WASHINGTON (AP) — The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court">Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;on Thursday struck down&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/affirmative-action">affirmative action</a>&nbsp;in college admissions, declaring race cannot be a factor and forcing institutions of higher education to look for new ways to achieve diverse student bodies.

<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/22pdf/20-1199_hgdj.pdf">Click here to read</a> the opinion&nbsp;

The court's conservative majority overturned admissions plans at Harvard and the University of North Carolina, the nation's oldest private and public colleges, respectively.

Chief Justice John Roberts said that for too long universities have “concluded, wrongly, that the touchstone of an individual’s identity is not challenges bested, skills built, or lessons learned but the color of their skin. Our constitutional history does not tolerate that choice.”

Justice Clarence Thomas, the nation's second Black justice who had long called for an end to affirmative action, wrote separately that the decision “sees the universities’ admissions policies for what they are: rudderless, race-based preferences designed to ensure a particular racial mix in their entering classes.”

Justice Sonia Sotomayor wrote in dissent that the decision “rolls back decades of precedent and momentous progress.”

Both Thomas and Sotomayor, the two justices who have acknowledged affirmative action played a role in their admissions to college and law school, took the unusual step of reading a summary of their opinions aloud in the courtroom.

In a separate dissent, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson — the court’s first Black female justice — called the decision “truly a tragedy for us all.”

Jackson, who sat out the Harvard case because she had been a member of an advisory governing board, wrote, “With let-them-eat-cake obliviousness, today, the majority pulls the ripcord and announces ‘colorblindness for all’ by legal fiat. But deeming race irrelevant in law does not make it so in life.”

The vote was 6-3 in the North Carolina case and 6-2 in the Harvard case. Justice Elena Kagan was the other dissenter.

The Supreme Court had twice upheld&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-admissions-us-supreme-court-race-and-ethnicity-racial-injustice-harvard-university-95be5363a3245fbf185babe8423426a4">race-conscious college admissions programs</a>&nbsp;in the past 20 years, including as recently as 2016.

But that was before the three appointees of former President Donald Trump joined the court. At arguments in late October, all six conservative justices expressed doubts about the practice, which had been upheld under Supreme Court decisions reaching back to 1978.

Lower courts also had upheld the programs at both UNC and Harvard, rejecting claims that the schools discriminated against white and Asian American applicants.

The college admissions disputes are among several high-profile cases focused on race in America, and were weighed by the conservative-dominated, but most diverse court ever. Among the nine justices are four women, two Black people and a Latina.

The justices earlier in June decided a voting rights case in favor of Black voters in Alabama and rejected a race-based challenge to a Native American child protection law.

The affirmative action cases were brought by conservative activist Edward Blum, who also was behind an earlier affirmative action challenge against the University of Texas as well as the case that led the court in 2013 to end use of a key provision of the landmark Voting Rights Act.

Blum formed Students for Fair Admissions, which filed the lawsuits against both schools in 2014.

The group argued that the Constitution forbids the use of race in college admissions and called for overturning earlier Supreme Court decisions that said otherwise.

Roberts' opinion effectively did so, both Thomas and the dissenters wrote.

The only institutions of higher education explicitly left out of the ruling are the nation's military academies, Roberts wrote, suggesting that national security interests could affect the legal analysis.

Blum’s group had contended that colleges and universities can use other, race-neutral ways to assemble a diverse student body, including by focusing on socioeconomic status and eliminating the preference for children of alumni and major donors.

The schools said that they use race in a limited way, but that eliminating it as a factor altogether would make it much harder to achieve a student body that looks like America.

At the eight Ivy League universities, the number of nonwhite students increased by 55% from 2010 to 2021, according to federal data. That group, which includes, Native American, Asian, Black, Hispanic, Pacific Islander and biracial students, accounted for 35% of students on those campuses in 2021, up from 27% in 2010.

The end of affirmative action in higher education in California, Michigan, Washington state and elsewhere led to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-affirmative-action-college-admissions-1d37af28939a533551cff45fa577ceb0">a steep drop in minority enrollment in the states’ leading public universities</a>.

They are among nine states that already prohibit any consideration of race in admissions to their public colleges and universities. The others are: Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Nebraska, New Hampshire and Oklahoma.

In 2020, California voters easily rejected a ballot measure to bring back affirmative action.

A poll last month by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnorc.org/">The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research</a>&nbsp;showed 63% of U.S. adults say the court should allow colleges to consider race as part of the admissions process, yet few believe students’ race should ultimately play a major role in decisions. A Pew Research Center survey released last week found that half of Americans disapprove of considerations of applicants’ race, while a third approve.

The chief justice and Jackson received their undergraduate and law degrees from Harvard. Two other justices, Elena Kagan and Neil Gorsuch, went to law school there, and Kagan was the first woman to serve as the law school’s dean.

Every U.S. college and university the justices attended, save one, urged the court to preserve race-conscious admissions.

Those schools — Yale, Princeton, Columbia, Notre Dame and Holy Cross — joined briefs in defense of Harvard’s and UNC’s admissions plans.

Only Justice Amy Coney Barrett’s undergraduate alma mater, Rhodes College, in Memphis, Tennessee, was not involved in the cases.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1667264915999.jpeg" alt="Activists demonstrate as the Supreme Court heard oral arguments on a pair of cases on affirmative action in college admissions, in Washington, Oct. 31, 2022. The Supreme Court ruled Thursday, June 29, 2023, that colleges and universities must stop considering race in admissions, forcing institutions of higher education to look for new ways to achieve diverse student bodies. In a 6-3 decision, the court struck down admissions plans at Harvard and the University of North Carolina, the nation's oldest private and public colleges, respectively. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)" />
 <figcaption>Activists demonstrate as the Supreme Court heard oral arguments on a pair of cases on affirmative action in college admissions, in Washington, Oct. 31, 2022. The Supreme Court ruled Thursday, June 29, 2023, that colleges and universities must stop considering race in admissions, forcing institutions of higher education to look for new ways to achieve diverse student bodies. In a 6-3 decision, the court struck down admissions plans at Harvard and the University of North Carolina, the nation's oldest private and public colleges, respectively. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court">Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;on Thursday struck down&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/affirmative-action">affirmative action</a>&nbsp;in college admissions, declaring race cannot be a factor and forcing institutions of higher education to look for new ways to achieve diverse student bodies.<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/22pdf/20-1199_hgdj.pdf">Click here to read</a> the opinion&nbsp;The court's conservative majority overturned admissions plans at Harvard and the University of North Carolina, the nation's oldest private and public colleges, respectively.Chief Justice John Roberts said that for too long universities have “concluded, wrongly, that the touchstone of an individual’s identity is not challenges bested, skills built, or lessons learned but the color of their skin. Our constitutional history does not tolerate that choice.”Justice Clarence Thomas, the nation's second Black justice who had long called for an end to affirmative action, wrote separately that the decision “sees the universities’ admissions policies for what they are: rudderless, race-based preferences designed to ensure a particular racial mix in their entering classes.”Justice Sonia Sotomayor wrote in dissent that the decision “rolls back decades of precedent and momentous progress.”Both Thomas and Sotomayor, the two justices who have acknowledged affirmative action played a role in their admissions to college and law school, took the unusual step of reading a summary of their opinions aloud in the courtroom.In a separate dissent, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson — the court’s first Black female justice — called the decision “truly a tragedy for us all.”Jackson, who sat out the Harvard case because she had been a member of an advisory governing board, wrote, “With let-them-eat-cake obliviousness, today, the majority pulls the ripcord and announces ‘colorblindness for all’ by legal fiat. But deeming race irrelevant in law does not make it so in life.”The vote was 6-3 in the North Carolina case and 6-2 in the Harvard case. Justice Elena Kagan was the other dissenter.The Supreme Court had twice upheld&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-admissions-us-supreme-court-race-and-ethnicity-racial-injustice-harvard-university-95be5363a3245fbf185babe8423426a4">race-conscious college admissions programs</a>&nbsp;in the past 20 years, including as recently as 2016.But that was before the three appointees of former President Donald Trump joined the court. At arguments in late October, all six conservative justices expressed doubts about the practice, which had been upheld under Supreme Court decisions reaching back to 1978.Lower courts also had upheld the programs at both UNC and Harvard, rejecting claims that the schools discriminated against white and Asian American applicants.The college admissions disputes are among several high-profile cases focused on race in America, and were weighed by the conservative-dominated, but most diverse court ever. Among the nine justices are four women, two Black people and a Latina.The justices earlier in June decided a voting rights case in favor of Black voters in Alabama and rejected a race-based challenge to a Native American child protection law.The affirmative action cases were brought by conservative activist Edward Blum, who also was behind an earlier affirmative action challenge against the University of Texas as well as the case that led the court in 2013 to end use of a key provision of the landmark Voting Rights Act.Blum formed Students for Fair Admissions, which filed the lawsuits against both schools in 2014.The group argued that the Constitution forbids the use of race in college admissions and called for overturning earlier Supreme Court decisions that said otherwise.Roberts' opinion effectively did so, both Thomas and the dissenters wrote.The only institutions of higher education explicitly left out of the ruling are the nation's military academies, Roberts wrote, suggesting that national security interests could affect the legal analysis.Blum’s group had contended that colleges and universities can use other, race-neutral ways to assemble a diverse student body, including by focusing on socioeconomic status and eliminating the preference for children of alumni and major donors.The schools said that they use race in a limited way, but that eliminating it as a factor altogether would make it much harder to achieve a student body that looks like America.At the eight Ivy League universities, the number of nonwhite students increased by 55% from 2010 to 2021, according to federal data. That group, which includes, Native American, Asian, Black, Hispanic, Pacific Islander and biracial students, accounted for 35% of students on those campuses in 2021, up from 27% in 2010.The end of affirmative action in higher education in California, Michigan, Washington state and elsewhere led to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-affirmative-action-college-admissions-1d37af28939a533551cff45fa577ceb0">a steep drop in minority enrollment in the states’ leading public universities</a>.They are among nine states that already prohibit any consideration of race in admissions to their public colleges and universities. The others are: Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Nebraska, New Hampshire and Oklahoma.In 2020, California voters easily rejected a ballot measure to bring back affirmative action.A poll last month by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnorc.org/">The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research</a>&nbsp;showed 63% of U.S. adults say the court should allow colleges to consider race as part of the admissions process, yet few believe students’ race should ultimately play a major role in decisions. A Pew Research Center survey released last week found that half of Americans disapprove of considerations of applicants’ race, while a third approve.The chief justice and Jackson received their undergraduate and law degrees from Harvard. Two other justices, Elena Kagan and Neil Gorsuch, went to law school there, and Kagan was the first woman to serve as the law school’s dean.Every U.S. college and university the justices attended, save one, urged the court to preserve race-conscious admissions.Those schools — Yale, Princeton, Columbia, Notre Dame and Holy Cross — joined briefs in defense of Harvard’s and UNC’s admissions plans.Only Justice Amy Coney Barrett’s undergraduate alma mater, Rhodes College, in Memphis, Tennessee, was not involved in the cases.

