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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Deputies find drugs in van during Kan. traffic stop

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kansas orders less than 1% of its COVID vaccine allocation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Battle growing over Biden's $1 Trillion infrastructure plan 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kan. deputies find items taken in series of burglaries

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

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

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

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

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

Kansas man dies after near head-on semi crash

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The report’s lack of firm conclusions will likely disappoint people anticipating the report given many Americans’ long-standing fascination with UFOs and the prospect of aliens having reached humankind. A recent story on CBS’ “60 Minutes” further bolstered interest in the government report.

But skeptics caution that the videos and reported sightings have plausible Earth-bound explanations. Mick West, an author, investigator, and longtime skeptic of UFO sightings, said he supported the military looking into any possible incursion of U.S. airspace, especially by an adversary.

“People are conflating this issue with the idea that these UFOs demonstrate amazing physics and possibly even aliens,” West said. He added, “The idea that this is some kind of secret warp drive or it’s defying physics as we know it, there really isn’t any good evidence for that.”

The Pentagon last year announced a task force to investigate the issue and the Navy in recent years created a protocol for its pilots to report any possible sightings. And lawmakers in recent years have pushed for more public disclosure.

“There’s a stigma on Capitol Hill,” Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Florida, told “60 Minutes” in May. “I mean, some of my colleagues are very interested in this topic and some kind of, you know, giggle when you bring it up. But I don’t think we can allow the stigma to keep us from having an answer to a very fundamental question.”

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

🎥 US report makes no definitive finding about UFOs

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspect for alleged sexual assault and rape.

On May 28, police contacted a 17-year-old female at a Wichita area hospital regarding a sexual assault report.&nbsp; 

The victim reported being sexually assaulted while at a friend’s home in an incoherent state and the incident being videoed and put on the social media platform Snapchat.

Wichita Police Domestic violence/sex crimes detectives, crime linkage unit detectives and officers from the Domestic Intervention Violence Reduction Team (DIVRT) collaborated and followed up on the case, identifying 19-year-old Ethan Garrett and 18-year-old David Clark both of Wichita being involved in the assault.

Clark is being held on requested charges that include two counts of rape and one count of aggravated sexual battery and&nbsp; Garrett is being held on a requested charge of rape and aggravated sexual battery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622835347409.png" alt="Clark photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Clark photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspect for alleged sexual assault and rape.On May 28, police contacted a 17-year-old female at a Wichita area hospital regarding a sexual assault report.&nbsp; The victim reported being sexually assaulted while at a friend’s home in an incoherent state and the incident being videoed and put on the social media platform Snapchat.Wichita Police Domestic violence/sex crimes detectives, crime linkage unit detectives and officers from the Domestic Intervention Violence Reduction Team (DIVRT) collaborated and followed up on the case, identifying 19-year-old Ethan Garrett and 18-year-old David Clark both of Wichita being involved in the assault.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622835416251.png" alt="Garrett photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Garrett photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>Clark is being held on requested charges that include two counts of rape and one count of aggravated sexual battery and&nbsp; Garrett is being held on a requested charge of rape and aggravated sexual battery.

Police: Kan. teens posted their sexual assault on social media

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;Board of Regents has asked the state's six public universities to provide a list of courses that include Critical Race Theory concepts.

The regents request came in response to a request from Sen. Brenda Dietrich, a Topeka Republican, who said she was seeking information on the theory only so she could better answer questions from her constituents.

Critical race theory seeks to show how historical inequities and racism affect current public policy and social conditions. Critics say it promotes a distorted view of American history and vilifies white Americans.

Dietrich, a former superintendent of the Auburn Washington school district, said she had no intention of creating a chilling effect at the universities, The Kansas City Star reported.

“I don’t see that we’ve got an issue here in our state. What we’re doing now makes sense,” Dietrich said.

Gwendolyn Bradley, a spokeswoman for the American Association of University Professors, called the request to uncommon and “entirely inappropriate.”

“This type of request has a chilling effect on academic freedom. Administrators and faculty may fear repercussions, and even where there is no bill or law prohibiting the teaching of race theory, they may censor themselves,” Bradley said.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;Board of Regents has asked the state's six public universities to provide a list of courses that include Critical Race Theory concepts.The regents request came in response to a request from Sen. Brenda Dietrich, a Topeka Republican, who said she was seeking information on the theory only so she could better answer questions from her constituents.Critical race theory seeks to show how historical inequities and racism affect current public policy and social conditions. Critics say it promotes a distorted view of American history and vilifies white Americans.Dietrich, a former superintendent of the Auburn Washington school district, said she had no intention of creating a chilling effect at the universities, The Kansas City Star reported.“I don’t see that we’ve got an issue here in our state. What we’re doing now makes sense,” Dietrich said.Gwendolyn Bradley, a spokeswoman for the American Association of University Professors, called the request to uncommon and “entirely inappropriate.”“This type of request has a chilling effect on academic freedom. Administrators and faculty may fear repercussions, and even where there is no bill or law prohibiting the teaching of race theory, they may censor themselves,” Bradley said.

