KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — In an unusual legal move, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey is asking a state appeals court to reverse&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-race-and-ethnicity-kansas-city-933d3aba9b37c83145fba5818d557c02">the conviction</a>&nbsp;of a white former Kansas City police detective who shot and killed a Black man three years ago.

In a brief filed Monday, Bailey said the evidence presented at a trial in 2021 did not support Eric DeValkenaere's conviction for second-degree involuntary manslaughter and armed criminal action in the death of 26-year-old Cameron Lamb on Dec. 3, 2019.

Bailey asked the court to reverse DeValkenaere's conviction or order a new trial.

Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker, whose office secured DeValkenaere's conviction, said the motion by the attorney general — the state's top law enforcement officer — to challenge a conviction was “unprecedented” and an affront to the people of Kansas City.

In a news conference on Monday, she accused Bailey, a Republican who was appointed to the attorney general's office in January, of “attempting to expand his power to that of a judge.”

“I can’t say in my time, 25 plus years of being here, that I’ve seen anything like this before," Baker said.

Cameron Lamb’s father, Aqil Bey, said at the news conference that Bailey's actions were a miscarriage of justice. He said DeValkanaere had been given every legal advantage, including not having to serve a day in jail since his conviction.

“We don't feel good about it. But we are going to continue to let the legal system run its course, and we'll see what happens,” Bey said.

Ben Trachtenberg, a University of Missouri School of Law professor and expert in criminal law, agreed that Bailey's decision was unusual, noting the state's attorney general's office has a history of vigorously defending convictions, even in cases where the local prosecutor is trying to overturn a conviction.

Bailey's predecessor, Eric Schmidt, who is now a Republican U.S. senator, strongly opposed efforts by Baker and former St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner to release two men —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legal-proceedings-missouri-st-louis-prisons-5c4f3e6faadb018aef74685044b882d1">Lamar Johnson</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-kansas-missouri-bba67efd61eaa165165e29a7298a1dc3">Kevin Strickland</a>&nbsp;— who they believed were jailed for murders they didn't commit. Both men were eventually released from prison.

Still, Trachtenberg said Bailey was within his authority in not defending DeValkenaere’s conviction.

“The attorney general’s office does have broad responsibility for dealing with criminal appeals,” he said. “But lawyers don’t have to defend every single case. The attorney general’s office's highest duty is to pursue justice. If they think somebody is innocent, they don’t have to defend the conviction.”

DeValkenaere&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-race-and-ethnicity-kansas-city-933d3aba9b37c83145fba5818d557c02">was convicted</a>&nbsp;in November 2021 of killing Lamb, who was shot as he backed his truck into his garage. Police said DeValkenaere and his partner, Troy Schwalm, went to Lamb's home after reports that Lamb was involved in a car chase with his girlfriend on residential streets.

Jackson County Circuit Court Presiding Judge J. Dale Youngs, who convicted the former detective after a bench trial,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-kansas-city-kansas-cdc43324871862f01222a6ca29ef317f">sentenced</a>&nbsp;DeValkenaere to three years for involuntary manslaughter and six years for armed criminal action, with the sentences to run consecutively.

But Youngs later ruled that DeValkenaere&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-kansas-city-kansas-cdc43324871862f01222a6ca29ef317f">could remain free</a>&nbsp;while his conviction is appealed.

In his motion, Bailey said Lamb's death was “tragic” and shouldn't have happened. But he argued that DeValkenaere used reasonable force because he believed Lamb was going to shoot Schwalm. The motion, which includes several pages reiterating the police department's version of events, said officers believed they saw Lamb with a handgun inside the truck, and a handgun was found near the truck after Lamb was shot.

“DeValkenaere’s use of force was reasonable in light of Mr. Lamb’s use of deadly force against Schwalm, and the court erred as a matter of fact and law in determining that Schwalm and DeValkenaere were the initial aggressors,” Bailey wrote. “DeValkenaere also was not criminally negligent.”

Prosecutors and Lamb's family had alleged the handgun was planted after the shooting. But Youngs did not address that issue when he convicted the detective.

Instead, the judge said the officers had no probable cause to believe that any crime had been committed, had no warrant for Lamb’s arrest and had no search warrant or consent to be on the property. He said police were the initial aggressors and they had a duty to retreat, but DeValkenaere illegally used deadly force instead.

Rumors had swirled in the last month that Republican Gov. Mike Parson was considering pardoning or granting clemency to DeValkenaere, prompting Baker to send him a letter urging him not to do so. Civil rights advocates warned that releasing the former detective could cause unrest in the city and damage an already tense relationship between police and Kansas City's minority community.