Read the decision: Supreme Court rejects use of race for college admissions

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating four suspects&nbsp;&nbsp;in connection to three suspected fentanyl-related overdose cases&nbsp; in Riley County, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.

&nbsp;Ronald Ince, 59, of Manhattan was arrested on requested charges of distribution of a controlled substance causing death, conspiracy to possess a controlled substance with the intent to distribute, and use of a communication facility for a drug transaction. Ince remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $500,000. He has a previous conviction for heroin distribution, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections

Nathan Reeves, 37, of Manhattan was arrested on requested charges of distribution of a controlled substance causing death, conspiracy to possess a controlled substance with the intent to distribute, and use of a communication facility for a drug transaction. Reeves remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $500,000. Reeves’s and Ince’s arrests stem from an investigation into the death of a 36-year-old woman in August 2021.

Caziah Self, 21, of Manhattan was arrested on requested charges of&nbsp; distribution of a controlled substance causing great bodily harm, aggravated battery, and use of a communication facility for a drug transaction stemming from an investigation into the overdose of a 31-year-old man in August of 2022. Self was issued a total bond of $250,000 for this charge. He was also arrested on two Manhattan Municipal Court warrants for failure to appear and theft. Self was also found to be in possession of two guns and a large number of pills suspected to contain fentanyl at the time of his arrest adding additional charges of drug possession with the intent to distribute, drug possession, possession of drug paraphernalia, and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon by a felon. These additional charges hold a bond of $500,000. Self remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $751,750.

Daron Jones, 21, of Manhattan was arrested on requested charges that include two counts each of distribution of a controlled substance causing great bodily harm, aggravated battery, and use of a communication facility for a drug transaction stemming from an investigation into two separate overdoses of the same 21-year-old man in August and October of 2022. Jones remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $250,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687987134211.png" alt="Ince has a previous conviction for heroin distribution, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Ince has a previous conviction for heroin distribution, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating four suspects&nbsp;&nbsp;in connection to three suspected fentanyl-related overdose cases&nbsp; in Riley County, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.&nbsp;Ronald Ince, 59, of Manhattan was arrested on requested charges of distribution of a controlled substance causing death, conspiracy to possess a controlled substance with the intent to distribute, and use of a communication facility for a drug transaction. Ince remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $500,000. He has a previous conviction for heroin distribution, according to the Kansas Dept. of CorrectionsNathan Reeves, 37, of Manhattan was arrested on requested charges of distribution of a controlled substance causing death, conspiracy to possess a controlled substance with the intent to distribute, and use of a communication facility for a drug transaction. Reeves remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $500,000. Reeves’s and Ince’s arrests stem from an investigation into the death of a 36-year-old woman in August 2021.Caziah Self, 21, of Manhattan was arrested on requested charges of&nbsp; distribution of a controlled substance causing great bodily harm, aggravated battery, and use of a communication facility for a drug transaction stemming from an investigation into the overdose of a 31-year-old man in August of 2022. Self was issued a total bond of $250,000 for this charge. He was also arrested on two Manhattan Municipal Court warrants for failure to appear and theft. Self was also found to be in possession of two guns and a large number of pills suspected to contain fentanyl at the time of his arrest adding additional charges of drug possession with the intent to distribute, drug possession, possession of drug paraphernalia, and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon by a felon. These additional charges hold a bond of $500,000. Self remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $751,750.Daron Jones, 21, of Manhattan was arrested on requested charges that include two counts each of distribution of a controlled substance causing great bodily harm, aggravated battery, and use of a communication facility for a drug transaction stemming from an investigation into two separate overdoses of the same 21-year-old man in August and October of 2022. Jones remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $250,000.

4 Kansas men arrested in 3 fentanyl-related overdose cases

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department of Commerce is accepting nominations for the 2023&nbsp;To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards. The popular annual awards program recognizes companies and individuals around the state for the positive impact they make to their communities and to the Kansas economy.

This year’s banquet and award ceremony will be held October 12th at the B-29 Doc Hangar, Education and Visitors Center in Wichita.

“It is important to celebrate the successes of Kansas companies and businesspeople who not only are driving the state economy but uplifting their local communities,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said.&nbsp;“To The Stars&nbsp;recognizes the entrepreneurial spirit and achievement that are on display daily throughout our great state. I would encourage everyone to nominate a company or individual for this notable honor.”

Companies, organizations and individuals can be nominated in the following categories:

The Department of Commerce also will announce both the prestigious Governor’s Award of Excellence winner and the 2023 Exporter of the Year during the banquet and awards ceremony.

“There is no shortage of success stories in Kansas communities large and small,”&nbsp;Commerce Assistant Secretary of Business Development Nadira Hazim-Patrick said.&nbsp;“Spotlighting the best of the best is what&nbsp;To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards&nbsp;is all about.”

To learn more about&nbsp;To The Stars: Kansas Businesses Awards&nbsp;award categories, view past winners and to nominate a business or businessperson, including your own, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmthbnNhc2NvbW1lcmNlLmdvdi90b3RoZXN0YXJzLyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA2MjIuNzg2MjE5NDEifQ.Ajp7k6xlPJvXpJjku4ONAj4n869870Lg-7PNoLtKvbk/s/1303161001/br/207219961394-l" target="_blank">here</a>. The nominations portal will accept nominations through July 20.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577789937052.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDCTOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department of Commerce is accepting nominations for the 2023&nbsp;To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards. The popular annual awards program recognizes companies and individuals around the state for the positive impact they make to their communities and to the Kansas economy.This year’s banquet and award ceremony will be held October 12th at the B-29 Doc Hangar, Education and Visitors Center in Wichita.“It is important to celebrate the successes of Kansas companies and businesspeople who not only are driving the state economy but uplifting their local communities,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said.&nbsp;“To The Stars&nbsp;recognizes the entrepreneurial spirit and achievement that are on display daily throughout our great state. I would encourage everyone to nominate a company or individual for this notable honor.”Companies, organizations and individuals can be nominated in the following categories:<ul>
 <li>AgriBusiness&nbsp;– companies that stand out in the agribusiness industry – including agricultural production, products and services, and agri-tourism</li><li>Apprenticeship Champions and Partners&nbsp;– companies and other entities that excel providing registered apprenticeship programs in Kansas</li><li>Business Innovation&nbsp;– companies from any sector incorporating innovative technologies in their business</li><li>Healthcare/Nonprofit&nbsp;– noteworthy services provided by either healthcare facilities or nonprofit organizations</li><li>Manufacturing/Distribution&nbsp;– outstanding achievement for companies large and small involved in manufacturing and distribution</li><li>Non-Traditional Talent Pools&nbsp;– companies that have gone above and beyond to hire those with prior involvement in the justice system, youth, seniors or individuals with disabilities</li><li>Retail/Service&nbsp;– exceptional performance by businesses selling goods, products and/or services</li><li>Under 30 Entrepreneurs&nbsp;– young entrepreneurs achieving business success under the age of 30</li><li>Welcome Back&nbsp;– entrepreneurs and businesspeople who once left Kansas but have returned to make their mark in the Sunflower State</li>
 </ul>The Department of Commerce also will announce both the prestigious Governor’s Award of Excellence winner and the 2023 Exporter of the Year during the banquet and awards ceremony.“There is no shortage of success stories in Kansas communities large and small,”&nbsp;Commerce Assistant Secretary of Business Development Nadira Hazim-Patrick said.&nbsp;“Spotlighting the best of the best is what&nbsp;To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards&nbsp;is all about.”To learn more about&nbsp;To The Stars: Kansas Businesses Awards&nbsp;award categories, view past winners and to nominate a business or businessperson, including your own, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmthbnNhc2NvbW1lcmNlLmdvdi90b3RoZXN0YXJzLyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA2MjIuNzg2MjE5NDEifQ.Ajp7k6xlPJvXpJjku4ONAj4n869870Lg-7PNoLtKvbk/s/1303161001/br/207219961394-l" target="_blank">here</a>. The nominations portal will accept nominations through July 20.

Nominations open for companies, people making positive community impact in Kansas

<a href="https://www.schmittfuneral.com/obituary/deloris-wasinger?fh_id=12066">https://www.schmittfuneral.com/obituary/deloris-wasinger?fh_id=12066</a>

Deloris Jean Ziegler Wasinger, 86 of Garden Grove, CA, passed away on February 08, 2023, at home. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Deloris was born to Henry and Edith (Hetzel) Ziegler in Trego Co., KS, on November 15, 1935. At the age of three the family moved from Collyer, KS to Grainfield, KS. &nbsp; &nbsp;Deloris attended Grainfield Grade School and graduated from Grainfield High School in 1954. &nbsp;She then attended St. Anthony’s School of nursing in Hays, KS, where she received her R.N. degree. 

Deloris practiced nursing for 47 years and retired in 2004.