Universities in Kan. asked for list of critical race theory classes

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced Friday that 50% of Kansans 18 and older are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, according to a media release from her office.

“I’m pleased at our state’s consistent progress in getting shots in arms – but we still can’t take our foot off the gas,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“Every Kansan must get vaccinated to protect our communities, our schools, and our economy from future outbreaks, and maintain our steady return to normal.”

To date,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA2MDQuNDE1MDU4NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2NvdmlkLmNkYy5nb3YvY292aWQtZGF0YS10cmFja2VyLyN2YWNjaW5hdGlvbnMifQ.mGku4-Kg2PzjBNPU1WMOayDxpOKRyFLWAU99UutVBYc/s/1303160919/br/107480043563-l" target="_blank">the CDC reports</a>&nbsp;that 50% of Kansans 18 and older have been fully vaccinated, and 59.9% of Kansans 18 and older have been vaccinated with one dose. Additionally, 38.5% of all Kansans are reported as vaccinated, with 46.9% of Kansans having received one dose.

“While vaccinating half of all Kansans 18 and older is a significant milestone, hospitalization rates among young people are rising nationwide. It’s critical that all Kansans age 12 and older get vaccinated,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“Health experts continue to demonstrate a thorough, deliberate review process when it comes to vaccines, making safety the number one priority in vaccine approval. The COVID-19 vaccine is safe, effective, and free – I encourage all Kansans to roll up their sleeves and get vaccinated.”&nbsp;

In an effort to increase vaccinations in Kansas, the Kansas Speedway is hosting a Race to End COVID-19 event today and tomorrow, where participants will have the opportunity to drive two laps around the track and enter a free raffle drawing for various prizes.

Participants enter the Race to End COVID-19 by getting a free COVID-19 saliva test and/or vaccine administered by the University of Kansas Health System and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.&nbsp;Testing is open to all ages. Pfizer and Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccines will be available to anyone age 12 or older.

The Kansas Speedway is offering&nbsp;all&nbsp;Kansans age 16 and older who choose to be tested and/or vaccinated the opportunity to drive their personal car or truck on the track. Drivers and their riders will take two laps behind a track pace vehicle at highway speed. Motorcycles are not permitted.

The Race to End COVID-19 will be held at Kansas Speedway, 400 Speedway Blvd., Kansas City, Kansas (enter via France Family Drive, near the Sporting KC stadium across from Nebraska Furniture Mart):

The Kansas Speedway is hosting the event in partnership with Wyandotte County Unified Government, University of Kansas Health System, Kansas Department of Health and Environment, and Kansas Division of Emergency Management.

All vaccine recipients will be asked to review educational material about COVID-19 vaccines and sign a consent form. After receiving the vaccine, participants will wait 15 minutes for observation for any rare allergic reactions. Those receiving the Pfizer vaccine will need to make separate arrangements for their second dose.

Individuals that are tested and/or vaccinated will be entered into a free raffle drawing. Prizes include a set of two tickets to the Oct. 24, 2021 NASCAR Cup Series Race; a set of four tickets to the Oct. 24, 2021 NASCAR Cup Series Race; and gift cards for the NASCAR Racing Experience Ride Along.

Track lap participants must have a valid driver's license, car registration in their name, and proof of vehicle insurance. Track lap participants 16 to 17 years old with a valid driver's license must have a parent or legal guardian in the vehicle to sign a minor release form. All track lap participants are required to remain in their personal vehicle at all times. Drivers and their riders will take two laps behind a track pace vehicle at highway speed. No motorcycles, tractor-trailers, recreational vehicles, etc., may be used for track rides.&nbsp;