Parson said last week that he had not yet decided what action to take and criticized Baker for using the case for political purposes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592994941014.png" alt="Eric DeValkenaere-photo KCPD" />
 <figcaption>Eric DeValkenaere-photo KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — In an unusual legal move, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey is asking a state appeals court to reverse&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-race-and-ethnicity-kansas-city-933d3aba9b37c83145fba5818d557c02">the conviction</a>&nbsp;of a white former Kansas City police detective who shot and killed a Black man three years ago.In a brief filed Monday, Bailey said the evidence presented at a trial in 2021 did not support Eric DeValkenaere's conviction for second-degree involuntary manslaughter and armed criminal action in the death of 26-year-old Cameron Lamb on Dec. 3, 2019.Bailey asked the court to reverse DeValkenaere's conviction or order a new trial.Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker, whose office secured DeValkenaere's conviction, said the motion by the attorney general — the state's top law enforcement officer — to challenge a conviction was “unprecedented” and an affront to the people of Kansas City.In a news conference on Monday, she accused Bailey, a Republican who was appointed to the attorney general's office in January, of “attempting to expand his power to that of a judge.”“I can’t say in my time, 25 plus years of being here, that I’ve seen anything like this before," Baker said.Cameron Lamb’s father, Aqil Bey, said at the news conference that Bailey's actions were a miscarriage of justice. He said DeValkanaere had been given every legal advantage, including not having to serve a day in jail since his conviction.“We don't feel good about it. But we are going to continue to let the legal system run its course, and we'll see what happens,” Bey said.Ben Trachtenberg, a University of Missouri School of Law professor and expert in criminal law, agreed that Bailey's decision was unusual, noting the state's attorney general's office has a history of vigorously defending convictions, even in cases where the local prosecutor is trying to overturn a conviction.Bailey's predecessor, Eric Schmidt, who is now a Republican U.S. senator, strongly opposed efforts by Baker and former St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner to release two men —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legal-proceedings-missouri-st-louis-prisons-5c4f3e6faadb018aef74685044b882d1">Lamar Johnson</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-kansas-missouri-bba67efd61eaa165165e29a7298a1dc3">Kevin Strickland</a>&nbsp;— who they believed were jailed for murders they didn't commit. Both men were eventually released from prison.Still, Trachtenberg said Bailey was within his authority in not defending DeValkenaere’s conviction.“The attorney general’s office does have broad responsibility for dealing with criminal appeals,” he said. “But lawyers don’t have to defend every single case. The attorney general’s office's highest duty is to pursue justice. If they think somebody is innocent, they don’t have to defend the conviction.”DeValkenaere&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-race-and-ethnicity-kansas-city-933d3aba9b37c83145fba5818d557c02">was convicted</a>&nbsp;in November 2021 of killing Lamb, who was shot as he backed his truck into his garage. Police said DeValkenaere and his partner, Troy Schwalm, went to Lamb's home after reports that Lamb was involved in a car chase with his girlfriend on residential streets.Jackson County Circuit Court Presiding Judge J. Dale Youngs, who convicted the former detective after a bench trial,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-kansas-city-kansas-cdc43324871862f01222a6ca29ef317f">sentenced</a>&nbsp;DeValkenaere to three years for involuntary manslaughter and six years for armed criminal action, with the sentences to run consecutively.But Youngs later ruled that DeValkenaere&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-kansas-city-kansas-cdc43324871862f01222a6ca29ef317f">could remain free</a>&nbsp;while his conviction is appealed.In his motion, Bailey said Lamb's death was “tragic” and shouldn't have happened. But he argued that DeValkenaere used reasonable force because he believed Lamb was going to shoot Schwalm. The motion, which includes several pages reiterating the police department's version of events, said officers believed they saw Lamb with a handgun inside the truck, and a handgun was found near the truck after Lamb was shot.“DeValkenaere’s use of force was reasonable in light of Mr. Lamb’s use of deadly force against Schwalm, and the court erred as a matter of fact and law in determining that Schwalm and DeValkenaere were the initial aggressors,” Bailey wrote. “DeValkenaere also was not criminally negligent.”Prosecutors and Lamb's family had alleged the handgun was planted after the shooting. But Youngs did not address that issue when he convicted the detective.Instead, the judge said the officers had no probable cause to believe that any crime had been committed, had no warrant for Lamb’s arrest and had no search warrant or consent to be on the property. He said police were the initial aggressors and they had a duty to retreat, but DeValkenaere illegally used deadly force instead.Rumors had swirled in the last month that Republican Gov. Mike Parson was considering pardoning or granting clemency to DeValkenaere, prompting Baker to send him a letter urging him not to do so. Civil rights advocates warned that releasing the former detective could cause unrest in the city and damage an already tense relationship between police and Kansas City's minority community.Parson said last week that he had not yet decided what action to take and criticized Baker for using the case for political purposes.

AG seeks reversal of former KC detective's conviction in Black man's death

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man faces multiple felony charges for the fatal shooting of three persons at an after hours club near 57th and Prospect Avenue early Sunday in Kansas City, Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker announced on Tuesday.

Keivon M. Greene, 26, faces two counts of Murder in the 2nd Degree, a third Murder in the 2nd Degree Felony Murder, and three counts of Armed Criminal Action charges.

Responding officers found two men and a woman dead from gunshot wounds about 4:30 a.m. Sunday in a parking lot where a crowd had gathered near an auto shop known to host informal after-hours get-togethers, according to police.