On October 12, 1957 Deloris married Harry Wasinger at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Grainfield, KS. They shared 57 years of marriage; they lived in Hays and Manhattan KS, until 1960 when they moved to California. Harry passed away on December 8, 2014. They were blessed with three daughters, Brenda, Cindy and Pam. &nbsp;

Deloris’ hobbies included painting pictures, working outside in her yard, taking care of her many orchid plants and attending her grandchildren events. &nbsp;

Deloris is survived by her three daughters: Brenda and Ken Hammerton of Germantown, TN, Cindy and Gary Peck of Seal Beach, CA, and Pam and Tracy Taylor of Orange, CA; eight grandchildren: Jessica (David) Sawyers, Andrea (Jim) Rusiewski, Jackie (Nacho) Balbontin, David (Samantha) Hammerton, Lindsay (Adam) Gage, Melissa (Eric) Dow, Allison (Ryan) Carroll, Justin (Dana) Taylor; and 11 great-grandchildren; sisters&nbsp; Norma (Alex) Zerr of Grainfield, KS and Louise (Harvey) Wildeman of Quinter, KS.

She was preceded in death by her husband Harry, parents Henry and Edith Ziegler, two brothers, Douglas and Delbert Ziegler and sister-in-law Olinda Ziegler

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 15, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Grainfield, KS. The burial of both Deloris and Harry’s ashes at Grainfield Cemetery will immediately following the service.

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of&nbsp;Deloris Jean Wasinger, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.schmittfuneral.com/obituary/deloris-wasinger/gifts?campaign=obituaryThemed-gifts-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

<h2>Deloris Jean Wasinger,Garden Grove, CA</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687943669038.jpeg" alt="Deloris Jean Wasinger" />
 <figcaption>Deloris Jean Wasinger</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.schmittfuneral.com/obituary/deloris-wasinger?fh_id=12066">https://www.schmittfuneral.com/obituary/deloris-wasinger?fh_id=12066</a>November 15, 1935 - February 8, 2023Deloris Jean Ziegler Wasinger, 86 of Garden Grove, CA, passed away on February 08, 2023, at home. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Deloris was born to Henry and Edith (Hetzel) Ziegler in Trego Co., KS, on November 15, 1935. At the age of three the family moved from Collyer, KS to Grainfield, KS. &nbsp; &nbsp;Deloris attended Grainfield Grade School and graduated from Grainfield High School in 1954. &nbsp;She then attended St. Anthony’s School of nursing in Hays, KS, where she received her R.N. degree. Deloris practiced nursing for 47 years and retired in 2004.On October 12, 1957 Deloris married Harry Wasinger at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Grainfield, KS. They shared 57 years of marriage; they lived in Hays and Manhattan KS, until 1960 when they moved to California. Harry passed away on December 8, 2014. They were blessed with three daughters, Brenda, Cindy and Pam. &nbsp;Deloris’ hobbies included painting pictures, working outside in her yard, taking care of her many orchid plants and attending her grandchildren events. &nbsp;Deloris is survived by her three daughters: Brenda and Ken Hammerton of Germantown, TN, Cindy and Gary Peck of Seal Beach, CA, and Pam and Tracy Taylor of Orange, CA; eight grandchildren: Jessica (David) Sawyers, Andrea (Jim) Rusiewski, Jackie (Nacho) Balbontin, David (Samantha) Hammerton, Lindsay (Adam) Gage, Melissa (Eric) Dow, Allison (Ryan) Carroll, Justin (Dana) Taylor; and 11 great-grandchildren; sisters&nbsp; Norma (Alex) Zerr of Grainfield, KS and Louise (Harvey) Wildeman of Quinter, KS.She was preceded in death by her husband Harry, parents Henry and Edith Ziegler, two brothers, Douglas and Delbert Ziegler and sister-in-law Olinda ZieglerFuneral services will be held on Saturday, July 15, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Grainfield, KS. The burial of both Deloris and Harry’s ashes at Grainfield Cemetery will immediately following the service.To plant Memorial Trees in memory of&nbsp;Deloris Jean Wasinger, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.schmittfuneral.com/obituary/deloris-wasinger/gifts?campaign=obituaryThemed-gifts-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

Deloris Jean Wasinger

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Prosecutors have dropped a misdemeanor assault charge filed last October against Las Vegas Raiders' wide receiver&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/davante-adams">Davante Adams</a>&nbsp;after he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-las-vegas-raiders-nfl-sports-davante-adams-9db797d4dd4fab59f16cea83324f918e">shoved a photographer to the ground</a>&nbsp;as he left the field following a loss at Kansas City.

The case filed in Kansas City municipal court was dismissed June 5, the Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article2767">reported</a>.

Adams' attorney, J.R. Hobbs, declined to comment.

Police in Kansas City, Missouri, have said Adams pushed Ryan Zebley to the ground while running off the field after the Raiders lost 30-29 to the Chiefs on Oct. 10. Police at the time called it an “intentional, overt act” that caused whiplash, a headache and a possible minor concussion.

Adams apologized in his postgame comments to the media and&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/tae15adams/status/1579687398686228480?s=20&amp;t=jZwbBGXeaBWRP2YcD4TL5A">later on Twitter</a>.

“He jumped in front of me coming off the field. I kind of pushed him. He ended up on the ground,” Adams said after the game. “I want to apologize to him for that. That was just frustration mixed with him really just running in front of me."

Zebley was carrying video equipment for a local production company contracted with ESPN to cover the game. He sued Adams, the Raiders and the Chiefs in May, saying he was targeted online and feared for his safety in the immediate aftermath of the incident.

The lawsuit filed in Jackson County Circuit Court is ongoing, the Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/sports/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs/article275795346.html">reported</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665590421736.png" alt="Original citation from Kansas City Municipal Court" />
 <figcaption>Original citation from Kansas City Municipal Court</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Prosecutors have dropped a misdemeanor assault charge filed last October against Las Vegas Raiders' wide receiver&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/davante-adams">Davante Adams</a>&nbsp;after he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-las-vegas-raiders-nfl-sports-davante-adams-9db797d4dd4fab59f16cea83324f918e">shoved a photographer to the ground</a>&nbsp;as he left the field following a loss at Kansas City.The case filed in Kansas City municipal court was dismissed June 5, the Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article2767">reported</a>.Adams' attorney, J.R. Hobbs, declined to comment.Police in Kansas City, Missouri, have said Adams pushed Ryan Zebley to the ground while running off the field after the Raiders lost 30-29 to the Chiefs on Oct. 10. Police at the time called it an “intentional, overt act” that caused whiplash, a headache and a possible minor concussion.Adams apologized in his postgame comments to the media and&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/tae15adams/status/1579687398686228480?s=20&amp;t=jZwbBGXeaBWRP2YcD4TL5A">later on Twitter</a>.“He jumped in front of me coming off the field. I kind of pushed him. He ended up on the ground,” Adams said after the game. “I want to apologize to him for that. That was just frustration mixed with him really just running in front of me."Zebley was carrying video equipment for a local production company contracted with ESPN to cover the game. He sued Adams, the Raiders and the Chiefs in May, saying he was targeted online and feared for his safety in the immediate aftermath of the incident.The lawsuit filed in Jackson County Circuit Court is ongoing, the Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/sports/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs/article275795346.html">reported</a>.

Charge dropped against Raiders' Adams for shoving  photographer in KC

<a href="https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/York-Dwight/5218784/">https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/York-Dwight/5218784/</a>

Dwight A. York, 93, of Oakley, passed away on June 20, 2023, at the Logan County Hospital in Oakley. He was born on August 30, 1929 in rural Gove County to Henry and Alberta (Brown) York, the youngest of three siblings. 

Dwight attended school in a one-room schoolhouse in Gove County and later graduated with the Healy High School class of 1947. Dwight then earned a degree from Fort Hays State University in agriculture and business in 1952. 

The following December, he was drafted into the United States Army. He was stationed in San Francisco, working at the Presidio as a file clerk until his honorable discharge on October 8, 1954. He married Dorothy Arensman on June 15, 1952 at Bushton, and together they had four children: Denise Lynn, Dana Sue, Devon Kay and Daren Dwight. They made their home in Healy, where Dwight was a lifelong farmer and rancher, partnering with his brother Forrest in the farming venture York Brothers. Dorothy preceded him in death in 2002. On September 8, 2002, Dwight married Mary Helen Munk at her ranch in Gove County. Dwight gained a stepson, Jason. Dwight and Mary made their home both at the ranch and in Healy for the next several years, later moving to Oakley. She survives. Farming and ranching were a big part of Dwight’s life for all of his years. After “retiring” he enjoyed staying involved in farming and ranching through Mary’s ranch in Gove County. He had a remarkable memory when it came to every piece of ground and its legal description, which crop was currently on it and how much he thought it would make. His other hobbies included golf, playing bridge, family genealogy, geological exploration, watching sports (especially the Kansas City Chiefs and the Royals) and being with his family. Dwight was a past member of the KLA, the IOOF Hall in Healy, a member of the Healy Methodist Church and a founding member of Lane County Feeders. Dwight is survived by his wife Mary York of Oakley; daughters Denise York (Paula Bailey) of Oklahoma City and Dana (Vance) Shay of Healy; son Daren (Jennifer) York of Scott City; stepson Jason Munk of Colby; sister-in-law Pamela Jennison of Healy; grandchildren Jordan (Logan) Dreiling of Scott City, Josh (Shannon) York of Healy, Camron (Jennifer) Shay of Healy, Darrick York (Meghan Oliver) of Kansas City, MO, Jaylee York (David Nuss) of Seattle, WA, Trinity Munk of Colby, Jaya Munk of Colby, Griff (Courtney) Burdette of Manhattan; seven great-grandchildren, and many special nephews, nieces, friends and family. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Maxine Wilson and brother-in-law Shelby Wilson; brother Forrest York and sister-in-law Gladys York; and infant daughter Devon Kay. Funeral services will take place at the Oakley United Methodist Church at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 24 with Pastor Bob Kelly and Pastor Bud Tuxhorn presiding. Burial will follow at the Healy Cemetery and a lunch will be served at the Healy Methodist Church.

