JOHNSON COUNTY —Two more suspects have been sentenced for the 2019 murder of a Kansas teen in his new apartment complex in Overland Park.

This week Judge Charles Droege sentenced 26-year-old Alan Michael Hicks to nearly 18-years in prison, according to the Johnson County District Attorney's office.

Judge Droege also sentenced 21-year-old Juriah Sue Jones to ten years in prison for her role in the murder.

In October Hicks pled guilty to charges in the death of 17-year-old Ben Workman who was killed in an apartment complex near 80th and Farley streets in January 2019. Jones pled guilty in September to second-degree murder and aggravated robbery.

Workman had recently moved into his apartment with his girlfriend two weeks before he was killed, according to Overland Park police.

&nbsp;Raymond Cherry was also charged in connection with Workman's death. Cherry was found guilty of first-degree murder and received a life sentence in April, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701967448166.png" alt="Hicks-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Hicks-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —Two more suspects have been sentenced for the 2019 murder of a Kansas teen in his new apartment complex in Overland Park.This week Judge Charles Droege sentenced 26-year-old Alan Michael Hicks to nearly 18-years in prison, according to the Johnson County District Attorney's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701967911587.png" alt="Jones-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Jones-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Judge Droege also sentenced 21-year-old Juriah Sue Jones to ten years in prison for her role in the murder.In October Hicks pled guilty to charges in the death of 17-year-old Ben Workman who was killed in an apartment complex near 80th and Farley streets in January 2019. Jones pled guilty in September to second-degree murder and aggravated robbery.Workman had recently moved into his apartment with his girlfriend two weeks before he was killed, according to Overland Park police.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677204070419.png" alt="Cherry photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Cherry photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Raymond Cherry was also charged in connection with Workman's death. Cherry was found guilty of first-degree murder and received a life sentence in April, according to the district attorney's office.

2 sentenced for killing Kansas teen during robbery at his apartment

DOUGLAS COUNTY —A Kansas man was sentenced December 6, for a high-speed chase in a car stolen from a car dealearship.

John J. Krueger, 37, of Overland Park,&nbsp;was sentenced to 14 months in the Kansas Department of Corrections for fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, according to&nbsp;Douglas County District Attorney Suzanne Valdez.

Judge Sally Pokorny also sentenced Krueger, 37, who pleaded no contest on October 30, 2023, to serve 12 months on post-release supervision.

The charges are from an incident on the morning of October 7, 2023. Krueger took a vehicle from a dealership in Kansas City without permission. The vehicle was later spotted in the 2700 block of Iowa Street. Krueger fled northbound in the vehicle while being pursued by officers from the Lawrence Police Department. With assistance from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, police were able to stop Krueger near W. 15th and Iowa streets.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702136937654.png" alt="Krueger from an earlier arrest in Johnson County" />
 <figcaption>Krueger from an earlier arrest in Johnson County</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY —A Kansas man was sentenced December 6, for a high-speed chase in a car stolen from a car dealearship.John J. Krueger, 37, of Overland Park,&nbsp;was sentenced to 14 months in the Kansas Department of Corrections for fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, according to&nbsp;Douglas County District Attorney Suzanne Valdez.Judge Sally Pokorny also sentenced Krueger, 37, who pleaded no contest on October 30, 2023, to serve 12 months on post-release supervision.The charges are from an incident on the morning of October 7, 2023. Krueger took a vehicle from a dealership in Kansas City without permission. The vehicle was later spotted in the 2700 block of Iowa Street. Krueger fled northbound in the vehicle while being pursued by officers from the Lawrence Police Department. With assistance from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, police were able to stop Krueger near W. 15th and Iowa streets.&nbsp;

Kan. man sentenced for police-chase in car taken from dealership

By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina Post

Two teachers from&nbsp; Salina USD 305 Public Schools, Caleb and Lacie Stewart, skipped this year's traditional Thanksgiving celebration.&nbsp;

While friends and family cooked turkey and stuffing, the Stewarts hung Christmas lights and decorations in the Oval Office and other important White House rooms.

Dozens of volunteers visited the White House to decorate, with Stewarts' group including 15 members to decorate the Oval Office, the Vice President's Office, the Cabinet Room and the Roosevelt Room.

As fellow volunteers milled about the White House, Caleb Stewart said he noticed the camaraderie while decorating.

"We were just there to all work together to decorate the people's house for Christmas," Caleb Stewart said. "The big thing I'm taking away is that it is still possible for everyone to get along and work together toward a common goal."

The Stewarts tune in to the "HGTV White House Christmas Special" each year to watch the process of decorating the White House. This year, they decided to get involved and turned in a volunteer application in September.

The pair nervously waited for a response, and in October, HGTV and White House staff told the couple to show up on Thanksgiving week.

On Wednesday, Nov. 22, the Stewarts arrived, celebrated Thanksgiving Day in Washington, D.C., and began decorating with dozens of other volunteers.

"We started our decorating shift on Friday," Caleb Stewart said. "We decorated all day Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and that was 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. all those days."

The Stewarts strung twinkling lights and decorated Christmas trees throughout their assigned rooms.&nbsp;

While working, Lacie Stewart said she thought of the history of the iconic building and how she had taught her third-grade class at Schilling Elementary about it just a few weeks before.

She teaches about government and American History through a reading unit that took the students on a virtual White House and Washington, D.C. tour.

"My kids were really excited to research that and know those places, and then a month later, I was like, 'Hey guys, remember that White House picture we showed you? We're actually going in there, and I'm going to tell you all about it,'" Lacie Stewart said. "It was really cool to make that connection."

Lacie and Caleb Stewart began teaching eight years ago in Salina, with Caleb starting his career at South Middle School and then moving on to teach high school English at Salina South for the past three years.&nbsp;

Lacie Stewart began teaching at Schilling Elementary eight years ago and continues to teach third grade there.

After returning from Washington, the couple told their students of the experience, from decorating in the Roosevelt Room to shaking hands with first lady and fellow educator Jill Biden.

"The day we got back, we actually put together a little slideshow presentation of some pictures," Caleb Stewart said.&nbsp;

The White House also provided volunteers with a children's book-style booklet that explained the decorations of each room, so the Stewarts shared that with students.

Lacie Stewart said her students excitedly absorbed the information, letting friends and family know about their teacher's accomplishment.

"They had lots of questions," Lacie Stewart said. "After the initial kind of enjoyment, they really kind of thought about it like 'Wow, my teacher did do this!'"

"They were telling other students or parents, and I had a lot of parents after school ask me, 'Is it true that you really went to the White House?' and I was like, 'Your students aren't lying to you, it's true — I really did.'"

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702071243946.jpeg" alt="White House Christmas decorating volunteers stand in front of the festive Presidential Mansion for the 2023 season. Photo courtesy Caleb and Lacie Stewart" />
 <figcaption>White House Christmas decorating volunteers stand in front of the festive Presidential Mansion for the 2023 season. Photo courtesy Caleb and Lacie Stewart</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostTwo teachers from&nbsp; Salina USD 305 Public Schools, Caleb and Lacie Stewart, skipped this year's traditional Thanksgiving celebration.&nbsp;While friends and family cooked turkey and stuffing, the Stewarts hung Christmas lights and decorations in the Oval Office and other important White House rooms.Dozens of volunteers visited the White House to decorate, with Stewarts' group including 15 members to decorate the Oval Office, the Vice President's Office, the Cabinet Room and the Roosevelt Room.As fellow volunteers milled about the White House, Caleb Stewart said he noticed the camaraderie while decorating."We were just there to all work together to decorate the people's house for Christmas," Caleb Stewart said. "The big thing I'm taking away is that it is still possible for everyone to get along and work together toward a common goal."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702071395262.jpeg" alt="Lacie and Caleb Stewart stand in front of one of the decorations in the White House. Photo courtesy Caleb and Lacie Stewart" />
 <figcaption>Lacie and Caleb Stewart stand in front of one of the decorations in the White House. Photo courtesy Caleb and Lacie Stewart</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Decorating the White House</h2>The Stewarts tune in to the "HGTV White House Christmas Special" each year to watch the process of decorating the White House. This year, they decided to get involved and turned in a volunteer application in September.The pair nervously waited for a response, and in October, HGTV and White House staff told the couple to show up on Thanksgiving week.On Wednesday, Nov. 22, the Stewarts arrived, celebrated Thanksgiving Day in Washington, D.C., and began decorating with dozens of other volunteers."We started our decorating shift on Friday," Caleb Stewart said. "We decorated all day Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and that was 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. all those days."<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/H-m_TUT7zoY?si=WS106DCne13NvhgC" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>The Stewarts strung twinkling lights and decorated Christmas trees throughout their assigned rooms.&nbsp;While working, Lacie Stewart said she thought of the history of the iconic building and how she had taught her third-grade class at Schilling Elementary about it just a few weeks before.She teaches about government and American History through a reading unit that took the students on a virtual White House and Washington, D.C. tour."My kids were really excited to research that and know those places, and then a month later, I was like, 'Hey guys, remember that White House picture we showed you? We're actually going in there, and I'm going to tell you all about it,'" Lacie Stewart said. "It was really cool to make that connection."<h2>Teachers for the community</h2>Lacie and Caleb Stewart began teaching eight years ago in Salina, with Caleb starting his career at South Middle School and then moving on to teach high school English at Salina South for the past three years.&nbsp;Lacie Stewart began teaching at Schilling Elementary eight years ago and continues to teach third grade there.After returning from Washington, the couple told their students of the experience, from decorating in the Roosevelt Room to shaking hands with first lady and fellow educator Jill Biden."The day we got back, we actually put together a little slideshow presentation of some pictures," Caleb Stewart said.&nbsp;The White House also provided volunteers with a children's book-style booklet that explained the decorations of each room, so the Stewarts shared that with students.Lacie Stewart said her students excitedly absorbed the information, letting friends and family know about their teacher's accomplishment."They had lots of questions," Lacie Stewart said. "After the initial kind of enjoyment, they really kind of thought about it like 'Wow, my teacher did do this!'""They were telling other students or parents, and I had a lot of parents after school ask me, 'Is it true that you really went to the White House?' and I was like, 'Your students aren't lying to you, it's true — I really did.'"