According to the probable cause statement, one of the wounded told police the shooting started after she greeted one of the suspects and his girlfriend with a hug.

The victim's boyfriend then told the suspect to “watch his hands.” When the victim and her boyfriend began to walk away, the suspect took out a gun and fatally shot him in the back, according to the statement.

Another person pulled a gun and began shooting, striking the woman in the buttocks. The victim identified Greene as the man who shot her, according to the statement.

Online court records did not name an attorney for Greene.

Police initially said at least five others were shot and taken to hospitals by private vehicles and ambulances. On Monday, police identified a sixth person who went to a hospital after being wounded.

The dead were identified as Nikko Manning, 22; Jasity Strong, 28; and Camden Brown, 29.

Greene was taken into custody at a hospital, where he went after being shot in the hand.&nbsp; He had posted $1,000 cash bond about two days before the shooting on felony charges of resisting arrest and drug possession in Independence, an eastern suburb of Kansas City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687892030362.png" alt="Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker announced the additional charges Tuesday" />
 <figcaption>Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker announced the additional charges Tuesday</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man faces multiple felony charges for the fatal shooting of three persons at an after hours club near 57th and Prospect Avenue early Sunday in Kansas City, Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker announced on Tuesday.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-JTqJ4z5tyA?start=300" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Keivon M. Greene, 26, faces two counts of Murder in the 2nd Degree, a third Murder in the 2nd Degree Felony Murder, and three counts of Armed Criminal Action charges.Responding officers found two men and a woman dead from gunshot wounds about 4:30 a.m. Sunday in a parking lot where a crowd had gathered near an auto shop known to host informal after-hours get-togethers, according to police.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687710602889.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation early Sunday-photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation early Sunday-photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>According to the probable cause statement, one of the wounded told police the shooting started after she greeted one of the suspects and his girlfriend with a hug.The victim's boyfriend then told the suspect to “watch his hands.” When the victim and her boyfriend began to walk away, the suspect took out a gun and fatally shot him in the back, according to the statement.Another person pulled a gun and began shooting, striking the woman in the buttocks. The victim identified Greene as the man who shot her, according to the statement.Online court records did not name an attorney for Greene.Police initially said at least five others were shot and taken to hospitals by private vehicles and ambulances. On Monday, police identified a sixth person who went to a hospital after being wounded.The dead were identified as Nikko Manning, 22; Jasity Strong, 28; and Camden Brown, 29.Greene was taken into custody at a hospital, where he went after being shot in the hand.&nbsp; He had posted $1,000 cash bond about two days before the shooting on felony charges of resisting arrest and drug possession in Independence, an eastern suburb of Kansas City.

🎥 Murder charges announced for suspect in Kansas City mass shooting

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged accidental shooting in Riley County.

Just after 10p.m. Monday, officers responded to a report of an accidental shooting in the 7100 block of Anderson Avenue, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

First responders found a 36-year-old woman suffering from ricochet shrapnel wounds to the head and face that occurred while a 39-year-old man she was with was shooting at raccoons.

The woman was transported to Via Christi in Manhattan for treatment of&nbsp; non-life-threatening injuries.&nbsp; Police released no additional details.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged accidental shooting in Riley County.Just after 10p.m. Monday, officers responded to a report of an accidental shooting in the 7100 block of Anderson Avenue, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.First responders found a 36-year-old woman suffering from ricochet shrapnel wounds to the head and face that occurred while a 39-year-old man she was with was shooting at raccoons.The woman was transported to Via Christi in Manhattan for treatment of&nbsp; non-life-threatening injuries.&nbsp; Police released no additional details.

Police: Kan. woman injured during shooting at raccoons

By RACHEL MIPRO <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/05/kansas-lawmakers-debate-definition-of-female-and-male-for-county-jails/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansas had a record-breaking number of out-of-state patients receiving abortions in 2022, following a national rollback of reproductive rights.&nbsp;

Physicians reported a total of 12,318 instances of medical abortions in the state in 2022, according to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/29328/KS-Abortions-2022-PDF">a preliminary report</a>&nbsp;released by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, which produces annual abortion reports.&nbsp;

While the total number of abortions for the year isn’t the highest number ever reported — the year 1999 had a recorded 12,445 abortions,&nbsp; 6,029 of which were out-of-state patients — it is the&nbsp; highest number of out-of-state abortions reported since the report began in 1981, and the largest increase in abortions from year to year.&nbsp;

In 2022, 8,475 out-of-state patients received abortions in Kansas, marking an increase from 2021, when 7,849 total abortion procedures were performed in the state.

In 2022, the mifepristone pill accounted for 59.6% of the abortions in Kansas. About 60% of patients terminated their pregnancy before the first nine weeks, and 88.3% within the first 12 weeks. One abortion occurred outside of 22 weeks, Kansas’ legal abortion threshold, due to a nonviable fetus.&nbsp;

Ten girls younger than 14 received an abortion in Kansas, and 290 patients between the ages of 14 and 17 received abortions, according to the report.&nbsp;

Danielle Underwood, Kansans for Life’s Director of Communications, said the organization predicted this increase.

