A plea deal was accepted and the person behind the wheel in
the drive-by shooting last August that took the life of a two-year-old St.
Joseph girl has been sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Circuit Judge Daniel Kellogg accepted the plea bargain reached
between 21-year-old Te’Avion Hawkins of Platte City and the
Buchanan County Prosecutor’s office. Kellogg sentenced Hawkins to 10 years in
prison during his hearing in a Buchanan County courtroom this afternoon.

Hawkins was the driver of the vehicle last August that pulled
up along side the car in which Raelynn Craig was a passenger. Two passengers in
Hawkins’ car, 21-year-old Marcain Kimbrough-Ballard of St. Joseph and 21-year-old Caimon
Ramone Stillman of St. Joseph, opened fire.&nbsp; They fired
14 shots into the car, wounding two adults and killing Raelynn.

The prosecutor’s office says Hawkins provided the identities
of the two shooters after police tracked down his car and arrested him.

Kimbrough-Ballard was sentenced to 26 years in prison.
Stillman received a 24-year sentence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620850690884.jpeg" alt="Te'Avion Hawkins and his attorney listen as Buchanan County Circuit Judge Daniel Kellogg pronounces sentence./Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Te'Avion Hawkins and his attorney listen as Buchanan County Circuit Judge Daniel Kellogg pronounces sentence./Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA plea deal was accepted and the person behind the wheel in
the drive-by shooting last August that took the life of a two-year-old St.
Joseph girl has been sentenced to 10 years in prison.Circuit Judge Daniel Kellogg accepted the plea bargain reached
between 21-year-old Te’Avion Hawkins of Platte City and the
Buchanan County Prosecutor’s office. Kellogg sentenced Hawkins to 10 years in
prison during his hearing in a Buchanan County courtroom this afternoon.Hawkins was the driver of the vehicle last August that pulled
up along side the car in which Raelynn Craig was a passenger. Two passengers in
Hawkins’ car, 21-year-old Marcain Kimbrough-Ballard of St. Joseph and 21-year-old Caimon
Ramone Stillman of St. Joseph, opened fire.&nbsp; They fired
14 shots into the car, wounding two adults and killing Raelynn.The prosecutor’s office says Hawkins provided the identities
of the two shooters after police tracked down his car and arrested him.Kimbrough-Ballard was sentenced to 26 years in prison.
Stillman received a 24-year sentence.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620850785947.jpeg" alt="Te'Avion Hawkins awaits his sentencing in a Buchanan County courtroom./Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Te'Avion Hawkins awaits his sentencing in a Buchanan County courtroom./Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>

Man sentenced in deadly drive-by shooting of 2-year-old 

WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced 
that it has distributed $742 million to 42 states and 3 territories 
through the Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF). A part of the Biden-Harris 
Administration’s American Rescue Plan, HAF was designed to prevent 
mortgage delinquencies and defaults, foreclosures, loss of utilities or 
home energy services, and displacement of homeowners experiencing 
financial hardship due to the COVID-19 public health crisis.

“Today there are over 3 million homeowners behind on mortgage 
payments, and the pandemic has exacerbated the country’s already severe 
housing affordability crisis,” said Deputy Secretary of the Treasury 
Wally Adeyemo. “Treasury is focused on ensuring the American economy 
recovers from the devastation of the COVID-19 crisis, including 
providing relief for our country’s most vulnerable homeowners facing the
 loss of basic housing security through no fault of their own.”

The HAF infusion comes on the heels of last week’s announcement 
that the Department of the Treasury, in coordination with the Department
 of Housing and Urban Development, and the White House American Rescue 
Plan Implementation Team allocated $21.6 billion for Emergency Rental 
Assistance (ERA), which will help prevent evictions and ensure basic 
housing security for millions of Americans. These programs represent the
 Administration’s all-of-government approach that leverages authorities 
and agencies across the entire Administration to help people remain 
stably housed during the pandemic, an important step towards building 
stronger and more equitable communities.

Treasury will continue to distribute HAF funds in the coming months. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/coronavirus/assistance-for-state-local-and-tribal-governments/homeowner-assistance-fund">https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/coronavirus/assistance-for-state-local-and-tribal-governments/homeowner-assistance-fund</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620925808910.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>U.S. Department of the TreasuryWASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced 
that it has distributed $742 million to 42 states and 3 territories 
through the Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF). A part of the Biden-Harris 
Administration’s American Rescue Plan, HAF was designed to prevent 
mortgage delinquencies and defaults, foreclosures, loss of utilities or 
home energy services, and displacement of homeowners experiencing 
financial hardship due to the COVID-19 public health crisis.“Today there are over 3 million homeowners behind on mortgage 
payments, and the pandemic has exacerbated the country’s already severe 
housing affordability crisis,” said Deputy Secretary of the Treasury 
Wally Adeyemo. “Treasury is focused on ensuring the American economy 
recovers from the devastation of the COVID-19 crisis, including 
providing relief for our country’s most vulnerable homeowners facing the
 loss of basic housing security through no fault of their own.”The Homeowner Assistance Fund provides:<ul>
 <li>A minimum of $50 million for each state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico</li><li>$498 million for Tribes or Tribally designated housing entities and the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands</li><li>$30 million for the territories of Guam, American Samoa, the U.S. 
Virgin Islands, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands</li>
 </ul>The HAF infusion comes on the heels of last week’s announcement 
that the Department of the Treasury, in coordination with the Department
 of Housing and Urban Development, and the White House American Rescue 
Plan Implementation Team allocated $21.6 billion for Emergency Rental 
Assistance (ERA), which will help prevent evictions and ensure basic 
housing security for millions of Americans. These programs represent the
 Administration’s all-of-government approach that leverages authorities 
and agencies across the entire Administration to help people remain 
stably housed during the pandemic, an important step towards building 
stronger and more equitable communities.Treasury will continue to distribute HAF funds in the coming months. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/coronavirus/assistance-for-state-local-and-tribal-governments/homeowner-assistance-fund">https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/coronavirus/assistance-for-state-local-and-tribal-governments/homeowner-assistance-fund</a>.

Treasury distributes $742M to states through Homeowner Assistance Fund

HUTCHINSON — It has been a staple in Kansas now for 100 years. The anniversary is May 13. Dillons Food Stores will mark its centennial year with service to Kansas communities.&nbsp;

“The 100th anniversary of Dillons is a monumental milestone,” Steve Dreher, president of Dillon Food Stores, said. “In reflecting back, I can’t count the number of times I’ve heard our customers refer to one of our locations as ‘my Dillons’ and it always brings an overwhelming sense of pride. At Dillons, we’ve been a guest at our customers’ tables all these years and it has been a privilege to be a part of cherished celebrations, holiday gatherings, and everyday family meals with more time at home. We share our appreciation for our customers’ loyalty in allowing Dillons to be a part of our communities with a rich history in Kansas.”

After his initial venture in selling groceries at his general store in Sterling, Kansas, in the early 1900s, John S. Dillon was considered a visionary when he opened the area’s first Cash Food Market in Hutchinson in 1913. Although the store was slow to catch on, the savings offered for paying cash soon attracted enough customers to make it a viable business. By 1915, Dillon opened a second store, placing his son, Ray E. Dillon, in charge of the original store until joining the Army in 1918. J.S. Dillon &amp; Sons Store Co. was opened in 1919 and later incorporated on May 13 1921, a date now celebrated 100 years later. By the end of the 1920s, the company had grown to 15 stores in 10 Kansas communities.&nbsp;

The business steadily grew over several decades until 1957 when Ray Dillon expanded the company with additional stores in the Wichita market. By 1968, Dillon Companies, Inc., began acquiring regional banners across the western and central states, such as King Soopers, City Market, Fry's, and Gerbes, more than 300 convenience stores in five states, and Jackson's Ice Cream dairy. Dillon Companies, Inc., merged with The Kroger Co. in 1983.