Memorials may be made to Logan County Senior Living, United Methodist Church of Oakley or the Healy Methodist Church and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, P.O. Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. 

For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>Dwight Albert York</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687443926375.jpeg" alt="Dwight Albert York" />
 <figcaption>Dwight Albert York</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/York-Dwight/5218784/">https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/York-Dwight/5218784/</a>August 30th, 1929 - June 20th, 2023Dwight A. York, 93, of Oakley, passed away on June 20, 2023, at the Logan County Hospital in Oakley. He was born on August 30, 1929 in rural Gove County to Henry and Alberta (Brown) York, the youngest of three siblings. Dwight attended school in a one-room schoolhouse in Gove County and later graduated with the Healy High School class of 1947. Dwight then earned a degree from Fort Hays State University in agriculture and business in 1952. The following December, he was drafted into the United States Army. He was stationed in San Francisco, working at the Presidio as a file clerk until his honorable discharge on October 8, 1954. He married Dorothy Arensman on June 15, 1952 at Bushton, and together they had four children: Denise Lynn, Dana Sue, Devon Kay and Daren Dwight. They made their home in Healy, where Dwight was a lifelong farmer and rancher, partnering with his brother Forrest in the farming venture York Brothers. Dorothy preceded him in death in 2002. On September 8, 2002, Dwight married Mary Helen Munk at her ranch in Gove County. Dwight gained a stepson, Jason. Dwight and Mary made their home both at the ranch and in Healy for the next several years, later moving to Oakley. She survives. Farming and ranching were a big part of Dwight’s life for all of his years. After “retiring” he enjoyed staying involved in farming and ranching through Mary’s ranch in Gove County. He had a remarkable memory when it came to every piece of ground and its legal description, which crop was currently on it and how much he thought it would make. His other hobbies included golf, playing bridge, family genealogy, geological exploration, watching sports (especially the Kansas City Chiefs and the Royals) and being with his family. Dwight was a past member of the KLA, the IOOF Hall in Healy, a member of the Healy Methodist Church and a founding member of Lane County Feeders. Dwight is survived by his wife Mary York of Oakley; daughters Denise York (Paula Bailey) of Oklahoma City and Dana (Vance) Shay of Healy; son Daren (Jennifer) York of Scott City; stepson Jason Munk of Colby; sister-in-law Pamela Jennison of Healy; grandchildren Jordan (Logan) Dreiling of Scott City, Josh (Shannon) York of Healy, Camron (Jennifer) Shay of Healy, Darrick York (Meghan Oliver) of Kansas City, MO, Jaylee York (David Nuss) of Seattle, WA, Trinity Munk of Colby, Jaya Munk of Colby, Griff (Courtney) Burdette of Manhattan; seven great-grandchildren, and many special nephews, nieces, friends and family. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Maxine Wilson and brother-in-law Shelby Wilson; brother Forrest York and sister-in-law Gladys York; and infant daughter Devon Kay. Funeral services will take place at the Oakley United Methodist Church at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 24 with Pastor Bob Kelly and Pastor Bud Tuxhorn presiding. Burial will follow at the Healy Cemetery and a lunch will be served at the Healy Methodist Church. Memorials may be made to Logan County Senior Living, United Methodist Church of Oakley or the Healy Methodist Church and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, P.O. Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dwight Albert York

Elizabeth Marie 'Betty' Schwartzkopf, Bison

Elizabeth Marie 'Betty' Schwartzkopf, 96, Bison, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, June 20, 2023, at Locust Grove Village, La Crosse, Kansas.

Betty was born February 3, 1927, at the Krug farm, Rush Center, Kansas, the daughter of Fred B. and Mary (Schenkel) Krug. She was a lifelong resident of Rush County, Kansas. 

A 1944 graduate of La Crosse High School, La Crosse, Kansas, she attended Fort Hays Kansas State College, Hays, Kansas, the summers of 1944 and 1945, during World War II, obtaining an emergency teacher’s certificate to teach school in Nekoma, Kansas, for two years. She was the deputy county clerk for Rush County, Kansas, before she became treasurer for USD #395, La Crosse, Kansas, a position she held for 25 years before her retirement.

She was a member of the United Methodist Church, and United Methodist Women, both of La Crosse, Kansas, where she was the chairperson for church funeral dinners for years. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Rush Center, Kansas, where she was a former Grand Matron, and a former member and officer of the American Legion Women’s Auxiliary, La Crosse, Kansas. She was a member of the Bison Community Museum Board, Bison, Kansas, and a trustee for the Lone Star Township Board. She was the church organist for Hope Lutheran Church, Rush Center, Kansas, gave piano lessons, taught music in the Rush Center school, and played with the Schroeder Band.

On October 21, 1966, she married Clayton G. Schwartzkopf at the United Methodist Church, La Crosse, Kansas. He preceded her in death June 6, 1990.

Survivors include two sons, Leonard D. Eilts (Rose), Kansas City, Kansas, and Roger L. Eilts (Deidre), Prairie Village, Kansas; one daughter, Rayleen B. Hufford (Dennis), Elmendorf, Texas; seven grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and seven great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; an infant brother, Leonard Frederick Krug; and two sisters, Corrine Poxon, and Lavergne Rife.

Per Betty’s wishes, the family has chosen cremation. No services are planned at this time.

In lieu of flowers or plants, the family requests memorials to Locust Grove Village, La Crosse, Kansas, or Midwest Music Foundation of the greater Kansas City area (<a href="https://midwestmusicfoundation.org/donate/">https://midwestmusicfoundation.org/donate/</a>).

Condolences or remembrances may be left for the family at www.janousekfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements were by Janousek Funeral Home, 719 Pine Street, P.O.Box 550, La Crosse, Kansas 67548, 785-22-2517.

<h2>Elizabeth Marie 'Betty' Schwartzkopf, Bison</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687726623476.jpeg" alt="Elizabeth Marie&nbsp;Schwartzkopf" />
 <figcaption>Elizabeth Marie&nbsp;Schwartzkopf</figcaption>
 </figure>Elizabeth Marie 'Betty' Schwartzkopf, 96, Bison, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, June 20, 2023, at Locust Grove Village, La Crosse, Kansas.Betty was born February 3, 1927, at the Krug farm, Rush Center, Kansas, the daughter of Fred B. and Mary (Schenkel) Krug. She was a lifelong resident of Rush County, Kansas. A 1944 graduate of La Crosse High School, La Crosse, Kansas, she attended Fort Hays Kansas State College, Hays, Kansas, the summers of 1944 and 1945, during World War II, obtaining an emergency teacher’s certificate to teach school in Nekoma, Kansas, for two years. She was the deputy county clerk for Rush County, Kansas, before she became treasurer for USD #395, La Crosse, Kansas, a position she held for 25 years before her retirement.She was a member of the United Methodist Church, and United Methodist Women, both of La Crosse, Kansas, where she was the chairperson for church funeral dinners for years. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Rush Center, Kansas, where she was a former Grand Matron, and a former member and officer of the American Legion Women’s Auxiliary, La Crosse, Kansas. She was a member of the Bison Community Museum Board, Bison, Kansas, and a trustee for the Lone Star Township Board. She was the church organist for Hope Lutheran Church, Rush Center, Kansas, gave piano lessons, taught music in the Rush Center school, and played with the Schroeder Band.On October 21, 1966, she married Clayton G. Schwartzkopf at the United Methodist Church, La Crosse, Kansas. He preceded her in death June 6, 1990.Survivors include two sons, Leonard D. Eilts (Rose), Kansas City, Kansas, and Roger L. Eilts (Deidre), Prairie Village, Kansas; one daughter, Rayleen B. Hufford (Dennis), Elmendorf, Texas; seven grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and seven great-great-grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; an infant brother, Leonard Frederick Krug; and two sisters, Corrine Poxon, and Lavergne Rife.Per Betty’s wishes, the family has chosen cremation. No services are planned at this time.In lieu of flowers or plants, the family requests memorials to Locust Grove Village, La Crosse, Kansas, or Midwest Music Foundation of the greater Kansas City area (<a href="https://midwestmusicfoundation.org/donate/">https://midwestmusicfoundation.org/donate/</a>).Condolences or remembrances may be left for the family at www.janousekfuneralhome.com.Arrangements were by Janousek Funeral Home, 719 Pine Street, P.O.Box 550, La Crosse, Kansas 67548, 785-22-2517.

Elizabeth Marie 'Betty' Schwartzkopf

WASHINGTON (AP) — Attorney General Merrick Garland pushed back Friday against&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hunter-biden-irs-justice-department-irs-congress-d242a84d4d6d8e90db68febab168fef7">claims</a>&nbsp;from IRS whistleblowers that the Justice Department interfered with the investigation into Hunter Biden, saying more broadly that attacks on the department’s independence are corrosive.

(Click below to watch a portion of the Friday White House press brief)

The Republican-led House Ways and Means Committee on Thursday released a transcript of testimony from Gary Shapley, an IRS official who, among other things, claimed that Garland had denied a request from U.S. Attorney David Weiss of Delaware to be appointed special counsel. That designation would have would have given Weiss the same status as the prosecutor leading the investigation into former President Donald Trump.

Weiss never made such a request, Garland said Friday, and always had full authority to file charges wherever and however he saw fit against President Joe Biden's son. And Garland added that if Weiss — first appointed U.S. Attorney by Donald Trump — agrees to testify before Congress, the Justice Department will not stand in the way.

“He was given complete authority to make all decisions on his own,” Garland said. “I don’t know how it would be possible for anybody to block him for bringing a prosecution given that he has that authority.”

More broadly, Garland forcefully rebutted criticism from Republicans that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hunter-biden-charges-income-tax-weapon-ea6b78d4bac037da24b485985b99bc1c">a plea agreement for the president's son</a>&nbsp;on tax and gun charges made public this week reflects political influence in the American justice system. Republicans have denounced the deal as evidence of a “two-tiered system of justice.”