Additional information can be found at:&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.OZbkwIJWCKsW_fFVGzJOFA7zh4MxDo-Kli_VGNHja7M%2Fs%2F1303135918%2Fbr%2F107347328518-l&amp;data=04%7C01%7CRayna.Karst%40ks.gov%7Cee32c953ba0946c4425c08d927777880%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637584216334669917%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=eY6tQdM2YKrVTPrcqblOpXoRyU9HC6JcWsOT%2FFIWBIQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.kansasspeedway.com/Vanity-Pages/Race-to-End-COVID-Laps.aspx</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622833160020.png" alt="Staff and volunteers who operated the Drive-Thru Vaccination Center in Lawrence since May 3. -photo courtesy Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health" />
 <figcaption>Staff and volunteers who operated the Drive-Thru Vaccination Center in Lawrence since May 3. -photo courtesy Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced Friday that 50% of Kansans 18 and older are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, according to a media release from her office.“I’m pleased at our state’s consistent progress in getting shots in arms – but we still can’t take our foot off the gas,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“Every Kansan must get vaccinated to protect our communities, our schools, and our economy from future outbreaks, and maintain our steady return to normal.”To date,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA2MDQuNDE1MDU4NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2NvdmlkLmNkYy5nb3YvY292aWQtZGF0YS10cmFja2VyLyN2YWNjaW5hdGlvbnMifQ.mGku4-Kg2PzjBNPU1WMOayDxpOKRyFLWAU99UutVBYc/s/1303160919/br/107480043563-l" target="_blank">the CDC reports</a>&nbsp;that 50% of Kansans 18 and older have been fully vaccinated, and 59.9% of Kansans 18 and older have been vaccinated with one dose. Additionally, 38.5% of all Kansans are reported as vaccinated, with 46.9% of Kansans having received one dose.“While vaccinating half of all Kansans 18 and older is a significant milestone, hospitalization rates among young people are rising nationwide. It’s critical that all Kansans age 12 and older get vaccinated,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“Health experts continue to demonstrate a thorough, deliberate review process when it comes to vaccines, making safety the number one priority in vaccine approval. The COVID-19 vaccine is safe, effective, and free – I encourage all Kansans to roll up their sleeves and get vaccinated.”&nbsp;In an effort to increase vaccinations in Kansas, the Kansas Speedway is hosting a Race to End COVID-19 event today and tomorrow, where participants will have the opportunity to drive two laps around the track and enter a free raffle drawing for various prizes.Participants enter the Race to End COVID-19 by getting a free COVID-19 saliva test and/or vaccine administered by the University of Kansas Health System and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.&nbsp;Testing is open to all ages. Pfizer and Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccines will be available to anyone age 12 or older.The Kansas Speedway is offering&nbsp;all&nbsp;Kansans age 16 and older who choose to be tested and/or vaccinated the opportunity to drive their personal car or truck on the track. Drivers and their riders will take two laps behind a track pace vehicle at highway speed. Motorcycles are not permitted.The Race to End COVID-19 will be held at Kansas Speedway, 400 Speedway Blvd., Kansas City, Kansas (enter via France Family Drive, near the Sporting KC stadium across from Nebraska Furniture Mart):<ul>
 <li>Friday, June 4 from 5 to 8 p.m.</li><li>Saturday, June 5 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.</li>
 </ul>The Kansas Speedway is hosting the event in partnership with Wyandotte County Unified Government, University of Kansas Health System, Kansas Department of Health and Environment, and Kansas Division of Emergency Management.All vaccine recipients will be asked to review educational material about COVID-19 vaccines and sign a consent form. After receiving the vaccine, participants will wait 15 minutes for observation for any rare allergic reactions. Those receiving the Pfizer vaccine will need to make separate arrangements for their second dose.RAFFLE DRAWING:Individuals that are tested and/or vaccinated will be entered into a free raffle drawing. Prizes include a set of two tickets to the Oct. 24, 2021 NASCAR Cup Series Race; a set of four tickets to the Oct. 24, 2021 NASCAR Cup Series Race; and gift cards for the NASCAR Racing Experience Ride Along.VICTORY LAP DETAILS:Track lap participants must have a valid driver's license, car registration in their name, and proof of vehicle insurance. Track lap participants 16 to 17 years old with a valid driver's license must have a parent or legal guardian in the vehicle to sign a minor release form. All track lap participants are required to remain in their personal vehicle at all times. Drivers and their riders will take two laps behind a track pace vehicle at highway speed. No motorcycles, tractor-trailers, recreational vehicles, etc., may be used for track rides.&nbsp;Additional information can be found at:&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.OZbkwIJWCKsW_fFVGzJOFA7zh4MxDo-Kli_VGNHja7M%2Fs%2F1303135918%2Fbr%2F107347328518-l&amp;data=04%7C01%7CRayna.Karst%40ks.gov%7Cee32c953ba0946c4425c08d927777880%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637584216334669917%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=eY6tQdM2YKrVTPrcqblOpXoRyU9HC6JcWsOT%2FFIWBIQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.kansasspeedway.com/Vanity-Pages/Race-to-End-COVID-Laps.aspx</a>.&nbsp;

Half of Kansans 18 and older fully vaccinated against COVID

RILEY COUNTY —Body recovered from Tuttle Creek Lake Wednesday has been identified as Okheem Riley, 24, of Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department.

Just before 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, the Riley County Police Department Dispatch Center received a call from a citizen reporting a vehicle and clothes near a shoreline by the intersection of Lakeshore Drive and Shady Lane in Riley County, according to a media release from RCPD.

When emergency crews responded they located identifying information for a 24-year-old Manhattan man, but were unable to locate an individual.&nbsp;

Emergency response teams located Okheem's body just before Midnight.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622727444785.png" alt="Emergency response teams located the body just before midnight.- google image" />
 <figcaption>Emergency response teams located the body just before midnight.- google image</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Body recovered from Tuttle Creek Lake Wednesday has been identified as Okheem Riley, 24, of Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department.Just before 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, the Riley County Police Department Dispatch Center received a call from a citizen reporting a vehicle and clothes near a shoreline by the intersection of Lakeshore Drive and Shady Lane in Riley County, according to a media release from RCPD.When emergency crews responded they located identifying information for a 24-year-old Manhattan man, but were unable to locate an individual.&nbsp;Emergency response teams located Okheem's body just before Midnight.&nbsp;

Police ID body of Kan. man recovered from Tuttle Creek Lake

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 332 to a total of 314,855, the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;

The state reported 4 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 5084.