2 teachers from Kan. helped decorate the White House for Christmas

PONTIAC, Mich. (AP) — A judge sentenced a Michigan teenager to life in prison Friday for killing four students and terrorizing others at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/oxford-high-school-shooting">Oxford High School</a>, after listening to hours of gripping anguish from parents and wounded survivors.

Judge Kwame Rowe rejected pleas from defense lawyers for a shorter sentence and ensured that Ethan Crumbley, 17, will not get an opportunity for parole.

“My actions were what I chose to do. I could not stop myself. ... I am a really bad person. I’ve done terrible things,” Crumbley, who was 15 when he attacked his school in 2021, said before the sentence was announced.

He said he was sorry and pledged to change while behind bars.

Life sentences for teenagers are rare in Michigan since the U.S. Supreme Court and the state’s highest court said the violent acts of minors must be viewed differently than the crimes of adults. But the Oakland County prosecutor said a no-parole term fits Crumbley's case.

Rowe’s decision followed deeply emotional remarks by families of the deceased and survivors who spoke about how the tragedy has affected them.

“Your statements,” Rowe said, “do not fall on deaf ears.”

Crumbley pleaded guilty to 24 charges, including first-degree murder and terrorism.

“We are miserable. We miss Tate,” said Buck Myre, the father of Tate Myre. “Our family has a permanent hole in it that can never be fixed — ever.”

Nicole Beausoleil recalled seeing the body of her daughter, Madisyn Baldwin, at the medical examiner's office, her hand with blue-painted fingernails sticking out from a covering.

“I looked though the glass. My scream should have shattered it,” Beausoleil said.

Jill Soave, the mother of Justin Shilling, told the shooter that he executed a boy who could have helped him navigate awkward teenage years.

“If you were that lonely, that miserable and lost, and you really needed a friend, Justin would have been your friend — if only you had asked,” Soave said.

Crumbley looked down as Soave and others spoke. He also will have an opportunity to address the judge and possibly explain why he believes he should be spared a life sentence.

Kylie Ossege explained how she had urged Hana St. Juliana a “thousand times” to keep breathing while they waited for help on a blood-soaked carpet. Her classmate died.

Ossege, now a college student, was shot and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michigan-oxford-high-school-shooting-ossege-crumbley-450cc3cdd74058649740aa4cc3a7de8c">continues to struggle with daily pain</a>&nbsp;from spinal injuries.

“Being able to swing a leg over my horse is my therapy. It is pure joy,” she said of Blaze. “I have not been able to do it for two years.”

Defense attorney Paulette Michel Loftin has argued Crumbley deserves an opportunity for parole after his “sick brain” is fixed through counseling and rehabilitation.

But St. Juliana's father scoffed at that possibility.

"There can be no rehabilitation,” Steve St. Juliana told the judge. “There is absolutely nothing the defendant can do to earn my forgiveness. His age plays no part.”

In a journal, the shooter wrote about his desire to watch students suffer and the likelihood that he would spend his life in prison. He made a video on the eve of the shooting, declaring what he would do the next day.

More than 20 people gave victim-impact statements by early Friday afternoon. Some wore shirts honoring the fallen students. The judge briefly allowed a framed photo of Myre to be placed near him.

Speakers recalled the day and its aftermath in details large and small. One woman said she's still anxious simply pulling into Meijer, a big-box store where families reunited immediately after the shooting.

Linda Watson said her son, Aiden, who was shot in the leg, still doesn't go to school for a full day. She recalled the family staying in a hotel because a nail gun being used in her neighborhood sounded like a real gun to him.

“Aiden will be dealing with this for the rest of his life. ... This shooter — this monster — should have to feel everything hard and painful for the rest of his life," Watson said.

Like their son, Jennifer and James Crumbley are locked up in the county jail. They are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oxford-school-shooting-michigan-ethan-crumbley-654c839914eb3a36ae43a7bc8dd9bacd">awaiting trial on involuntary manslaughter charges</a>, accused of making a gun accessible at home and neglecting the shooter's mental health.

Crumbley and his parents met with school staff on the day of the shooting after a teacher noticed violent drawings. But no one checked his backpack for a gun and he was allowed to stay.

The shooting happened in Oxford Township, about 40 miles (60 kilometers) north of Detroit. Besides&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-football-michigan-77eb45f22f5d9dab802e4378608ca307">the four students</a>&nbsp;who were killed, six more students and a teacher also were wounded.

The Oxford school district hired an outside group to conduct an independent investigation.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/investigation-crumbley-oxford-high-shooting-school-899e59fdce25d92d7307dd0b1ddcea18">A report released</a>&nbsp;in October said “missteps at each level” — school board, administrators, staff — contributed to the tragedy.

Crumbley's behavior in class, including looking at a shooting video and gun ammunition on his phone, should have identified him as a “potential threat of violence,” the report said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638551635768.png" alt="Ethan Crumbley as shown in the original booking photo in 2021-photo Oakland County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Ethan Crumbley as shown in the original booking photo in 2021-photo Oakland County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>PONTIAC, Mich. (AP) — A judge sentenced a Michigan teenager to life in prison Friday for killing four students and terrorizing others at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/oxford-high-school-shooting">Oxford High School</a>, after listening to hours of gripping anguish from parents and wounded survivors.Judge Kwame Rowe rejected pleas from defense lawyers for a shorter sentence and ensured that Ethan Crumbley, 17, will not get an opportunity for parole.“My actions were what I chose to do. I could not stop myself. ... I am a really bad person. I’ve done terrible things,” Crumbley, who was 15 when he attacked his school in 2021, said before the sentence was announced.He said he was sorry and pledged to change while behind bars.Life sentences for teenagers are rare in Michigan since the U.S. Supreme Court and the state’s highest court said the violent acts of minors must be viewed differently than the crimes of adults. But the Oakland County prosecutor said a no-parole term fits Crumbley's case.Rowe’s decision followed deeply emotional remarks by families of the deceased and survivors who spoke about how the tragedy has affected them.“Your statements,” Rowe said, “do not fall on deaf ears.”Crumbley pleaded guilty to 24 charges, including first-degree murder and terrorism.“We are miserable. We miss Tate,” said Buck Myre, the father of Tate Myre. “Our family has a permanent hole in it that can never be fixed — ever.”Nicole Beausoleil recalled seeing the body of her daughter, Madisyn Baldwin, at the medical examiner's office, her hand with blue-painted fingernails sticking out from a covering.“I looked though the glass. My scream should have shattered it,” Beausoleil said.Jill Soave, the mother of Justin Shilling, told the shooter that he executed a boy who could have helped him navigate awkward teenage years.“If you were that lonely, that miserable and lost, and you really needed a friend, Justin would have been your friend — if only you had asked,” Soave said.Crumbley looked down as Soave and others spoke. He also will have an opportunity to address the judge and possibly explain why he believes he should be spared a life sentence.Kylie Ossege explained how she had urged Hana St. Juliana a “thousand times” to keep breathing while they waited for help on a blood-soaked carpet. Her classmate died.Ossege, now a college student, was shot and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michigan-oxford-high-school-shooting-ossege-crumbley-450cc3cdd74058649740aa4cc3a7de8c">continues to struggle with daily pain</a>&nbsp;from spinal injuries.“Being able to swing a leg over my horse is my therapy. It is pure joy,” she said of Blaze. “I have not been able to do it for two years.”Defense attorney Paulette Michel Loftin has argued Crumbley deserves an opportunity for parole after his “sick brain” is fixed through counseling and rehabilitation.But St. Juliana's father scoffed at that possibility."There can be no rehabilitation,” Steve St. Juliana told the judge. “There is absolutely nothing the defendant can do to earn my forgiveness. His age plays no part.”In a journal, the shooter wrote about his desire to watch students suffer and the likelihood that he would spend his life in prison. He made a video on the eve of the shooting, declaring what he would do the next day.More than 20 people gave victim-impact statements by early Friday afternoon. Some wore shirts honoring the fallen students. The judge briefly allowed a framed photo of Myre to be placed near him.Speakers recalled the day and its aftermath in details large and small. One woman said she's still anxious simply pulling into Meijer, a big-box store where families reunited immediately after the shooting.Linda Watson said her son, Aiden, who was shot in the leg, still doesn't go to school for a full day. She recalled the family staying in a hotel because a nail gun being used in her neighborhood sounded like a real gun to him.“Aiden will be dealing with this for the rest of his life. ... This shooter — this monster — should have to feel everything hard and painful for the rest of his life," Watson said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638621694054.png" alt="Jennifeer Crumbley Oakland Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Jennifeer Crumbley Oakland Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>Like their son, Jennifer and James Crumbley are locked up in the county jail. They are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oxford-school-shooting-michigan-ethan-crumbley-654c839914eb3a36ae43a7bc8dd9bacd">awaiting trial on involuntary manslaughter charges</a>, accused of making a gun accessible at home and neglecting the shooter's mental health.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638621716369.png" alt="James Crumbley-photo Oakland Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>James Crumbley-photo Oakland Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>Crumbley and his parents met with school staff on the day of the shooting after a teacher noticed violent drawings. But no one checked his backpack for a gun and he was allowed to stay.The shooting happened in Oxford Township, about 40 miles (60 kilometers) north of Detroit. Besides&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-football-michigan-77eb45f22f5d9dab802e4378608ca307">the four students</a>&nbsp;who were killed, six more students and a teacher also were wounded.The Oxford school district hired an outside group to conduct an independent investigation.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/investigation-crumbley-oxford-high-shooting-school-899e59fdce25d92d7307dd0b1ddcea18">A report released</a>&nbsp;in October said “missteps at each level” — school board, administrators, staff — contributed to the tragedy.Crumbley's behavior in class, including looking at a shooting video and gun ammunition on his phone, should have identified him as a “potential threat of violence,” the report said.