“As we predicted, Kansas has seen a massive increase in the number of vulnerable women being intentionally funneled to abortion facilities in Kansas,” Underwood said. “Behind each of these statistics is an industry eager to pad its bottom line, a woman who has been pushed to feel she has no other option and a child who will never blow out her first birthday candle.”&nbsp;

The organization called on KDHE to provide the report&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-plans-to-report-2022-abortion-numbers-this-month/">earlier this month</a>, following unusual delays in the release. The agency typically releases the annual abortion report in March.

The rise in abortion comes after increasing restrictions. On June 24, 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court released its decision in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/21pdf/19-1392_6j37.pdf">Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization</a>, overturning the federal right to terminate a pregnancy.&nbsp;

Since the Dobbs ruling, 15 states have enacted&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/see-data-reproductive-rights?eType=EmailBlastContent&amp;eId=916ee9ff-6829-45fb-86cf-e8ff239ac952">full or partial abortion bans</a>, while others have implemented restrictions such as gestational limits. Several of Kansas’ neighboring states, including Oklahoma, Missouri and Arkansas, have banned abortion, and Nebraska has a 12-week ban.

Unlike its neighboring states, Kansas has repeatedly upheld reproductive protections. A&nbsp;Kansas Supreme Court ruling in 2019 determined the state’s constitutional right to bodily autonomy includes the right to terminate a pregnancy, and voters in August 2022 overwhelmingly rejected a constitutional amendment to eliminate that right.

In a Friday news release marking the anniversary of Dobbs,&nbsp;Emily Wales, president and CEO, Planned Parenthood Great Plains, said the organization would continue to focus on reproductive rights.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Today serves as a somber reminder of the overwhelming loss of Roe and its impact on patients’ fundamental right to control their bodies, lives, and futures,”&nbsp; Wales said. “For the past year, we have lived through the challenges this man-made health crisis has created for the region. Despite it all, there have been incredible moments of hope and light in this past year – from Kansans’ overwhelming vote to protect care to the many ways our staff, supporters, and volunteers have stepped in to help patients.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659746749113.png" alt="In a&nbsp; news release marking the anniversary of Dobbs, Emily Wales, president and CEO, Planned Parenthood Great Plains, said the organization would continue to focus on reproductive rights.&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>In a&nbsp; news release marking the anniversary of Dobbs, Emily Wales, president and CEO, Planned Parenthood Great Plains, said the organization would continue to focus on reproductive rights.&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By RACHEL MIPRO <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/05/kansas-lawmakers-debate-definition-of-female-and-male-for-county-jails/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansas had a record-breaking number of out-of-state patients receiving abortions in 2022, following a national rollback of reproductive rights.&nbsp;Physicians reported a total of 12,318 instances of medical abortions in the state in 2022, according to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/29328/KS-Abortions-2022-PDF">a preliminary report</a>&nbsp;released by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, which produces annual abortion reports.&nbsp;While the total number of abortions for the year isn’t the highest number ever reported — the year 1999 had a recorded 12,445 abortions,&nbsp; 6,029 of which were out-of-state patients — it is the&nbsp; highest number of out-of-state abortions reported since the report began in 1981, and the largest increase in abortions from year to year.&nbsp;In 2022, 8,475 out-of-state patients received abortions in Kansas, marking an increase from 2021, when 7,849 total abortion procedures were performed in the state.In 2022, the mifepristone pill accounted for 59.6% of the abortions in Kansas. About 60% of patients terminated their pregnancy before the first nine weeks, and 88.3% within the first 12 weeks. One abortion occurred outside of 22 weeks, Kansas’ legal abortion threshold, due to a nonviable fetus.&nbsp;Ten girls younger than 14 received an abortion in Kansas, and 290 patients between the ages of 14 and 17 received abortions, according to the report.&nbsp;Danielle Underwood, Kansans for Life’s Director of Communications, said the organization predicted this increase.“As we predicted, Kansas has seen a massive increase in the number of vulnerable women being intentionally funneled to abortion facilities in Kansas,” Underwood said. “Behind each of these statistics is an industry eager to pad its bottom line, a woman who has been pushed to feel she has no other option and a child who will never blow out her first birthday candle.”&nbsp;The organization called on KDHE to provide the report&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-plans-to-report-2022-abortion-numbers-this-month/">earlier this month</a>, following unusual delays in the release. The agency typically releases the annual abortion report in March.The rise in abortion comes after increasing restrictions. On June 24, 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court released its decision in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/21pdf/19-1392_6j37.pdf">Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization</a>, overturning the federal right to terminate a pregnancy.&nbsp;Since the Dobbs ruling, 15 states have enacted&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/see-data-reproductive-rights?eType=EmailBlastContent&amp;eId=916ee9ff-6829-45fb-86cf-e8ff239ac952">full or partial abortion bans</a>, while others have implemented restrictions such as gestational limits. Several of Kansas’ neighboring states, including Oklahoma, Missouri and Arkansas, have banned abortion, and Nebraska has a 12-week ban.Unlike its neighboring states, Kansas has repeatedly upheld reproductive protections. A&nbsp;Kansas Supreme Court ruling in 2019 determined the state’s constitutional right to bodily autonomy includes the right to terminate a pregnancy, and voters in August 2022 overwhelmingly rejected a constitutional amendment to eliminate that right.In a Friday news release marking the anniversary of Dobbs,&nbsp;Emily Wales, president and CEO, Planned Parenthood Great Plains, said the organization would continue to focus on reproductive rights.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Today serves as a somber reminder of the overwhelming loss of Roe and its impact on patients’ fundamental right to control their bodies, lives, and futures,”&nbsp; Wales said. “For the past year, we have lived through the challenges this man-made health crisis has created for the region. Despite it all, there have been incredible moments of hope and light in this past year – from Kansans’ overwhelming vote to protect care to the many ways our staff, supporters, and volunteers have stepped in to help patients.”