<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 332 to a total of 314,855, the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;The state reported 4 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 5084.<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/2021/6/1622826660450.png" alt="Friday June 4, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Friday June 4, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas man in connection with an armed robbery arrested after a high speed chase.

Just after 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, police officers traveling westbound on Kellogg in Wichita and observed a 2001 silver Honda Accord traveling at 97 miles per hour, according to Officer Charley Davidson.

The officer attempted to stop the vehicle when the driver refused to stop, accelerated, and fled from officers.&nbsp; Officers also learned the vehicle was involved in a weekend robbery and shooting in Wichita, according to Davidson.

A short vehicle pursuit ensued, and was called off in the area of Central and Grove due to excessive speeds by the suspect driver.

At Central and Hillside, the vehicle collided with a gold 2008 Buick Lucerne being driven by a 37-year-old man.&nbsp; He sustained minor injuries, according to Davidson.&nbsp;&nbsp;

One suspect identified as 20-year-old Jacob Caddell and two others fled from the Honda on foot.&nbsp; Police officers searched the area for the suspects with the assistance of a K9 who found Caddell&nbsp; hiding in a garage nearby. Police took him into custody with the assistance of the K9.&nbsp; 

EMS transported Caddell to an area hospital for treatment of minor injures from a dog bite and then booked him into jail.&nbsp; Police did not locate the two other two suspects.

While searching, officers also located a handgun, rifle, and a backpack with stolen items.&nbsp;&nbsp;

During the crash investigation, detectives learned of Caddell’s involvement in a Tuesday evening armed robbery at a KWIK shop in the 2700 Block of South Oliver in Wichita, according to Davidson.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas man arrested after a high speed chase.

While searching, officers also located a handgun, rifle, and a backpack with stolen items.&nbsp; Detectives are also working to determine if the individuals were involved in any other recent armed robberies.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622716398129.png" alt="Police on the scene of the crash during the chase on Wednesday evening -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the crash during the chase on Wednesday evening -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas man in connection with an armed robbery arrested after a high speed chase.Just after 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, police officers traveling westbound on Kellogg in Wichita and observed a 2001 silver Honda Accord traveling at 97 miles per hour, according to Officer Charley Davidson.The officer attempted to stop the vehicle when the driver refused to stop, accelerated, and fled from officers.&nbsp; Officers also learned the vehicle was involved in a weekend robbery and shooting in Wichita, according to Davidson.A short vehicle pursuit ensued, and was called off in the area of Central and Grove due to excessive speeds by the suspect driver.At Central and Hillside, the vehicle collided with a gold 2008 Buick Lucerne being driven by a 37-year-old man.&nbsp; He sustained minor injuries, according to Davidson.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622731882288.png" alt="Caddell photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Caddell photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>One suspect identified as 20-year-old Jacob Caddell and two others fled from the Honda on foot.&nbsp; Police officers searched the area for the suspects with the assistance of a K9 who found Caddell&nbsp; hiding in a garage nearby. Police took him into custody with the assistance of the K9.&nbsp; EMS transported Caddell to an area hospital for treatment of minor injures from a dog bite and then booked him into jail.&nbsp; Police did not locate the two other two suspects.While searching, officers also located a handgun, rifle, and a backpack with stolen items.&nbsp;&nbsp;During the crash investigation, detectives learned of Caddell’s involvement in a Tuesday evening armed robbery at a KWIK shop in the 2700 Block of South Oliver in Wichita, according to Davidson.---------SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas man arrested after a high speed chase.Just after 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, police officers traveling westbound on Kellogg in Wichita and observed a 2001 silver Honda Accord traveling at 97 miles per hour, according to Officer Charley Davidson.The officer attempted to stop the vehicle when the driver refused to stop, accelerated, and fled from officers.&nbsp; Officers also learned the vehicle was involved in a weekend robbery and shooting in Wichita, according to Davidson.A short vehicle pursuit ensued, and was called off in the area of Central and Grove due to excessive speeds by the suspect driver.At Central and Hillside, the vehicle collided with a gold 2008 Buick Lucerne being driven by a 37-year-old man.&nbsp; He sustained minor injuries, according to Davidson.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622731882288.png" alt="Caddell photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Caddell photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>One suspect identified as 20-year-old Jacob Caddell and two others fled from the Honda on foot.&nbsp; Police officers searched the area for the suspects with the assistance of a K9 who found Caddell&nbsp; hiding in a garage nearby. Police took him into custody with the assistance of the K9.&nbsp; EMS transported Caddell to an area hospital for treatment of minor injures from a dog bite and then booked him into jail.&nbsp; Police did not locate the two other two suspects.While searching, officers also located a handgun, rifle, and a backpack with stolen items.&nbsp; Detectives are also working to determine if the individuals were involved in any other recent armed robberies.