Teen sentenced for Michigan high school attack that left 4 dead

Garden City- Laynie Schiffelbein, 64, died on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at St Catherine Hospital in Garden City. She was born on August 22, 1959 at Garden City the daughter of Charles Bertraum &amp; Billie Mae (Jacks) Sinclair. She married Tim Schiffelbein on October 15, 1982 in Garden City.

Laynie graduated from Garden City High School in 1977 and Kansas State University in 1981 with her Bachelor Of Arts in Education. She later earned her Masters from Emporia State University. She started her high school English teaching career in Spring Hill before moving to Perryton, Texas where she taught for 18 years. In 2003 she and her husband moved back to Garden City where she taught English and later became the Technology Coordinator for USD # 457. She was part of Community Congregational Church in Garden City and also belonged to the KNEA and NEA teaching associations. She enjoyed her horses, crafts, interior home projects, especially assigning her kids duties, family photos and especially family holiday celebrations.

She is survived by her Husband- Tim Schiffelbein, 3 Sons- Geoff Schiffelbein of Raytown, Missouri, Tyler Schiffelbein of Great Bend and Tucker Schiffelbein of Garden City, Daughter- Emma Jackson of Overland Park, 2 Brothers- C. Brent Sinclair of Garden City and Kent Sinclair of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina and Grandson- Bryant Alan Schiffelbein.Funeral Service will be at 10:30 AM Friday, December 15 at Community Congregational Church with Rev Jeff Starkey officiating. Burial will be in Valley View Cemetery in Garden City. Memorials are suggested to Schiffelbein Scholarship Fund in care of Garnand Funeral Home. Friends may call from Noon to 8:00 PM Thursday at Garnand Funeral Home. Condolences may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702073887584.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Garden City- Laynie Schiffelbein, 64, died on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at St Catherine Hospital in Garden City. She was born on August 22, 1959 at Garden City the daughter of Charles Bertraum &amp; Billie Mae (Jacks) Sinclair. She married Tim Schiffelbein on October 15, 1982 in Garden City.Laynie graduated from Garden City High School in 1977 and Kansas State University in 1981 with her Bachelor Of Arts in Education. She later earned her Masters from Emporia State University. She started her high school English teaching career in Spring Hill before moving to Perryton, Texas where she taught for 18 years. In 2003 she and her husband moved back to Garden City where she taught English and later became the Technology Coordinator for USD # 457. She was part of Community Congregational Church in Garden City and also belonged to the KNEA and NEA teaching associations. She enjoyed her horses, crafts, interior home projects, especially assigning her kids duties, family photos and especially family holiday celebrations.She is survived by her Husband- Tim Schiffelbein, 3 Sons- Geoff Schiffelbein of Raytown, Missouri, Tyler Schiffelbein of Great Bend and Tucker Schiffelbein of Garden City, Daughter- Emma Jackson of Overland Park, 2 Brothers- C. Brent Sinclair of Garden City and Kent Sinclair of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina and Grandson- Bryant Alan Schiffelbein.Funeral Service will be at 10:30 AM Friday, December 15 at Community Congregational Church with Rev Jeff Starkey officiating. Burial will be in Valley View Cemetery in Garden City. Memorials are suggested to Schiffelbein Scholarship Fund in care of Garnand Funeral Home. Friends may call from Noon to 8:00 PM Thursday at Garnand Funeral Home. Condolences may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com&nbsp;&nbsp;

Laynie Schiffelbein

MANHATTAN —Kansas State University president Richard Linton on Friday finally addressed&nbsp; rumors and the dismissal of Forward Nae’Qwan Tomlin from the basketball team.

"I am grateful to have the opportunity to address our university community — students, faculty, staff, alumni, fans and friends — regarding the questions and sentiments permeating social media and other events in recent days. Your passion demonstrates your interest in this university’s future, and we must all be committed to doing what is best for K-State. I want you to know that I am also committed to sharing our processes with transparency in regard to how we approach developing every student to meet the standards of this university. "

"We share a common aspiration to develop young men and women to make our world a better place. Our faculty, staff, coaches and administrators work every day to teach, guide, mentor and, at times, hold accountable members of our community. I recognize that leaders are often called upon to make difficult decisions. Some difficult decisions are very visible; others are not. Some of the policies that govern our decision-making are widely understood, yet again, others are not. As difficult decisions are made, it is also important that we have a sense of community and accountability. "

"The principal question at the heart of Nae’Qwan Tomlin’s release from the men’s basketball team seems to be around understanding the role a university president plays in student-athlete conduct decisions. I want to take the opportunity to outline the policy governing this process in full transparency."

"The NCAA Board of Governors has required each member institution to adopt a “serious misconduct policy” covering a number of potential allegations, including Title IX. Under the university’s serious misconduct policy, the university president is involved in collaboration with the athletic director and head coach when making a final decision concerning a student-athlete’s conduct and team membership."&nbsp;

"The decision to release Nae’Qwan from the men’s basketball team was made in full compliance with all applicable policies. When decisions like this are made, a range of factors are considered, including the entire history of a student athlete’s behavior."

"The reporting that this decision was made solely due to an incident at a bar in Aggieville is not accurate."

 Just before 2a.m. October 29,&nbsp;police arrested&nbsp; Tomlin at Tubby's Sports Bar, 1127 Moro Street in Manhattan on a requested charge of Disorderly conduct; Brawling or fighting, according to the&nbsp;Riley County Police Department arrest report.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Linton's letter continues, "There remains much we cannot share with the university community under federal laws, namely FERPA, which protects a student’s right to privacy while attending a university. I know this is difficult, as you want to understand all that has transpired. But in the absence of being able to share any more specifics, I hope that the details I am sharing today help bring resolution to any lingering questions."

"I want you to know that our university and our athletics department are unified. There is no “us” versus “them." Together, we are One K-State. The relationship between the university, athletics and the K-State community at large is special, and I will never take it for granted."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687440596492.jpeg" alt="Dr. Richard Linton-Photo Courtesy Kansas State University" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Richard Linton-Photo Courtesy Kansas State University</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN —Kansas State University president Richard Linton on Friday finally addressed&nbsp; rumors and the dismissal of Forward Nae’Qwan Tomlin from the basketball team."I am grateful to have the opportunity to address our university community — students, faculty, staff, alumni, fans and friends — regarding the questions and sentiments permeating social media and other events in recent days. Your passion demonstrates your interest in this university’s future, and we must all be committed to doing what is best for K-State. I want you to know that I am also committed to sharing our processes with transparency in regard to how we approach developing every student to meet the standards of this university. ""We share a common aspiration to develop young men and women to make our world a better place. Our faculty, staff, coaches and administrators work every day to teach, guide, mentor and, at times, hold accountable members of our community. I recognize that leaders are often called upon to make difficult decisions. Some difficult decisions are very visible; others are not. Some of the policies that govern our decision-making are widely understood, yet again, others are not. As difficult decisions are made, it is also important that we have a sense of community and accountability. ""The principal question at the heart of Nae’Qwan Tomlin’s release from the men’s basketball team seems to be around understanding the role a university president plays in student-athlete conduct decisions. I want to take the opportunity to outline the policy governing this process in full transparency.""The NCAA Board of Governors has required each member institution to adopt a “serious misconduct policy” covering a number of potential allegations, including Title IX. Under the university’s serious misconduct policy, the university president is involved in collaboration with the athletic director and head coach when making a final decision concerning a student-athlete’s conduct and team membership."&nbsp;"The decision to release Nae’Qwan from the men’s basketball team was made in full compliance with all applicable policies. When decisions like this are made, a range of factors are considered, including the entire history of a student athlete’s behavior.""The reporting that this decision was made solely due to an incident at a bar in Aggieville is not accurate." Just before 2a.m. October 29,&nbsp;police arrested&nbsp; Tomlin at Tubby's Sports Bar, 1127 Moro Street in Manhattan on a requested charge of Disorderly conduct; Brawling or fighting, according to the&nbsp;Riley County Police Department arrest report.&nbsp;&nbsp;Linton's letter continues, "There remains much we cannot share with the university community under federal laws, namely FERPA, which protects a student’s right to privacy while attending a university. I know this is difficult, as you want to understand all that has transpired. But in the absence of being able to share any more specifics, I hope that the details I am sharing today help bring resolution to any lingering questions.""I want you to know that our university and our athletics department are unified. There is no “us” versus “them." Together, we are One K-State. The relationship between the university, athletics and the K-State community at large is special, and I will never take it for granted."

