool being quarantined. The district is using individual saliva-based PCR tests to screen its high school students..

“By doing this screening testing, you can actually catch the cases early, and that is really effective at preventing transmission,” Cleo Hirsch, who oversees the testing in Baltimore’s public schools, said.

In Chicago, surveillance testing for COVID-19 was part of the district’s reopening agreement with the teachers union. For elementary students who are at least 10, the district tests a percentage at random, focusing on zip codes with the most confirmed COVID-19 cases. The district tests a sampling of high school students citywide. The tests require parental consent.

In Massachusetts, which also relies on pooled testing, the collected data indicates a positivity rate within schools of 2 cases for every 1,000 people, said Russell Johnston, a senior associate commissioner at the state’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

“That just again gives us enormous confidence in the mitigation strategies that we have available in the schools,” he said.

Oregon is beginning to pilot testing of unvaccinated school employees and plans to expand the health surveillance effort to children attending overnight summer camp before deciding how to proceed in the fall. Some school administrators have expressed trepidation about adding surveillance testing, state epidemiologist Dr. Dean Sidelinger said.

“COVID has added 12 new challenges every hour for them on top of everything else they were already burdened with,” Sidelinger said. “So many of them just kind of, I think instinctively, said, ’No, you cannot ask us to do another thing.’”

In Minnesota, the 8,500-student Edina Public Schools has quarantined hundreds of close contacts of students with positive results. The district began a “Test The Nest” surveillance program at its high school and middle schools in mid-March in an attempt to identify individuals without symptoms who are carrying the virus, spokeswoman Mary Woitte said.

But Nicole Schnell, of the group Edina Parents 4 Progress, opposes the expanded testing, saying a single positive case can lead to massive disruptions.

Schnell said her daughters, age 15 and 18, spent two weeks quarantined in the fall and another two weeks in the spring despite testing negative because they were considered close contacts of people who were infected. Her 17-year-old son decided to keep attending classes virtually because he didn’t want to risk a potential exposure that might force him to miss the spring baseball season.

“I have seen firsthand effects of keeping kids out of society,” Schnell said, adding that one of her children was diagnosed with depression after being quarantined. “We are not just talking about out of school. We are talking about out of any sport that they play, out of any activity, out of anything outside, out of seeing their friends, because of a potential positive exposure.”

MISSION, Kan. (AP) — Children are having their noses swabbed or saliva sampled at school to test for the coronavirus in cities such as Baltimore, New York and Chicago. In other parts of the U.S., school districts are reluctant to check even students showing signs of illness for COVID-19.Education and health officials around the country have taken different approaches to testing students and staff members — and widely varying positions or whether to test them at all as more children give up virtual classrooms for in-person learning. Some states have rejected their share of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-pandemics-summits-coronavirus-pandemic-miguel-cardona-afb12a9276bf05fa6275b03b7b40250d">billions of dollars the Biden administration made available</a>&nbsp;for conducting virus tests in schools.Officials in districts that have embraced testing describe it as an important tool for making sure schools reopen safely and infections remain under control. They note that the virus might otherwise elude detection since young people with the virus often are asymptomatic and most teachers have been vaccinated.But many school administrators and families, weary of pandemic-related disruptions, see little benefit in screening children, who tend not to become as sick from COVID-19 as adults. Meanwhile, each positive test that turns up at a school can trigger quarantine orders that force students back into learning from home.In Nebraska, Superintendent Bryce Jorgenson said he doubts parents with children in the Southern Valley Public School District would embrace school-based virus tests. His rural, 370-student district eliminated its mandatory&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-health-education-abb64bd20748bd95aea2a5e2017704fd">mask policy&nbsp;</a>in March.“I can tell you right now, I would say that not just in our district, but in many districts around, there is not an appetite for that at all,” he said of ongoing screening. “I don’t know as a leader, too, if I want to get into testing kids because we don’t test kids for any other virus, really.”Elected officials in Iowa and Idaho made their opinions known by turning down millions in federal aid for voluntary COVID-19 testing in schools.“Here’s your $95 million back,” Iowa&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iowa-health-coronavirus-22ef463b6ff766281d3a0dbf613d518c">Gov. Kim Reynolds,</a>&nbsp;a Republican, declared on Fox News after commenting that in her view, President Joe Biden “thinks that COVID just started.”In Idaho, the state House of Representatives rejected $40.3 million in offered funding.“Schools are not medical facilities, and we shouldn’t want to place that responsibility and liability on our schools,” Republican state Rep. Tammy Nichols said in an email. “That is why we have medical facilities and staff who are licensed, certified and insured to handle those things.”Experts are divided about how worthwhile it is to test for the coronavirus inside schools as more people are vaccinated and confirmed cases decline.Joshua Salomon, a professor of medicine at Stanford University who supports screening students, said the procedure could help curb outbreaks involving more contagious variants.“Basically, it gives you an insurance policy against things we may not be able to anticipate,” Salomon said. “The virus has really kind of caught us off guard in a few instances.”But Dr. Monica Gandhi, a professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco, said the nation’s vaccination program makes the tests less useful because immunized individuals are so much less likely to get infected. At the same time, she said, false positives in school settings carry significant consequences when they cause a return to online learning.Screening tests have played a key role in reopening plans for schools in New York City and liberal-leaning states like California and Massachusetts.Some districts, like Baltimore City Public Schools, use so-called pooled testing methods that combine multiple samples from students in kindergarten to eighth grade; a positive result leads to everyone in the pool being quarantined. The district is using individual saliva-based PCR tests to screen its high school students..“By doing this screening testing, you can actually catch the cases early, and that is really effective at preventing transmission,” Cleo Hirsch, who oversees the testing in Baltimore’s public schools, said.In Chicago, surveillance testing for COVID-19 was part of the district’s reopening agreement with the teachers union. For elementary students who are at least 10, the district tests a percentage at random, focusing on zip codes with the most confirmed COVID-19 cases. The district tests a sampling of high school students citywide. The tests require parental consent.In Massachusetts, which also relies on pooled testing, the collected data indicates a positivity rate within schools of 2 cases for every 1,000 people, said Russell Johnston, a senior associate commissioner at the state’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.“That just again gives us enormous confidence in the mitigation strategies that we have available in the schools,” he said.Oregon is beginning to pilot testing of unvaccinated school employees and plans to expand the health surveillance effort to children attending overnight summer camp before deciding how to proceed in the fall. Some school administrators have expressed trepidation about adding surveillance testing, state epidemiologist Dr. Dean Sidelinger said.“COVID has added 12 new challenges every hour for them on top of everything else they were already burdened with,” Sidelinger said. “So many of them just kind of, I think instinctively, said, ’No, you cannot ask us to do another thing.’”In Minnesota, the 8,500-student Edina Public Schools has quarantined hundreds of close contacts of students with positive results. The district began a “Test The Nest” surveillance program at its high school and middle schools in mid-March in an attempt to identify individuals without symptoms who are carrying the virus, spokeswoman Mary Woitte said.But Nicole Schnell, of the group Edina Parents 4 Progress, opposes the expanded testing, saying a single positive case can lead to massive disruptions.Schnell said her daughters, age 15 and 18, spent two weeks quarantined in the fall and another two weeks in the spring despite testing negative because they were considered close contacts of people who were infected. Her 17-year-old son decided to keep attending classes virtually because he didn’t want to risk a potential exposure that might force him to miss the spring baseball season.“I have seen firsthand effects of keeping kids out of society,” Schnell said, adding that one of her children was diagnosed with depression after being quarantined. “We are not just talking about out of school. We are talking about out of any sport that they play, out of any activity, out of anything outside, out of seeing their friends, because of a potential positive exposure.”——-

Virus testing strategies, opinions vary widely in US schools

GRANDVIEW, Mo. (AP) — A 17-year-old who was shot by police in Missouri after confronting officers with a gun has died, authorities said.

Lantz Stephenson Jr., of Grandview,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michael-brown-shootings-police-4891a0f4e2c8fbdd1ad0e39c76725451">was shot</a>&nbsp;about 6:45 a.m. Sunday at a park in the Kansas City suburb of Grandview, and died later that day at a hospital, the Missouri State Highway Patrol said.