Today, more than 12,000 associates are employed at 80 stores, two distribution centers, and one corporate office in the Dillon Stores Division spread across Kansas, Nebraska, and Missouri. Dillons offers a store format for nearly every kind of shopper with small hometown markets, supermarkets, Marketplace stores, price-impact stores, fuel centers and even online shopping with pickup, delivery, and ship-to-home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620849948868.jpeg" alt="Photos courtesy Dillons" />
 <figcaption>Photos courtesy Dillons</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Dillons Food StoresHUTCHINSON — It has been a staple in Kansas now for 100 years. The anniversary is May 13. Dillons Food Stores will mark its centennial year with service to Kansas communities.&nbsp;“The 100th anniversary of Dillons is a monumental milestone,” Steve Dreher, president of Dillon Food Stores, said. “In reflecting back, I can’t count the number of times I’ve heard our customers refer to one of our locations as ‘my Dillons’ and it always brings an overwhelming sense of pride. At Dillons, we’ve been a guest at our customers’ tables all these years and it has been a privilege to be a part of cherished celebrations, holiday gatherings, and everyday family meals with more time at home. We share our appreciation for our customers’ loyalty in allowing Dillons to be a part of our communities with a rich history in Kansas.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620849514869.jpeg" alt="Dillons in Newton (1921): J.S. Dillon expanded his business to Newton in May of 1921. Store #6 was located at 200 N. Main until it was relocated to 320 N. Main in 1953." />
 <figcaption>Dillons in Newton (1921): J.S. Dillon expanded his business to Newton in May of 1921. Store #6 was located at 200 N. Main until it was relocated to 320 N. Main in 1953.</figcaption>
 </figure>After his initial venture in selling groceries at his general store in Sterling, Kansas, in the early 1900s, John S. Dillon was considered a visionary when he opened the area’s first Cash Food Market in Hutchinson in 1913. Although the store was slow to catch on, the savings offered for paying cash soon attracted enough customers to make it a viable business. By 1915, Dillon opened a second store, placing his son, Ray E. Dillon, in charge of the original store until joining the Army in 1918. J.S. Dillon &amp; Sons Store Co. was opened in 1919 and later incorporated on May 13 1921, a date now celebrated 100 years later. By the end of the 1920s, the company had grown to 15 stores in 10 Kansas communities.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620849641973.jpeg" alt="1940's Trucks: J.S. Dillon &amp; Sons began using refrigerated trucks in the 1940s, some of the first in the country. The fleet of over 24 trucks, 11 semi-trailer units and 13 straight trucks serviced all the J.S. Dillon &amp; Sons stores." />
 <figcaption>1940's Trucks: J.S. Dillon &amp; Sons began using refrigerated trucks in the 1940s, some of the first in the country. The fleet of over 24 trucks, 11 semi-trailer units and 13 straight trucks serviced all the J.S. Dillon &amp; Sons stores.</figcaption>
 </figure>The business steadily grew over several decades until 1957 when Ray Dillon expanded the company with additional stores in the Wichita market. By 1968, Dillon Companies, Inc., began acquiring regional banners across the western and central states, such as King Soopers, City Market, Fry's, and Gerbes, more than 300 convenience stores in five states, and Jackson's Ice Cream dairy. Dillon Companies, Inc., merged with The Kroger Co. in 1983.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620849795964.jpeg" alt="Produce Flown In: J.S. Dillon &amp; Sons first air cargo of fresh fruits and berries landed at the Hutchinson, Kansas, airport on May 24, 1946. More than 225 planes lined the runways for the Kansas Flying Farmers Convention." />
 <figcaption>Produce Flown In: J.S. Dillon &amp; Sons first air cargo of fresh fruits and berries landed at the Hutchinson, Kansas, airport on May 24, 1946. More than 225 planes lined the runways for the Kansas Flying Farmers Convention.</figcaption>
 </figure>Today, more than 12,000 associates are employed at 80 stores, two distribution centers, and one corporate office in the Dillon Stores Division spread across Kansas, Nebraska, and Missouri. Dillons offers a store format for nearly every kind of shopper with small hometown markets, supermarkets, Marketplace stores, price-impact stores, fuel centers and even online shopping with pickup, delivery, and ship-to-home.

Dillons celebrates centennial year serving Kansas

By HEATHER HOLLINGSWORTH and STEPHEN GROVES

WASHINGTON (AP)—COVID-19 deaths in the United States have tumbled to an average of around 600 per day — the lowest level in 10 months — with the number of lives lost dropping to single digits in well over half the states and, on some days, hitting zero.

Confirmed infections have fallen to about 38,000 per day on average, their lowest mark since mid-September. While that is still cause for concern, reported cases have plummeted 85% from a daily peak of more than a quarter-million in early January.

The last time U.S. deaths from the pandemic were this low was in early July of last year. The number of people with COVID-19 who died topped out in mid-January at an average of more than 3,400 a day, just a month into the biggest vaccination drive in the nation’s history.

The Boston Herald put a huge zero on its front page Wednesday under the headline “First time in nearly a year state has no new coronavirus deaths.” Indiana reported one COVID-19 fatality Tuesday. Kansas, which peaked at 63 reported deaths on Dec. 22, has been in the single digits since February and seen multiple days with just one virus-related death.

Dr. Amesh Adalja, an infectious disease specialist at Johns Hopkins University, said that vaccinations have played a crucial role even as the nation struggles to reach herd immunity.

“The primary objective is to deny this virus the ability to kill at the rate that it could, and that has been achieved,” he said. “We have in effect tamed the virus.”

About 45% of the nation’s adults are fully vaccinated, and nearly 59% have received at least one dose, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This week, Pfizer’s vaccine won authorization for use in 12- to 15-year-olds, a move that could make it easier to reopen the nation’s schools.

Physicians like Dr. Tom Dean in South Dakota’s rural Jerauld County are cautiously optimistic, concerned about the many people who have decided against getting vaccinated or have grown lax in guarding against infections. The county has recorded just three confirmed cases in the last two weeks, according to Johns Hopkins data.

“What I’m afraid of is people believing this whole thing is over and you don’t have to worry about it any more,” Dean said. “I think complacency is our biggest threat right now.”

Several states, including Wyoming, Vermont, Alaska and Hawaii, were averaging fewer than one COVID-19 death per day over the past week, according to data through Tuesday from Johns Hopkins.

And even among the five states with the highest daily deaths — Michigan with an average of 65.4, Florida with 61.7, California with 48, Texas with 44 and New York with 39.3 — all but Florida’s number were going down.

California, the epicenter of the U.S. outbreak over the winter, logged 1,231 new confirmed cases Wednesday, down from a peak of 40,000. Los Angeles County reported 18 deaths Tuesday, versus more than 200 a day in January.

Vermont, which at nearly 63% leads the country in the share of its population that has received at least one vaccine dose, has gone nearly a week without reporting a COVID-19 death.

The improvement hasn’t been as dramatic everywhere. Michigan, which for weeks has reported the nation’s worst infection rate, is only now starting to see a decline in mortality. But over the past two weeks, cases in the state plunged from a daily average of almost 4,860 to about 2,680 on Monday.

“Every day we’re getting closer to putting this pandemic behind us,” Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said.

In Kansas, the Amos Family Funeral Home &amp; Crematory saw several COVID-19 victims at the height of the outbreak. But for weeks now it has handled one, said Parker Amos, president of the Kansas City-area business.

“It is a huge relief,” he said. “Especially at the start of this, when we didn’t know exactly how bad this was or how bad this was going to get, it was scary being in this industry.”

The funeral home is now working through a backlog of memorial services that families put off when cases were surging.

“You want families to be able to have that closure,” Amos said, “and to hold on to that for a year is something that we feel for those families in a big way because that is something that is really hard.”

Dr. Mark Rosenberg, president of the American College of Emergency Physicians, was nearly placed on a ventilator when he contracted COVID-19 in December. Now he marvels at how things have changed, saying people are so joyful that it reminds him of the photos he has seen of soldiers returning from World War II.

“That is how it is starting to feel, that we made it through,” said Rosenberg, who practices emergency medicine at St. Joseph’s Health in Paterson, New Jersey. “People are touching each other again. They are hugging.”

The overall U.S. death toll in the pandemic stood at over 583,000 as of Wednesday. Teams of experts consulted by the CDC projected in a report last week that new deaths and cases will fall sharply by the end of July and continue dropping after that.

The encouraging outlook stands in sharp contrast to the catastrophe unfolding in places like India and Brazil.

“I think we are in a great place, but I think India is an important cautionary tale,” warned Justin Lessler, a professor of epidemiology at John Hopkins.

“If there is a right combination of vaccine hesitancy, potentially new variants and quickly rolling back control measures that comes together, we could potentially screw this up and have yet another wave that is completely unnecessary at this point,” Lessler said.

Ali Mokdad, a University of Washington professor of health metrics sciences, predicted that as vaccinations continued, both confirmed cases and deaths would decline into the summer, leading many to assume “COVID-19 is gone” even as outbreaks in places like India carry the potential to fuel new, more virulent variants.

“The race is to vaccinate as much as we can before we go into the winter,” Mokdad said, adding that the current percentage of the population vaccinated is not high enough to stop another wave of coronavirus infections.