K-State president addresses rumors on Nae'Qwan Tomlin's dismissal

Tuesday, October 6th, 1931 - Wednesday, December 6th, 2023

<h2>Donald Robert Antholz</h2>Tuesday, October 6th, 1931 - Wednesday, December 6th, 2023<h2>Service Details</h2><ul>
 <li>Interment at Fairview Cemetery in Atwood.</li>
 </ul>

Donald Antholz

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports Writer

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Bills and Chiefs are accustomed to playing each other with the NFL spotlight shining squarely upon them.

There was that AFC championship game a few of years ago, when Buffalo quarterback Josh Allen and Kansas City counterpart Patrick Mahomes went toe-to-toe for four quarters. And the divisional playoff game the following season, when Mahomes needed a mere 13 seconds to march his team into range for a tying field goal, then led the Chiefs to victory in overtime.

Even their games the past two Octobers have been must-see TV featuring two of the league's best teams.

Yet there is a different feel surrounding the Bills' return to Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday.

Buffalo is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/buffalo-bills-josh-allen-eagles-5705b92b6f2a85b680b7b1245fe1445f">muddling along at 6-6</a>&nbsp;and outside the current playoff picture, the first time since Allen's rookie season in 2018 that the Bills were .500 or worse at this point in the season. And the Chiefs have lost three of their last five games,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-packers-score-e3973a6590b5cee35113222dc2e9d552">falling to 8-4</a>&nbsp;and suddenly looking up at Baltimore and Miami in the AFC standings.

“We understand what’s in front of us and what situation we’re in,” Allen said , “but we've got a lot of guys in this locker room that are very excited to be back, and we have a very good feeling in this locker room right now for what we need to do.”

The Bills are in their current predicament largely because of their inability to win close games. Each of their losses have been by six points or fewer, including four losses in the six games they played before getting last week off.

With Dallas and Miami still on the schedule, their path back to the playoffs won't be an easy one.

“We have to have a somewhat playoff mentality going forward,” Bills center Mitch Morse said, “and that's not going to guarantee us to win all the games. But we can't reach our goal if we don't play, work, practice, come together with a sense of urgency.”

The Chiefs have a similar sense of urgency coming off their loss last Sunday in Green Bay. They squandered control of their own destiny when it came to the No. 1 seed in the playoffs, and the AFC's lone first-round bye, with the lackluster 27-19 defeat.

“I've been on a team that was 6-4 and ended up winning the Super Bowl,” Mahomes said. “We have confidence every week that we’re going to find a way to win. Obviously, these last few weeks we’ve lost a couple, but we still have that mindset.”

Unlike the Bills, though, the Chiefs do not face anyone with a winning record the rest of the regular season.

“We can’t lose three out of four, or three out of five. It’s a critical situation,” Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones said, "especially where we’re trying to be in the next few weeks. We have to correct the errors, and we have to correct them fast.”

Bills pass rusher Von Miller is expected to play Sunday despite&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/von-miller-buffalo-bills-assault-dallas-2d634ebf2d4824e71cf1f486ba96e612">allegations of domestic violence</a>&nbsp;made against him during their week off.

Miller turned himself in to police in a Dallas suburb after being charged in a warrant with domestic violence against the mother of his children, who is pregnant. He faces a charge of third-degree felony assault of a pregnant woman.

“No one wants their name associated with any accusation like that,” Buffalo general manager Brandon Beane said. “But things happen sometimes, and again, we have to remember people, we have to give them their fair due process.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-3692851f083b4b6948f2c3a0fe9c29f8">The Chiefs</a>&nbsp;are unlikely to have linebacker Drue Tranquill (concussion), left tackle Donovan Smith (neck) and safety Bryan Cook (ankle), while running back Isiah Pacheco is nursing a bruised shoulder. But they are hopeful that linebacker Nick Bolton will be back soon from injured reserve, where he landed after wrist surgery, providing a big boost to a banged-up defense.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/buffalo-bills-dawson-knox-kaiir-elam-cd1f8666ea5de0150bbbb39da04fbe03">The Bills</a>&nbsp;aren't going to give the Chiefs any sympathy when it comes to injuries. Tight end Dalton Knox has missed five games after his own wrist surgery and cornerback Kaiir Elam four to an ankle injury, but both resumed practicing this week, raising hopes they will soon come off IR. Meanwhile, cornerback Dane Jackson cleared the concussion protocol and safety Taylor Rapp was back at practice after missing a game with a neck injury.

Allen and Mahomes have been so good for so long that it becomes a big storyline whenever things go awry. In both of their cases, turnovers have been a problem this season.

Allen has committed at least one in eight straight games — nine interceptions, two lost fumbles — while Mahomes has thrown 10 picks and is on pace to set a career high.

The Bills have scored 66 points in their two games since offensive coordinator&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ken-dorsey-fired-bills-offensive-coordinator-8807463491b24503fe8d7b1b7d667d6c#:~:text=(AP)%20%E2%80%94%20Witnessing%20a%20troubling,coordinator%20Ken%20Dorsey%20on%20Tuesday.">Ken Dorsey was fired</a>&nbsp;and quarterbacks coach Joe Brady took over; they had scored 123 in Dorsey's final six games total. But that doesn't mean the Chiefs are writing off everything that Buffalo did over its first 10 games this season.

“There's some differences,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said, "but there’s also some of the same things. They didn’t completely can the offense there. I think we’ll have a good feel for what they do.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698747044273.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) runs with the ball as Denver Broncos inside linebacker Josey Jewell (47) and safety Justin Simmons (31) defend during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 29, 2023, in Denver. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) runs with the ball as Denver Broncos inside linebacker Josey Jewell (47) and safety Justin Simmons (31) defend during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 29, 2023, in Denver. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Bills and Chiefs are accustomed to playing each other with the NFL spotlight shining squarely upon them.There was that AFC championship game a few of years ago, when Buffalo quarterback Josh Allen and Kansas City counterpart Patrick Mahomes went toe-to-toe for four quarters. And the divisional playoff game the following season, when Mahomes needed a mere 13 seconds to march his team into range for a tying field goal, then led the Chiefs to victory in overtime.Even their games the past two Octobers have been must-see TV featuring two of the league's best teams.Yet there is a different feel surrounding the Bills' return to Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday.Buffalo is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/buffalo-bills-josh-allen-eagles-5705b92b6f2a85b680b7b1245fe1445f">muddling along at 6-6</a>&nbsp;and outside the current playoff picture, the first time since Allen's rookie season in 2018 that the Bills were .500 or worse at this point in the season. And the Chiefs have lost three of their last five games,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-packers-score-e3973a6590b5cee35113222dc2e9d552">falling to 8-4</a>&nbsp;and suddenly looking up at Baltimore and Miami in the AFC standings.“We understand what’s in front of us and what situation we’re in,” Allen said , “but we've got a lot of guys in this locker room that are very excited to be back, and we have a very good feeling in this locker room right now for what we need to do.”The Bills are in their current predicament largely because of their inability to win close games. Each of their losses have been by six points or fewer, including four losses in the six games they played before getting last week off.With Dallas and Miami still on the schedule, their path back to the playoffs won't be an easy one.“We have to have a somewhat playoff mentality going forward,” Bills center Mitch Morse said, “and that's not going to guarantee us to win all the games. But we can't reach our goal if we don't play, work, practice, come together with a sense of urgency.”The Chiefs have a similar sense of urgency coming off their loss last Sunday in Green Bay. They squandered control of their own destiny when it came to the No. 1 seed in the playoffs, and the AFC's lone first-round bye, with the lackluster 27-19 defeat.“I've been on a team that was 6-4 and ended up winning the Super Bowl,” Mahomes said. “We have confidence every week that we’re going to find a way to win. Obviously, these last few weeks we’ve lost a couple, but we still have that mindset.”Unlike the Bills, though, the Chiefs do not face anyone with a winning record the rest of the regular season.“We can’t lose three out of four, or three out of five. It’s a critical situation,” Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones said, "especially where we’re trying to be in the next few weeks. We have to correct the errors, and we have to correct them fast.”MILLER’S SITUATIONBills pass rusher Von Miller is expected to play Sunday despite&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/von-miller-buffalo-bills-assault-dallas-2d634ebf2d4824e71cf1f486ba96e612">allegations of domestic violence</a>&nbsp;made against him during their week off.Miller turned himself in to police in a Dallas suburb after being charged in a warrant with domestic violence against the mother of his children, who is pregnant. He faces a charge of third-degree felony assault of a pregnant woman.“No one wants their name associated with any accusation like that,” Buffalo general manager Brandon Beane said. “But things happen sometimes, and again, we have to remember people, we have to give them their fair due process.”INJURY ITEMS<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-3692851f083b4b6948f2c3a0fe9c29f8">The Chiefs</a>&nbsp;are unlikely to have linebacker Drue Tranquill (concussion), left tackle Donovan Smith (neck) and safety Bryan Cook (ankle), while running back Isiah Pacheco is nursing a bruised shoulder. But they are hopeful that linebacker Nick Bolton will be back soon from injured reserve, where he landed after wrist surgery, providing a big boost to a banged-up defense.INJURY ITEMS, PART 2<a href="https://apnews.com/article/buffalo-bills-dawson-knox-kaiir-elam-cd1f8666ea5de0150bbbb39da04fbe03">The Bills</a>&nbsp;aren't going to give the Chiefs any sympathy when it comes to injuries. Tight end Dalton Knox has missed five games after his own wrist surgery and cornerback Kaiir Elam four to an ankle injury, but both resumed practicing this week, raising hopes they will soon come off IR. Meanwhile, cornerback Dane Jackson cleared the concussion protocol and safety Taylor Rapp was back at practice after missing a game with a neck injury.QUARTERBACK CONCERNSAllen and Mahomes have been so good for so long that it becomes a big storyline whenever things go awry. In both of their cases, turnovers have been a problem this season.Allen has committed at least one in eight straight games — nine interceptions, two lost fumbles — while Mahomes has thrown 10 picks and is on pace to set a career high.COACHING CONCERNSThe Bills have scored 66 points in their two games since offensive coordinator&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ken-dorsey-fired-bills-offensive-coordinator-8807463491b24503fe8d7b1b7d667d6c#:~:text=(AP)%20%E2%80%94%20Witnessing%20a%20troubling,coordinator%20Ken%20Dorsey%20on%20Tuesday.">Ken Dorsey was fired</a>&nbsp;and quarterbacks coach Joe Brady took over; they had scored 123 in Dorsey's final six games total. But that doesn't mean the Chiefs are writing off everything that Buffalo did over its first 10 games this season.“There's some differences,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said, "but there’s also some of the same things. They didn’t completely can the offense there. I think we’ll have a good feel for what they do.”