The patrol said in a post on Twitter that an “apparent suicidal” person was at the park with a gun. Highway patrol spokesman Sgt. Andrew Bell said the person called 911 and said he had a gun and wanted to confront officers at the park.

He approached the Grandview officers aggressively before two officers fired their weapons at him, Bell said.

No officers were injured. The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, the patrol said.

Kansas City (AP) — Police shot and wounded a man who confronted officers with a gun Sunday morning.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol said the incident happened around 6:45 a.m. Sunday at a park in Grandview, Missouri, on the south end of the Kansas City metro area. The Highway Patrol said in a post on Twitter that an “apparent suicidal” person was at the park with a gun.

Highway patrol spokesman Sgt. Andrew Bell said the man called 911 and said he had a gun and wanted to confront officers at the park about two miles east of Interstate 49 and north of Highway 150.

Bell said the man with a gun approached officers aggressively before two officers fired their weapons at him.

The man was taken to a hospital, but details about his condition were not immediately available Sunday. No officers were injured.

GRANDVIEW, Mo. (AP) — A 17-year-old who was shot by police in Missouri after confronting officers with a gun has died, authorities said.Lantz Stephenson Jr., of Grandview,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michael-brown-shootings-police-4891a0f4e2c8fbdd1ad0e39c76725451">was shot</a>&nbsp;about 6:45 a.m. Sunday at a park in the Kansas City suburb of Grandview, and died later that day at a hospital, the Missouri State Highway Patrol said.The patrol said in a post on Twitter that an “apparent suicidal” person was at the park with a gun. Highway patrol spokesman Sgt. Andrew Bell said the person called 911 and said he had a gun and wanted to confront officers at the park.He approached the Grandview officers aggressively before two officers fired their weapons at him, Bell said.No officers were injured. The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, the patrol said.--------------Kansas City (AP) — Police shot and wounded a man who confronted officers with a gun Sunday morning.The Missouri State Highway Patrol said the incident happened around 6:45 a.m. Sunday at a park in Grandview, Missouri, on the south end of the Kansas City metro area. The Highway Patrol said in a post on Twitter that an “apparent suicidal” person was at the park with a gun.Highway patrol spokesman Sgt. Andrew Bell said the man called 911 and said he had a gun and wanted to confront officers at the park about two miles east of Interstate 49 and north of Highway 150.Bell said the man with a gun approached officers aggressively before two officers fired their weapons at him.The man was taken to a hospital, but details about his condition were not immediately available Sunday. No officers were injured.

Teen dies after being shot by police at KC-area park

The head of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Sunday defended the decision to ease mask-wearing guidance for fully vaccinated people, stressing that increasing political pressure had nothing to do with the abrupt shift in guidelines.

“I’m delivering the science as the science is delivered to the medical journals. And it evolved," CDC Director Rochelle Walensky said on FOX News Sunday. “I deliver it as soon as I can when we have that information available.”

Under the new guidelines released last week, fully vaccinated people — those who are two weeks past their final dose of a COVID-19 vaccine — can quit wearing masks outdoors in crowds and in most indoor settings and give up social distancing.

However, partially vaccinated or unvaccinated people should continue wearing masks, the agency said. The guidance also still calls for masks in crowded indoor settings including buses, airplanes, hospitals, prisons and homeless shelters.

The sudden change sparked praise from those eager to return to pre-pandemic life, particularly those who see the new guidelines as a way to reopen workplaces, schools and other venues that went dark during the pandemic.

Yet concerns have been raised from those who say there's no easy way for businesses and others to determine who is fully vaccinated and who is not. Instead, many will have to rely on an honor system as many states and communities have already been lifting mask mandates amid improving virus numbers and as more Americans have been shedding face coverings after getting shots.

“I would imagine within a period of just a couple of weeks, you’re going to start to see significant clarification of some of the actually understandable and reasonable questions that people are asking,” Dr. Anthony Fauci, the face of the U.S. government’s pandemic response, said on Face the Nation.

The timing of the change has also faced questions. Just days earlier, Walensky had defended the agency's strict mask guidance in front of a Senate committee where some Republicans on the panel described the CDC's guidance as “unworkable.”

When pressed about the quick turnaround on the agency's stance on mask wearing, Walensky said the agency was not giving in to pressure but instead needed time to review evolving science.

“I can tell you it certainly would have been easier if the science had evolved a week earlier and I didn’t have to go to Congress making those statements. But I’m delivering the science as the science is delivered to the medical journals,” she said.

To date more than 156 million Americans, or more than 47% of the population, have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine, and more than 121 million are fully vaccinated.

Walensky cautioned that even with the new guidelines, it was still too early to “declare victory,” but added that she was “cautiously optimistic" about the pandemic.

“We have to remain humble. We’ve had way too many curveballs in this pandemic come to us. But I am really cautiously optimistic that we are in a good place right now, that cases continue to come down,” she said.

But, she added, even though the guidance has changed, “there’s no need for everybody to start ripping off their masks."

“There is no mandate to take it off. What we’re saying is, now this is safe," she said. “Work at your own speed, work with your own family and your own businesses to remove them when necessary."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621194714478.png" alt="Walensky during a White House briefing last week said, "We have all longed for this moment - when we can get back to some sense of normalcy – and that moment has come for those who are fully vaccinated!"&nbsp; Photo courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>Walensky during a White House briefing last week said, "We have all longed for this moment - when we can get back to some sense of normalcy – and that moment has come for those who are fully vaccinated!"&nbsp; Photo courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>By KIMBERLEE KRUESI, Associated PressThe head of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Sunday defended the decision to ease mask-wearing guidance for fully vaccinated people, stressing that increasing political pressure had nothing to do with the abrupt shift in guidelines.“I’m delivering the science as the science is delivered to the medical journals. And it evolved," CDC Director Rochelle Walensky said on FOX News Sunday. “I deliver it as soon as I can when we have that information available.”Under the new guidelines released last week, fully vaccinated people — those who are two weeks past their final dose of a COVID-19 vaccine — can quit wearing masks outdoors in crowds and in most indoor settings and give up social distancing.However, partially vaccinated or unvaccinated people should continue wearing masks, the agency said. The guidance also still calls for masks in crowded indoor settings including buses, airplanes, hospitals, prisons and homeless shelters.The sudden change sparked praise from those eager to return to pre-pandemic life, particularly those who see the new guidelines as a way to reopen workplaces, schools and other venues that went dark during the pandemic.Yet concerns have been raised from those who say there's no easy way for businesses and others to determine who is fully vaccinated and who is not. Instead, many will have to rely on an honor system as many states and communities have already been lifting mask mandates amid improving virus numbers and as more Americans have been shedding face coverings after getting shots.“I would imagine within a period of just a couple of weeks, you’re going to start to see significant clarification of some of the actually understandable and reasonable questions that people are asking,” Dr. Anthony Fauci, the face of the U.S. government’s pandemic response, said on Face the Nation.The timing of the change has also faced questions. Just days earlier, Walensky had defended the agency's strict mask guidance in front of a Senate committee where some Republicans on the panel described the CDC's guidance as “unworkable.”When pressed about the quick turnaround on the agency's stance on mask wearing, Walensky said the agency was not giving in to pressure but instead needed time to review evolving science.“I can tell you it certainly would have been easier if the science had evolved a week earlier and I didn’t have to go to Congress making those statements. But I’m delivering the science as the science is delivered to the medical journals,” she said.To date more than 156 million Americans, or more than 47% of the population, have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine, and more than 121 million are fully vaccinated.Walensky cautioned that even with the new guidelines, it was still too early to “declare victory,” but added that she was “cautiously optimistic" about the pandemic.“We have to remain humble. We’ve had way too many curveballs in this pandemic come to us. But I am really cautiously optimistic that we are in a good place right now, that cases continue to come down,” she said.But, she added, even though the guidance has changed, “there’s no need for everybody to start ripping off their masks."“There is no mandate to take it off. What we’re saying is, now this is safe," she said. “Work at your own speed, work with your own family and your own businesses to remove them when necessary."

CDC director defends decision to ditch masks

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers that the deadline for filing most individual income tax returns this year is May 17. The agency also wants taxpayers who have yet to file their tax returns to know that there are a variety of options available to help them.