By HEATHER HOLLINGSWORTH and STEPHEN GROVESWASHINGTON (AP)—COVID-19 deaths in the United States have tumbled to an average of around 600 per day — the lowest level in 10 months — with the number of lives lost dropping to single digits in well over half the states and, on some days, hitting zero.Confirmed infections have fallen to about 38,000 per day on average, their lowest mark since mid-September. While that is still cause for concern, reported cases have plummeted 85% from a daily peak of more than a quarter-million in early January.The last time U.S. deaths from the pandemic were this low was in early July of last year. The number of people with COVID-19 who died topped out in mid-January at an average of more than 3,400 a day, just a month into the biggest vaccination drive in the nation’s history.The Boston Herald put a huge zero on its front page Wednesday under the headline “First time in nearly a year state has no new coronavirus deaths.” Indiana reported one COVID-19 fatality Tuesday. Kansas, which peaked at 63 reported deaths on Dec. 22, has been in the single digits since February and seen multiple days with just one virus-related death.Dr. Amesh Adalja, an infectious disease specialist at Johns Hopkins University, said that vaccinations have played a crucial role even as the nation struggles to reach herd immunity.“The primary objective is to deny this virus the ability to kill at the rate that it could, and that has been achieved,” he said. “We have in effect tamed the virus.”About 45% of the nation’s adults are fully vaccinated, and nearly 59% have received at least one dose, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This week, Pfizer’s vaccine won authorization for use in 12- to 15-year-olds, a move that could make it easier to reopen the nation’s schools.Physicians like Dr. Tom Dean in South Dakota’s rural Jerauld County are cautiously optimistic, concerned about the many people who have decided against getting vaccinated or have grown lax in guarding against infections. The county has recorded just three confirmed cases in the last two weeks, according to Johns Hopkins data.“What I’m afraid of is people believing this whole thing is over and you don’t have to worry about it any more,” Dean said. “I think complacency is our biggest threat right now.”Several states, including Wyoming, Vermont, Alaska and Hawaii, were averaging fewer than one COVID-19 death per day over the past week, according to data through Tuesday from Johns Hopkins.And even among the five states with the highest daily deaths — Michigan with an average of 65.4, Florida with 61.7, California with 48, Texas with 44 and New York with 39.3 — all but Florida’s number were going down.California, the epicenter of the U.S. outbreak over the winter, logged 1,231 new confirmed cases Wednesday, down from a peak of 40,000. Los Angeles County reported 18 deaths Tuesday, versus more than 200 a day in January.Vermont, which at nearly 63% leads the country in the share of its population that has received at least one vaccine dose, has gone nearly a week without reporting a COVID-19 death.The improvement hasn’t been as dramatic everywhere. Michigan, which for weeks has reported the nation’s worst infection rate, is only now starting to see a decline in mortality. But over the past two weeks, cases in the state plunged from a daily average of almost 4,860 to about 2,680 on Monday.“Every day we’re getting closer to putting this pandemic behind us,” Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said.In Kansas, the Amos Family Funeral Home &amp; Crematory saw several COVID-19 victims at the height of the outbreak. But for weeks now it has handled one, said Parker Amos, president of the Kansas City-area business.“It is a huge relief,” he said. “Especially at the start of this, when we didn’t know exactly how bad this was or how bad this was going to get, it was scary being in this industry.”The funeral home is now working through a backlog of memorial services that families put off when cases were surging.“You want families to be able to have that closure,” Amos said, “and to hold on to that for a year is something that we feel for those families in a big way because that is something that is really hard.”Dr. Mark Rosenberg, president of the American College of Emergency Physicians, was nearly placed on a ventilator when he contracted COVID-19 in December. Now he marvels at how things have changed, saying people are so joyful that it reminds him of the photos he has seen of soldiers returning from World War II.“That is how it is starting to feel, that we made it through,” said Rosenberg, who practices emergency medicine at St. Joseph’s Health in Paterson, New Jersey. “People are touching each other again. They are hugging.”The overall U.S. death toll in the pandemic stood at over 583,000 as of Wednesday. Teams of experts consulted by the CDC projected in a report last week that new deaths and cases will fall sharply by the end of July and continue dropping after that.The encouraging outlook stands in sharp contrast to the catastrophe unfolding in places like India and Brazil.“I think we are in a great place, but I think India is an important cautionary tale,” warned Justin Lessler, a professor of epidemiology at John Hopkins.“If there is a right combination of vaccine hesitancy, potentially new variants and quickly rolling back control measures that comes together, we could potentially screw this up and have yet another wave that is completely unnecessary at this point,” Lessler said.Ali Mokdad, a University of Washington professor of health metrics sciences, predicted that as vaccinations continued, both confirmed cases and deaths would decline into the summer, leading many to assume “COVID-19 is gone” even as outbreaks in places like India carry the potential to fuel new, more virulent variants.“The race is to vaccinate as much as we can before we go into the winter,” Mokdad said, adding that the current percentage of the population vaccinated is not high enough to stop another wave of coronavirus infections.___

Taming the virus: US deaths hit lowest level in 10 months

LYON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged child sex crimes.

On Tuesday, police in Emporia were alerted to a suspect identified as 54-year-old Garold Markham for using social media to solicit a child, according to a media release.

Following an investigation, police arrested Markham on Wednesday afternoon at Peter Pan Park. He is being held on requested charges of aggravated indecent liberties of a child and electronic solicitation, according to police.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620855513676.png" alt="Markham has a previous conviction for driving while habitual violator, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>Markham has a previous conviction for driving while habitual violator, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>LYON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged child sex crimes.On Tuesday, police in Emporia were alerted to a suspect identified as 54-year-old Garold Markham for using social media to solicit a child, according to a media release.Following an investigation, police arrested Markham on Wednesday afternoon at Peter Pan Park. He is being held on requested charges of aggravated indecent liberties of a child and electronic solicitation, according to police.

Police arrest Kan. child sex crime suspect in city park

COWLEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on&nbsp;suspicion of battery and drug charges following a domestic disturbance.

Just before 3a.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to the 800 block of South A Street in Arkansas City for a report of a disturbance resulting in injuries, according to a media release from police.

Officers contacted the alleged victim, a 47-year-old Arkansas City woman who reported her husband struck her several times with his hands and also struck her in the head multiple times with a cordless drill.

As a result, the victim sustained significant injuries to her head and face.&nbsp; EMS transported her to South Central Kansas Medical Center for treatment of injuries.

The suspect, identified as Robert Ladd Embrey, 47, allegedly fled the scene prior to officers’ arrival. Police located him late Tuesday took into custody without incident.

A search of the scene during the investigation turned up marijuana and other drug-related items.

Embrey is being held in the Cowley County Jail in Winfield on a $50,000 bond on requested charges of aggravated battery, battery-domestic violence, criminal restraint, criminal threat, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620837431272.png" alt="Embrey photo Cowley Co." />
 <figcaption>Embrey photo Cowley Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>COWLEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on&nbsp;suspicion of battery and drug charges following a domestic disturbance.Just before 3a.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to the 800 block of South A Street in Arkansas City for a report of a disturbance resulting in injuries, according to a media release from police.Officers contacted the alleged victim, a 47-year-old Arkansas City woman who reported her husband struck her several times with his hands and also struck her in the head multiple times with a cordless drill.As a result, the victim sustained significant injuries to her head and face.&nbsp; EMS transported her to South Central Kansas Medical Center for treatment of injuries.The suspect, identified as Robert Ladd Embrey, 47, allegedly fled the scene prior to officers’ arrival. Police located him late Tuesday took into custody without incident.A search of the scene during the investigation turned up marijuana and other drug-related items.Embrey is being held in the Cowley County Jail in Winfield on a $50,000 bond on requested charges of aggravated battery, battery-domestic violence, criminal restraint, criminal threat, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana.

Police: Kansas man attacked wife with cordless drill 

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas man who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/23fdfc01894d7ae900a15871c5addb40">killed his estranged girlfriend and her two children&nbsp;</a>before setting their house on fire was sentenced Tuesday to life in prison without parole.

Ismael Caballero was sentenced to 14.5 years in prison in the Dec. 30, 2019 death of 32-year-old Yazmin Rodriguez-Santillan, of Kansas City, Kansas. He was given the life sentence for the deaths of 14-year-old Amerikha Rodriguez and 10-year-old Jeancarlo Rodriguez.

Caballero pleaded guilty to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2ed0b8fa65fd66b37a8927751d7266a1">capital murder</a>&nbsp;for the children’s deaths, second-degree murder for their mother’s killing and arson for burning their home.

Wyandotte County prosecutors said Caballero killed Rodriguez-Santillan first, then returned to the home to kill the children to prevent them from testifying against him. He then set the house on fire to destroy evidence.

The children’s father attended the hearing via Zoom from Mexico.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577714834878.png" alt="Authorities on the scene of the fatal Dec. 30 fire -photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Authorities on the scene of the fatal Dec. 30 fire -photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas man who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/23fdfc01894d7ae900a15871c5addb40">killed his estranged girlfriend and her two children&nbsp;</a>before setting their house on fire was sentenced Tuesday to life in prison without parole.Ismael Caballero was sentenced to 14.5 years in prison in the Dec. 30, 2019 death of 32-year-old Yazmin Rodriguez-Santillan, of Kansas City, Kansas. He was given the life sentence for the deaths of 14-year-old Amerikha Rodriguez and 10-year-old Jeancarlo Rodriguez.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1577926796004.png" alt="Caballero photo Wyandotte Co." />
 <figcaption>Caballero photo Wyandotte Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Caballero pleaded guilty to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2ed0b8fa65fd66b37a8927751d7266a1">capital murder</a>&nbsp;for the children’s deaths, second-degree murder for their mother’s killing and arson for burning their home.Wyandotte County prosecutors said Caballero killed Rodriguez-Santillan first, then returned to the home to kill the children to prevent them from testifying against him. He then set the house on fire to destroy evidence.The children’s father attended the hearing via Zoom from Mexico.