🏈 Bills and Chiefs to meet at Arrowhead with both teams feeling desperate for a win

MANHATTAN (AP) — Kansas State forward Nae'Qwan Tomlin was dismissed from the team late Wednesday, more than a month after his arrest for disorderly conduct, triggering a wave of criticism aimed at the school administration from some fans.

K-State basketball coach Jerome Tang spoke to the K-State community on social media Thursday evening.

Tomlin averaged 10.4 points in 36 games last season, and was a big part of the Wildcats' surprise run to the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament. He considered turning pro after the season but ultimately decided to return to the program.

He was arrested following a bar fight in October, and Kansas State coach Jerome Tang immediately suspended him “for not living up to the expectations of our players.” But as the season progressed, many Kansas State fans were antsy for Tomlin's return to the team, even chanting his name during an overtime win against Villanova this week.

As some fans began calling and emailing administrators, including Kansas State president Richard Linton, athletic director Gene Taylor finally issued a statement that said Tomlin “will no longer be able to continue with the K-State men's basketball team."

“This decision was not made lightly by me,” he said, "but it is the decision warranted by the circumstances that brought it to bear.”

Taylor said he had been “monitoring the situation” along with Tang but declined to share any specifics of the case, citing federal privacy laws. That includes whether there were factors beyond the initial bar fight that led to his decision.

Earlier in the day, Tomlin posted on Instagram the lyrics from a song that said: “I want to be free, free, free.” The 6-foot-10 forward is scheduled to graduate at the semester, and because he has yet to play for the Wildcats this season, Tomlin could transfer to another school and play for the remainder of the season.

“Allowing for space and time is critical,” Taylor said, "but in today’s digital age, that unfortunately can lead to the spread of rumors and misinformation — and in this case, much of the information on social media is incorrect.

“We stand united to do what is best for this young man’s personal development and growth,” Taylor continued, "and to do what is best to uphold the values of our teams and our university at large.”

MANHATTAN (AP) — Kansas State forward Nae'Qwan Tomlin was dismissed from the team late Wednesday, more than a month after his arrest for disorderly conduct, triggering a wave of criticism aimed at the school administration from some fans.K-State basketball coach Jerome Tang spoke to the K-State community on social media Thursday evening.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A message from Coach Tang <a href="https://t.co/67FzLKhxJd">pic.twitter.com/67FzLKhxJd</a>&mdash; K-State Men&#39;s Basketball (@KStateMBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateMBB/status/1732934034957717970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Tomlin averaged 10.4 points in 36 games last season, and was a big part of the Wildcats' surprise run to the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament. He considered turning pro after the season but ultimately decided to return to the program.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698592993697.png" alt="Tomlin photo KSU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Tomlin photo KSU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>He was arrested following a bar fight in October, and Kansas State coach Jerome Tang immediately suspended him “for not living up to the expectations of our players.” But as the season progressed, many Kansas State fans were antsy for Tomlin's return to the team, even chanting his name during an overtime win against Villanova this week.As some fans began calling and emailing administrators, including Kansas State president Richard Linton, athletic director Gene Taylor finally issued a statement that said Tomlin “will no longer be able to continue with the K-State men's basketball team."“This decision was not made lightly by me,” he said, "but it is the decision warranted by the circumstances that brought it to bear.”Taylor said he had been “monitoring the situation” along with Tang but declined to share any specifics of the case, citing federal privacy laws. That includes whether there were factors beyond the initial bar fight that led to his decision.Earlier in the day, Tomlin posted on Instagram the lyrics from a song that said: “I want to be free, free, free.” The 6-foot-10 forward is scheduled to graduate at the semester, and because he has yet to play for the Wildcats this season, Tomlin could transfer to another school and play for the remainder of the season.“Allowing for space and time is critical,” Taylor said, "but in today’s digital age, that unfortunately can lead to the spread of rumors and misinformation — and in this case, much of the information on social media is incorrect.“We stand united to do what is best for this young man’s personal development and growth,” Taylor continued, "and to do what is best to uphold the values of our teams and our university at large.”

🎥Message from Coach Tang after Nae'Qwan Tomlin's dismissal

FLEMING ISLAND, Fla. (AP) — The family of a 46-year-old Florida man has filed a wrongful death and negligence lawsuit against one of the biggest fast-casual restaurant chains in the U.S., claiming Panera Bread Company's caffeine-filled lemonade drink led to his death.

David Brown had high blood pressure and didn't drink energy drinks, but the lawsuit said he believed the Panera Charged Lemonade was safe since it was not advertised as an energy drink. It was offered in the same place as the restaurant chain’s non-caffeinated or less-caffeinated drinks, according to the lawsuit filed Monday in Superior Court in Delaware, where Panera Bread Company is registered.

The lawsuit states that on Oct. 9, Brown had the drink three times during a visit to the Panera Bread Company location in Fleming Island, Florida. On his walk home, he suffered cardiac arrest and died a short time later. He had ordered a Panera Charged Lemonade at least seven times over the course of two weeks in September and October, according to the lawsuit.

“Defendants knew or should have known that the Panera Charged Lemonade, as designed and formulated, once consumed, could injure children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and people sensitive to caffeine by causing catastrophic injuries and/or death,” the lawsuit said.

No one from Panera’s corporate offices responded to an inquiry seeking comment Tuesday afternoon.

Brown had a chromosomal deficiency disorder, developmental delays, some blurred vision and mild intellectual disability, the lawsuit said. He had worked for 17 years at Publix Super Markets and would regularly go to the Panera restaurant after work for meals, as many as three times a week, because the lawsuit said he felt the chain advertised as being a healthy alternative to other restaurants.

Another wrongful death lawsuit was filed in October by the family of 21-year-old Sarah Katz, a University of Pennsylvania student with a heart condition who died in September 2022 after consuming the drink, according to media reports.

The privately-held Panera Bread Company, which is headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, operates in 48 U.S. states and Canada.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701984246710.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>FLEMING ISLAND, Fla. (AP) — The family of a 46-year-old Florida man has filed a wrongful death and negligence lawsuit against one of the biggest fast-casual restaurant chains in the U.S., claiming Panera Bread Company's caffeine-filled lemonade drink led to his death.David Brown had high blood pressure and didn't drink energy drinks, but the lawsuit said he believed the Panera Charged Lemonade was safe since it was not advertised as an energy drink. It was offered in the same place as the restaurant chain’s non-caffeinated or less-caffeinated drinks, according to the lawsuit filed Monday in Superior Court in Delaware, where Panera Bread Company is registered.The lawsuit states that on Oct. 9, Brown had the drink three times during a visit to the Panera Bread Company location in Fleming Island, Florida. On his walk home, he suffered cardiac arrest and died a short time later. He had ordered a Panera Charged Lemonade at least seven times over the course of two weeks in September and October, according to the lawsuit.“Defendants knew or should have known that the Panera Charged Lemonade, as designed and formulated, once consumed, could injure children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and people sensitive to caffeine by causing catastrophic injuries and/or death,” the lawsuit said.No one from Panera’s corporate offices responded to an inquiry seeking comment Tuesday afternoon.Brown had a chromosomal deficiency disorder, developmental delays, some blurred vision and mild intellectual disability, the lawsuit said. He had worked for 17 years at Publix Super Markets and would regularly go to the Panera restaurant after work for meals, as many as three times a week, because the lawsuit said he felt the chain advertised as being a healthy alternative to other restaurants.Another wrongful death lawsuit was filed in October by the family of 21-year-old Sarah Katz, a University of Pennsylvania student with a heart condition who died in September 2022 after consuming the drink, according to media reports.The privately-held Panera Bread Company, which is headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, operates in 48 U.S. states and Canada.