IRS tax help is available 24 hours a day on IRS.gov. Whether filing a tax return, requesting an extension or making a payment, the IRS website can help last-minute filers on just about everything related to taxes.

The IRS encourages taxpayers to file electronically. Doing so, whether through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing">e-file</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">IRS Free File</a>, vastly reduces tax return errors as the tax software does the calculations, flags common errors and prompts taxpayers for missing information.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/e-file-providers/free-file-fillable-forms">Free File Fillable Forms</a>&nbsp;means there is a free option for everyone.

Anyone who needs more time to file can get it. The easiest way to do so is through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a>&nbsp;link on IRS.gov. In a matter of minutes, anyone, regardless of income, can use this free service to electronically request an extension on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-4868">Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return</a>.

Taxpayers are reminded, however, that an extension of time to file is not an extension of time to pay. To get the extension, taxpayers must estimate their tax liability on this form and pay any amount due. Tax payments are generally due by the May 17 filing deadline, and taxpayers should pay as much as they can to avoid possible penalties and interest.

Taxpayers paying all or part of their&nbsp;income taxes, due by the May 17 deadline,&nbsp;with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/direct-pay">IRS Direct Pay</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/eftps-the-electronic-federal-tax-payment-system">Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS)</a>&nbsp;or a credit or debit card will get an automatic extension of time to file. By selecting "extension" as the reason for the payment, there is no need to separately file a Form 4868. Taxpayers will also receive a confirmation number after they submit their payment. When paying with Direct Pay and EFTPS, taxpayers can sign up for email notifications.

Any payment made with an extension request will reduce or, if the balance is paid in full, eliminate interest and late-payment penalties that apply to payments made after the May 17 tax filing deadline.

Alternatively, people can complete a paper copy of Form 4868 and mail it to the IRS. The form must be mailed and postmarked by the filing deadline. Download and print it from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-instructions">IRS.gov/forms</a>.

While an estimated 16 million taxpayers will request an extension of time to file, others automatically qualify for more time to meet their tax obligations.

The IRS automatically provides filing and penalty relief to any taxpayer with an IRS address of record located in areas covered by Federal Emergency Management Agency disaster declarations. For details on all available relief, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/around-the-nation">Around the Nation</a>&nbsp;page on IRS.gov. Deadlines for individual and business tax returns and make tax payments are extended for taxpayers in:

Special rules&nbsp;may apply for some military personnel&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/extension-of-deadlines-combat-zone-service">serving in a combat zone or a qualified hazardous duty area</a>. This also applies to individuals serving in the combat zone in support of the U.S. Armed Forces. A complete list of designated combat zone localities can be found in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-3">Publication 3, Armed Forces' Tax Guide</a>, available on IRS.gov.

U.S. citizens and resident aliens&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/publications/p54">living outside the United States</a>&nbsp;have until June 15, 2021, to file their 2020 tax returns and pay any tax due.

May 17 is also the deadline to make 2020 contributions to:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/deadline-for-contributions-to-health-savings-accounts-and-archer-medical-savings-accounts-extended-to-may-17-2021">health savings accounts (HSAs) and Archer medical savings accounts (Archer MSAs)</a>;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/retirement-plans-frequently-asked-questions-faqs">individual retirement arrangements (IRAs and Roth IRAs)</a>;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/retirement-plans-for-self-employed-people">Solo 401(k)s and Simplified Employee Pension plans (SEPs)</a>&nbsp;as well as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-5498-esa">Coverdell education savings accounts (Coverdell ESAs)</a>.

Employment taxes are also due May 17 for household employees including housekeepers, maids, babysitters, gardeners and others who work in or around a private residence as an employee. For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-926">Publication 926, Household Employer's Tax Guide</a>.

Also, tax-exempt organizations that operate on a calendar-year basis&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/reminder-to-tax-exempt-organizations-990s-other-forms-due-on-may-17-information-and-tools-available-to-help">need to file certain annual information and tax returns</a>&nbsp;by May 17.

The IRS estimates 1.3 million taxpayers did not file a 2017 tax return to claim tax refunds worth more than $1.3 billion. The three-year window of opportunity to claim a 2017 tax refund closes May 17, 2021, for most taxpayers. If they do not file a tax return by May 17, the money becomes the property of the U.S. Treasury.

The fastest way to receive a refund is to file electronically and use&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/get-your-refund-faster-tell-irs-to-direct-deposit-your-refund-to-one-two-or-three-accounts">direct deposit</a>. The best way to check on a refund is the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a>&nbsp;tool available on IRS.gov and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go mobile app</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers that the deadline for filing most individual income tax returns this year is May 17. The agency also wants taxpayers who have yet to file their tax returns to know that there are a variety of options available to help them.IRS tax help is available 24 hours a day on IRS.gov. Whether filing a tax return, requesting an extension or making a payment, the IRS website can help last-minute filers on just about everything related to taxes.The IRS encourages taxpayers to file electronically. Doing so, whether through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing">e-file</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">IRS Free File</a>, vastly reduces tax return errors as the tax software does the calculations, flags common errors and prompts taxpayers for missing information.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/e-file-providers/free-file-fillable-forms">Free File Fillable Forms</a>&nbsp;means there is a free option for everyone.<h2>Request more time</h2>Anyone who needs more time to file can get it. The easiest way to do so is through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a>&nbsp;link on IRS.gov. In a matter of minutes, anyone, regardless of income, can use this free service to electronically request an extension on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-4868">Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return</a>.Taxpayers are reminded, however, that an extension of time to file is not an extension of time to pay. To get the extension, taxpayers must estimate their tax liability on this form and pay any amount due. Tax payments are generally due by the May 17 filing deadline, and taxpayers should pay as much as they can to avoid possible penalties and interest.Taxpayers paying all or part of their&nbsp;income taxes, due by the May 17 deadline,&nbsp;with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/direct-pay">IRS Direct Pay</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/eftps-the-electronic-federal-tax-payment-system">Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS)</a>&nbsp;or a credit or debit card will get an automatic extension of time to file. By selecting "extension" as the reason for the payment, there is no need to separately file a Form 4868. Taxpayers will also receive a confirmation number after they submit their payment. When paying with Direct Pay and EFTPS, taxpayers can sign up for email notifications.Any payment made with an extension request will reduce or, if the balance is paid in full, eliminate interest and late-payment penalties that apply to payments made after the May 17 tax filing deadline.Alternatively, people can complete a paper copy of Form 4868 and mail it to the IRS. The form must be mailed and postmarked by the filing deadline. Download and print it from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-instructions">IRS.gov/forms</a>.While an estimated 16 million taxpayers will request an extension of time to file, others automatically qualify for more time to meet their tax obligations.<h2>Who automatically has more time to file?</h2>The IRS automatically provides filing and penalty relief to any taxpayer with an IRS address of record located in areas covered by Federal Emergency Management Agency disaster declarations. For details on all available relief, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/around-the-nation">Around the Nation</a>&nbsp;page on IRS.gov. Deadlines for individual and business tax returns and make tax payments are extended for taxpayers in:<ul>
 <li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/around-the-nation-louisiana">Louisiana</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/around-the-nation-oklahoma">Oklahoma</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/around-the-nation-texas">Texas</a>&nbsp;– until June 15, 2021.</li><li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/around-the-nation-kentucky">Kentucky</a>&nbsp;– until June 30, 2021.</li><li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/around-the-nation-alabama">Alabama</a>&nbsp;– until August&nbsp;2, 2021.</li><li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-announces-tax-relief-for-victims-of-severe-storms-straight-line-winds-tornadoes-and-flooding-in-tennessee">Tennessee</a>&nbsp;– until August&nbsp;2, 2021.</li>
 </ul>Special rules&nbsp;may apply for some military personnel&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/extension-of-deadlines-combat-zone-service">serving in a combat zone or a qualified hazardous duty area</a>. This also applies to individuals serving in the combat zone in support of the U.S. Armed Forces. A complete list of designated combat zone localities can be found in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-3">Publication 3, Armed Forces' Tax Guide</a>, available on IRS.gov.U.S. citizens and resident aliens&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/publications/p54">living outside the United States</a>&nbsp;have until June 15, 2021, to file their 2020 tax returns and pay any tax due.<h2>Additional May 17 extended deadlines</h2>May 17 is also the deadline to make 2020 contributions to:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/deadline-for-contributions-to-health-savings-accounts-and-archer-medical-savings-accounts-extended-to-may-17-2021">health savings accounts (HSAs) and Archer medical savings accounts (Archer MSAs)</a>;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/retirement-plans-frequently-asked-questions-faqs">individual retirement arrangements (IRAs and Roth IRAs)</a>;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/retirement-plans-for-self-employed-people">Solo 401(k)s and Simplified Employee Pension plans (SEPs)</a>&nbsp;as well as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-5498-esa">Coverdell education savings accounts (Coverdell ESAs)</a>.Employment taxes are also due May 17 for household employees including housekeepers, maids, babysitters, gardeners and others who work in or around a private residence as an employee. For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-926">Publication 926, Household Employer's Tax Guide</a>.Also, tax-exempt organizations that operate on a calendar-year basis&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/reminder-to-tax-exempt-organizations-990s-other-forms-due-on-may-17-information-and-tools-available-to-help">need to file certain annual information and tax returns</a>&nbsp;by May 17.<h2>Unclaimed 2017 refunds</h2>The IRS estimates 1.3 million taxpayers did not file a 2017 tax return to claim tax refunds worth more than $1.3 billion. The three-year window of opportunity to claim a 2017 tax refund closes May 17, 2021, for most taxpayers. If they do not file a tax return by May 17, the money becomes the property of the U.S. Treasury.<h2>Direct deposit for a faster refund</h2>The fastest way to receive a refund is to file electronically and use&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/get-your-refund-faster-tell-irs-to-direct-deposit-your-refund-to-one-two-or-three-accounts">direct deposit</a>. The best way to check on a refund is the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a>&nbsp;tool available on IRS.gov and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go mobile app</a>.