Kan. report shows skyrocketing number of out-of-state abortion seekers

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a series of shootings in Topeka and have moved a suspect from the hospital to jail.

On Monday, police booked Tony Williams, 53, Topeka, into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith.

Just after 5 a.m. Friday, police responded to a shooting in the area of the 1800 Block of SW Gage Blvd. in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley.

First responders found two individuals suffering from gunshot wounds.

Then at 5:44 a.m., police responded to a shooting in&nbsp; the 1000 Block. of SW Plass Avenue. First responders found one individual&nbsp; suffering from gunshot wounds.

All three individuals were transported to a local area hospital, with two of these individuals injuries to be considered non-life threatening and one considered to be life threatening.

Police believed the two incidents were related and identified Williams as a suspect. He was being treated at a local hospital. He is now being held on requested charges of&nbsp;Attempted, Murder in the 1st degree; intentional and premeditated and gambling; making a bet.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687547641510.png" alt="Police on the scene of the shooting investigation early Friday -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the shooting investigation early Friday -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a series of shootings in Topeka and have moved a suspect from the hospital to jail.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687861273176.png" alt="Williams-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Williams-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>On Monday, police booked Tony Williams, 53, Topeka, into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith.Just after 5 a.m. Friday, police responded to a shooting in the area of the 1800 Block of SW Gage Blvd. in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley.First responders found two individuals suffering from gunshot wounds.Then at 5:44 a.m., police responded to a shooting in&nbsp; the 1000 Block. of SW Plass Avenue. First responders found one individual&nbsp; suffering from gunshot wounds.All three individuals were transported to a local area hospital, with two of these individuals injuries to be considered non-life threatening and one considered to be life threatening.Police believed the two incidents were related and identified Williams as a suspect. He was being treated at a local hospital. He is now being held on requested charges of&nbsp;Attempted, Murder in the 1st degree; intentional and premeditated and gambling; making a bet.

Suspect in Kansas shooting spree moved from hospital to jail

NEW YORK (AP) — The United States has seen five cases of malaria spread by mosquitos in the last two months — the first time there's been local spread in 20 years.

There were four cases detected in Florida and one in Texas, according to a health alert issued Monday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Malaria is caused by a parasite that spreads through mosquito bites. Infected people can suffer fever, chills and flu-like illness. If it goes untreated, infected people can develop severe complications and die. The largest death toll in recent years has been seen in children in sub-Saharan Africa.

Health officials are warning doctors, especially those in southern states where the weather is more friendly to the tropical mosquito that spreads malaria, to be aware of the possibility of infection. They also should think about how to access the IV drug that is the first-line treatment for severe malaria in the United States, the CDC said.

The agency said that the people who were diagnosed received treatment and “are improving.”

About 2,000 U.S. cases of malaria are diagnosed each year — the vast majority in travelers coming from countries where malaria commonly spreads.

Since 1992, there've been 11 outbreaks involving malaria from mosquitoes in the U.S. The last one occurred in 2003 in Palm Beach County, Florida, where eight cases were reported

NEW YORK (AP) — The United States has seen five cases of malaria spread by mosquitos in the last two months — the first time there's been local spread in 20 years.There were four cases detected in Florida and one in Texas, according to a health alert issued Monday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Malaria is caused by a parasite that spreads through mosquito bites. Infected people can suffer fever, chills and flu-like illness. If it goes untreated, infected people can develop severe complications and die. The largest death toll in recent years has been seen in children in sub-Saharan Africa.Health officials are warning doctors, especially those in southern states where the weather is more friendly to the tropical mosquito that spreads malaria, to be aware of the possibility of infection. They also should think about how to access the IV drug that is the first-line treatment for severe malaria in the United States, the CDC said.The agency said that the people who were diagnosed received treatment and “are improving.”About 2,000 U.S. cases of malaria are diagnosed each year — the vast majority in travelers coming from countries where malaria commonly spreads.Since 1992, there've been 11 outbreaks involving malaria from mosquitoes in the U.S. The last one occurred in 2003 in Palm Beach County, Florida, where eight cases were reported

CDC: 5 people with malaria in U.S; first cases in 20-years

WICHITA —The man charged with contempt at the start of a recent murder trial in Sedgwick County pled guilty Tuesday morning, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

On April 25, District Judge Tyler Roush charged Kyle Wissner, 22 of Haysville, with contempt for violating his orders to not discuss the Javan Ervin case.