Panera's 'Charged Lemonade' blamed for second death 

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Terrified students and professors cowered in classrooms and dorms as a gunman roamed the floors of a University of Nevada, Las Vegas building,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/campus-shooting-las-vegas-unlv-55ca455e2d00f1126cc1dbf4cc29139e">killing three people</a>&nbsp;and critically wounding a fourth before dying in a shootout with police.

The gunman in Wednesday's shooting was a professor who had unsuccessfully sought a job at the school, a law enforcement official with direct knowledge of the investigation told The Associated Press. He previously worked at East Carolina University in North Carolina, said the official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they weren’t authorized to release the information publicly.

Another law enforcement official identified the suspect as Anthony Polito, 67. Investigators searched an apartment in Henderson, Nevada, late Wednesday as part of the investigation and retrieved several electronic devices, including Polito’s cellphone, the official said. The official was not authorized to discuss details of the investigation and spoke to AP on condition of anonymity.

The attack terrified a city that experienced the deadliest shooting in modern U.S. history in October 2017, when a gunman&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shootings-texas-las-vegas-gun-politics-mass-shooting-176e1d7f0a020063b99e154beedcc429">killed 60 people and wounded more than 400</a>&nbsp;after opening fire from the window of a room at Mandalay Bay casino on the Las Vegas Strip a couple of miles from the UNLV campus.

Lessons learned from that shooting helped authorities to work “seamlessly” in reacting to the UNLV attack, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Sheriff Kevin McMahill said at a news conference.

The gunman opened fire about 11:45 a.m. Wednesday on the fourth floor of the building that houses UNLV’s Lee Business School and then went to several other floors before he was killed in a shootout with two university police detectives outside the building, UNLV Police Chief Adam Garcia said.

Authorities gave the all-clear about 40 minutes after the first report of an active shooter.

It wasn’t immediately clear how many of the school's 30,000 students were on campus at the time, but McMahill said students had been gathered outside the building to eat and play games. If police hadn’t killed the attacker, “it could have been countless additional lives taken,” he said.

“No student should have to fear pursuing their dreams on a college campus,” the sheriff said.

Police didn’t immediately identify the victims, or the attacker's motive. They also didn't say what kind of weapon was used, although some witnesses reported hearing as many as 20 shots fired.

UNLV professor Kevaney Martin took cover under a desk in her classroom, where another faculty member and three students took shelter with her.

“It was terrifying. I can’t even begin to explain,” Martin said. “I was trying to hold it together for my students, and trying not to cry, but the emotions are something I never want to experience again.”

Martin said she was texting friends and loved ones, hoping to receive word a suspect had been detained. When another professor came to the room and told everyone to evacuate, they joined dozens of others rushing out of the building. Martin had her students pile into her car and drove them off campus.

“Once we got away from UNLV, we parked and sat in silence,” she said. “Nobody said a word. We were in utter shock.”

Selena Guevara said she got a phone call from her daughter, Markie Montoya, who was in class in the building and heard “gunshots, screaming and yelling” but wasn’t hurt.

“She’s hysterical, telling me ‘I love you’ and so scared,” Guevara said.

Another student, Jordan Eckermann, 25, said he was in his business law class in a second-floor classroom when he heard a loud bang and a piercing alarm went off, sending students to their feet. Some ran from the room in panic while others heeded their professor’s instructions to stay calm, Eckermann said.

He walked out and locked eyes with a law enforcement officer in a bulletproof vest holding a long gun. Clothing, backpacks and water bottles lay scattered on the floor.

Eckerman said he mouthed to the officer, “Where do I go?”

Minutes later, when he was outside, Eckermann said he heard bursts of gunshots, totaling at least 20 rounds. The air smelled of gunpowder. He said he kept walking away from campus, even though he didn’t know where to go.

Classes were canceled through Friday at the university, and UNLV’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/unlv-shooting-d8b15dd0d408b0a248e918dea1434915">basketball game</a>&nbsp;at the University of Dayton, Ohio, was canceled Wednesday night because of the shootings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701896546196.png" alt="--A glass door to the Student Union at UNLV is damaged from apparent gunfire. photo courtesy KSNV TV" />
 <figcaption>--A glass door to the Student Union at UNLV is damaged from apparent gunfire. photo courtesy KSNV TV</figcaption>
 </figure>LAS VEGAS (AP) — Terrified students and professors cowered in classrooms and dorms as a gunman roamed the floors of a University of Nevada, Las Vegas building,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/campus-shooting-las-vegas-unlv-55ca455e2d00f1126cc1dbf4cc29139e">killing three people</a>&nbsp;and critically wounding a fourth before dying in a shootout with police.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701975657898.png" alt="Polito from his Linkedin profile" />
 <figcaption>Polito from his Linkedin profile</figcaption>
 </figure>The gunman in Wednesday's shooting was a professor who had unsuccessfully sought a job at the school, a law enforcement official with direct knowledge of the investigation told The Associated Press. He previously worked at East Carolina University in North Carolina, said the official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they weren’t authorized to release the information publicly.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">UPDATE: Only Beam Hall (BEH) remains inaccessible while the police investigation is completed. All other buildings can be accessed via <a href="https://twitter.com/UPDSouth?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UPDSouth</a> for anyone who needs to come to campus to gather essential belongings only (such as medicine, keys, etc.) <a href="https://t.co/27WF6p3wt4">https://t.co/27WF6p3wt4</a>&mdash; UNLV (@unlv) <a href="https://twitter.com/unlv/status/1732814166602424453?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Another law enforcement official identified the suspect as Anthony Polito, 67. Investigators searched an apartment in Henderson, Nevada, late Wednesday as part of the investigation and retrieved several electronic devices, including Polito’s cellphone, the official said. The official was not authorized to discuss details of the investigation and spoke to AP on condition of anonymity.The attack terrified a city that experienced the deadliest shooting in modern U.S. history in October 2017, when a gunman&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shootings-texas-las-vegas-gun-politics-mass-shooting-176e1d7f0a020063b99e154beedcc429">killed 60 people and wounded more than 400</a>&nbsp;after opening fire from the window of a room at Mandalay Bay casino on the Las Vegas Strip a couple of miles from the UNLV campus.Lessons learned from that shooting helped authorities to work “seamlessly” in reacting to the UNLV attack, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Sheriff Kevin McMahill said at a news conference.The gunman opened fire about 11:45 a.m. Wednesday on the fourth floor of the building that houses UNLV’s Lee Business School and then went to several other floors before he was killed in a shootout with two university police detectives outside the building, UNLV Police Chief Adam Garcia said.Authorities gave the all-clear about 40 minutes after the first report of an active shooter.It wasn’t immediately clear how many of the school's 30,000 students were on campus at the time, but McMahill said students had been gathered outside the building to eat and play games. If police hadn’t killed the attacker, “it could have been countless additional lives taken,” he said.“No student should have to fear pursuing their dreams on a college campus,” the sheriff said.Police didn’t immediately identify the victims, or the attacker's motive. They also didn't say what kind of weapon was used, although some witnesses reported hearing as many as 20 shots fired.UNLV professor Kevaney Martin took cover under a desk in her classroom, where another faculty member and three students took shelter with her.“It was terrifying. I can’t even begin to explain,” Martin said. “I was trying to hold it together for my students, and trying not to cry, but the emotions are something I never want to experience again.”Martin said she was texting friends and loved ones, hoping to receive word a suspect had been detained. When another professor came to the room and told everyone to evacuate, they joined dozens of others rushing out of the building. Martin had her students pile into her car and drove them off campus.“Once we got away from UNLV, we parked and sat in silence,” she said. “Nobody said a word. We were in utter shock.”Selena Guevara said she got a phone call from her daughter, Markie Montoya, who was in class in the building and heard “gunshots, screaming and yelling” but wasn’t hurt.“She’s hysterical, telling me ‘I love you’ and so scared,” Guevara said.Another student, Jordan Eckermann, 25, said he was in his business law class in a second-floor classroom when he heard a loud bang and a piercing alarm went off, sending students to their feet. Some ran from the room in panic while others heeded their professor’s instructions to stay calm, Eckermann said.He walked out and locked eyes with a law enforcement officer in a bulletproof vest holding a long gun. Clothing, backpacks and water bottles lay scattered on the floor.Eckerman said he mouthed to the officer, “Where do I go?”The officer pointed to an exit.Minutes later, when he was outside, Eckermann said he heard bursts of gunshots, totaling at least 20 rounds. The air smelled of gunpowder. He said he kept walking away from campus, even though he didn’t know where to go.Classes were canceled through Friday at the university, and UNLV’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/unlv-shooting-d8b15dd0d408b0a248e918dea1434915">basketball game</a>&nbsp;at the University of Dayton, Ohio, was canceled Wednesday night because of the shootings.

Police ID professor as shooter who killed 3 at UNLV

WASHINGTON (AP) — House members voted again Thursday to punish one of their own, targeting Democratic Rep. Jamaal Bowman for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-fire-alarm-jamaal-bowman-house-bc9c1cca01fa918999621e0f7eb27165">triggering a fire alarm in one of the U.S. Capitol office buildings</a>&nbsp;when the chamber was in session.