Police K9 sends Kan. armed robbery suspect to hospital, jail

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

Surveillance video is being reviewed after someone dumped a large amount of hand sanitizer on the walls and floors of Salina High School South.

A staff member at Salina South, 730 E. Magnolia Road, reported that someone had taken a large container of hand sanitizer and roamed the halls, dumping the sanitizer on the walls and floor, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester.

The sanitizer ate through the finish on the floor. Total damage was estimated at $7,250. The incident is believed to have occurred between 8:40-9 p.m. on Wednesday, according to police.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostSurveillance video is being reviewed after someone dumped a large amount of hand sanitizer on the walls and floors of Salina High School South.A staff member at Salina South, 730 E. Magnolia Road, reported that someone had taken a large container of hand sanitizer and roamed the halls, dumping the sanitizer on the walls and floor, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester.The sanitizer ate through the finish on the floor. Total damage was estimated at $7,250. The incident is believed to have occurred between 8:40-9 p.m. on Wednesday, according to police.

Police: Large quantity of hand sanitizer dumped in Kan.  high school

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. employers added 559,000 jobs in May, an improvement from April’s sluggish gain but still evidence that many companies are struggling to find enough workers as the economy rapidly recovers from the pandemic recession.

Last month’s job gain was above April’s revised total of 278,000, the Labor Department said Friday. The unemployment rate fell to 5.8% from 6.1%.

The speed of the rebound from the pandemic recession has caught employers off guard and touched off a scramble to hire. The reopening of the economy, fueled by substantial federal aid and rising vaccinations, has released pent-up demand among consumers to eat out, travel, shop, attend public events and visit with friends and relatives.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-coronavirus-pandemic-business-5eb1432c117e217fea65bfaa138002e9" target="_blank">Many large chains</a>, including Amazon, Walmart, Costco, and Chipotle, have raised starting pay to better attract applicants. Yet so far, those efforts aren’t bearing much fruit. The number of people working or looking for work last month slipped slightly in May after three months of gains.

The economy expanded last quarter at a robust 6.4% annual rate, and economists envision growth in the current quarter reaching a sizzling pace of 9% or more. All that growth, driven by higher spending, has raised inflation fears. But for now, it has mainly propelled demand for labor.

Job postings in late May were nearly 26% above pre-pandemic levels, according to the employment website Indeed. Government data shows that posted jobs are at the highest level on records dating back to 2000.

And consumers are opening their wallets. In April, they increased their spending after a huge gain in March that was fueled by the distribution of $1,400 stimulus checks. With more Americans feeling comfortable about staying in hotels and visiting entertainment venues, spending on services jumped.

In fact, service industries, including banking, retail, and shipping,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-coronavirus-pandemic-business-959a1a97847ec7a1dc18d96ade834a8d" target="_blank">expanded at the fastest pace</a>&nbsp;on record in May. The evidence suggests that consumers have begun to embark on a long-anticipated shift away from the sizable goods purchases that many of them had made while hunkered down at home to spending on services, from haircuts to sporting events to vacation trips.

The number of people seeking unemployment aid has fallen for five straight weeks to its lowest level since the pandemic began, a sign that layoffs are dwindling. There are still 15 million people receiving either federal or state jobless aid, though that number has also declined from roughly 20 million in February.

The fading of the pandemic&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lifestyle-coronavirus-pandemic-health-business-82aa4f9fddcea22918d010c55b5e55b3" target="_blank">produced a disconnect</a>&nbsp;between companies and the unemployed. While businesses are rushing to add workers immediately, many of the unemployed are either seeking better jobs than they had before the pandemic, still lack affordable child care, worry about contracting COVID-19 or have decided to retire early.

That mismatch resulted in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-coronavirus-pandemic-business-5dc338627748f7c75ba7e9a040a894d7" target="_blank">sharp slowdown in hiring in April</a>, when employers added far fewer jobs than economists had forecast and many fewer than had been hired in March.

Though the economy still has 8.2 million fewer jobs than it did before the pandemic struck, job postings in late May were nearly 26% above pre-pandemic levels, according to the employment website Indeed. Government data shows that posted jobs have reached their highest level on record dating back to 2000.

Many businesses blame a $300-a-week federal unemployment benefit for discouraging some of the jobless from taking work. Republican governors in 25 states have responded by cutting off that benefit prematurely, starting this month, before the benefits are scheduled to end nationally on Sept. 6.

Becky Frankiewicz, president of the temporary staffing firm Manpower Group’s North American division, said many of the firm’s clients are raising pay and benefits to try to attract more applicants. Some of these companies, particularly in manufacturing and warehousing, are also trying other tactics, like paying their workers weekly or even daily, rather than every two weeks. Manpower is also encouraging its clients to make job offers the same day as an interview rather than waiting.

About 60% of Manpower’s temporary placements are leaving their jobs before a temporary assignment ends, Frankiewicz said, mostly because they are receiving better offers.

“People have options,” she said. “Companies have to offer speed in cash, speed to hire and a lot of flexibility in how they work.”