Kan. man sentenced for murder of ex-girlfriend, 2 children

PAWNEE COUNTY —A Kansas man accused in a December shooting&nbsp;appeared via Zoom before Pawnee County District Judge Gatterman Wednesday morning for arraignment, according to County Attorney Doug McNett.

Thomas R. Jones, III, aka Tre Jones, 22 of Larned, plead guilty to two counts of intentional aggravated battery with a firearm resulting in great bodily harm.

On Dec. 11, Pawnee County Communications received a 911 call after a man was shot at a house at&nbsp;701 Elm in&nbsp;Burdett. Deputies from the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office and EMS from both Burdett and Larned responded to the scene.

Before deputies arrived, dispatch was advised through another emergency call, that a second male shooting victim was identified at a house a block away from the first call.&nbsp;

Investigators believe both victims were together when they were shot outside the house at 701 Elm. The second man was able to run to a house northwest of the area to get help.

The first victim was a 51-year-old man from Burdett, who was treated for several gunshot wounds and was transported by EMS to a Wichita hospital.&nbsp;

The second victim, a 30-year-old man from Burdett, was taken to Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Larned.&nbsp;

Both victims made full recoveries. Since a firearm was used, the crimes carry a presumptive prison sentence, according to McNett.

In support of the plea, Pawnee County Attorney Douglas McNett advised the Court the evidence would show that during the earlier morning hours of Dec. 11, Jones, along with Tristian Scott, 18, and two juveniles, travelled to Burdett with the intention of robbing an individual the group perceived had wronged them. Once they encountered the intended victim, Jones without warning opened fire with a shotgun striking both the intended target and another individual outside the residence.

The four suspects were arrested on Dec. 23 by Kansas Bureau of Investigation agents without incident.

The Pawnee County Judge accepted the plea and found Jones guilty of the two charges. As part of the plea agreement, the defendant agreed to waive his right to appeal the convictions and will be subject to registration as a violent offender.

Jones was originally charged with two counts of attempted second-degree murder, attempted aggravated robbery, conspiracy to commit aggravated robbery, two felony counts of contributing to a child’s misconduct by encouraging the committing of a felony, two counts of felony aggravated endangering a child and felony interference with law enforcement or concealing of evidence.

Sentencing has not yet been scheduled. Jones remains in the custody of the Pawnee County Sheriff.

The two juveniles have already entered pleas for their involvement. Tristan Scott’s case is scheduled for preliminary hearing on May 26.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608771834329.png" alt="Thomas Jones photo Pawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Thomas Jones photo Pawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY —A Kansas man accused in a December shooting&nbsp;appeared via Zoom before Pawnee County District Judge Gatterman Wednesday morning for arraignment, according to County Attorney Doug McNett.Thomas R. Jones, III, aka Tre Jones, 22 of Larned, plead guilty to two counts of intentional aggravated battery with a firearm resulting in great bodily harm.On Dec. 11, Pawnee County Communications received a 911 call after a man was shot at a house at&nbsp;701 Elm in&nbsp;Burdett. Deputies from the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office and EMS from both Burdett and Larned responded to the scene.Before deputies arrived, dispatch was advised through another emergency call, that a second male shooting victim was identified at a house a block away from the first call.&nbsp;Investigators believe both victims were together when they were shot outside the house at 701 Elm. The second man was able to run to a house northwest of the area to get help.The first victim was a 51-year-old man from Burdett, who was treated for several gunshot wounds and was transported by EMS to a Wichita hospital.&nbsp;The second victim, a 30-year-old man from Burdett, was taken to Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Larned.&nbsp;Both victims made full recoveries. Since a firearm was used, the crimes carry a presumptive prison sentence, according to McNett.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608771797890.png" alt="Tristin Scott photo Pawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Tristin Scott photo Pawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>In support of the plea, Pawnee County Attorney Douglas McNett advised the Court the evidence would show that during the earlier morning hours of Dec. 11, Jones, along with Tristian Scott, 18, and two juveniles, travelled to Burdett with the intention of robbing an individual the group perceived had wronged them. Once they encountered the intended victim, Jones without warning opened fire with a shotgun striking both the intended target and another individual outside the residence.The four suspects were arrested on Dec. 23 by Kansas Bureau of Investigation agents without incident.The Pawnee County Judge accepted the plea and found Jones guilty of the two charges. As part of the plea agreement, the defendant agreed to waive his right to appeal the convictions and will be subject to registration as a violent offender.Jones was originally charged with two counts of attempted second-degree murder, attempted aggravated robbery, conspiracy to commit aggravated robbery, two felony counts of contributing to a child’s misconduct by encouraging the committing of a felony, two counts of felony aggravated endangering a child and felony interference with law enforcement or concealing of evidence.Sentencing has not yet been scheduled. Jones remains in the custody of the Pawnee County Sheriff.The two juveniles have already entered pleas for their involvement. Tristan Scott’s case is scheduled for preliminary hearing on May 26.

SW Kan. man enters plea deal for robbery, shooting

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly Wednesday announced that, due to increasing evidence that the COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective for young people, the Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine will now be available to those ages 12+ in Kansas.

“Health experts’ thorough, deliberate review process demonstrates that safety continues to be the number one priority in vaccine approval – and my administration is confident that opening the vaccine to young Kansans is the right move,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said. “I encourage all eligible Kansans to roll up their sleeves and do their part to ensure we can continue getting back to work, back to school, and back to normal.”

Today’s announcement&nbsp; follows the Monday expansion of the emergency use authorization (EUA) by the Food and Drug Administration and today’s vote of the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and approval by the CDC Director.

“This is an incredible step forward in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic,”&nbsp;Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said.&nbsp;“We are now able to protect our younger populations against this deadly disease.”

Kansas providers should now begin opening their vaccine supply to ages 12+. Those under 18 do need written parental consent for vaccination.&nbsp;

To find a vaccine provider near you, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.Up5uPD7WWNdBn5TRZLOg92V8Szco9v-Loj0f8DgQd8U/s/1303160919/br/106292647368-l" target="_blank">www.Vaccines.gov</a>&nbsp;or text your zip code to 438829 (GETVAX) or in Spanish, text your zip code to 822862 (VACUNA).

The original EUA was issued on December 11, 2020 by the FDA for administration in individuals ages 16 and older.

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly Wednesday announced that, due to increasing evidence that the COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective for young people, the Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine will now be available to those ages 12+ in Kansas.“Health experts’ thorough, deliberate review process demonstrates that safety continues to be the number one priority in vaccine approval – and my administration is confident that opening the vaccine to young Kansans is the right move,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said. “I encourage all eligible Kansans to roll up their sleeves and do their part to ensure we can continue getting back to work, back to school, and back to normal.”Today’s announcement&nbsp; follows the Monday expansion of the emergency use authorization (EUA) by the Food and Drug Administration and today’s vote of the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and approval by the CDC Director.“This is an incredible step forward in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic,”&nbsp;Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said.&nbsp;“We are now able to protect our younger populations against this deadly disease.”Kansas providers should now begin opening their vaccine supply to ages 12+. Those under 18 do need written parental consent for vaccination.&nbsp;To find a vaccine provider near you, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MTIuNDAzODQ2NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2djYzAyLnNhZmVsaW5rcy5wcm90ZWN0aW9uLm91dGxvb2suY29tLz91cmw9aHR0cCUzQSUyRiUyRnd3dy52YWNjaW5lcy5nb3YlMkYmZGF0YT0wNCU3QzAxJTdDUmF5bmEuS2Fyc3QlNDBrcy5nb3YlN0NlYzI2NjFhZDFjMWI0NzI2NDYxNTA4ZDkxNTkzYWE4MSU3Q2RjYWU4MTAxYzkyZDQ4MGNiYzQzYzY3NjFjY2NjYzVhJTdDMCU3QzAlN0M2Mzc1NjQ1NDYyMjA0ODUxNDklN0NVbmtub3duJTdDVFdGcGJHWnNiM2Q4ZXlKV0lqb2lNQzR3TGpBd01EQWlMQ0pRSWpvaVYybHVNeklpTENKQlRpSTZJazFoYVd3aUxDSlhWQ0k2TW4wJTNEJTdDMTAwMCZzZGF0YT1McVFmTnIlMkZ6ZDluOUdVTHZRYUR0TWtGRDUlMkZkbDklMkZRT0RvZEdXN3dUdzFFJTNEJnJlc2VydmVkPTAifQ.Up5uPD7WWNdBn5TRZLOg92V8Szco9v-Loj0f8DgQd8U/s/1303160919/br/106292647368-l" target="_blank">www.Vaccines.gov</a>&nbsp;or text your zip code to 438829 (GETVAX) or in Spanish, text your zip code to 822862 (VACUNA).The original EUA was issued on December 11, 2020 by the FDA for administration in individuals ages 16 and older.

Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine now available to ages 12+ in Kansas

TOPEKA&nbsp;–Lansing Correctional Facility (LCF) resident Addison L. Payne died Tuesday, May 11, 2021 at the facility, according to a media release from the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

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

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

Payne was serving a life sentence for robbery, aggravated kidnapping, aggravated sodomy and rape. He had been imprisoned with KDOC since April 1993.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620848587769.png" alt="Payne was serving a life sentence for rape, robbery and other crimes from the 1990s, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Payne was serving a life sentence for rape, robbery and other crimes from the 1990s, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;–Lansing Correctional Facility (LCF) resident Addison L. Payne died Tuesday, May 11, 2021 at the facility, according to a media release from the Kansas Dept. of Corrections. The cause of death is pending the results of an autopsy. Preliminary assessment indicates the death was not related to COVID-19.Per protocol, when a resident dies in the custody of the KDOC, the death is under investigation by KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.Payne was serving a life sentence for robbery, aggravated kidnapping, aggravated sodomy and rape. He had been imprisoned with KDOC since April 1993.

Kan. imate serving time for rape, kidnapping dies in prison

TOPEKA —Missouri Governor Mike Parson on Tuesday announced the state is cutting off all federal pandemic unemployment benefits in an attempt to push people back to work.

Governor Laura Kelly's spokesperson on Wednesday confirmed that won't happen in Kansas.

“At this time, Governor Kelly does not intend to end the federal unemployment benefit programs early. While the Governor will monitor this situation closely over the coming months, her primary focus remains on continuing her administration’s record-setting efforts recruiting new businesses and jobs to Kansas. She strongly encourages Kansans who are seeking employment, to visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.3ZbLoLmLI5iyG5bstj7sSXS0h_GHK94iJCNkot88Cxk/s/1303160919/br/106258188808-l" target="_blank">www.kansasworks.com</a>&nbsp;for job placement resources and assistance.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610733397386.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —Missouri Governor Mike Parson on Tuesday announced the state is cutting off all federal pandemic unemployment benefits in an attempt to push people back to work.Governor Laura Kelly's spokesperson on Wednesday confirmed that won't happen in Kansas.“At this time, Governor Kelly does not intend to end the federal unemployment benefit programs early. While the Governor will monitor this situation closely over the coming months, her primary focus remains on continuing her administration’s record-setting efforts recruiting new businesses and jobs to Kansas. She strongly encourages Kansans who are seeking employment, to visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.3ZbLoLmLI5iyG5bstj7sSXS0h_GHK94iJCNkot88Cxk/s/1303160919/br/106258188808-l" target="_blank">www.kansasworks.com</a>&nbsp;for job placement resources and assistance.”&nbsp;

Missouri cut federal jobless benefit; Kan. will continue paying 

WASHINGTON (AP) - U.S. health advisers endorsed use of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine in kids as young as 12 on Wednesday, just as expected new guidelines say it’s OK for people of any age to get the shot at the same time as other needed vaccinations.

The sprint to vaccinate millions of middle and high school students has already started in parts of the country, as a long line of kids rolled up their sleeves in suburban Atlanta for a first dose Wednesday. But much of the nation was awaiting recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that Pfizer’s vaccine, already used for months in those 16 and older, was a good choice for 12- to 15-year-olds, too. The CDC was expected to accept its advisers’ recommendation.

“It just felt like a flu shot, honestly,” said Meredith Rogers, a 14-year-old middle school student from Decatur, Georgia, after getting her vaccination.

Michelle Rogers, Meredith’s mother, said she hoped the youth vaccinations would help bring some normalcy back.

“A little apprehensive, but you know what? This is a step towards getting life back to normal so, we’re all in,” Michelle Rogers said with a slight fist pump.

Earlier in the week, the Food and Drug Administration authorized emergency use of the two-shot vaccine made by Pfizer and its German partner, BioNTech. A study of more than 2,000 12- to 15-year-olds found the same dose adults use is safe and strongly protective in the kids, too.

Among the outstanding questions: Is it OK to get vaccinated against COVID-19 at the same doctor’s visit as people receive some routine vaccinations? That’s an urgent back-to-school concern especially for the 12- to 15-year-olds, who have missed out on regularly scheduled vaccines during the pandemic — but also an issue for adults, too.

The CDC until now has recommended not getting other vaccinations within two weeks of a COVID-19 shot, mostly as a precaution so that safety monitors could spot if any unexpected side effects crop up. But the CDC said Wednesday it is changing that advice because the COVID-19 vaccines have proved so safe — and that health workers can decide to give another needed vaccine at the same time.

The American Academy of Pediatrics on Wednesday also endorsed the Pfizer vaccine for the 12-and-up crowd — and agreed that it’s fine to give more than one vaccine at the same time, especially for kids who are behind on their regular vaccinations.

In the Pfizer study, there were no cases of COVID-19 among volunteers given the two-shot vaccination compared with 16 in the group given dummy shots. Kids also developed higher levels of virus-fighting antibodies than vaccinated adults. Side effects are the same as adults experience, mostly sore arms and flu-like fever, chills or aches that signal the immune system is revving up.

Vaccinating Americans of all ages will be critical to getting back to normal, and there’s plenty of supply for the nation’s nearly 17 million 12- to 15-year-olds.

In addition to the mass vaccination sites and health department rollouts that were key for adults, many states will be offering kids more familiar options -- shipping doses to pediatricians and even to schools.

Pfizer is not the only company seeking to lower the age limit for its vaccine. Moderna recently said preliminary results from its study in 12- to 17-year-olds show strong protection and no serious side effects, data the FDA will need to scrutinize.

As for even younger children, both companies have begun tests in youngsters ages 6 months to 11 years. Those studies explore if different doses are needed at the youngest ages, and FDA plans to hold a public meeting next month to debate exactly what evidence is needed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608677701818.png" alt="A worker at Truman Medical Center in Kansas City prepares doses of Pfizer-BioNTech's vaccine against the virus that causes COVID-19 photo courtesyTruman Medical Center" />
 <figcaption>A worker at Truman Medical Center in Kansas City prepares doses of Pfizer-BioNTech's vaccine against the virus that causes COVID-19 photo courtesyTruman Medical Center</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) - U.S. health advisers endorsed use of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine in kids as young as 12 on Wednesday, just as expected new guidelines say it’s OK for people of any age to get the shot at the same time as other needed vaccinations.The sprint to vaccinate millions of middle and high school students has already started in parts of the country, as a long line of kids rolled up their sleeves in suburban Atlanta for a first dose Wednesday. But much of the nation was awaiting recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that Pfizer’s vaccine, already used for months in those 16 and older, was a good choice for 12- to 15-year-olds, too. The CDC was expected to accept its advisers’ recommendation.“It just felt like a flu shot, honestly,” said Meredith Rogers, a 14-year-old middle school student from Decatur, Georgia, after getting her vaccination.Michelle Rogers, Meredith’s mother, said she hoped the youth vaccinations would help bring some normalcy back.“A little apprehensive, but you know what? This is a step towards getting life back to normal so, we’re all in,” Michelle Rogers said with a slight fist pump.Earlier in the week, the Food and Drug Administration authorized emergency use of the two-shot vaccine made by Pfizer and its German partner, BioNTech. A study of more than 2,000 12- to 15-year-olds found the same dose adults use is safe and strongly protective in the kids, too.Among the outstanding questions: Is it OK to get vaccinated against COVID-19 at the same doctor’s visit as people receive some routine vaccinations? That’s an urgent back-to-school concern especially for the 12- to 15-year-olds, who have missed out on regularly scheduled vaccines during the pandemic — but also an issue for adults, too.The CDC until now has recommended not getting other vaccinations within two weeks of a COVID-19 shot, mostly as a precaution so that safety monitors could spot if any unexpected side effects crop up. But the CDC said Wednesday it is changing that advice because the COVID-19 vaccines have proved so safe — and that health workers can decide to give another needed vaccine at the same time.The American Academy of Pediatrics on Wednesday also endorsed the Pfizer vaccine for the 12-and-up crowd — and agreed that it’s fine to give more than one vaccine at the same time, especially for kids who are behind on their regular vaccinations.In the Pfizer study, there were no cases of COVID-19 among volunteers given the two-shot vaccination compared with 16 in the group given dummy shots. Kids also developed higher levels of virus-fighting antibodies than vaccinated adults. Side effects are the same as adults experience, mostly sore arms and flu-like fever, chills or aches that signal the immune system is revving up.Vaccinating Americans of all ages will be critical to getting back to normal, and there’s plenty of supply for the nation’s nearly 17 million 12- to 15-year-olds.In addition to the mass vaccination sites and health department rollouts that were key for adults, many states will be offering kids more familiar options -- shipping doses to pediatricians and even to schools.Pfizer is not the only company seeking to lower the age limit for its vaccine. Moderna recently said preliminary results from its study in 12- to 17-year-olds show strong protection and no serious side effects, data the FDA will need to scrutinize.As for even younger children, both companies have begun tests in youngsters ages 6 months to 11 years. Those studies explore if different doses are needed at the youngest ages, and FDA plans to hold a public meeting next month to debate exactly what evidence is needed.