IRS: Despite tax filing deadline, extensions and other help available

WICHITA - Equity Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: EQBK), parent company of Equity Bank, announced Monday the entry into a definitive merger agreement with American State Bancshares, Inc. (“ASB”), the holding company of American State Bank &amp; Trust in Wichita, according to a media release from the organization.

Equity will merge ASB into Equity, adding American State Bank &amp; Trust’s 17 Kansas locations to Equity Bank’s current network. Equity and ASB expect to complete the merger in early October 2021.

“American State Bank &amp; Trust is an excellent community bank, and its leadership and customer bases share a like mind with ours, valuing customized personal service, and entrepreneurial spirit,” said Brad Elliott, Chairman and CEO of Equity. “Kansas is home to numerous, thriving communities with customers who desire a community banking approach, and our institutions match up well in terms of mindset and geographic fit. As we welcome new customers in strong markets in north, central and southwest Kansas, we’re eager to serve alongside the dedicated leadership and employees of American State Bank &amp; Trust.”

“We’re fortunate to find a partner that will continue our tradition of innovation for our customers and families throughout our Kansas footprint – and add additional locations, bankers and expertise near our customers’ businesses and homes,” said Lee Borck, Chairman of the Board of ASB. “Our local customers prioritize decision-making with their communities in mind, and value sophisticated technology and delivery that our customers trust. We’re pleased to join a Kansas-based bank who can help our customers continue to grow.”

Under the terms of the merger agreement, ASB will merge with and into Equity, and American State Bank &amp; Trust will subsequently merge with and into Equity Bank in a transaction valued at approximately&nbsp;$73.6 million to common shareholders based on the closing price of Equity’s common stock on&nbsp;April 29, 2021, the date on which both parties agreed to pricing. ASB preferred shares of $6.6 million will also be redeemed upon consummation of the merger. On a pro forma consolidated basis, the combined company would have approximately&nbsp;$5.0 billion&nbsp;in consolidated total assets as of&nbsp;March 31, 2021.

In Kansas, the institution’s combined deposits in-state would rank No. 7 in deposit market share, and No. 4 among banks headquartered in Kansas. The combined institution would rank No. 6 in the Wichita MSA, according to the 2020 FDIC Summary of Deposits as presented by S&amp;P Global.

Equity’s new footprint will encompass 42 locations in Kansas, including five additional locations in Equity’s market of Wichita and the surrounding metropolitan statistical area (“MSA”). ASB’s current footprint complements Equity’s with locations in Great Bend, Salina, Garden City, Belleville, Clyde, Concordia, Holcomb, Larned, Macksville, and St. John, Kansas. Equity’s full network will include 69 bank locations in Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas, and Oklahoma.

Equity reported $4.2 billion in consolidated total assets, deposits of $3.6 billion and gross loans of $2.8 billion as of March 31, 2021. ASB had $779 million in consolidated total assets, $653 million in total deposits, including $622 million in core deposits, and $479 million in loans as of March 31, 2021.

“Our dedication to local decision making and community banking remains resolute, and we’ll have additional products, services and capabilities as a result of joining forces,” said Doug Thurman, president &amp; CEO of ASB. “I’m thankful to all of our team members at American State Bank &amp; Trust for serving their customers, time and again, with entrepreneurial spirit. It’s that mindset that matches up well with Equity and will make us a key resource for customers.”

Thurman and local ASB leaders will continue to serve as part of Equity, as the companies work to combine operations and technology, with locations rebranding as Equity Bank following consummation of the merger. Equity and ASB leadership will work with local markets, customers, and businesses beginning immediately to answer questions and help with customer needs. Upon completion of the merger, current ASB board member Lee Borck will join the Board of Directors of Equity Bancshares, Inc., and fellow ASB Directors Thurman and Max Nichols will join the Board of Directors of Equity Bank.

“Our footprints mesh together to provide a solid foundation across Kansas for our customers, adding a layer of convenience and expertise for all of us,” said Elliott. “As we join forces, it’s a homecoming for some of our banking leaders who served as leaders of a Salina-based bank during the 2000s with President and CEO Jim Berglund, who is now an Equity Board member. This team includes Larry Britegam and Trey Mowery of ASB, in addition to myself, Julie Huber, Patrick Harbert, Patrick Salmans, Dale Gottschalk, and John Hanley of Equity. We expect the pairing of community banking talent at our institutions to be a key resource for customers and colleagues.”

The merger announcement occurs after Equity’s recent completion of an FDIC-facilitated acquisition of Almena State Bank in October 2020, adding two locations in Almena and Norton, Kansas. The merger agreement with ASB marks Equity’s 18th business combination since the company’s founding in 2002, the 10th since Equity’s initial public offering in November 2015, and is the company’s largest combination effort to date.