For now, though, there are signs that many of the unemployed remain cautious about seeking jobs.

On Thursday, Tony Sarsam, CEO of SpartanNash, a grocery distributor and retailer, said on a conference call with investors that the company took part last month in a job fair with 60 companies that had 500 jobs to fill.

“Only four candidates showed up,” Sarsam said.

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. employers added 559,000 jobs in May, an improvement from April’s sluggish gain but still evidence that many companies are struggling to find enough workers as the economy rapidly recovers from the pandemic recession.Last month’s job gain was above April’s revised total of 278,000, the Labor Department said Friday. The unemployment rate fell to 5.8% from 6.1%.The speed of the rebound from the pandemic recession has caught employers off guard and touched off a scramble to hire. The reopening of the economy, fueled by substantial federal aid and rising vaccinations, has released pent-up demand among consumers to eat out, travel, shop, attend public events and visit with friends and relatives.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-coronavirus-pandemic-business-5eb1432c117e217fea65bfaa138002e9" target="_blank">Many large chains</a>, including Amazon, Walmart, Costco, and Chipotle, have raised starting pay to better attract applicants. Yet so far, those efforts aren’t bearing much fruit. The number of people working or looking for work last month slipped slightly in May after three months of gains.The economy expanded last quarter at a robust 6.4% annual rate, and economists envision growth in the current quarter reaching a sizzling pace of 9% or more. All that growth, driven by higher spending, has raised inflation fears. But for now, it has mainly propelled demand for labor.Job postings in late May were nearly 26% above pre-pandemic levels, according to the employment website Indeed. Government data shows that posted jobs are at the highest level on records dating back to 2000.And consumers are opening their wallets. In April, they increased their spending after a huge gain in March that was fueled by the distribution of $1,400 stimulus checks. With more Americans feeling comfortable about staying in hotels and visiting entertainment venues, spending on services jumped.In fact, service industries, including banking, retail, and shipping,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-coronavirus-pandemic-business-959a1a97847ec7a1dc18d96ade834a8d" target="_blank">expanded at the fastest pace</a>&nbsp;on record in May. The evidence suggests that consumers have begun to embark on a long-anticipated shift away from the sizable goods purchases that many of them had made while hunkered down at home to spending on services, from haircuts to sporting events to vacation trips.The number of people seeking unemployment aid has fallen for five straight weeks to its lowest level since the pandemic began, a sign that layoffs are dwindling. There are still 15 million people receiving either federal or state jobless aid, though that number has also declined from roughly 20 million in February.The fading of the pandemic&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lifestyle-coronavirus-pandemic-health-business-82aa4f9fddcea22918d010c55b5e55b3" target="_blank">produced a disconnect</a>&nbsp;between companies and the unemployed. While businesses are rushing to add workers immediately, many of the unemployed are either seeking better jobs than they had before the pandemic, still lack affordable child care, worry about contracting COVID-19 or have decided to retire early.That mismatch resulted in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-coronavirus-pandemic-business-5dc338627748f7c75ba7e9a040a894d7" target="_blank">sharp slowdown in hiring in April</a>, when employers added far fewer jobs than economists had forecast and many fewer than had been hired in March.Though the economy still has 8.2 million fewer jobs than it did before the pandemic struck, job postings in late May were nearly 26% above pre-pandemic levels, according to the employment website Indeed. Government data shows that posted jobs have reached their highest level on record dating back to 2000.Many businesses blame a $300-a-week federal unemployment benefit for discouraging some of the jobless from taking work. Republican governors in 25 states have responded by cutting off that benefit prematurely, starting this month, before the benefits are scheduled to end nationally on Sept. 6.Becky Frankiewicz, president of the temporary staffing firm Manpower Group’s North American division, said many of the firm’s clients are raising pay and benefits to try to attract more applicants. Some of these companies, particularly in manufacturing and warehousing, are also trying other tactics, like paying their workers weekly or even daily, rather than every two weeks. Manpower is also encouraging its clients to make job offers the same day as an interview rather than waiting.About 60% of Manpower’s temporary placements are leaving their jobs before a temporary assignment ends, Frankiewicz said, mostly because they are receiving better offers.“People have options,” she said. “Companies have to offer speed in cash, speed to hire and a lot of flexibility in how they work.”For now, though, there are signs that many of the unemployed remain cautious about seeking jobs.On Thursday, Tony Sarsam, CEO of SpartanNash, a grocery distributor and retailer, said on a conference call with investors that the company took part last month in a job fair with 60 companies that had 500 jobs to fill.“Only four candidates showed up,” Sarsam said.

Another weak U.S. jobs report, a sign of more hiring struggles

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Police say the “cutting" death of a man in Kansas City, Missouri, is being investigated as a homicide.

The death of 56-year-old Rickey Bishop was reported Thursday.