US advisers endorse Pfizer COVID shot for kids 12 and up

WASHINGTON (AP) —Americans can begin applying for $50 off their monthly internet bill on Wednesday as part of an emergency government program to keep people connected during the pandemic.

The $3.2 billion program is part of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-politics-coronavirus-pandemic-2a2645e52fda774ae8f1443b4dffc82e">$900 billion December pandemic-relief package.&nbsp;</a>The government is increasing spending on broadband as the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-news-ap-top-news-weekend-reads-mo-state-wire-virus-outbreak-662dd51f3a433b3b4c82b3e9145db6aa">pandemic made stark</a>&nbsp;that millions of Americans did not have access to, and could not afford, broadband at a time when jobs, school and health care was moving online.

It’s unclear how long the money will last but it’s expected to be several months. Tens of millions of people are eligible, although the Federal Communications Commission, which is administering the program, did not specify a number.

For example, your household is eligible if you receive food stamps, have a child in the free or reduced-price school lunch program, use Medicaid, or lost income during the pandemic and made $99,000 for single filers, or $198,000 for joint filers, or less.

There are other eligibility requirements, too — <a href="https://getemergencybroadband.org/">click here to</a> find out if you qualify.

You can get the discount even if you owe your phone or cable company money. That’s important because some people have been barred from low-cost plans offered by internet service providers when they owed their service provider money. More than 800 cellphone and home-internet companies are participating, including AT&amp;T, Charter, Comcast, T-Mobile and Verizon.

People in tribal areas are eligible for up to $75 off their bill. There is also a $100 reimbursement for desktop computers, laptops or tablets — in that case, you must pay between $10 and $50 of the cost of the device yourself and buy it through your broadband provider.

The discount could apply to a household’s whole bill, or you can use it to trade up to a more expensive offering and your bill is partly covered.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fcc.gov/broadbandbenefit" target="_blank">Emergency Broadband Benefit</a>&nbsp;is a more robust, although temporary, program to help people afford internet than Lifeline, the FCC’s other affordability program, which subtracts only $9.25 a month from phone or internet bills. A household can use both the Lifeline and EBB programs.

The Biden administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-075c370920e8b38499a66372e9845af2">has proposed $100 billion</a>&nbsp;to get Americans connected, and even before that, billions of dollars are going to improve internet access.

The FCC on Tuesday approved a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-us-news-distance-learning-coronavirus-pandemic-internet-access-94c57075af6a3d539abe78bbb7e934ce">$7.2 billion program for schools and libraries&nbsp;</a>to connect students in their homes. The Treasury Department is also setting up a $10 billion fund for improving internet connectivity. The money for both came from the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-personal-taxes-legislation-coronavirus-pandemic-unemployment-insurance-104c5477a7879abd4117abfea25c30d5">$1.9 trillion March pandemic relief</a>&nbsp;package.

There has also been hundreds of billions more in general funds sent to states that could be spent on broadband access.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597766755510.jpeg" alt="Tens of millions of people are eligible, although the Federal Communications Commission, which is administering the program, did not specify a number." />
 <figcaption>Tens of millions of people are eligible, although the Federal Communications Commission, which is administering the program, did not specify a number.</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —Americans can begin applying for $50 off their monthly internet bill on Wednesday as part of an emergency government program to keep people connected during the pandemic.The $3.2 billion program is part of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-politics-coronavirus-pandemic-2a2645e52fda774ae8f1443b4dffc82e">$900 billion December pandemic-relief package.&nbsp;</a>The government is increasing spending on broadband as the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-news-ap-top-news-weekend-reads-mo-state-wire-virus-outbreak-662dd51f3a433b3b4c82b3e9145db6aa">pandemic made stark</a>&nbsp;that millions of Americans did not have access to, and could not afford, broadband at a time when jobs, school and health care was moving online.It’s unclear how long the money will last but it’s expected to be several months. Tens of millions of people are eligible, although the Federal Communications Commission, which is administering the program, did not specify a number.For example, your household is eligible if you receive food stamps, have a child in the free or reduced-price school lunch program, use Medicaid, or lost income during the pandemic and made $99,000 for single filers, or $198,000 for joint filers, or less.There are other eligibility requirements, too — <a href="https://getemergencybroadband.org/">click here to</a> find out if you qualify.You can get the discount even if you owe your phone or cable company money. That’s important because some people have been barred from low-cost plans offered by internet service providers when they owed their service provider money. More than 800 cellphone and home-internet companies are participating, including AT&amp;T, Charter, Comcast, T-Mobile and Verizon.People in tribal areas are eligible for up to $75 off their bill. There is also a $100 reimbursement for desktop computers, laptops or tablets — in that case, you must pay between $10 and $50 of the cost of the device yourself and buy it through your broadband provider.The discount could apply to a household’s whole bill, or you can use it to trade up to a more expensive offering and your bill is partly covered.The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fcc.gov/broadbandbenefit" target="_blank">Emergency Broadband Benefit</a>&nbsp;is a more robust, although temporary, program to help people afford internet than Lifeline, the FCC’s other affordability program, which subtracts only $9.25 a month from phone or internet bills. A household can use both the Lifeline and EBB programs.The Biden administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-075c370920e8b38499a66372e9845af2">has proposed $100 billion</a>&nbsp;to get Americans connected, and even before that, billions of dollars are going to improve internet access.The FCC on Tuesday approved a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-us-news-distance-learning-coronavirus-pandemic-internet-access-94c57075af6a3d539abe78bbb7e934ce">$7.2 billion program for schools and libraries&nbsp;</a>to connect students in their homes. The Treasury Department is also setting up a $10 billion fund for improving internet connectivity. The money for both came from the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-personal-taxes-legislation-coronavirus-pandemic-unemployment-insurance-104c5477a7879abd4117abfea25c30d5">$1.9 trillion March pandemic relief</a>&nbsp;package.There has also been hundreds of billions more in general funds sent to states that could be spent on broadband access.

Emergency program to give people $50 off internet bill

TOPEKA&nbsp;– On Wednesday, Governor Laura Kelly announced that State of Kansas offices will return to normal operations effective with the pay period beginning on June 13, 2021, according to a media release from her office.

By the end of May, all state employees will have had the opportunity to receive the COVID-19 vaccination at no cost. Due to vaccinations, the widespread availability of rapid testing, and substantially reduced numbers of new positive cases being reported in the state, the State of Kansas has determined it is safe to return to normal operations with additional guidance* detailed below.

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MTIuNDAzNDQ1MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLmthbnNhcy5nb3Yvd3AtY29udGVudC91cGxvYWRzLzIwMjEvMDUvMjAyMS1TdGF0ZS1BZ2VuY3ktUmVvcGVuaW5nLUd1aWRhbmNlLnBkZiJ9.YI6detQBlrStwtxLQa1XLKxs0TwdHfAoLuIMrsGAqOg/s/1303160919/br/106246797510-l" target="_blank">Click here for full guidance for State of Kansas agencies and employees</a>

*Guidance developed in consultation with KDHE.

TOPEKA&nbsp;– On Wednesday, Governor Laura Kelly announced that State of Kansas offices will return to normal operations effective with the pay period beginning on June 13, 2021, according to a media release from her office.By the end of May, all state employees will have had the opportunity to receive the COVID-19 vaccination at no cost. Due to vaccinations, the widespread availability of rapid testing, and substantially reduced numbers of new positive cases being reported in the state, the State of Kansas has determined it is safe to return to normal operations with additional guidance* detailed below.<ul>
 <li>Masks or other facial coverings will continue to be required for all State of Kansas employees and visitors to any State of Kansas facilities under the jurisdiction of the Governor. Notice of this requirement will continue to be posted at entrances to all State of Kansas buildings.</li><li>Agencies should take all necessary steps to ensure that at least six feet of space can be maintained between employee workstations and other seating arrangements. Signs and floor markings will continue to be used throughout State of Kansas buildings to reinforce the importance of physical distancing.&nbsp;</li><li>Agencies should reinforce the need for proper handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Where this is not available, hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% of alcohol may be used.</li><li>Agencies may continue to allow employees to work remotely in situations where adequate social distancing cannot be maintained in the office or as otherwise approved by the agency head, provided there is no disruption to agency operations.</li><li>Employees should continue to self-monitor and conduct self-screening activities before appearing for in-person work. Passive temperature check stations and posting of screening questions will continue to be in place in all State of Kansas buildings under the jurisdiction of the Governor.</li>
 </ul><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MTIuNDAzNDQ1MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLmthbnNhcy5nb3Yvd3AtY29udGVudC91cGxvYWRzLzIwMjEvMDUvMjAyMS1TdGF0ZS1BZ2VuY3ktUmVvcGVuaW5nLUd1aWRhbmNlLnBkZiJ9.YI6detQBlrStwtxLQa1XLKxs0TwdHfAoLuIMrsGAqOg/s/1303160919/br/106246797510-l" target="_blank">Click here for full guidance for State of Kansas agencies and employees</a>*Guidance developed in consultation with KDHE.