Wissner was on the jury for a case involving Ervin who fled police when his pickup was involved in a four-vehicle crash that killed a pregnant Kansas woman, Samantha Russell.&nbsp; &nbsp;Wissner talked with other jurors about news media coverage of the case.

After hearing from other jurors about what Wissner did, Judge Roush found him in contempt and ordered a mistrial.&nbsp;

By state statute, the Kansas Attorney General’s Office prosecutes all contempt cases. The prosecutor Monday was Deputy Attorney General Vic Braden.

Wissner pled guilty to criminal contempt, a misdemeanor. District Judge Sean Hatfield sentenced him to a year of probation with an underlying sentence of 30 days in jail and a $500 fine.

Braden said when the defendant pays the $500 to District Court and court costs, he will be released from probation and the case will be closed.

On June 8, a jury found Ervin guilty of 1st degree murder in the traffic death of Samantha Russell at Central and Ridge Road in Wichita. Judge Roush is scheduled to sentence Ervin on July 26.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687812785198.png" alt="Wissner photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Wissner photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA —The man charged with contempt at the start of a recent murder trial in Sedgwick County pled guilty Tuesday morning, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.On April 25, District Judge Tyler Roush charged Kyle Wissner, 22 of Haysville, with contempt for violating his orders to not discuss the Javan Ervin case.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625655160724.png" alt="-First responders at the scene of the fatal 4-vehicle crash photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>-First responders at the scene of the fatal 4-vehicle crash photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>Wissner was on the jury for a case involving Ervin who fled police when his pickup was involved in a four-vehicle crash that killed a pregnant Kansas woman, Samantha Russell.&nbsp; &nbsp;Wissner talked with other jurors about news media coverage of the case.After hearing from other jurors about what Wissner did, Judge Roush found him in contempt and ordered a mistrial.&nbsp;By state statute, the Kansas Attorney General’s Office prosecutes all contempt cases. The prosecutor Monday was Deputy Attorney General Vic Braden.Wissner pled guilty to criminal contempt, a misdemeanor. District Judge Sean Hatfield sentenced him to a year of probation with an underlying sentence of 30 days in jail and a $500 fine.Braden said when the defendant pays the $500 to District Court and court costs, he will be released from probation and the case will be closed.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625764005417.png" alt="Samantha Russell photo GoFundMe" />
 <figcaption>Samantha Russell photo GoFundMe</figcaption>
 </figure>On June 8, a jury found Ervin guilty of 1st degree murder in the traffic death of Samantha Russell at Central and Ridge Road in Wichita. Judge Roush is scheduled to sentence Ervin on July 26..--------------

Kan. juror blamed for mistrial in murder case enters plea deal

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A new Kansas law requires the state to reverse any previous gender changes in its records for trans people's birth certificates and driver's licenses while also preventing such changes going forward, the state's conservative Republican attorney general declared Monday.

Attorney General Kris Kobach also said public schools' records for students must list them as being the gender they were assigned at birth, whether or not teachers and staff recognize their gender identities.

Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly's office said she disagrees with Kobach's views, though it did not say whether state agencies under the governor's control would follow or defy them, setting up the possibility of a court fight. In 2019, a federal judge began requiring Kansas to allow transgender people to change their birth certificates&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/7409799fb2a144bca2fd90cd46b7ea6c">to settle a lawsuit</a>&nbsp;over a no-change policy.

“The attorney general must be off his rocker,” said Omar Gonzalez-Pagan, an attorney for Lambda Legal, which represented the four Kansas residents. “This was a bunch of bombast by an attorney general engaging in politics.”

A formal but non-binding legal opinion issued Monday by Kobach and his statements during a Statehouse news conference confirmed that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-rights-bathroom-law-kansas-b3d068afa2bc02bb15314ee04e8e3899">the new law,</a>&nbsp;if fully in effect, legally would erase transgender people’s gender identities. Opponents predicted as much before the Republican-controlled Legislature enacted the law over Kelly’s veto, but the debate focused mostly on keeping transgender people&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-bathroom-laws-enforcement-e96e94b8935eb6bd23a42562cdeeec6c">from using restrooms</a>&nbsp;and other facilities in line with their gender identities.

The new law defines a person's sex — which can conflict with gender identity — based on a person's "biological reproductive system” at birth. A female has a system “developed to produce ova” while a male has a system “developed to fertilize” that ova. It says “important governmental objectives” of protecting people's health, safety and privacy justify sex-segregated spaces.