“Some have chosen to attack the integrity of the Justice Department … by claiming we do not treat like cases alike. This constitutes an attack on an institution that is essential to American democracy and essential to the safety of the American people,” Garland said. “Nothing could be further from the truth.”

In a separate statement Friday, Biden's lawyer denounced the idea that the investigation cut any corners, and said it would be “dangerously misleading” to make conclusions based on the Shapley transcript.

The transcript included a message Hunter sent to a business associate alluding to “sitting with his father,” seemingly suggesting that his father was aware of his business dealings. Shapley acknowledged the investigation didn’t turn up evidence to prove that, instead finding that it was likely untrue.

Joe Biden has said he’s never spoken to his son about his foreign business. Asked Friday if the president stands by those comments, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre replied: “What I will say is nothing has changed. Nothing has changed, and I will leave it there.”

Weiss' office referred request for comment about the whistleblower testimony to a June 7 letter he wrote to House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan saying he had “ultimate authority” over the investigation.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hunter-biden-irs-justice-department-irs-congress-d242a84d4d6d8e90db68febab168fef7">testimony</a>&nbsp;from IRS agent Shapley and a second unnamed agent who worked on the case detailed what they called a pattern of “slow-walking investigative steps” and delaying enforcement actions in the Hunter Biden case, though it was unclear whether the conflict they described amounted to internal disagreement or a pattern of preferential treatment.

Shapley said Weiss told him and others during an October 2022 meeting that he had been denied special counsel status and didn’t have final authority on charging decisions. Transcripts released Thursday include an email with Shapley's notes from the meeting, and a response from a supervisor saying his notes “covered it all.”

A representative for Shapley called on Weiss and the Justice Department to explain the discrepancy.

Biden’s attorney, for his part, said claims the investigation wasn't thorough are “preposterous and deeply irresponsible.”

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hunter-biden-charges-what-to-know-31ad4a0df292754131e799de2c089fd1">Hunter Biden plea deal</a>&nbsp;came days after the special counsel on the Trump case filed a historic 37-count indictment alleging mishandling of classified documents, which the former president has denied. Trump has likened the Hunter Biden agreement to a “mere traffic ticket."

Associated Press writers Farnoush Amiri and Aamer Madhani contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687609348018.png" alt="White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre Karine Jean-Pierre during Friday's press brief." />
 <figcaption>White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre Karine Jean-Pierre during Friday's press brief.</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Attorney General Merrick Garland pushed back Friday against&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hunter-biden-irs-justice-department-irs-congress-d242a84d4d6d8e90db68febab168fef7">claims</a>&nbsp;from IRS whistleblowers that the Justice Department interfered with the investigation into Hunter Biden, saying more broadly that attacks on the department’s independence are corrosive.(Click below to watch a portion of the Friday White House press brief)<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWhiteHouse%2Fvideos%2F289364610159840%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=1958" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>The Republican-led House Ways and Means Committee on Thursday released a transcript of testimony from Gary Shapley, an IRS official who, among other things, claimed that Garland had denied a request from U.S. Attorney David Weiss of Delaware to be appointed special counsel. That designation would have would have given Weiss the same status as the prosecutor leading the investigation into former President Donald Trump.Weiss never made such a request, Garland said Friday, and always had full authority to file charges wherever and however he saw fit against President Joe Biden's son. And Garland added that if Weiss — first appointed U.S. Attorney by Donald Trump — agrees to testify before Congress, the Justice Department will not stand in the way.“He was given complete authority to make all decisions on his own,” Garland said. “I don’t know how it would be possible for anybody to block him for bringing a prosecution given that he has that authority.”More broadly, Garland forcefully rebutted criticism from Republicans that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hunter-biden-charges-income-tax-weapon-ea6b78d4bac037da24b485985b99bc1c">a plea agreement for the president's son</a>&nbsp;on tax and gun charges made public this week reflects political influence in the American justice system. Republicans have denounced the deal as evidence of a “two-tiered system of justice.”“Some have chosen to attack the integrity of the Justice Department … by claiming we do not treat like cases alike. This constitutes an attack on an institution that is essential to American democracy and essential to the safety of the American people,” Garland said. “Nothing could be further from the truth.”In a separate statement Friday, Biden's lawyer denounced the idea that the investigation cut any corners, and said it would be “dangerously misleading” to make conclusions based on the Shapley transcript.The transcript included a message Hunter sent to a business associate alluding to “sitting with his father,” seemingly suggesting that his father was aware of his business dealings. Shapley acknowledged the investigation didn’t turn up evidence to prove that, instead finding that it was likely untrue.(Click below to watch a portion of the Friday White House press brief)<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWhiteHouse%2Fvideos%2F289364610159840%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=2923" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Joe Biden has said he’s never spoken to his son about his foreign business. Asked Friday if the president stands by those comments, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre replied: “What I will say is nothing has changed. Nothing has changed, and I will leave it there.”Weiss' office referred request for comment about the whistleblower testimony to a June 7 letter he wrote to House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan saying he had “ultimate authority” over the investigation.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hunter-biden-irs-justice-department-irs-congress-d242a84d4d6d8e90db68febab168fef7">testimony</a>&nbsp;from IRS agent Shapley and a second unnamed agent who worked on the case detailed what they called a pattern of “slow-walking investigative steps” and delaying enforcement actions in the Hunter Biden case, though it was unclear whether the conflict they described amounted to internal disagreement or a pattern of preferential treatment.Shapley said Weiss told him and others during an October 2022 meeting that he had been denied special counsel status and didn’t have final authority on charging decisions. Transcripts released Thursday include an email with Shapley's notes from the meeting, and a response from a supervisor saying his notes “covered it all.”A representative for Shapley called on Weiss and the Justice Department to explain the discrepancy.Biden’s attorney, for his part, said claims the investigation wasn't thorough are “preposterous and deeply irresponsible.”The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hunter-biden-charges-what-to-know-31ad4a0df292754131e799de2c089fd1">Hunter Biden plea deal</a>&nbsp;came days after the special counsel on the Trump case filed a historic 37-count indictment alleging mishandling of classified documents, which the former president has denied. Trump has likened the Hunter Biden agreement to a “mere traffic ticket."___Associated Press writers Farnoush Amiri and Aamer Madhani contributed to this report.

🎥 AG, White House respond to latest in Hunter Biden investigation

HUTCHINSON — Though gas prices are creeping up, they are doing so much more slowly than 2022, according to AAA Kansas.

"Things have been relatively stable," Steward said. "We may be in a bit of a gasoline demand lull between Memorial Day weekend and the upcoming July 4 travel weekend. That, coupled with a fairly low and stable crude oil cost have kept prices at the pump pretty manageable."

"We are about $1.40 less per gallon now than we were one year ago," Steward said. "That's significantly cheaper to take those summer road trips."

The spring storms we have had across Oklahoma and Texas do not have the same effect on supply as other weather conditions could that are more common as we get closer to fall.

"Supply really hasn't been interrupted by any hurricanes in the Gulf, for example," Steward said. "We always look this time of year. As we head toward September or even October, hurricane season can certainly interrupt gasoline production in those oil refineries along the Gulf, especially. We've been pretty lucky and haven't seen any of that."

Kansas is still in the ten lowest states for gas prices overall and no county in the state is even up to the national average.

NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON — Though gas prices are creeping up, they are doing so much more slowly than 2022, according to AAA Kansas."Things have been relatively stable," Steward said. "We may be in a bit of a gasoline demand lull between Memorial Day weekend and the upcoming July 4 travel weekend. That, coupled with a fairly low and stable crude oil cost have kept prices at the pump pretty manageable.""We are about $1.40 less per gallon now than we were one year ago," Steward said. "That's significantly cheaper to take those summer road trips."The spring storms we have had across Oklahoma and Texas do not have the same effect on supply as other weather conditions could that are more common as we get closer to fall."Supply really hasn't been interrupted by any hurricanes in the Gulf, for example," Steward said. "We always look this time of year. As we head toward September or even October, hurricane season can certainly interrupt gasoline production in those oil refineries along the Gulf, especially. We've been pretty lucky and haven't seen any of that."Kansas is still in the ten lowest states for gas prices overall and no county in the state is even up to the national average.

AAA: Gas prices still lower and fairly stable

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A former southern Kansas sheriff’s deputy who shot and killed a man with a defective beanbag has been stripped of his peace officer certification.

Virgil Brewer, a former Barber County deputy, was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shootings-kansas-city-c6bb7857c0de89305ee07eddb3e8439d">found not guilty</a>&nbsp;of involuntary manslaughter in the Oct. 6, 2017, death of 42-year-old Steven Myers, who died after Brewer shot him with the beanbag during a confrontation at Myers' home in Sun City.

The Kansas Commission on Peace Officers’ Standards and Training reviewed the shooting last month and revoked Brewer's license, KSHB-TV&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kshb.com/news/local-news/former-kansas-sheriffs-deputy-loses-peace-officer-certification-after-deadly-bean-bag-shooting">reported</a>.

The commission's report noted that body camera video of the confrontation showed Myers complying with conflicting commands from Brewer and another deputy when he exited a shed on his property.

He was not informed he was under arrest or that the beanbag would be used before Brewer fired the shot, according to the report.

The peace officers commission described Brewer’s conduct as “unprofessional” and lacking “good moral character”.

Brewer shot Myers with his own shotgun with a beanbag that he received at a previous job in Texas, and had not been trained to use it before the shooting, according to testimony at the trial. The ammunition had been discontinued for several years because it could cause penetrating injuries.

Prosecutor Melissa Gay Johnson with the Kansas attorney general’s office charged Brewer in October 2018. A Wyandotte County jury acquitted him in November 2022.