The Republican censure resolution passed with some Democratic votes, but most Democrats stood by Bowman in opposition of an effort they said lacked credibility and integrity. The prominent progressive now becomes the third Democratic House member to be admonished this year through&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/impeachment-house-censure-schiff-biden-boebert-70a2206fc0c543a307fc3ec63d5287e9">the censure process</a>, which is a punishment one step below expulsion from the House.

“It’s painfully obvious to myself, my colleagues and the American people that the Republican Party is deeply unserious and unable to legislate,” Bowman said Wednesday as he defended himself during floor debate. “Their censure resolution against me today continues to demonstrate their inability to govern and serve the American people.”

The 214-191 vote to censure Bowman caps nearly a year of chaos and retribution in the House of Representatives. Since January, the chamber has seen&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ilhan-omar-house-foreign-affairs-committee-ee2ae3fd86b895c5b078d8bf576c3360#:~:text=WASHINGTON%20(AP)%20%E2%80%94%20The%20Republican,GOP%20lawmakers%20over%20incendiary%20remarks.">the removal of a member from a committee assignment</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mccarthy-gaetz-speaker-motion-to-vacate-congress-327e294a39f8de079ef5e4abfb1fa555">the first ouster of a speaker</a>&nbsp;in history and, just last week,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-santos-expulsion-vote-ethics-investigation-fd0f1524065883c6b2fe3e6f9afd84db">the expulsion of a lawmaker</a>&nbsp;for only the third time since the Civil War.

Rep. Lisa McClain, R-Mich., who introduced the censure resolution, defended it, claiming Bowman pulled the alarm in September to “cause chaos and the stop the House from doing its business" as lawmakers scrambled to pass&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-mccarthy-congress-republicans-732baaa19c91f981e492fd0e6a76aba8">a bill to fund the government</a>&nbsp;before a shutdown deadline.

“It is reprehensible that a Member of Congress would go to such lengths to prevent House Republicans from bringing forth a vote to keep the government operating and Americans receiving their paychecks," McClain said in a statement.

Bowman&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bowman-fire-alarm-house-shutdown-vote-misdemeanor-c32d97c1d86f2f1769596613d29678f3">pleaded guilty in October to a misdemeanor count</a>&nbsp;for the incident, which took place in the Cannon House Office Building. He agreed to pay a $1,000 fine and serve three months of probation, after which the false fire alarm charge is expected to be dismissed from his record under an agreement with prosecutors.

The fire alarm prompted a buildingwide evacuation when the House was in session and staffers were working in the building. The building was reopened an hour later after Capitol police determined there was no threat.

Bowman apologized and said that at the time he was trying to get through a door that was usually open but was closed that day because it was the weekend.

Many progressive Democrats, who spoke in his defense, called the Republican effort to censure him “unserious," and they questioned why the party decided to target one of the few Black men in the chamber and among the first to ever represent his district.

“This censure is just the latest in this chamber’s racist history of telling Black men that they don’t belong in Congress,” said Rep. Ayanna Pressley, D-Mass.

The vote is the latest example of how the chamber has begun to deploy punishments like censure,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/impeachment-house-censure-schiff-biden-boebert-70a2206fc0c543a307fc3ec63d5287e9">long viewed as a punishment of last resort</a>, routinely and often in strikingly partisan ways.

“Under Republican control, this chamber has become a place where trivial issues get debated passionately and important ones not at all," Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Mass., said during floor debate. “Republicans have focused more on censuring people in this Congress than passing bills that help people we represent or improving this country in any way.”

While the censure of a lawmaker carries no practical effect, it amounts to severe reproach from colleagues, as lawmakers who are censured are usually asked to stand in the well of the House as the censure resolution against them is read aloud.

Bowman is now the 27th person to be censured by the chamber — and the third just this year. Last month, Republicans voted to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-house-censure-resolution-tlaib-8085189047a4c40f2d44ada4604aa076">censure Democratic Rep. Rashida Tlaib of Michigan</a>&nbsp;in an extraordinary rebuke of her rhetoric about the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel-Hamas war</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696253301965.png" alt="-Rep. Jamal Bowman pulling the alarm photo U.S. Capitol Police" />
 <figcaption>-Rep. Jamal Bowman pulling the alarm photo U.S. Capitol Police</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — House members voted again Thursday to punish one of their own, targeting Democratic Rep. Jamaal Bowman for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-fire-alarm-jamaal-bowman-house-bc9c1cca01fa918999621e0f7eb27165">triggering a fire alarm in one of the U.S. Capitol office buildings</a>&nbsp;when the chamber was in session.The Republican censure resolution passed with some Democratic votes, but most Democrats stood by Bowman in opposition of an effort they said lacked credibility and integrity. The prominent progressive now becomes the third Democratic House member to be admonished this year through&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/impeachment-house-censure-schiff-biden-boebert-70a2206fc0c543a307fc3ec63d5287e9">the censure process</a>, which is a punishment one step below expulsion from the House.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Headed back home this morning. Wonder if I need to pull this red alarm thingy to get out the Russell Senate Office building…? <a href="https://t.co/9d7gKTABsJ">pic.twitter.com/9d7gKTABsJ</a>&mdash; Eric Schmitt (@Eric_Schmitt) <a href="https://twitter.com/Eric_Schmitt/status/1708463092080705986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“It’s painfully obvious to myself, my colleagues and the American people that the Republican Party is deeply unserious and unable to legislate,” Bowman said Wednesday as he defended himself during floor debate. “Their censure resolution against me today continues to demonstrate their inability to govern and serve the American people.”The 214-191 vote to censure Bowman caps nearly a year of chaos and retribution in the House of Representatives. Since January, the chamber has seen&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ilhan-omar-house-foreign-affairs-committee-ee2ae3fd86b895c5b078d8bf576c3360#:~:text=WASHINGTON%20(AP)%20%E2%80%94%20The%20Republican,GOP%20lawmakers%20over%20incendiary%20remarks.">the removal of a member from a committee assignment</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mccarthy-gaetz-speaker-motion-to-vacate-congress-327e294a39f8de079ef5e4abfb1fa555">the first ouster of a speaker</a>&nbsp;in history and, just last week,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-santos-expulsion-vote-ethics-investigation-fd0f1524065883c6b2fe3e6f9afd84db">the expulsion of a lawmaker</a>&nbsp;for only the third time since the Civil War.Rep. Lisa McClain, R-Mich., who introduced the censure resolution, defended it, claiming Bowman pulled the alarm in September to “cause chaos and the stop the House from doing its business" as lawmakers scrambled to pass&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-mccarthy-congress-republicans-732baaa19c91f981e492fd0e6a76aba8">a bill to fund the government</a>&nbsp;before a shutdown deadline.“It is reprehensible that a Member of Congress would go to such lengths to prevent House Republicans from bringing forth a vote to keep the government operating and Americans receiving their paychecks," McClain said in a statement.Bowman&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bowman-fire-alarm-house-shutdown-vote-misdemeanor-c32d97c1d86f2f1769596613d29678f3">pleaded guilty in October to a misdemeanor count</a>&nbsp;for the incident, which took place in the Cannon House Office Building. He agreed to pay a $1,000 fine and serve three months of probation, after which the false fire alarm charge is expected to be dismissed from his record under an agreement with prosecutors.The fire alarm prompted a buildingwide evacuation when the House was in session and staffers were working in the building. The building was reopened an hour later after Capitol police determined there was no threat.Bowman apologized and said that at the time he was trying to get through a door that was usually open but was closed that day because it was the weekend.Many progressive Democrats, who spoke in his defense, called the Republican effort to censure him “unserious," and they questioned why the party decided to target one of the few Black men in the chamber and among the first to ever represent his district.“This censure is just the latest in this chamber’s racist history of telling Black men that they don’t belong in Congress,” said Rep. Ayanna Pressley, D-Mass.The vote is the latest example of how the chamber has begun to deploy punishments like censure,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/impeachment-house-censure-schiff-biden-boebert-70a2206fc0c543a307fc3ec63d5287e9">long viewed as a punishment of last resort</a>, routinely and often in strikingly partisan ways.“Under Republican control, this chamber has become a place where trivial issues get debated passionately and important ones not at all," Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Mass., said during floor debate. “Republicans have focused more on censuring people in this Congress than passing bills that help people we represent or improving this country in any way.”While the censure of a lawmaker carries no practical effect, it amounts to severe reproach from colleagues, as lawmakers who are censured are usually asked to stand in the well of the House as the censure resolution against them is read aloud.Bowman is now the 27th person to be censured by the chamber — and the third just this year. Last month, Republicans voted to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-house-censure-resolution-tlaib-8085189047a4c40f2d44ada4604aa076">censure Democratic Rep. Rashida Tlaib of Michigan</a>&nbsp;in an extraordinary rebuke of her rhetoric about the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel-Hamas war</a>.

House votes to censure Rep. for pulling a fire alarm in Capitol building

MANHATTAN —Kansas State senior forward Nae'Qwan Tomlin is no longer a member of the basketball program.&nbsp;

A statement from K-State Athletic Director Gene Taylor released late Wednesday said, “We have heard the concerns and the questions from K-State fans and friends around Nae’Qwan Tomlin’s indefinite suspension from the men’s basketball team."