“You can choose whatever name you want. You can choose to live however you want,” said state Sen. Renee Erickson, of Wichita, one of three Republican lawmakers who joined Kobach during his news conference. “That does not make you a woman.”

If Kansas didn't allow transgender people to change their birth certificates — its policy before the judge's 2019 order — it would be among only a few states. Federal judges earlier this month upheld Oklahoma and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-birth-certificate-tennessee-lawsuit-47243ba14ab01fa227e0b60d7591675b">Tennessee</a>&nbsp;policies against such changes, and Montana could be sued in state courts over a 2022 law.

Micah Kubic, the executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Kansas, said state agencies are not required to adopt Kobach's views and accused the attorney general of rushing to “impose his own stamp of extremism.”

The state hasn't provided numbers for how many Kansas residents have changed the gender on either their birth certificates or their driver's licenses during the past four years. Kobach put the number for birth certificates at more than 100. Kelly's administration has not said how it will respond to the law.

Adam Kellogg, a 20-year-old transgender University of Kansas student, said Kobach's views, if adopted by the state, would mean that transgender people who need to verify their identities would see conflicts between their documents and gender identities “get very tangled very quickly.” He said transgender people could be forced to out themselves, jeopardizing their safety.

“This is government imposition in a way that should be more concerning to more people,” Kellogg said.

Kobach stressed that transgender people would not have to surrender documents in their possession. They just wouldn't be correct, legally.

He said he is not yet pressing for state action on birth certificates to give a federal judge a chance to grant&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-transgender-birth-certificates-f9723de7460ab5fe71b3e80ba7854046">his request to cancel</a>&nbsp;the 2019 order. He argued that the state law takes precedent over what he described as a judge signing off on a legal settlement — an idea others dispute.

“The Legislature has spoken,” Kobach said during his news conference. “The governor’s staff and the governor’s agencies cannot act as if the Legislature did not override her veto.”

In a brief statement Monday, Kelly spokesperson Zach Fletcher said the administration had discussions with Kobach's office but saw the federal judge's 2019 order as “the appropriate resolution.”

Fletcher added that the governor's office would not comment further because of “the impending litigation." It wasn't clear whether Kelly's administration expects to defy Kobach and him to sue, or whether the administration will go to court itself.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687826476734.png" alt="Image KDHE" />
 <figcaption>Image KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN HANNA&nbsp;TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A new Kansas law requires the state to reverse any previous gender changes in its records for trans people's birth certificates and driver's licenses while also preventing such changes going forward, the state's conservative Republican attorney general declared Monday.Attorney General Kris Kobach also said public schools' records for students must list them as being the gender they were assigned at birth, whether or not teachers and staff recognize their gender identities.Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly's office said she disagrees with Kobach's views, though it did not say whether state agencies under the governor's control would follow or defy them, setting up the possibility of a court fight. In 2019, a federal judge began requiring Kansas to allow transgender people to change their birth certificates&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/7409799fb2a144bca2fd90cd46b7ea6c">to settle a lawsuit</a>&nbsp;over a no-change policy.“The attorney general must be off his rocker,” said Omar Gonzalez-Pagan, an attorney for Lambda Legal, which represented the four Kansas residents. “This was a bunch of bombast by an attorney general engaging in politics.”A formal but non-binding legal opinion issued Monday by Kobach and his statements during a Statehouse news conference confirmed that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-rights-bathroom-law-kansas-b3d068afa2bc02bb15314ee04e8e3899">the new law,</a>&nbsp;if fully in effect, legally would erase transgender people’s gender identities. Opponents predicted as much before the Republican-controlled Legislature enacted the law over Kelly’s veto, but the debate focused mostly on keeping transgender people&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-bathroom-laws-enforcement-e96e94b8935eb6bd23a42562cdeeec6c">from using restrooms</a>&nbsp;and other facilities in line with their gender identities.The new law defines a person's sex — which can conflict with gender identity — based on a person's "biological reproductive system” at birth. A female has a system “developed to produce ova” while a male has a system “developed to fertilize” that ova. It says “important governmental objectives” of protecting people's health, safety and privacy justify sex-segregated spaces.“You can choose whatever name you want. You can choose to live however you want,” said state Sen. Renee Erickson, of Wichita, one of three Republican lawmakers who joined Kobach during his news conference. “That does not make you a woman.”If Kansas didn't allow transgender people to change their birth certificates — its policy before the judge's 2019 order — it would be among only a few states. Federal judges earlier this month upheld Oklahoma and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-birth-certificate-tennessee-lawsuit-47243ba14ab01fa227e0b60d7591675b">Tennessee</a>&nbsp;policies against such changes, and Montana could be sued in state courts over a 2022 law.Micah Kubic, the executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Kansas, said state agencies are not required to adopt Kobach's views and accused the attorney general of rushing to “impose his own stamp of extremism.”The state hasn't provided numbers for how many Kansas residents have changed the gender on either their birth certificates or their driver's licenses during the past four years. Kobach put the number for birth certificates at more than 100. Kelly's administration has not said how it will respond to the law.Adam Kellogg, a 20-year-old transgender University of Kansas student, said Kobach's views, if adopted by the state, would mean that transgender people who need to verify their identities would see conflicts between their documents and gender identities “get very tangled very quickly.” He said transgender people could be forced to out themselves, jeopardizing their safety.“This is government imposition in a way that should be more concerning to more people,” Kellogg said.Kobach stressed that transgender people would not have to surrender documents in their possession. They just wouldn't be correct, legally.He said he is not yet pressing for state action on birth certificates to give a federal judge a chance to grant&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-transgender-birth-certificates-f9723de7460ab5fe71b3e80ba7854046">his request to cancel</a>&nbsp;the 2019 order. He argued that the state law takes precedent over what he described as a judge signing off on a legal settlement — an idea others dispute.“The Legislature has spoken,” Kobach said during his news conference. “The governor’s staff and the governor’s agencies cannot act as if the Legislature did not override her veto.”In a brief statement Monday, Kelly spokesperson Zach Fletcher said the administration had discussions with Kobach's office but saw the federal judge's 2019 order as “the appropriate resolution.”Fletcher added that the governor's office would not comment further because of “the impending litigation." It wasn't clear whether Kelly's administration expects to defy Kobach and him to sue, or whether the administration will go to court itself.