Myers' widow filed a federal lawsuit over his death and Kansas officials agreed to a $3.5 million settlement in 2020.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591026923971.png" alt="Brewer's original Barber Co. booking photo" />
 <figcaption>Brewer's original Barber Co. booking photo</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A former southern Kansas sheriff’s deputy who shot and killed a man with a defective beanbag has been stripped of his peace officer certification.Virgil Brewer, a former Barber County deputy, was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shootings-kansas-city-c6bb7857c0de89305ee07eddb3e8439d">found not guilty</a>&nbsp;of involuntary manslaughter in the Oct. 6, 2017, death of 42-year-old Steven Myers, who died after Brewer shot him with the beanbag during a confrontation at Myers' home in Sun City.The Kansas Commission on Peace Officers’ Standards and Training reviewed the shooting last month and revoked Brewer's license, KSHB-TV&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kshb.com/news/local-news/former-kansas-sheriffs-deputy-loses-peace-officer-certification-after-deadly-bean-bag-shooting">reported</a>.The commission's report noted that body camera video of the confrontation showed Myers complying with conflicting commands from Brewer and another deputy when he exited a shed on his property.He was not informed he was under arrest or that the beanbag would be used before Brewer fired the shot, according to the report.The peace officers commission described Brewer’s conduct as “unprofessional” and lacking “good moral character”.Brewer shot Myers with his own shotgun with a beanbag that he received at a previous job in Texas, and had not been trained to use it before the shooting, according to testimony at the trial. The ammunition had been discontinued for several years because it could cause penetrating injuries.Prosecutor Melissa Gay Johnson with the Kansas attorney general’s office charged Brewer in October 2018. A Wyandotte County jury acquitted him in November 2022.Myers' widow filed a federal lawsuit over his death and Kansas officials agreed to a $3.5 million settlement in 2020.

Former Kan. deputy involved in beanbag shooting death loses certification

<a href="https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/Moore-Glenita/5217026/">https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/Moore-Glenita/5217026/</a>

Glenita Ardis Moore, 101, of Oakley, died on Saturday, June 17, 2023, at Logan County Hospital. She was born on October 25, 1921, in Dougherty, IA, to William and Claudia (Bates) Jessup. 

Glenita married Donald M. Moore on November 3, 1940, in Nashua, IA. Glenita was a member of Rebekahs, Monument Mother’s Club, Garden Club and the American Legion Auxiliary. Those preceding her in death were her husband, Donald M. Moore; her son, Daniel Moore; her parents; and four sisters. Survivors include sons, David Moore, Oakley, Paul Moore (Cindy), San Diego, CA, Donald Moore Jr. (Sandy), Monument, and Stephen Moore (Loretta), Oakley; a daughter, Claudia Coulter (Bob), Wheatridge, CO; 17 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; and 9 great-great-grandchildren. The family will receive friends from 10:00-11:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 21, 2023, at Baalmann Mortuary, Oakley. Glenita will be laid to rest in the Oakley City Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Logan County Healthcare Foundation and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, P.O. Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. 

<h2>Glenita Ardis Moore (Jessup, Oakley</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687293536304.jpeg" alt="Glenita Ardis Moore (Jessup)" />
 <figcaption>Glenita Ardis Moore (Jessup)</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/Moore-Glenita/5217026/">https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/Moore-Glenita/5217026/</a>Glenita Ardis Moore, 101, of Oakley, died on Saturday, June 17, 2023, at Logan County Hospital. She was born on October 25, 1921, in Dougherty, IA, to William and Claudia (Bates) Jessup. Glenita married Donald M. Moore on November 3, 1940, in Nashua, IA. Glenita was a member of Rebekahs, Monument Mother’s Club, Garden Club and the American Legion Auxiliary. Those preceding her in death were her husband, Donald M. Moore; her son, Daniel Moore; her parents; and four sisters. Survivors include sons, David Moore, Oakley, Paul Moore (Cindy), San Diego, CA, Donald Moore Jr. (Sandy), Monument, and Stephen Moore (Loretta), Oakley; a daughter, Claudia Coulter (Bob), Wheatridge, CO; 17 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; and 9 great-great-grandchildren. The family will receive friends from 10:00-11:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 21, 2023, at Baalmann Mortuary, Oakley. Glenita will be laid to rest in the Oakley City Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Logan County Healthcare Foundation and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, P.O. Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Glenita Ardis Moore (Jessup)

By A.J Dome <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/grieving-moms-plea-to-kansas-lawmakers-do-something-this-epidemic-is-killing-our-kids/">Kansas Reflector</a>

GARDEN CITY — It took six months for Mariah Magana and her team at Better Together GC to plan and host the first pride festival in Garden City.

Magana, co-founder of the civic engagement group, said she knew in October she wanted to do something, and “we needed to get a plan going.”

The plan materialized Saturday with the community’s inaugural GC Pride Fest. Hundreds of people came to Stevens Park in downtown Garden City for colorful vendors, splashes of rainbows, bubbles, face painting, live music and more. The event celebrating LGBTQ community and culture featured more than 45 vendors, organizations and food trucks.

Better Together GC formed last summer with the goal of introducing civic engagement opportunities to southwest Kansas youth. Isidro Marino, fellow co-founder of Better Together GC, said the group is composed mostly of college-age people.

“Advocacy and activism are something that really attracts us as young people,” Marino said. “We wanted to advocate for our community but also make an event that makes this a safe space and is also a welcoming community event for all.”

Marino, also a Garden City school board candidate, said he has noticed a shift toward LGBTQ acceptance among the largely conservative and religious populations in southwest Kansas, especially among Latino people. That shift is largely driven by events like Pride Fest and conversations among community members, he said.

“I think having people like me, myself, who is Mexican American, and others who identify as gay or bisexual or trans or lesbian … I think by hosting this event and having more community events where people can come out and enjoy each other and talk about issues is really is what’s shifting the culture and narrative of our community, and it’ll only happen as we continue having these events,” Marino said.

Marino and Magana said they didn’t hear or see any negative commentary, in person or on social media, regarding Pride Fest. However, an event last month not associated with Better Together GC, called Playchella, did receive backlash from local church officials for its schedule of events.

The owners of Hidden Trail Brewing in Garden City were set to host a second year of Playchella, an all-ages pride arts festival featuring puppet shows performed by Brett Crandall Studios as a fundraiser for the Wichita chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. The event was well advertised on social media and on flyers posted throughout the community. Cornerstone Church pastor Jason Swann told churchgoers in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/live/hq3tSFgls-E?feature=share">his sermon May 28</a>&nbsp;that learning about the puppet shows “put a fire underneath me.”

Some of the puppet shows performed by Crandall depict the Disciples of Jesus as queer. Swann said in his sermon that the patrons of Cornerstone, which he claimed was the largest church in a 180-mile radius, had a “spiritual seat of authority” over southwest Kansas, and that he was against the event. He told the crowd he pushed back because of the younger children the puppet shows target, even though the event was listed as being for all ages.

Swann said he used the hashtag “groomers” in online statements against the show. “Groomer” is a term applied to pedophiles who influence young children into sexual activities.

Swann said he never called anyone a pedophile, but he did reaffirm his decision to use the term “groomer.”

“They’re utilizing puppets to begin the conversation of, ‘Who are you going to have sex with later,’ ” Swann said in his sermon. “If that ain’t grooming, then I don’t know what grooming is, I guess.”

Swann said he and Cornerstone patrons would not “picket or yell; that’s what dumb people do.”

“We’re going to affect their bottom line,” Swann said, “and next year, if they keep this crud up, they won’t be here.”

In a Facebook post after the May 28 sermon, brewery co-owner Cody Cundiff wrote that he understood some people felt “hurt and attacked” by one of the themes covered in one of the puppet shows.

“I have taken what each of you have said to heart,” Cundiff wrote. “I’m sure we would all rather build a bridge than create a hard line of difference.”

As a compromise, Cundiff and Brett Crandall Studios removed one of the puppet shows that depicts David and Prince Jonathan in the David v. Goliath Bible story as queer. Hidden Trail Brewing bartender Ally Hamilton said the event was still well-attended.

“We really didn’t have any issues and had so much fun that day,” Hamilton said. “Just so much love, all in one place.”

Brett Crandall Studios performed its puppet shows at Pride Fest on Saturday, including the queer David and Prince Jonathan piece. About a dozen children laughed and commented along with Crandall’s enthusiastically performed one-man show.

Engaged couple Kaitlyn Hahn and Tucker Murray walked around Pride Fest holding a sign that read: “Everyone is Welcomed. Free Hugs and Kisses. Love is Not a Crime.” Hahn and Murray have been engaged since 2020.

“She thought I was weird at first,” Murray said.

“I did, I really did,” Hahn said. “But then I came to terms with my weirdness, and it just worked out perfect.”

Hahn and Murray both said it’s important to show compassion for marginalized populations in their community.