“Situations like these are difficult. We know you want answers, but federal privacy laws largely prohibit the University and K-State Athletics from publicly discussing specific information around circumstances like this. Those laws are in place to protect our student-athletes, and more specifically in this instance, to protect Nae’Qwan as he is working through a process designed to support him and lift him out of a difficult time."

"Allowing for that space and time is critical, but in today’s digital age, that unfortunately can lead to the spread of rumors and misinformation — and in this case, much of the information on social media is incorrect."

“I have been monitoring this situation and overseeing Nae’Qwan’s suspension with Coach Tang’s involvement. While we cannot share the specifics that have led to this outcome due to the reasons stated above, K-State Athletics can now share that Nae’Qwan Tomlin will no longer be able to continue with the K-State men’s basketball team."

"This decision was not made lightly by me, but it is the decision warranted by the circumstances that brought it to bear," according to Taylor.

Just before 2a.m. October 29, <a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/43e99053-dc8f-48ea-9281-3a6e500b27d7">police arrested 22-year-old Nae'Qwan Tommy Nicholas Tomlin at Tubby's Sports Bar</a>, 1127 Moro Street in Manhattan, according to the <a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/583e809f-4962-48ec-a53e-f6b724db00bb">Riley County Police Department arrest report</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tomlin&nbsp;averaged 10 points and 5 rebounds and started all 36 games for the Wildcats last season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698592993697.png" alt="Tomlin-photo KSU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Tomlin-photo KSU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN —Kansas State senior forward Nae'Qwan Tomlin is no longer a member of the basketball program.&nbsp;A statement from K-State Athletic Director Gene Taylor released late Wednesday said, “We have heard the concerns and the questions from K-State fans and friends around Nae’Qwan Tomlin’s indefinite suspension from the men’s basketball team."“Situations like these are difficult. We know you want answers, but federal privacy laws largely prohibit the University and K-State Athletics from publicly discussing specific information around circumstances like this. Those laws are in place to protect our student-athletes, and more specifically in this instance, to protect Nae’Qwan as he is working through a process designed to support him and lift him out of a difficult time.""Allowing for that space and time is critical, but in today’s digital age, that unfortunately can lead to the spread of rumors and misinformation — and in this case, much of the information on social media is incorrect."“I have been monitoring this situation and overseeing Nae’Qwan’s suspension with Coach Tang’s involvement. While we cannot share the specifics that have led to this outcome due to the reasons stated above, K-State Athletics can now share that Nae’Qwan Tomlin will no longer be able to continue with the K-State men’s basketball team.""This decision was not made lightly by me, but it is the decision warranted by the circumstances that brought it to bear," according to Taylor.Just before 2a.m. October 29, <a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/43e99053-dc8f-48ea-9281-3a6e500b27d7">police arrested 22-year-old Nae'Qwan Tommy Nicholas Tomlin at Tubby's Sports Bar</a>, 1127 Moro Street in Manhattan, according to the <a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/583e809f-4962-48ec-a53e-f6b724db00bb">Riley County Police Department arrest report</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tomlin&nbsp;averaged 10 points and 5 rebounds and started all 36 games for the Wildcats last season.

🏀 Nae’Qwan Tomlin dismissed from the K-State basketball team

By ALLISON KITE,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/10/04/evergy-regulators-near-deal-on-kansas-electric-rates/">Kansas Reflector</a>

Utilities in Kansas and Missouri would have to pull&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/06/20/time-bomb-lead-pipes-set-to-be-removed-but-first-water-utilities-have-to-find-them/">hundreds of thousands of lead pipes</a>&nbsp;out of the ground within 10 years under a proposed rule the Environmental Protection Agency announced Thursday.

The EPA announced a proposed update to the lead and copper rule strengthening President Joe Biden’s earlier goal of eradicating lead pipes. The proposed rule also would lower the limit on lead in water by one-third.

“Lead in drinking water is a generational public health issue, and EPA’s proposal will accelerate progress towards President Biden’s goal of replacing every lead pipe across America once and for all,” EPA administrator Michael Regan said in a news release.

For much of the 20th Century, utilities were permitted to install lead service lines, the pipes that carry water from water mains under the street into homes. The EPA banned them in 1986, but utilities have never been required to remove existing pipes.

In fact, some utility companies don’t know where the remaining lead service lines are.

Estimates as to how many remain vary widely. The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/04/06/epa-estimates-more-than-200000-lead-pipes-remain-in-missouri/">EPA estimates Missouri</a>&nbsp;has 202,112 remaining lead service lines while the environmental nonprofit the Natural Resources Defense Council estimates more than 330,000.

In&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/04/11/known-to-be-toxic-for-a-century-lead-still-poisons-thousands-of-midwestern-kids/">Kansas, the EPA estimates</a>&nbsp;54,107 lead pipes remain while the NRDC believes there are more than 160,000.

Lead is a neurotoxin that in high doses can be fatal. It was in pipes, gasoline and household paint for most of the last century, exposing generations of children to its effects.

Even at low levels, exposure to lead can hinder children’s brain development and cause behavioral problems and learning difficulties. Lead-poisoned children can have trouble with language processing, memory, attention and impulsivity. Later in life, it raises the risk of death from cardiovascular disease.

While the rate of lead poisoning has plummeted compared to the mid-20th century when leaded gasoline fumes exposed children in droves, thousands of children in Kansas and Missouri are&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/04/11/known-to-be-toxic-for-a-century-lead-still-poisons-thousands-of-midwestern-kids/">found with elevated blood lead levels every year</a>.

For older children, water makes up about 20% of lead exposure, but for bottle-fed infants, it’s the primary source of poisoning.

The NRDC estimated replacing lead service lines would lead to hundreds of billions of dollars in avoided health expenses, primarily from reduced cardiovascular disease.

“This is an urgent public health crisis, as tens of millions of people essentially drink water from a lead straw, unaware of the big risk to their health,” said Erik Olson, the NRDC’s senior strategic director for health.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701782911687.png" alt=" An individual holds a lead pipe, a steel pipe and a lead pipe treated with protective orthophosphate. The Environmental Protection Agency has proposed a rule requiring water utilities to remove lead pipes decades after new ones were banned. (EPA)" />
 <figcaption> An individual holds a lead pipe, a steel pipe and a lead pipe treated with protective orthophosphate. The Environmental Protection Agency has proposed a rule requiring water utilities to remove lead pipes decades after new ones were banned. (EPA)</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALLISON KITE,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/10/04/evergy-regulators-near-deal-on-kansas-electric-rates/">Kansas Reflector</a>Utilities in Kansas and Missouri would have to pull&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/06/20/time-bomb-lead-pipes-set-to-be-removed-but-first-water-utilities-have-to-find-them/">hundreds of thousands of lead pipes</a>&nbsp;out of the ground within 10 years under a proposed rule the Environmental Protection Agency announced Thursday.The EPA announced a proposed update to the lead and copper rule strengthening President Joe Biden’s earlier goal of eradicating lead pipes. The proposed rule also would lower the limit on lead in water by one-third.“Lead in drinking water is a generational public health issue, and EPA’s proposal will accelerate progress towards President Biden’s goal of replacing every lead pipe across America once and for all,” EPA administrator Michael Regan said in a news release.For much of the 20th Century, utilities were permitted to install lead service lines, the pipes that carry water from water mains under the street into homes. The EPA banned them in 1986, but utilities have never been required to remove existing pipes.In fact, some utility companies don’t know where the remaining lead service lines are.Estimates as to how many remain vary widely. The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/04/06/epa-estimates-more-than-200000-lead-pipes-remain-in-missouri/">EPA estimates Missouri</a>&nbsp;has 202,112 remaining lead service lines while the environmental nonprofit the Natural Resources Defense Council estimates more than 330,000.In&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/04/11/known-to-be-toxic-for-a-century-lead-still-poisons-thousands-of-midwestern-kids/">Kansas, the EPA estimates</a>&nbsp;54,107 lead pipes remain while the NRDC believes there are more than 160,000.Lead is a neurotoxin that in high doses can be fatal. It was in pipes, gasoline and household paint for most of the last century, exposing generations of children to its effects.Even at low levels, exposure to lead can hinder children’s brain development and cause behavioral problems and learning difficulties. Lead-poisoned children can have trouble with language processing, memory, attention and impulsivity. Later in life, it raises the risk of death from cardiovascular disease.While the rate of lead poisoning has plummeted compared to the mid-20th century when leaded gasoline fumes exposed children in droves, thousands of children in Kansas and Missouri are&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/04/11/known-to-be-toxic-for-a-century-lead-still-poisons-thousands-of-midwestern-kids/">found with elevated blood lead levels every year</a>.For older children, water makes up about 20% of lead exposure, but for bottle-fed infants, it’s the primary source of poisoning.The NRDC estimated replacing lead service lines would lead to hundreds of billions of dollars in avoided health expenses, primarily from reduced cardiovascular disease.“This is an urgent public health crisis, as tens of millions of people essentially drink water from a lead straw, unaware of the big risk to their health,” said Erik Olson, the NRDC’s senior strategic director for health.The EPA will hold&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/proposed-lead-and-copper-rule-improvements?utm_source=utm_source%3Dpressrelease&amp;utm_medium=utm_medium%3Demail&amp;utm_campaign=utm_campaign%3Deparegion7">public information and listening sessions</a>&nbsp;and accept comments into the new year. It plans to finalize the rule by October.