WICHITA - Equity Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: EQBK), parent company of Equity Bank, announced Monday the entry into a definitive merger agreement with American State Bancshares, Inc. (“ASB”), the holding company of American State Bank &amp; Trust in Wichita, according to a media release from the organization.Equity will merge ASB into Equity, adding American State Bank &amp; Trust’s 17 Kansas locations to Equity Bank’s current network. Equity and ASB expect to complete the merger in early October 2021.“American State Bank &amp; Trust is an excellent community bank, and its leadership and customer bases share a like mind with ours, valuing customized personal service, and entrepreneurial spirit,” said Brad Elliott, Chairman and CEO of Equity. “Kansas is home to numerous, thriving communities with customers who desire a community banking approach, and our institutions match up well in terms of mindset and geographic fit. As we welcome new customers in strong markets in north, central and southwest Kansas, we’re eager to serve alongside the dedicated leadership and employees of American State Bank &amp; Trust.”“We’re fortunate to find a partner that will continue our tradition of innovation for our customers and families throughout our Kansas footprint – and add additional locations, bankers and expertise near our customers’ businesses and homes,” said Lee Borck, Chairman of the Board of ASB. “Our local customers prioritize decision-making with their communities in mind, and value sophisticated technology and delivery that our customers trust. We’re pleased to join a Kansas-based bank who can help our customers continue to grow.”Under the terms of the merger agreement, ASB will merge with and into Equity, and American State Bank &amp; Trust will subsequently merge with and into Equity Bank in a transaction valued at approximately&nbsp;$73.6 million to common shareholders based on the closing price of Equity’s common stock on&nbsp;April 29, 2021, the date on which both parties agreed to pricing. ASB preferred shares of $6.6 million will also be redeemed upon consummation of the merger. On a pro forma consolidated basis, the combined company would have approximately&nbsp;$5.0 billion&nbsp;in consolidated total assets as of&nbsp;March 31, 2021.In Kansas, the institution’s combined deposits in-state would rank No. 7 in deposit market share, and No. 4 among banks headquartered in Kansas. The combined institution would rank No. 6 in the Wichita MSA, according to the 2020 FDIC Summary of Deposits as presented by S&amp;P Global.Equity’s new footprint will encompass 42 locations in Kansas, including five additional locations in Equity’s market of Wichita and the surrounding metropolitan statistical area (“MSA”). ASB’s current footprint complements Equity’s with locations in Great Bend, Salina, Garden City, Belleville, Clyde, Concordia, Holcomb, Larned, Macksville, and St. John, Kansas. Equity’s full network will include 69 bank locations in Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas, and Oklahoma.Equity reported $4.2 billion in consolidated total assets, deposits of $3.6 billion and gross loans of $2.8 billion as of March 31, 2021. ASB had $779 million in consolidated total assets, $653 million in total deposits, including $622 million in core deposits, and $479 million in loans as of March 31, 2021.“Our dedication to local decision making and community banking remains resolute, and we’ll have additional products, services and capabilities as a result of joining forces,” said Doug Thurman, president &amp; CEO of ASB. “I’m thankful to all of our team members at American State Bank &amp; Trust for serving their customers, time and again, with entrepreneurial spirit. It’s that mindset that matches up well with Equity and will make us a key resource for customers.”Thurman and local ASB leaders will continue to serve as part of Equity, as the companies work to combine operations and technology, with locations rebranding as Equity Bank following consummation of the merger. Equity and ASB leadership will work with local markets, customers, and businesses beginning immediately to answer questions and help with customer needs. Upon completion of the merger, current ASB board member Lee Borck will join the Board of Directors of Equity Bancshares, Inc., and fellow ASB Directors Thurman and Max Nichols will join the Board of Directors of Equity Bank.“Our footprints mesh together to provide a solid foundation across Kansas for our customers, adding a layer of convenience and expertise for all of us,” said Elliott. “As we join forces, it’s a homecoming for some of our banking leaders who served as leaders of a Salina-based bank during the 2000s with President and CEO Jim Berglund, who is now an Equity Board member. This team includes Larry Britegam and Trey Mowery of ASB, in addition to myself, Julie Huber, Patrick Harbert, Patrick Salmans, Dale Gottschalk, and John Hanley of Equity. We expect the pairing of community banking talent at our institutions to be a key resource for customers and colleagues.”The merger announcement occurs after Equity’s recent completion of an FDIC-facilitated acquisition of Almena State Bank in October 2020, adding two locations in Almena and Norton, Kansas. The merger agreement with ASB marks Equity’s 18th business combination since the company’s founding in 2002, the 10th since Equity’s initial public offering in November 2015, and is the company’s largest combination effort to date.

Equity Bancshares, American State Bancshares to merge

The Federal Trade Commission is sending more than $147,000 in full refunds to people affected by a student loan debt relief scam.

According to&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUcs9-2BYv-2FBvF5AG8cihP-2F7iTMkEDIG3xYV2QmxalVq9v0KDGcy6ZmKYFW3001-2BvEMjmfgLymEnOUW8TcpcncCEH5L7JmE6UHimbSufytOI8ImPycMwrxWIgZCZ7izFCE66PicL1f0kr-2BRarOKoGYxLLuSx5wFv-2Bzs6nR6ptDWXpIiyv0SXVICOicVUpL8jiWTnQ-3D-3D6M0f_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCXsqiFtNHOu1pBeUiMToo48aOD5GRv21BLqBDA1KZJLp8d6surGkKgAk554AQEh7Llm3gW2SUXPooszhQY4e5mKpDbKRRx8L4F19CWY8odkCHe-2BjxFYUw4GEWka5H5njQlVRWTqpNYaeUgP1Fpgxhec-3D">an amended FTC complaint filed in 2019</a>, corporate defendants Impetus Enterprise, Inc., Fig Tree &amp; Co., LLC, Capital Sun Investments, and individual defendants Tuan Duong, Brenda Avitia-Pena, Brian Colombana, and Jimmy Calderon,&nbsp;tricked student loan borrowers into paying illegal upfront fees by falsely promising to reduce or eliminate their student loan debt. The defendants also did business as&nbsp;Aiding Student Relief, Aidnest, and Studora, among others.

In 2019, four defendants settled FTC’s charges.&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUdbOg1oyC3s1BFESJfv1yTTLTfeDJ-2BarGF0Qh0X8jdkfFVYdRj4hrIl-2FxDc-2FuwyyArdXb9hykyVgG6Jh2tKvQ6b0KknqcoWqzJU7-2BNMLDN9oJcJU-2BBBWocuAr8G5RGztrBNgFe4v-2F4lf0wynQv-2Fv6qNheziJe7dUQlb1OeShWgVvNZi-2FGyBzSZeJN9-2FMHrrOSgAK5nXfEpTjGjegipcYgwSBJ0er-2FrW7L9jvMSlyU7V0vWJX_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCU4kwjAfPE5du-2FNQq9cBcRBgfaz22X2jxd5SwdA9N7leiMcsjzHVygGw-2F-2FscarviSh2aQtjKIGdfYTsyPomhMzYAafcD1FAqPGajShathe96VZ5zOfIwQr-2FpYFMJUwQo9na8HRTYa3tpkArqD6S377c-3D">Duong was banned from telemarketing</a>&nbsp;and defendants Avitia-Pena, Calderon, and Capital Sun Investments were banned&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUdbOg1oyC3s1BFESJfv1yTTLTfeDJ-2BarGF0Qh0X8jdkfbg7hoEfkZnYZYQl8dk7K-2B5zLdU18HAp0bVsIyrf-2BO-2FDO5IRCIfMGGRWmqxAYFmHeCW8bwuY2Xtj6vGrZML0fZ7mnMUcg9D8E8TjBqso3ZJ6nTcDq1dog4UXSAMXUAFHuDqydCAMSI4EW5lzNls44tii5daYftDHuluqsUDlOA6C20v45pJvBBCaACAjzKgug2HtY_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCc9N0qhiJ9FrAcvuBbxHJfWyUc6O8eGX1bIF-2BEEUUmkZvgoEY5YgZ21wg3zHLu3mCVs4ZMI-2FlAaxbaf7M9eglThYYV82j2-2B0UsVOUismEtwXjTfDwYyvJyqtc-2BOLi-2BVxsybFW1DMQYZRJjYd2JDx-2FkU-3D">from selling debt relief services</a>. In 2020, the court issued a default judgment against&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUdbOg1oyC3s1BFESJfv1yTTLTfeDJ-2BarGF0Qh0X8jdkfWyXrp5f-2Bf3v0hN3xtDZ6H5ogouQCEQUoix1Cwp73faehuH1qNrwpsjGR-2FhtVak5SO-2F2KWEYZm1-2FCr1LtmH9VH3ANuUKfFKYiHTKAhJijKLG02A2cloMZtnZnWyA33Kn6htQpO9zIEytgsNKXn5E5hBOtoeqYoPXYYvTaAxd0hRpqxYMzBqb8o5SkDwZ4LKu6yzox_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCTzPMlGqCOCTmiAvD04y7Yw3BF2Y-2BJZk3h5FalAglqOeqzvzEmAAOASILBScH0lHm-2Fy4ZqfRav7G9fekfxgPKygcLT9tkbHvRVj1UvpWKnKDwh07fd14xjFUIYTOeZbb5-2FJQ5dR5kF-2BI96ohyH9HypI-3D">the remaining defendants</a>, including Colombana, banning them from selling debt relief services or telemarketing.

The FTC is mailing full refunds, averaging $607 each, to victims of the scheme who previously filed a complaint with law enforcement. Consumers who receive checks should deposit or cash their checks within 90 days, as indicated on the check. The FTC never requires people to pay money or provide account information to cash a refund check.

Consumers who did not receive a check and think they should have been included in the distribution can call the refund administrator, Rust Consulting, Inc.&nbsp;at 1-877-310-4642.