“It’s really important no matter where you are,” Hahn said. “Having a (Pride event) now, it just got me super excited. I just had to come out and show my support.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687280738989.png" alt="Actor Brett Crandall performs a part of his one-man puppet show at GC Pride Fest. In this particular puppet show, David and Prince Jonathan of the Bible’s David v. Goliath story are depicted as queer. (AJ Dome for Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Actor Brett Crandall performs a part of his one-man puppet show at GC Pride Fest. In this particular puppet show, David and Prince Jonathan of the Bible’s David v. Goliath story are depicted as queer. (AJ Dome for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By A.J Dome <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/grieving-moms-plea-to-kansas-lawmakers-do-something-this-epidemic-is-killing-our-kids/">Kansas Reflector</a> GARDEN CITY — It took six months for Mariah Magana and her team at Better Together GC to plan and host the first pride festival in Garden City.Magana, co-founder of the civic engagement group, said she knew in October she wanted to do something, and “we needed to get a plan going.”The plan materialized Saturday with the community’s inaugural GC Pride Fest. Hundreds of people came to Stevens Park in downtown Garden City for colorful vendors, splashes of rainbows, bubbles, face painting, live music and more. The event celebrating LGBTQ community and culture featured more than 45 vendors, organizations and food trucks.Better Together GC formed last summer with the goal of introducing civic engagement opportunities to southwest Kansas youth. Isidro Marino, fellow co-founder of Better Together GC, said the group is composed mostly of college-age people.“Advocacy and activism are something that really attracts us as young people,” Marino said. “We wanted to advocate for our community but also make an event that makes this a safe space and is also a welcoming community event for all.”Marino, also a Garden City school board candidate, said he has noticed a shift toward LGBTQ acceptance among the largely conservative and religious populations in southwest Kansas, especially among Latino people. That shift is largely driven by events like Pride Fest and conversations among community members, he said.“I think having people like me, myself, who is Mexican American, and others who identify as gay or bisexual or trans or lesbian … I think by hosting this event and having more community events where people can come out and enjoy each other and talk about issues is really is what’s shifting the culture and narrative of our community, and it’ll only happen as we continue having these events,” Marino said.<h2>Puppet show backlash</h2>Marino and Magana said they didn’t hear or see any negative commentary, in person or on social media, regarding Pride Fest. However, an event last month not associated with Better Together GC, called Playchella, did receive backlash from local church officials for its schedule of events.The owners of Hidden Trail Brewing in Garden City were set to host a second year of Playchella, an all-ages pride arts festival featuring puppet shows performed by Brett Crandall Studios as a fundraiser for the Wichita chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. The event was well advertised on social media and on flyers posted throughout the community. Cornerstone Church pastor Jason Swann told churchgoers in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/live/hq3tSFgls-E?feature=share">his sermon May 28</a>&nbsp;that learning about the puppet shows “put a fire underneath me.”Some of the puppet shows performed by Crandall depict the Disciples of Jesus as queer. Swann said in his sermon that the patrons of Cornerstone, which he claimed was the largest church in a 180-mile radius, had a “spiritual seat of authority” over southwest Kansas, and that he was against the event. He told the crowd he pushed back because of the younger children the puppet shows target, even though the event was listed as being for all ages.Swann said he used the hashtag “groomers” in online statements against the show. “Groomer” is a term applied to pedophiles who influence young children into sexual activities.Swann said he never called anyone a pedophile, but he did reaffirm his decision to use the term “groomer.”“They’re utilizing puppets to begin the conversation of, ‘Who are you going to have sex with later,’ ” Swann said in his sermon. “If that ain’t grooming, then I don’t know what grooming is, I guess.”Swann said he and Cornerstone patrons would not “picket or yell; that’s what dumb people do.”“We’re going to affect their bottom line,” Swann said, “and next year, if they keep this crud up, they won’t be here.”In a Facebook post after the May 28 sermon, brewery co-owner Cody Cundiff wrote that he understood some people felt “hurt and attacked” by one of the themes covered in one of the puppet shows.“I have taken what each of you have said to heart,” Cundiff wrote. “I’m sure we would all rather build a bridge than create a hard line of difference.”As a compromise, Cundiff and Brett Crandall Studios removed one of the puppet shows that depicts David and Prince Jonathan in the David v. Goliath Bible story as queer. Hidden Trail Brewing bartender Ally Hamilton said the event was still well-attended.“We really didn’t have any issues and had so much fun that day,” Hamilton said. “Just so much love, all in one place.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687280664503.png" alt="Engaged couple Kaitlyn Hahn and Tucker Murray wanted to show their support for LGBTQ people. They carried this sign offering free affection. (AJ Dome for Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Engaged couple Kaitlyn Hahn and Tucker Murray wanted to show their support for LGBTQ people. They carried this sign offering free affection. (AJ Dome for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Show of support</h2>Brett Crandall Studios performed its puppet shows at Pride Fest on Saturday, including the queer David and Prince Jonathan piece. About a dozen children laughed and commented along with Crandall’s enthusiastically performed one-man show.Engaged couple Kaitlyn Hahn and Tucker Murray walked around Pride Fest holding a sign that read: “Everyone is Welcomed. Free Hugs and Kisses. Love is Not a Crime.” Hahn and Murray have been engaged since 2020.“She thought I was weird at first,” Murray said.“I did, I really did,” Hahn said. “But then I came to terms with my weirdness, and it just worked out perfect.”Hahn and Murray both said it’s important to show compassion for marginalized populations in their community.“It’s really important no matter where you are,” Hahn said. “Having a (Pride event) now, it just got me super excited. I just had to come out and show my support.”

Pride event celebrated LGBTQ culture in southwest Kansas

WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/robert-hunter-biden">President Joe Biden’s son Hunter</a>&nbsp;has been charged with failing to pay federal income tax and illegally possessing a weapon and has reached an agreement with the Justice Department, according to&nbsp;a letter filed in U.S. District Court&nbsp;in Delaware.

As part of the agreement, made public Tuesday, Hunter Biden will plead guilty to misdemeanor tax offenses and is expected to reach an agreement with prosecutors on the felony charge of illegally possessing a firearm as a drug user. It is somewhat unusual to resolve a federal criminal case at the same time the charges are filed in court, though it is not totally unheard of.

The deal ends a long-running Justice Department investigation into Biden’s second son, who has acknowledged struggling with addiction following the 2015 death of his brother Beau Biden. It also averts a trial that would have generated days or weeks or distracting headlines for a White House that has strenuously sought to keep its distance from the Justice Department.

Christopher Clark, a lawyer for the younger Biden, said in a statement that it was his understanding that the five-year investigation had now been resolved.

“I know Hunter believes it is important to take responsibility for these mistakes he made during a period of turmoil and addiction in his life," Clark said. “He looks forward to continuing his recovery and moving forward.”

The news comes as congressional Republicans pursue their own investigations into nearly every facet of Hunter Biden’s business dealings, including examining foreign payments and other aspects of his finances. It also comes days after a 37-count indictment came down against former President Donald Trump for mishandling classified documents on his Florida estate, another case with even more dramatic political implications.

Joe Biden has also faced questions about his son’s business dealings and drug addiction.

The gun charge states that Hunter Biden possessed a handgun, a Colt Cobra 38 special, despite knowing he was a drug user for 11 days in October 2018. The count carries a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison, but the Justice Department says Hunter Biden has reached a pretrial agreement on that charge. Full details were not immediately available.

The White House had no immediate comment on the case.

WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/robert-hunter-biden">President Joe Biden’s son Hunter</a>&nbsp;has been charged with failing to pay federal income tax and illegally possessing a weapon and has reached an agreement with the Justice Department, according to&nbsp;a letter filed in U.S. District Court&nbsp;in Delaware.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687268829862.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>As part of the agreement, made public Tuesday, Hunter Biden will plead guilty to misdemeanor tax offenses and is expected to reach an agreement with prosecutors on the felony charge of illegally possessing a firearm as a drug user. It is somewhat unusual to resolve a federal criminal case at the same time the charges are filed in court, though it is not totally unheard of.The deal ends a long-running Justice Department investigation into Biden’s second son, who has acknowledged struggling with addiction following the 2015 death of his brother Beau Biden. It also averts a trial that would have generated days or weeks or distracting headlines for a White House that has strenuously sought to keep its distance from the Justice Department.Christopher Clark, a lawyer for the younger Biden, said in a statement that it was his understanding that the five-year investigation had now been resolved.“I know Hunter believes it is important to take responsibility for these mistakes he made during a period of turmoil and addiction in his life," Clark said. “He looks forward to continuing his recovery and moving forward.”The news comes as congressional Republicans pursue their own investigations into nearly every facet of Hunter Biden’s business dealings, including examining foreign payments and other aspects of his finances. It also comes days after a 37-count indictment came down against former President Donald Trump for mishandling classified documents on his Florida estate, another case with even more dramatic political implications.Joe Biden has also faced questions about his son’s business dealings and drug addiction.The gun charge states that Hunter Biden possessed a handgun, a Colt Cobra 38 special, despite knowing he was a drug user for 11 days in October 2018. The count carries a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison, but the Justice Department says Hunter Biden has reached a pretrial agreement on that charge. Full details were not immediately available.The White House had no immediate comment on the case.

President Biden's son reaches plea deal on tax, gun charges

BOSTON (AP) — In early June, sporadic but serious service disruptions plagued Microsoft's flagship office suite — including the Outlook email and OneDrive file-sharing apps — and cloud computing platform. A shadowy hacktivist group claimed responsibility, saying it flooded the sites with junk traffic in distributed denial-of-service attacks.

Initially reticent to name the cause, Microsoft has now disclosed that DDoS attacks by the murky upstart were indeed to blame.

But the software giant has offered few details — and did not immediately comment on how many customers were affected and whether the impact was global. A spokeswoman confirmed that the group that calls itself Anonymous Sudan was behind the attacks. It claimed responsibility on its Telegram social media channel at the time. Some&nbsp;<a href="https://www.trustwave.com/en-us/resources/blogs/spiderlabs-blog/anonymous-sudan-religious-hacktivists-or-russian-front-group/">security researchers</a>&nbsp;believe the group to be Russian.

Microsoft’s explanation in a&nbsp;<a href="https://msrc.microsoft.com/blog/2023/06/microsoft-response-to-layer-7-distributed-denial-of-service-ddos-attacks/">blog post Friday evening</a>&nbsp;followed a request by The Associated Press two days earlier. Slim on details, the post said the attacks “temporarily impacted availability” of some services. It said the attackers were focused on “disruption and publicity” and likely used rented cloud infrastructure and virtual private networks to bombard Microsoft servers from so-called botnets of zombie computers around the globe.

Microsoft said there was no evidence any customer data was accessed or compromised.

While DDoS attacks are mainly a nuisance — making websites unreachable without penetrating them — security experts say they can disrupt the work of millions if they successfully interrupt the services of a software service giant like Microsoft on which so much global commerce depends.

It's not clear if that's what happened here.

“We really have no way to measure the impact if Microsoft doesn’t provide that info,” said Jake Williams, a prominent cybersecurity researcher and a former National Security Agency offensive hacker. Williams said he was not aware of Outlook previously being attacked at this scale.

“We know some resources were inaccessible for some, but not others. This often happens with DDoS of globally distributed systems,” Williams added. He said Microsoft's apparent unwillingness to provide an objective measure of customer impact “probably speaks to the magnitude.”