Police were called Wednesday night to a home. Capt. Leslie Foreman said officers found Bishop inside suffering from an “apparent laceration.” He was taken to a hospital where he died. One person is in custody, but police provided no further details about that person. The killing is the 64th in Kansas City this year.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Police say the “cutting" death of a man in Kansas City, Missouri, is being investigated as a homicide.The death of 56-year-old Rickey Bishop was reported Thursday.Police were called Wednesday night to a home. Capt. Leslie Foreman said officers found Bishop inside suffering from an “apparent laceration.” He was taken to a hospital where he died. One person is in custody, but police provided no further details about that person. The killing is the 64th in Kansas City this year.

Police make arrest in Kansas City man's 'cutting' death

WASHINGTON (AP) —President Joe Biden is trying to break a logjam with Republicans on how to pay for infrastructure improvements, proposing a 15% minimum tax on corporations and the possibility of revenues from increased IRS enforcement as a possible compromise.

The offer was made Wednesday to Republican Sen. Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia as part of the bipartisan negotiations and did not reflect a change in Biden’s overall vision for funding infrastructure.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said Biden examined possible tax code changes from his plans that Republicans might support. The president concluded that a minimum corporate tax could provide some common ground.

“He looked to see what could be a path forward with his Republican colleagues on this specific negotiation,” Psaki told reporters at a Thursday briefing. “This is a component of what he’s proposed for a pay-for that he’s lifting up as a question as to whether they could agree to that.”

Biden has proposed increasing the corporate tax rate to 28% from 21% to help fund his plans for roads, bridges, electric vehicles and broadband internet, and that remains one of his preferred approaches. But the rate hike is a nonstarter with Republicans because it would undo the 2017 tax cuts signed into law by President Donald Trump.

By floating an alternative — there is no minimum corporate tax now on profits — Biden was trying to give Republicans a way to back infrastructure without violating their own red line of keeping corporate tax rates at their current level. The Washington Post first reported the offer.

On Thursday, Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell said he spoke with Capito after the session and is “still hoping” to reach a deal with the administration. But he prefers the GOP approach that is eyeing a scaled-down package, paid for by tapping unspent COVID-19 relief funds, rather than taxes.

“Let’s reach an agreement on infrastructure that’s smaller but still significant, and fully paid for,” he said in Paducah, Kentucky.

The president is essentially staking out the principle that profitable corporations should pay income taxes. Many companies can avoid taxes or minimize their bills through a series of credits, deductions and other ways of structuring their income and expenses.

The president has insisted that the middle class should not bear the cost of greater infrastructure spending. Yet a chasm exists in negotiations because Republicans say that corporate tax increases will hinder economic growth.

The idea of imposing a minimum corporate tax is not new for Biden, who proposed the policy during the presidential campaign last year, and that could turn off some Republicans. The center-right&nbsp;<a href="https://taxfoundation.org/joe-biden-tax-plan-2020/#Key" target="_blank">Tax Foundation</a>&nbsp;estimated that a minimum tax would subtract 0.21% from long-run U.S. gross domestic product.

“He’s been pushing it since the primaries over a year ago,” said George Callas, managing director of government affairs for the law firm Steptoe and a former tax counsel to House Republicans. Callas said that the minimum tax would mostly hit firms such as electric utilities and telecoms that make substantial capital investments as well as companies that rely on paying their employees with stock.

At the same time, both Democrats and Republicans have eyed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/personal-taxes-business-government-and-politics-e6151149b8fdba343a9053e5942c0679">revenues that could come from stepped-up IRS enforcement of unpaid taxes</a>. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., has suggested it could amount to some $1 trillion, but others say the estimate is far lower.

Biden is seeking roughly $1 trillion in infrastructure spending, down from an initial pitch of $2.3 trillion. Republicans, so far, have countered with only $257 billion in additional spending on infrastructure as part of a $928 billion package. The GOP’s new spending on infrastructure would be a fraction of what the president says is necessary to compete globally and boost economic growth.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said during a Thursday visit to Memphis, Tennessee, that both sides appeared to embrace “the principle that something on the order of $1 trillion around the transportation side of things was appropriate.”

Talks over Biden’s top legislative priority have been moving slowly, a daunting undertaking given the massive infrastructure investment, and time for a deal is running out. The administration has set a Monday deadline to see clear direction and signs of progress.