The FTC’s&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUcUmZLSH0xJ2WtBwbqiniakaGlt4YIn0B6CxtRLKddhzP4GoZfisp1lGzNgGgqlRzUKVAUPo1JMfLbMbn0bum7HR6DOrW1Cj2vrRwssZ2yKjbPIuHkdOvAzJEMaB387V4-2F9soT5hNgwCapGmy-2F6yUDxKs7d7yteO9v6bqS4Ax4ajn6lksOZ97e-2BESJRRdkpbiMOq8-2B5sJUHPJXzCrmR3WzI-3DvXnY_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCW2j1siw-2FbNxusXuctYUYblsqE01GjIfIWlJqE0o7-2FA6-2BWYg95JPxJyq6CCUJlZAJ1ci2tdafN4056TKyaAV46D6oLeUvntnYmYmTpDYO8g2fhP3SClwTBoJC44F6e-2Bbc1ZTwyoDJwqZxAj-2BhmNA1GE-3D">interactive dashboards for refund data</a>&nbsp;provide a state-by-state breakdown of FTC refunds. In 2020, FTC actions led to more than $483 million in refunds to consumers across the country, but recently the United States Supreme Court ruled the FTC lacks authority under Section 13(b) to seek monetary relief in federal court going forward. The&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUdbOg1oyC3s1BFESJfv1yTTLTfeDJ-2BarGF0Qh0X8jdkfou3TKI2NRl8O42Q5MtIKgVYMxg3fK8ZFLjfhDNVbowaj6mVlOTHabiRF8mRXucgpveSXEc9bytK9jXsyddKu5lU2ZssPNwFOjeVdsDy7PPP5KI3IiTxWtJWmS-2FpK7pyB25D12Oj6QQuTmMApvCpvA4OpGKCx9BFE-2FnEtQWtqXvxo9SfzVsoVtPZPADWGxBgp29Js_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCYtucVaB6jQS-2BuNw5WTN9Ym-2FTrIxa6-2BaFVzA-2BQ-2BOLF44vJg3CfNoR6OdZ1vkBRnDM0USMZoXJ2-2B6xW4Gw-2FcOQfcEMfoE3MrXoRaX930OzGfHPdRrwLolJU8QejWjq0uD8AbnQZOuPzxaR4ng6Mp8RT8-3D">Commission has urged Congress</a>&nbsp;to restore the FTC’s ability to get money back for consumers.

The Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and to&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUfYotPP72MaC0HTuHPy7LHmaFRvq-2FV0-2Fyav7uDNsu0VJjdtrkGwu-2B8xkOOC6eFBfjLGVS6gwVzDH-2FsPQvdTYLu1JcMGx-2FTinlDN65gM4LwYPAzQDQx7M8ScNExZ9en9kD-2FjzJR4NB-2FnzzTQ2dSo3arfiQ-2BUAr-2FCkYVocs21GSuuicMev_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCR5wJbwv6NcGsnk10ixROGGnGq8RCaEO40Lb0qqQXJdB78xa63t2bDH0SE7DEnvI4-2BWnvCVcxL98Qt9mS5tommbh3NopznIJTimXf4O7kkhUlMHK-2FDwllqRFbuNnM4Y-2Bh8VAc9qQQzOYxuLz5wRwQmU-3D">protect and educate consumers</a>. You can&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUWPsgRUXOCkrjRa6-2Fnr6GSArZRe-2B8Z10HQRZro9mIiGH-2Fu2jetV0UBD0lKa7wULeB0HApKVO5Udt4NilGJwDvqorRMKHTgEsoK9-2Bz-2F-2BXxpwlSNfQ_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCTe-2FtD9DHNEEyzd0YlK829fbpX3Q0CuhXydINAuCM0NlLfAcI5wUVGMKqeg4uFCnkhzKk6tuOr-2FmupaFSimMcbqZ91t8FUXd3tuf3PBf4ZkrR2J662kN6uxl4ZuV9GDzKniNQlG3yMZeyjxhWJSvRNA-3D">learn more about consumer topics</a>&nbsp;and report scams, fraud, and bad business practices online at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUZnJP9TuyU-2B6kDVP73c3ho9B-2FHu6XJvEHh0HtdzWm7-2FfiwVR-2F4CpO4uU-2FAbd58MyivYRDQDyJbhwUP-2FWIPm3OlAyXgvp-2BAaBSn82Df6-2FsbeN0PBx_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCcnruPaEKI3A5D966WNu-2BS17iWmYWptsm1NBHloNEVw5F5m7scgvbySg8wo7RUXYwUycWVi908SQkoXrUh9geEwzI9KAzU9US2xM5OEpVyZEUJdadwAtR7kGbqwJ-2FSOkjm-2F9604IPqh3O2GGcNeumtU-3D">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>. Like the FTC on&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUb8Hzhz9hTfMErRs-2Fni8h9hiOJrviSzKQNqI9GVS7mOnhruOz7SmPp1YkH-2BGtLIlc9Uccz4heDC7f-2F9sOmDMP2hhT-2BwUYanWc5NJQqZLd9uzmk2zL9S-2BTWUk-2BsPgV61NIdPG3PjWwD1P8hpTf-2FBAxhI-3D9xdz_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCaGTU4TBxqLAQqPFyk5BkhZ3247gkp3IBpXgLT1CP5Ibv-2B-2FNcMfkkHs9pjYKeTULr5AnWZ6W0a25cvEG3rPkwFqhSVQacvbt3jm9Lwd7usVhuytcrxnGNVeuimneQ-2BpEfcGbKHemqHUBFj0eIOC4JMI-3D">Facebook</a>, follow us on&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUW2zAQdg5A0-2Fd-2Fg8dRiftJHdWbD8lNTSZT1OrDnz5NYzQ0CAxTpYEvEPpG22zkZMz5l0Uo0mlea02QmQfBArQxRPQgJAgTRsxolrhUKfHbo-2BT_KI_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCQsd5NqpFKSERXzZAg-2F4BFd-2FCF0aGTBrkn2XmDv6R-2F7JLww54tj4A5hYwm7Z-2BvNncKT1msL7JUGOKN0ioSBV00tc8nGsplGwa4gbxs58wl5pOo-2F7W4UAVttVR8RUXvOw3ebkbcisBVBvclUrkl0Lcdw-3D">Twitter</a>, get&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=IXpWEgevNLSukxaiYCwbUOFsi-2BoXXcQAy-2BHrI9F8mTqDnbjqjC-2Bw0goPe-2BVguWtKAX-2FWn39qaZxiMXpjWyU1oCwkRMpEb9HspF9CqVxK4lKERPLmwKQcyPoHirczyd7N2__d_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCXLeJQ6prQCcBMTuLdmZIWj6L4QPgP-2BciV81k7TsmYNazdud4-2BTNRa98Otw0VR9ZUK3H8j0cilm6lSTmr8d7IXl3p2XfkD0sn28Mly1cvSOPKWAj3tYYRSngkKyKqW-2BLvp4kvRtMQYUHJBezxlw-2Bszs-3D">consumer alerts</a>, read our&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUdbOg1oyC3s1BFESJfv1yTTdRwelMViE-2FglYd11zkFnGloKlqxGQhunxnxP9TPLw3RfokGwtYUAjbjBc1VZqlVs10RZvMu0twGZ5jPre3UJl7-2Fu-2BFdgRIsqDOFUvNpcMCw-3D-3DfJym_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCXPlTp61gSV4-2FPVaNirh6nlB9TKrUHMv9XzK3RujCw4Ea7PsswMvGbHm5OmvxCGqcXQFpd3pPphZ0N7Bif3oxiP-2FNRBJi4fPAIbtMVmIO3OXj054khH1oHLo1CkfJSBH-2BiAAASTaG4GoTC2qfLbdXTA-3D">blogs</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUSV6prqcooIaql9rBEYv0Ex2rFv9fRkujuj0QhmzNWwfJhnANIwtW0pIrPOzMLr6nXGDVfNt5j8CKvRpBctfaX1T0zCnDrC2DZFRyneSee5t1w3mcAF9yuPh3SeGjAxIfA-3D-3D9cQU_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCXNWk-2Ffjbo-2BQw0UtZiSIdSfIeV4cEqmYlItppQM3y-2ByWkC0DUMhjKFSEGyTyTFbL3qH6q1y22TJAoVIvxyS5zgSLembfiGR754QnKjML6eoZkOAHOseW-2FxkpebVNmB0Me8iw8lZNnL7cnXOOxSmqVfs-3D">subscribe to press releases</a>&nbsp;for the latest FTC news and resources.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619632629588.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FTCThe Federal Trade Commission is sending more than $147,000 in full refunds to people affected by a student loan debt relief scam.According to&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUcs9-2BYv-2FBvF5AG8cihP-2F7iTMkEDIG3xYV2QmxalVq9v0KDGcy6ZmKYFW3001-2BvEMjmfgLymEnOUW8TcpcncCEH5L7JmE6UHimbSufytOI8ImPycMwrxWIgZCZ7izFCE66PicL1f0kr-2BRarOKoGYxLLuSx5wFv-2Bzs6nR6ptDWXpIiyv0SXVICOicVUpL8jiWTnQ-3D-3D6M0f_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCXsqiFtNHOu1pBeUiMToo48aOD5GRv21BLqBDA1KZJLp8d6surGkKgAk554AQEh7Llm3gW2SUXPooszhQY4e5mKpDbKRRx8L4F19CWY8odkCHe-2BjxFYUw4GEWka5H5njQlVRWTqpNYaeUgP1Fpgxhec-3D">an amended FTC complaint filed in 2019</a>, corporate defendants Impetus Enterprise, Inc., Fig Tree &amp; Co., LLC, Capital Sun Investments, and individual defendants Tuan Duong, Brenda Avitia-Pena, Brian Colombana, and Jimmy Calderon,&nbsp;tricked student loan borrowers into paying illegal upfront fees by falsely promising to reduce or eliminate their student loan debt. The defendants also did business as&nbsp;Aiding Student Relief, Aidnest, and Studora, among others.In 2019, four defendants settled FTC’s charges.&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUdbOg1oyC3s1BFESJfv1yTTLTfeDJ-2BarGF0Qh0X8jdkfFVYdRj4hrIl-2FxDc-2FuwyyArdXb9hykyVgG6Jh2tKvQ6b0KknqcoWqzJU7-2BNMLDN9oJcJU-2BBBWocuAr8G5RGztrBNgFe4v-2F4lf0wynQv-2Fv6qNheziJe7dUQlb1OeShWgVvNZi-2FGyBzSZeJN9-2FMHrrOSgAK5nXfEpTjGjegipcYgwSBJ0er-2FrW7L9jvMSlyU7V0vWJX_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCU4kwjAfPE5du-2FNQq9cBcRBgfaz22X2jxd5SwdA9N7leiMcsjzHVygGw-2F-2FscarviSh2aQtjKIGdfYTsyPomhMzYAafcD1FAqPGajShathe96VZ5zOfIwQr-2FpYFMJUwQo9na8HRTYa3tpkArqD6S377c-3D">Duong was banned from telemarketing</a>&nbsp;and defendants Avitia-Pena, Calderon, and Capital Sun Investments were banned&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUdbOg1oyC3s1BFESJfv1yTTLTfeDJ-2BarGF0Qh0X8jdkfbg7hoEfkZnYZYQl8dk7K-2B5zLdU18HAp0bVsIyrf-2BO-2FDO5IRCIfMGGRWmqxAYFmHeCW8bwuY2Xtj6vGrZML0fZ7mnMUcg9D8E8TjBqso3ZJ6nTcDq1dog4UXSAMXUAFHuDqydCAMSI4EW5lzNls44tii5daYftDHuluqsUDlOA6C20v45pJvBBCaACAjzKgug2HtY_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCc9N0qhiJ9FrAcvuBbxHJfWyUc6O8eGX1bIF-2BEEUUmkZvgoEY5YgZ21wg3zHLu3mCVs4ZMI-2FlAaxbaf7M9eglThYYV82j2-2B0UsVOUismEtwXjTfDwYyvJyqtc-2BOLi-2BVxsybFW1DMQYZRJjYd2JDx-2FkU-3D">from selling debt relief services</a>. In 2020, the court issued a default judgment against&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUdbOg1oyC3s1BFESJfv1yTTLTfeDJ-2BarGF0Qh0X8jdkfWyXrp5f-2Bf3v0hN3xtDZ6H5ogouQCEQUoix1Cwp73faehuH1qNrwpsjGR-2FhtVak5SO-2F2KWEYZm1-2FCr1LtmH9VH3ANuUKfFKYiHTKAhJijKLG02A2cloMZtnZnWyA33Kn6htQpO9zIEytgsNKXn5E5hBOtoeqYoPXYYvTaAxd0hRpqxYMzBqb8o5SkDwZ4LKu6yzox_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCTzPMlGqCOCTmiAvD04y7Yw3BF2Y-2BJZk3h5FalAglqOeqzvzEmAAOASILBScH0lHm-2Fy4ZqfRav7G9fekfxgPKygcLT9tkbHvRVj1UvpWKnKDwh07fd14xjFUIYTOeZbb5-2FJQ5dR5kF-2BI96ohyH9HypI-3D">the remaining defendants</a>, including Colombana, banning them from selling debt relief services or telemarketing.The FTC is mailing full refunds, averaging $607 each, to victims of the scheme who previously filed a complaint with law enforcement. Consumers who receive checks should deposit or cash their checks within 90 days, as indicated on the check. The FTC never requires people to pay money or provide account information to cash a refund check.Consumers who did not receive a check and think they should have been included in the distribution can call the refund administrator, Rust Consulting, Inc.&nbsp;at 1-877-310-4642.The FTC’s&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUcUmZLSH0xJ2WtBwbqiniakaGlt4YIn0B6CxtRLKddhzP4GoZfisp1lGzNgGgqlRzUKVAUPo1JMfLbMbn0bum7HR6DOrW1Cj2vrRwssZ2yKjbPIuHkdOvAzJEMaB387V4-2F9soT5hNgwCapGmy-2F6yUDxKs7d7yteO9v6bqS4Ax4ajn6lksOZ97e-2BESJRRdkpbiMOq8-2B5sJUHPJXzCrmR3WzI-3DvXnY_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCW2j1siw-2FbNxusXuctYUYblsqE01GjIfIWlJqE0o7-2FA6-2BWYg95JPxJyq6CCUJlZAJ1ci2tdafN4056TKyaAV46D6oLeUvntnYmYmTpDYO8g2fhP3SClwTBoJC44F6e-2Bbc1ZTwyoDJwqZxAj-2BhmNA1GE-3D">interactive dashboards for refund data</a>&nbsp;provide a state-by-state breakdown of FTC refunds. In 2020, FTC actions led to more than $483 million in refunds to consumers across the country, but recently the United States Supreme Court ruled the FTC lacks authority under Section 13(b) to seek monetary relief in federal court going forward. The&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUdbOg1oyC3s1BFESJfv1yTTLTfeDJ-2BarGF0Qh0X8jdkfou3TKI2NRl8O42Q5MtIKgVYMxg3fK8ZFLjfhDNVbowaj6mVlOTHabiRF8mRXucgpveSXEc9bytK9jXsyddKu5lU2ZssPNwFOjeVdsDy7PPP5KI3IiTxWtJWmS-2FpK7pyB25D12Oj6QQuTmMApvCpvA4OpGKCx9BFE-2FnEtQWtqXvxo9SfzVsoVtPZPADWGxBgp29Js_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCYtucVaB6jQS-2BuNw5WTN9Ym-2FTrIxa6-2BaFVzA-2BQ-2BOLF44vJg3CfNoR6OdZ1vkBRnDM0USMZoXJ2-2B6xW4Gw-2FcOQfcEMfoE3MrXoRaX930OzGfHPdRrwLolJU8QejWjq0uD8AbnQZOuPzxaR4ng6Mp8RT8-3D">Commission has urged Congress</a>&nbsp;to restore the FTC’s ability to get money back for consumers.The Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and to&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUfYotPP72MaC0HTuHPy7LHmaFRvq-2FV0-2Fyav7uDNsu0VJjdtrkGwu-2B8xkOOC6eFBfjLGVS6gwVzDH-2FsPQvdTYLu1JcMGx-2FTinlDN65gM4LwYPAzQDQx7M8ScNExZ9en9kD-2FjzJR4NB-2FnzzTQ2dSo3arfiQ-2BUAr-2FCkYVocs21GSuuicMev_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCR5wJbwv6NcGsnk10ixROGGnGq8RCaEO40Lb0qqQXJdB78xa63t2bDH0SE7DEnvI4-2BWnvCVcxL98Qt9mS5tommbh3NopznIJTimXf4O7kkhUlMHK-2FDwllqRFbuNnM4Y-2Bh8VAc9qQQzOYxuLz5wRwQmU-3D">protect and educate consumers</a>. You can&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUWPsgRUXOCkrjRa6-2Fnr6GSArZRe-2B8Z10HQRZro9mIiGH-2Fu2jetV0UBD0lKa7wULeB0HApKVO5Udt4NilGJwDvqorRMKHTgEsoK9-2Bz-2F-2BXxpwlSNfQ_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCTe-2FtD9DHNEEyzd0YlK829fbpX3Q0CuhXydINAuCM0NlLfAcI5wUVGMKqeg4uFCnkhzKk6tuOr-2FmupaFSimMcbqZ91t8FUXd3tuf3PBf4ZkrR2J662kN6uxl4ZuV9GDzKniNQlG3yMZeyjxhWJSvRNA-3D">learn more about consumer topics</a>&nbsp;and report scams, fraud, and bad business practices online at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUZnJP9TuyU-2B6kDVP73c3ho9B-2FHu6XJvEHh0HtdzWm7-2FfiwVR-2F4CpO4uU-2FAbd58MyivYRDQDyJbhwUP-2FWIPm3OlAyXgvp-2BAaBSn82Df6-2FsbeN0PBx_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCcnruPaEKI3A5D966WNu-2BS17iWmYWptsm1NBHloNEVw5F5m7scgvbySg8wo7RUXYwUycWVi908SQkoXrUh9geEwzI9KAzU9US2xM5OEpVyZEUJdadwAtR7kGbqwJ-2FSOkjm-2F9604IPqh3O2GGcNeumtU-3D">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>. Like the FTC on&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUb8Hzhz9hTfMErRs-2Fni8h9hiOJrviSzKQNqI9GVS7mOnhruOz7SmPp1YkH-2BGtLIlc9Uccz4heDC7f-2F9sOmDMP2hhT-2BwUYanWc5NJQqZLd9uzmk2zL9S-2BTWUk-2BsPgV61NIdPG3PjWwD1P8hpTf-2FBAxhI-3D9xdz_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCaGTU4TBxqLAQqPFyk5BkhZ3247gkp3IBpXgLT1CP5Ibv-2B-2FNcMfkkHs9pjYKeTULr5AnWZ6W0a25cvEG3rPkwFqhSVQacvbt3jm9Lwd7usVhuytcrxnGNVeuimneQ-2BpEfcGbKHemqHUBFj0eIOC4JMI-3D">Facebook</a>, follow us on&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUW2zAQdg5A0-2Fd-2Fg8dRiftJHdWbD8lNTSZT1OrDnz5NYzQ0CAxTpYEvEPpG22zkZMz5l0Uo0mlea02QmQfBArQxRPQgJAgTRsxolrhUKfHbo-2BT_KI_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCQsd5NqpFKSERXzZAg-2F4BFd-2FCF0aGTBrkn2XmDv6R-2F7JLww54tj4A5hYwm7Z-2BvNncKT1msL7JUGOKN0ioSBV00tc8nGsplGwa4gbxs58wl5pOo-2F7W4UAVttVR8RUXvOw3ebkbcisBVBvclUrkl0Lcdw-3D">Twitter</a>, get&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=IXpWEgevNLSukxaiYCwbUOFsi-2BoXXcQAy-2BHrI9F8mTqDnbjqjC-2Bw0goPe-2BVguWtKAX-2FWn39qaZxiMXpjWyU1oCwkRMpEb9HspF9CqVxK4lKERPLmwKQcyPoHirczyd7N2__d_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCXLeJQ6prQCcBMTuLdmZIWj6L4QPgP-2BciV81k7TsmYNazdud4-2BTNRa98Otw0VR9ZUK3H8j0cilm6lSTmr8d7IXl3p2XfkD0sn28Mly1cvSOPKWAj3tYYRSngkKyKqW-2BLvp4kvRtMQYUHJBezxlw-2Bszs-3D">consumer alerts</a>, read our&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUdbOg1oyC3s1BFESJfv1yTTdRwelMViE-2FglYd11zkFnGloKlqxGQhunxnxP9TPLw3RfokGwtYUAjbjBc1VZqlVs10RZvMu0twGZ5jPre3UJl7-2Fu-2BFdgRIsqDOFUvNpcMCw-3D-3DfJym_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCXPlTp61gSV4-2FPVaNirh6nlB9TKrUHMv9XzK3RujCw4Ea7PsswMvGbHm5OmvxCGqcXQFpd3pPphZ0N7Bif3oxiP-2FNRBJi4fPAIbtMVmIO3OXj054khH1oHLo1CkfJSBH-2BiAAASTaG4GoTC2qfLbdXTA-3D">blogs</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUSV6prqcooIaql9rBEYv0Ex2rFv9fRkujuj0QhmzNWwfJhnANIwtW0pIrPOzMLr6nXGDVfNt5j8CKvRpBctfaX1T0zCnDrC2DZFRyneSee5t1w3mcAF9yuPh3SeGjAxIfA-3D-3D9cQU_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lGsZ6LVtPCJH4PgnOZrrTlucqQDHtcRpLi0WBwQJnF17kyiNbMbkJLUImClLNWXo7AgzQFYikVO-2Bs-2FUikpl4ZH3K-2FZsV5MDGYdg3LElMV6qcSrcfj-2FvMo0walqi1mlVosVKEkuDeeRtE46hjRvd9eP7XCcAqmuMWzvHJ-2F9Abo5tCXNWk-2Ffjbo-2BQw0UtZiSIdSfIeV4cEqmYlItppQM3y-2ByWkC0DUMhjKFSEGyTyTFbL3qH6q1y22TJAoVIvxyS5zgSLembfiGR754QnKjML6eoZkOAHOseW-2FxkpebVNmB0Me8iw8lZNnL7cnXOOxSmqVfs-3D">subscribe to press releases</a>&nbsp;for the latest FTC news and resources.