Governor: State offices return to normal operation in June

WASHINGTON — Today, the Internal Revenue Service, the U.S. Department
 of the Treasury, and the Bureau of the Fiscal Service announced they 
are disbursing nearly 1 million payments in the ninth batch of Economic 
Impact Payments from the American Rescue Plan.

Today's announcement brings the total disbursed so far to 
approximately 165 million payments, with a total value of approximately 
$388 billion, since these payments began rolling out to Americans in 
batches <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-begins-delivering-third-round-of-economic-impact-payments-to-americans">as announced</a> on March 12.

The ninth batch of payments began processing on Friday, May 7, with 
an official payment date of May 12, with some people receiving direct 
payments in their accounts earlier as provisional or pending deposits. 
Here is additional information on this batch of payments:

Additional information is available on the first eight batches 
of Economic Impact Payments from the American Rescue Plan, which 
processed weekly on <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/more-than-1-point-1-million-additional-economic-impact-payments-disbursed-under-the-american-rescue-plan-payments-total-approximately-164-million">April 30</a>, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/nearly-2-million-more-economic-impact-payments-disbursed-under-the-american-rescue-plan-continuing-payments-reach-approximately-163-million">April 23</a>, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/two-million-more-economic-impact-payments-disbursed-under-the-american-rescue-plan-total-reaches-approximately-161-million-as-payments-continue">April 16</a>, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-treasury-disburse-2-million-more-economic-impact-payments-under-the-american-rescue-plan-va-beneficiaries-bring-total-to-approximately-159-million-as-payments-continue">April 9</a>, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-treasury-disburse-25-million-more-economic-impact-payments-under-the-american-rescue-plan">April 2</a>, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-treasury-disburse-more-economic-impact-payments-under-the-american-rescue-plan-total-tops-130-million-with-more-to-come">March 26</a>, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-treasury-disburse-another-37-million-economic-impact-payments-from-the-american-rescue-plan">March 19</a> and <a href="https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0063">March 12</a>.

The IRS will continue to make Economic Impact Payments on a weekly 
basis. Ongoing payments will be sent to eligible individuals for whom 
the IRS previously did not have information to issue a payment but who 
recently filed a tax return, as well to people who qualify for "plus-up"
 payments.

Special reminder for those who don't normally file a tax return

Although payments are automatic for most people, the IRS continues to
 urge people who don't normally file a tax return and haven't received 
Economic Impact Payments to file a 2020 tax return to get all the 
benefits they're entitled to under the law, including tax credits such 
as the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/recovery-rebate-credit">2020 Recovery Rebate Credit</a>,
 the Child Tax Credit, and the Earned Income Tax Credit. Filing a 2020 
tax return will also assist the IRS in determining whether someone is 
eligible for an advance payment of the 2021 Child Tax Credit, which will
 begin to be disbursed this summer.

For example, some federal benefits recipients may need to file a 2020
 tax return – even if they don't usually file – to provide information 
the IRS needs to send payments for a qualifying dependent. Eligible 
individuals in this group should file a 2020 tax return as quickly as 
possible to be considered for an additional payment for their qualifying
 dependents.

People who don't normally file a tax return and don't receive federal
 benefits may qualify for these Economic Impact Payments. This includes 
those experiencing <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/those-experiencing-homelessness-can-get-economic-impact-payments-and-other-tax-benefits-permanent-address-not-required">homelessness</a>,
 the rural poor, and others. Individuals who didn't get a first or 
second round Economic Impact Payment or got less than the full amounts 
may be eligible for the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/recovery-rebate-credit">2020 Recovery Rebate Credit</a>, but they'll need to file a 2020 tax return. See the special section on IRS.gov: <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/recovery-rebate-credit-topic-a-claiming-the-recovery-rebate-credit-if-you-arent-required-to-file-a-tax-return">Claiming the 2020 Recovery Rebate Credit if you aren't required to file a tax return</a>.

Free <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for-qualifying-taxpayers">tax return preparation</a> is available for qualifying people.

The IRS reminds taxpayers that the income levels in this third round 
of Economic Impact Payments have changed. This means that some people 
won't be eligible for the third payment even if they received a first or
 second Economic Impact Payment or claimed a 2020 Recovery Rebate 
Credit. Payments will begin to be reduced for individuals making $75,000
 or above in Adjusted Gross Income ($150,000 for married filing 
jointly). The payments end at $80,000 for individuals ($160,000 for 
married filing jointly); people with Adjusted Gross Incomes above these 
levels are ineligible for a payment.

Individuals can check the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/get-my-payment">Get My Payment</a>&nbsp;tool on IRS.gov to see the payment status of these payments. Additional information on <a href="https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payments">Economic Impact Payments</a> is available on IRS.gov.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — Today, the Internal Revenue Service, the U.S. Department
 of the Treasury, and the Bureau of the Fiscal Service announced they 
are disbursing nearly 1 million payments in the ninth batch of Economic 
Impact Payments from the American Rescue Plan.Today's announcement brings the total disbursed so far to 
approximately 165 million payments, with a total value of approximately 
$388 billion, since these payments began rolling out to Americans in 
batches <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-begins-delivering-third-round-of-economic-impact-payments-to-americans">as announced</a> on March 12.The ninth batch of payments began processing on Friday, May 7, with 
an official payment date of May 12, with some people receiving direct 
payments in their accounts earlier as provisional or pending deposits. 
Here is additional information on this batch of payments:<ul>
 <li>In total, this batch includes more than 960,000 payments with a value of more than $1.8 billion.</li><li>More than 500,000 payments, with a value of over $1 billion, went 
to eligible individuals for whom the IRS previously did not have 
information to issue an Economic Impact Payment but who recently filed a
 tax return.&nbsp;</li><li>This batch also includes additional ongoing supplemental payments 
for people who earlier this year received payments based on their 2019 
tax returns but are eligible for a new or larger payment based on their 
recently processed 2020 tax returns. This batch included more than 
460,000 of these "plus-up" payments, with a value of more than $800 
million. In all, the IRS has made more than 6 million of these 
supplemental payments this year.</li><li>Overall, this ninth batch of payments contains nearly 500,000 
direct deposit payments (with a total value of $946 million) with the 
remainder as paper payments.</li>
 </ul>Additional information is available on the first eight batches 
of Economic Impact Payments from the American Rescue Plan, which 
processed weekly on <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/more-than-1-point-1-million-additional-economic-impact-payments-disbursed-under-the-american-rescue-plan-payments-total-approximately-164-million">April 30</a>, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/nearly-2-million-more-economic-impact-payments-disbursed-under-the-american-rescue-plan-continuing-payments-reach-approximately-163-million">April 23</a>, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/two-million-more-economic-impact-payments-disbursed-under-the-american-rescue-plan-total-reaches-approximately-161-million-as-payments-continue">April 16</a>, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-treasury-disburse-2-million-more-economic-impact-payments-under-the-american-rescue-plan-va-beneficiaries-bring-total-to-approximately-159-million-as-payments-continue">April 9</a>, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-treasury-disburse-25-million-more-economic-impact-payments-under-the-american-rescue-plan">April 2</a>, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-treasury-disburse-more-economic-impact-payments-under-the-american-rescue-plan-total-tops-130-million-with-more-to-come">March 26</a>, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-treasury-disburse-another-37-million-economic-impact-payments-from-the-american-rescue-plan">March 19</a> and <a href="https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0063">March 12</a>.The IRS will continue to make Economic Impact Payments on a weekly 
basis. Ongoing payments will be sent to eligible individuals for whom 
the IRS previously did not have information to issue a payment but who 
recently filed a tax return, as well to people who qualify for "plus-up"
 payments.<h2>Special reminder for those who don't normally file a tax return</h2>Although payments are automatic for most people, the IRS continues to
 urge people who don't normally file a tax return and haven't received 
Economic Impact Payments to file a 2020 tax return to get all the 
benefits they're entitled to under the law, including tax credits such 
as the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/recovery-rebate-credit">2020 Recovery Rebate Credit</a>,
 the Child Tax Credit, and the Earned Income Tax Credit. Filing a 2020 
tax return will also assist the IRS in determining whether someone is 
eligible for an advance payment of the 2021 Child Tax Credit, which will
 begin to be disbursed this summer.For example, some federal benefits recipients may need to file a 2020
 tax return – even if they don't usually file – to provide information 
the IRS needs to send payments for a qualifying dependent. Eligible 
individuals in this group should file a 2020 tax return as quickly as 
possible to be considered for an additional payment for their qualifying
 dependents.People who don't normally file a tax return and don't receive federal
 benefits may qualify for these Economic Impact Payments. This includes 
those experiencing <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/those-experiencing-homelessness-can-get-economic-impact-payments-and-other-tax-benefits-permanent-address-not-required">homelessness</a>,
 the rural poor, and others. Individuals who didn't get a first or 
second round Economic Impact Payment or got less than the full amounts 
may be eligible for the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/recovery-rebate-credit">2020 Recovery Rebate Credit</a>, but they'll need to file a 2020 tax return. See the special section on IRS.gov: <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/recovery-rebate-credit-topic-a-claiming-the-recovery-rebate-credit-if-you-arent-required-to-file-a-tax-return">Claiming the 2020 Recovery Rebate Credit if you aren't required to file a tax return</a>.Free <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for-qualifying-taxpayers">tax return preparation</a> is available for qualifying people.The IRS reminds taxpayers that the income levels in this third round 
of Economic Impact Payments have changed. This means that some people 
won't be eligible for the third payment even if they received a first or
 second Economic Impact Payment or claimed a 2020 Recovery Rebate 
Credit. Payments will begin to be reduced for individuals making $75,000
 or above in Adjusted Gross Income ($150,000 for married filing 
jointly). The payments end at $80,000 for individuals ($160,000 for 
married filing jointly); people with Adjusted Gross Incomes above these 
levels are ineligible for a payment.Individuals can check the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/get-my-payment">Get My Payment</a>&nbsp;tool on IRS.gov to see the payment status of these payments. Additional information on <a href="https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payments">Economic Impact Payments</a> is available on IRS.gov.