Biden and Capito are set to meet again on Friday, though it’s not clear if the meeting will be in-person.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622762916262.png" alt="Missouri Senator Roy Blunt speaks at a news conference along with from left Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., the GOP's lead negotiator on a counteroffer to President Joe Biden's infrastructure plan,&nbsp; Sen. Pat Toomey, R-Pa., Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyo., chairman of the Senate Republican Conference at the Capitol in Washington. -image courtesy Senate GOP" />
 <figcaption>Missouri Senator Roy Blunt speaks at a news conference along with from left Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., the GOP's lead negotiator on a counteroffer to President Joe Biden's infrastructure plan,&nbsp; Sen. Pat Toomey, R-Pa., Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyo., chairman of the Senate Republican Conference at the Capitol in Washington. -image courtesy Senate GOP</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —President Joe Biden is trying to break a logjam with Republicans on how to pay for infrastructure improvements, proposing a 15% minimum tax on corporations and the possibility of revenues from increased IRS enforcement as a possible compromise.The offer was made Wednesday to Republican Sen. Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia as part of the bipartisan negotiations and did not reflect a change in Biden’s overall vision for funding infrastructure.White House press secretary Jen Psaki said Biden examined possible tax code changes from his plans that Republicans might support. The president concluded that a minimum corporate tax could provide some common ground.“He looked to see what could be a path forward with his Republican colleagues on this specific negotiation,” Psaki told reporters at a Thursday briefing. “This is a component of what he’s proposed for a pay-for that he’s lifting up as a question as to whether they could agree to that.”Biden has proposed increasing the corporate tax rate to 28% from 21% to help fund his plans for roads, bridges, electric vehicles and broadband internet, and that remains one of his preferred approaches. But the rate hike is a nonstarter with Republicans because it would undo the 2017 tax cuts signed into law by President Donald Trump.By floating an alternative — there is no minimum corporate tax now on profits — Biden was trying to give Republicans a way to back infrastructure without violating their own red line of keeping corporate tax rates at their current level. The Washington Post first reported the offer.On Thursday, Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell said he spoke with Capito after the session and is “still hoping” to reach a deal with the administration. But he prefers the GOP approach that is eyeing a scaled-down package, paid for by tapping unspent COVID-19 relief funds, rather than taxes.“Let’s reach an agreement on infrastructure that’s smaller but still significant, and fully paid for,” he said in Paducah, Kentucky.The president is essentially staking out the principle that profitable corporations should pay income taxes. Many companies can avoid taxes or minimize their bills through a series of credits, deductions and other ways of structuring their income and expenses.The president has insisted that the middle class should not bear the cost of greater infrastructure spending. Yet a chasm exists in negotiations because Republicans say that corporate tax increases will hinder economic growth.The idea of imposing a minimum corporate tax is not new for Biden, who proposed the policy during the presidential campaign last year, and that could turn off some Republicans. The center-right&nbsp;<a href="https://taxfoundation.org/joe-biden-tax-plan-2020/#Key" target="_blank">Tax Foundation</a>&nbsp;estimated that a minimum tax would subtract 0.21% from long-run U.S. gross domestic product.“He’s been pushing it since the primaries over a year ago,” said George Callas, managing director of government affairs for the law firm Steptoe and a former tax counsel to House Republicans. Callas said that the minimum tax would mostly hit firms such as electric utilities and telecoms that make substantial capital investments as well as companies that rely on paying their employees with stock.At the same time, both Democrats and Republicans have eyed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/personal-taxes-business-government-and-politics-e6151149b8fdba343a9053e5942c0679">revenues that could come from stepped-up IRS enforcement of unpaid taxes</a>. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., has suggested it could amount to some $1 trillion, but others say the estimate is far lower.Biden is seeking roughly $1 trillion in infrastructure spending, down from an initial pitch of $2.3 trillion. Republicans, so far, have countered with only $257 billion in additional spending on infrastructure as part of a $928 billion package. The GOP’s new spending on infrastructure would be a fraction of what the president says is necessary to compete globally and boost economic growth.Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said during a Thursday visit to Memphis, Tennessee, that both sides appeared to embrace “the principle that something on the order of $1 trillion around the transportation side of things was appropriate.”Talks over Biden’s top legislative priority have been moving slowly, a daunting undertaking given the massive infrastructure investment, and time for a deal is running out. The administration has set a Monday deadline to see clear direction and signs of progress.Biden and Capito are set to meet again on Friday, though it’s not clear if the meeting will be in-person.___

Biden offers tax deal on $1 trillion infrastructure plan

LINCOLN COUNTY, Neb.-A man is in jail after police say he burglarized a home and left something important behind.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622728248287.png" alt="Hewitt photo Lincoln County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Hewitt photo Lincoln County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>By Scott Carlson-North Platte PostLINCOLN COUNTY, Neb.-A man is in jail after police say he burglarized a home and left something important behind.Just before 6a.m. Wednesday, officers responded to the report of a possible burglary in the 1600 block of West 2nd Street in North Platte. Officers made contact with the victim who said she awoke to the sound of footsteps in her house and found lights turned on that had not been on when she went to bed.The victim told police she then observed Destin Hewitt, 21, standing next to a vehicle in her driveway. The victim told police she told Hewitt to leave the property, which he did.Police said further investigation revealed that two window screens had been removed from the home and one window was open.Additionally, police said it was discovered that numerous prescription medications were missing and a cell phone was found in the house that did not belong to the victim. The cell phone was eventually identified as Hewitt's.Officers determined there was probable cause to arrest Hewitt for burglary. At around 1:10 p.m., police said Hewitt flagged down an officer to report that his cell phone was missing.Police said the officer informed Hewitt that the phone had been found at the scene of a burglary and placed him under arrest.A search of Hewitt led to the discovery of several prescription pills, similar to those that had been reported missing from the residence. Hewitt was jailed at the Lincoln County Detention Center on suspicion of burglary and possession of a controlled substance.

State