FTC sending $600 checks to victims of student loan scam

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A criminal complaint alleges lobbyist James Gardner had a blood-alcohol level more than three times the legal limit at the time of a February crash that injured his passenger. 

The complaint which was filed May 6 charges Gardner with aggravated battery committed while driving under the influence. It also charges the 48-year-old Gardner with a felony count of interference with a law enforcement officer and a misdemeanor count of transporting liquor in an open container. 

Gardner is a board member for Shawnee County’s Mission Township, where he serves as treasurer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621106024386.png" alt="Gardner after his February crash -photo Shawnee Co. Detention Center" />
 <figcaption>Gardner after his February crash -photo Shawnee Co. Detention Center</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A criminal complaint alleges lobbyist James Gardner had a blood-alcohol level more than three times the legal limit at the time of a February crash that injured his passenger. The complaint which was filed May 6 charges Gardner with aggravated battery committed while driving under the influence. It also charges the 48-year-old Gardner with a felony count of interference with a law enforcement officer and a misdemeanor count of transporting liquor in an open container. Gardner is a board member for Shawnee County’s Mission Township, where he serves as treasurer.

Kan. lobbyist charged with aggravated battery for DUI crash

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting and have made an arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621132793202.png" alt="Wilson photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Wilson photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting and have made an arrest.Just before 5:30 a.m. Saturday, police responded to an assist call at St. Joseph Hospital, 3600 E. Harry in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp; Upon arrival, officers contacted 34-year-old Joy Wilson and received information that her 40-year-old sister Shawna Webb was shot and needed help.&nbsp; Officers also saw a handgun inside Wilson’s vehicle.Officers located a crime scene at a home in the 2400 block of Green in Wichita and found Webb inside, shot, and unresponsive.&nbsp; She was pronounced deceased on the scene, according to Davidson.Police <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20070799">arrested Joy Wilson of Wichita </a>on requested charges of first-degree murder.Detectives are still working to learn the circumstances of what occurred.&nbsp; &nbsp;The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.