Microsoft dubbed the attackers Storm-1359, using a&nbsp;<a href="https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/security/intelligence/microsoft-threat-actor-naming?view=o365-worldwide">designator it assigns to groups</a>&nbsp;whose affiliation it has not yet established. Cybersecurity sleuthing tends to take time — and even then can be a challenge if the adversary is skilled.

Pro-Russian hacking groups including Killnet — which the cybersecurity firm Mandiant says is Kremlin-affiliated — have been bombarding government and other websites of Ukraine's allies with DDoS attacks.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-business-atlanta-680cf93f7eb0300127448c35299ad66e">In October</a>, some U.S. airport sites were hit. Analyst Alexander Leslie of the cybersecurity firm Recorded Future said it's unlikely Anonymous Sudan is located as it claims in Sudan, an African country. The group works closely with Killnet and other pro-Kremlin groups to spread pro-Russian propaganda and disinformation, he said.

Edward Amoroso, NYU professor and CEO of TAG Cyber, said the Microsoft incident highlights how DDoS attacks remain “a significant risk that we all just agree to avoid talking about. It’s not controversial to call this an unsolved problem.”

He said Microsoft's difficulties fending of this particular attack suggest “a single point of failure.” The best defense against these attacks is to distribute a service massively, on a content distribution network for example.

Indeed, the techniques the attackers used are not old, said U.K. security researcher Kevin Beaumont. “One dates back to&nbsp;<a>2009</a>,” he said.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/outlook-microsoft-outage-down-ee5430f6a4636b297c64f0c0b695cfc3">Serious impacts</a>&nbsp;from the Microsoft 365 office suite interruptions were reported on Monday June 5, peaking at 18,000 outage and problem reports on the tracker Downdetector shortly after 11 a.m. Eastern time.

On Twitter that day,&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/MSFT365Status/status/1665744417783775232?s=20">Microsoft said</a>&nbsp;Outlook, Microsoft Teams, SharePoint Online and OneDrive for Business were affected.

Attacks continued through the week, with Microsoft confirming on June 9 that its Azure&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/azuresupport/status/1667206178210816002?s=46">cloud computing platform</a>&nbsp;had been affected.

On June 8, the computer security news site BleepingComputer.com&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/BleepinComputer/status/1666873449908776961?s=20">reported</a>&nbsp;that cloud-based OneDrive file-hosting was down globally for a time.

Microsoft said at the time that desktop OneDrive clients were not affected, BleepingComputer reported.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674062921987.jpeg" alt="Microsoft Visitor Center in Redmond, Wash. / AP Photo, Ted S. Warren" />
 <figcaption>Microsoft Visitor Center in Redmond, Wash. / AP Photo, Ted S. Warren</figcaption>
 </figure>BOSTON (AP) — In early June, sporadic but serious service disruptions plagued Microsoft's flagship office suite — including the Outlook email and OneDrive file-sharing apps — and cloud computing platform. A shadowy hacktivist group claimed responsibility, saying it flooded the sites with junk traffic in distributed denial-of-service attacks.Initially reticent to name the cause, Microsoft has now disclosed that DDoS attacks by the murky upstart were indeed to blame.But the software giant has offered few details — and did not immediately comment on how many customers were affected and whether the impact was global. A spokeswoman confirmed that the group that calls itself Anonymous Sudan was behind the attacks. It claimed responsibility on its Telegram social media channel at the time. Some&nbsp;<a href="https://www.trustwave.com/en-us/resources/blogs/spiderlabs-blog/anonymous-sudan-religious-hacktivists-or-russian-front-group/">security researchers</a>&nbsp;believe the group to be Russian.Microsoft’s explanation in a&nbsp;<a href="https://msrc.microsoft.com/blog/2023/06/microsoft-response-to-layer-7-distributed-denial-of-service-ddos-attacks/">blog post Friday evening</a>&nbsp;followed a request by The Associated Press two days earlier. Slim on details, the post said the attacks “temporarily impacted availability” of some services. It said the attackers were focused on “disruption and publicity” and likely used rented cloud infrastructure and virtual private networks to bombard Microsoft servers from so-called botnets of zombie computers around the globe.Microsoft said there was no evidence any customer data was accessed or compromised.While DDoS attacks are mainly a nuisance — making websites unreachable without penetrating them — security experts say they can disrupt the work of millions if they successfully interrupt the services of a software service giant like Microsoft on which so much global commerce depends.It's not clear if that's what happened here.“We really have no way to measure the impact if Microsoft doesn’t provide that info,” said Jake Williams, a prominent cybersecurity researcher and a former National Security Agency offensive hacker. Williams said he was not aware of Outlook previously being attacked at this scale.“We know some resources were inaccessible for some, but not others. This often happens with DDoS of globally distributed systems,” Williams added. He said Microsoft's apparent unwillingness to provide an objective measure of customer impact “probably speaks to the magnitude.”Microsoft dubbed the attackers Storm-1359, using a&nbsp;<a href="https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/security/intelligence/microsoft-threat-actor-naming?view=o365-worldwide">designator it assigns to groups</a>&nbsp;whose affiliation it has not yet established. Cybersecurity sleuthing tends to take time — and even then can be a challenge if the adversary is skilled.Pro-Russian hacking groups including Killnet — which the cybersecurity firm Mandiant says is Kremlin-affiliated — have been bombarding government and other websites of Ukraine's allies with DDoS attacks.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-business-atlanta-680cf93f7eb0300127448c35299ad66e">In October</a>, some U.S. airport sites were hit. Analyst Alexander Leslie of the cybersecurity firm Recorded Future said it's unlikely Anonymous Sudan is located as it claims in Sudan, an African country. The group works closely with Killnet and other pro-Kremlin groups to spread pro-Russian propaganda and disinformation, he said.Edward Amoroso, NYU professor and CEO of TAG Cyber, said the Microsoft incident highlights how DDoS attacks remain “a significant risk that we all just agree to avoid talking about. It’s not controversial to call this an unsolved problem.”He said Microsoft's difficulties fending of this particular attack suggest “a single point of failure.” The best defense against these attacks is to distribute a service massively, on a content distribution network for example.Indeed, the techniques the attackers used are not old, said U.K. security researcher Kevin Beaumont. “One dates back to&nbsp;<a>2009</a>,” he said.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/outlook-microsoft-outage-down-ee5430f6a4636b297c64f0c0b695cfc3">Serious impacts</a>&nbsp;from the Microsoft 365 office suite interruptions were reported on Monday June 5, peaking at 18,000 outage and problem reports on the tracker Downdetector shortly after 11 a.m. Eastern time.On Twitter that day,&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/MSFT365Status/status/1665744417783775232?s=20">Microsoft said</a>&nbsp;Outlook, Microsoft Teams, SharePoint Online and OneDrive for Business were affected.Attacks continued through the week, with Microsoft confirming on June 9 that its Azure&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/azuresupport/status/1667206178210816002?s=46">cloud computing platform</a>&nbsp;had been affected.On June 8, the computer security news site BleepingComputer.com&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/BleepinComputer/status/1666873449908776961?s=20">reported</a>&nbsp;that cloud-based OneDrive file-hosting was down globally for a time.Microsoft said at the time that desktop OneDrive clients were not affected, BleepingComputer reported.

Microsoft: Disruptions to Outlook, cloud platform were cyberattacks

<a href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/manuela-moreno?fh_id=10931">https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/manuela-moreno?fh_id=10931</a>

Manuela “Emma” Granados Gonsalez Moreno, 94, passed away on June 17, 2023, at her home in Great Bend, Kansas. She was born on June 5, 1929, in Holly, Colorado, to Manuel Granados and Francisca Sanchez. 

On February 13, 1960, she married Manuel DeJesus Moreno, Jr., in Great Bend, Kansas. He passed on October 25, 2008.

A resident of Great Bend since 1953 coming from Colorado, Emma was a nurse aide and medical aide at Great Bend Manor. She was a faithful and dedicated Jehovah’s Witness, having enjoyed pioneering with fellow witnesses in the ministries.

<h2>Manuela 'Emma' Moreno, Great Bend</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687176357710.png" alt="Manuela 'Emma' Moreno" />
 <figcaption>Manuela 'Emma' Moreno</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/manuela-moreno?fh_id=10931">https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/manuela-moreno?fh_id=10931</a>Manuela “Emma” Granados Gonsalez Moreno, 94, passed away on June 17, 2023, at her home in Great Bend, Kansas. She was born on June 5, 1929, in Holly, Colorado, to Manuel Granados and Francisca Sanchez. On February 13, 1960, she married Manuel DeJesus Moreno, Jr., in Great Bend, Kansas. He passed on October 25, 2008.A resident of Great Bend since 1953 coming from Colorado, Emma was a nurse aide and medical aide at Great Bend Manor. She was a faithful and dedicated Jehovah’s Witness, having enjoyed pioneering with fellow witnesses in the ministries.Survivors include five sons, Julian Gonsalez of Great Bend, Gilbert (Kelly) Gonsalez of Great Bend, Albert Gonsalez of Topeka, Robert (Barb) Moreno of Topeka, and Richard Moreno of Olathe; four daughters, Alice Delgado of Wichita, Gloria Snow of Great Bend, Rose Cain of Great Bend, and Teresa Moreno of Wichita; thirty-one grandchildren; sixty-three great- grandchildren; and thirty-three great-great-grandchildren.She is preceded in death by her husband; son, Elias T. Gonsalez, Jr.; daughter, Mary Ward; grandson, Eddie Ward; daughter-in-law, Lesli Gonsalez; her parents; and her siblings, Pilar, Julianna, Juan, Antonio, Rosa and Lino.Visitation will take place from noon to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 20, 2023, with the family receiving guests from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at Bryant Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Michael L. Espinosa presiding. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park. Memorials have been designated to Alzheimer’s Association, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Manuela "Emma" Moreno, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/manuela-moreno/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.