IRS: 1M more COVID stimulus checks issued; total payments to nearly 165M

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 411 to a total of 311,338, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

The state reported 13 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 5029.

<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 411 to a total of 311,338, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;The state reported 13 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 5029.<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/2021/5/1620839601298.png" alt="Wednesday May 12, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday May 12, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a child porn suspect in Canada following an investigation that started in April.

School Resource Deputy Angie King for USD 330 Mission Valley Schools took a report from a youth that indicated that they had been coerced into sending explicit images to an individual on social media, according to Wabaunsee County Sheriff Rob Hoskins.

Deputy King and and a Detective Eric Kirsch worked on this investigation, located a suspect in Canada and were able to obtain evidence and information that the Canadian authorities were unable to obtain through their legal system.

&nbsp;Kirsch contacted the authorities in Canada and provided them with this valuable information and evidence that assisted them in locating a suspect. 

On Tuesday,&nbsp; the authorities in Canada were able to execute a search warrant and located a suspect along with the evidence that the suspect had engaged in several acts of soliciting and promoting child pornography, according to Sheriff Hoskins.

Authorities in Canada were able to make an arrest and initiate prosecution of the suspect.

Hoskins also thanked Deputy King and Detective Kirsch for a job well done and working diligently to protect the children of Wabaunsee County.

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a child porn suspect in Canada following an investigation that started in April.School Resource Deputy Angie King for USD 330 Mission Valley Schools took a report from a youth that indicated that they had been coerced into sending explicit images to an individual on social media, according to Wabaunsee County Sheriff Rob Hoskins.Deputy King and and a Detective Eric Kirsch worked on this investigation, located a suspect in Canada and were able to obtain evidence and information that the Canadian authorities were unable to obtain through their legal system.&nbsp;Kirsch contacted the authorities in Canada and provided them with this valuable information and evidence that assisted them in locating a suspect. On Tuesday,&nbsp; the authorities in Canada were able to execute a search warrant and located a suspect along with the evidence that the suspect had engaged in several acts of soliciting and promoting child pornography, according to Sheriff Hoskins.Authorities in Canada were able to make an arrest and initiate prosecution of the suspect.Hoskins also thanked Deputy King and Detective Kirsch for a job well done and working diligently to protect the children of Wabaunsee County.

Kansas deputies help ID Canadian child porn suspect

CHAMBLEE, Ga. (AP) — State and federal officials are scrambling to find alternate routes to deliver gasoline in the Southeast U.S. after a hack of the nation’s largest fuel pipeline led to panic-buying that contributed to more than 1,000 gas stations running out of fuel.

There is no gasoline shortage, but if the pipeline shutdown continues past the weekend, it could create broader fuel disruptions.

The Colonial Pipeline, which delivers about 45% of what is consumed on the East Coast, was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ga-state-wire-business-c6ef4314af911fb58b8445d2b121e82d">hit on Friday with a cyberattack</a>&nbsp;by hackers who lock up computer systems and demand a ransom to release them. The attack raised concerns, once again, about the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-hacking-government-and-politics-technology-business-b2a867c0705acd953c90d6e2a58fabb9">vulnerability of the nation’s critical infrastructure</a>.

A large part of the pipeline resumed operations manually late Monday, and Colonial anticipates restarting most of its operations by the end of the week, U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm said.

However, the disruption is taking place at the time of year when Americans begin to become more mobile, especially as the nation emerges from the pandemic.

The national average price for a gallon of gasoline ticked above $3 for the first time since 2016 Wednesday, according to the AAA auto club. Prices begin to rise around this time every year and the AAA auto club said Wednesday that the average price hit $3.008 nationally.

The AAA expects more than 37 million people to travel at least 50 miles from home during the Memorial Day weekend, up 60% from last year, which was the lowest since AAA began keeping records in 2000.

Multiple U.S. agencies are coordinating efforts to avert any potential shortage, should they arise.

The White House said Wednesday that the Department of Transportation is now allowing Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, New Jersey, North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia to use interstate highways to transport overweight loads of gasoline and other fuels under existing disaster declarations.

The department’s Maritime Administration completed a review of potential actions available under the Jones Act, a U.S. maritime law that requires shipments between U.S. ports, including fuel, to be moved by American-flagged ships.

The Department of Homeland Security is prepared to review any temporary Jones Act waiver requests from companies if there is not sufficient capacity to get to regions suffering fuel shortages, said White House press secretary Jen Psaki on Wednesday.

CHAMBLEE, Ga. (AP) — More than 1,000 gas stations in the Southeast reported running out of fuel, primarily because of what analysts say is unwarranted panic-buying among drivers, as the shutdown of a major pipeline by a gang of hackers entered its fifth day Tuesday.

Government officials acted swiftly to waive safety and environmental rules to speed the delivery of fuel by truck, ship or rail to motorists and airports, even as they sought to assure the public that there was no cause for alarm.

The Colonial Pipeline, the biggest fuel pipeline in the U.S., delivering about 45% of what is consumed on the East Coast, was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ga-state-wire-business-c6ef4314af911fb58b8445d2b121e82d">hit on Friday with a cyberattack</a>&nbsp;by hackers who lock up computer systems and demand a ransom to release them. The attack raised concerns, once again, about the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-hacking-government-and-politics-technology-business-b2a867c0705acd953c90d6e2a58fabb9">vulnerability of the nation’s critical infrastructure</a>.

Motorists may still feel a crunch because it takes a few days to ramp up operations, but she said there is no reason to hoard gasoline.

“We know that we have gasoline; we just have to get it to the right places,” she said.

S&amp;P’s Oil Price Information Service put the number of gas stations encountering shortages at more than 1,000.

“A lot of that is because they’re selling three or four times as much gasoline that they normally sell in a given day, because people do panic,” said Tom Kloza, an analyst with S&amp;P. “It becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.”

The pipeline runs from the Texas Gulf Coast to the New York metropolitan area. The states most dependent on the pipeline include Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee and the Carolinas, Kloza said.

In Virginia, 7.7% of the state’s nearly 3,900 gas stations reported running out of fuel Tuesday, according to Gasbuddy.com, which tracks supply. In North Carolina, 8.5% of almost 5,400 stations were out, the company said.

There were scattered reports of higher gasoline prices, but prices were rising even before the pipeline incident heading into the busy summer driving season. Nevertheless, Granholm warned gas station owners, “We will have no tolerance for price gouging.”

To ease brief shortages, the White House is considering temporarily waiving a law that says ships delivering products between U.S. ports must be built and manned by Americans.

The Transportation Department also is relaxing some workforce requirements and enlisting railroads to deliver fuel inland. And the Environmental Protection Agency lifted some fuel quality requirements on an emergency basis.

“We’re looking at every option we have across the federal government and all of the federal agencies,” Granholm said.

In Georgia, Gov. Brian Kemp suspended state taxes on motor fuels through Saturday. Georgia collects a gasoline tax of 28.7 cents per gallon and a diesel tax of 32.2 cents per gallon.

“It will probably help level the price at the pump off for a little while,” Kemp said.

However, he urged people not to hoard gasoline, saying he expects the situation to be resolved soon.

“You don’t need to go out and fill up every 5-gallon can you’ve got,” the governor said.

Scattered gas stations in metro Atlanta were out of fuel Monday and Tuesday. In Georgia, nearly 6% of about 6,400 stations had run out of fuel, Gasbuddy.com said.