Kan. gov. , AG at odds on gender changes for trans people in state records

WICHITA —Registered nurses at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis and Ascension Via Christi St. Joseph hospitals in Wichita will strike on Tuesday to protest management’s resistance to bargain in good faith with RNs for union contracts that would help correct the endemic staffing crisis, according to a media release from National Nurses Organizing Committee/National Nurses United (NNOC/NNU).&nbsp;

Nurses at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nationalnursesunited.org/press/ascension-seton-nurses-overwhelmingly-vote-to-authorize-strike" target="_blank">Ascension Seton Medical Center</a>, in Austin, Texas are also part of the job action. The strike was set to begin at 7a.m., according to the union web site.

Driven by their concerns about patient safety, these will be the largest nurse strikes in Kansas and Texas history, according to the union.

Ascension management’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nationalnursesunited.org/press/strike-ready-nurses-condemn-ascensions-lockout-threat" target="_blank">punitive three-day lockout of nurses who go on strike</a>&nbsp;has failed to intimidate the nurses. Among the 2,000 registered nurses at&nbsp;Ascension via Christi St. Joseph Hospital and&nbsp;Ascension via Christi St. Francis Hospital and&nbsp;Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin, Texas, there is now even greater momentum and motivation to speak out and demand management negotiate first contracts with its RNs to&nbsp; improve the health of their patients and communities.

“Management’s retaliatory threats are despicable, but union nurses won’t give up on our fight for our patients,” said&nbsp;Kris Fuentes,&nbsp;a registered nurse in the neonatal intensive care unit at Ascension Seton Medical Center in Austin. “Ascension’s dangerous staffing practices disrupt our ability to provide quality care and put our patients at risk every day. This is a clear sign Ascension would rather use its vast resources to delay improvement than to invest in the care our patients and our communities deserve with appropriate staffing.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686927459677.png" alt="Photo courtesy National Nurses United" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy National Nurses United</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA —Registered nurses at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis and Ascension Via Christi St. Joseph hospitals in Wichita will strike on Tuesday to protest management’s resistance to bargain in good faith with RNs for union contracts that would help correct the endemic staffing crisis, according to a media release from National Nurses Organizing Committee/National Nurses United (NNOC/NNU).&nbsp;Nurses at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nationalnursesunited.org/press/ascension-seton-nurses-overwhelmingly-vote-to-authorize-strike" target="_blank">Ascension Seton Medical Center</a>, in Austin, Texas are also part of the job action. The strike was set to begin at 7a.m., according to the union web site.Driven by their concerns about patient safety, these will be the largest nurse strikes in Kansas and Texas history, according to the union.Ascension management’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nationalnursesunited.org/press/strike-ready-nurses-condemn-ascensions-lockout-threat" target="_blank">punitive three-day lockout of nurses who go on strike</a>&nbsp;has failed to intimidate the nurses. Among the 2,000 registered nurses at&nbsp;Ascension via Christi St. Joseph Hospital and&nbsp;Ascension via Christi St. Francis Hospital and&nbsp;Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin, Texas, there is now even greater momentum and motivation to speak out and demand management negotiate first contracts with its RNs to&nbsp; improve the health of their patients and communities.“Management’s retaliatory threats are despicable, but union nurses won’t give up on our fight for our patients,” said&nbsp;Kris Fuentes,&nbsp;a registered nurse in the neonatal intensive care unit at Ascension Seton Medical Center in Austin. “Ascension’s dangerous staffing practices disrupt our ability to provide quality care and put our patients at risk every day. This is a clear sign Ascension would rather use its vast resources to delay improvement than to invest in the care our patients and our communities deserve with appropriate staffing.”

Nurses at 2 Wichita hospitals begin their strike 

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal shooting that took the life of a teenager in Kansas City, Kansas have identified the victim as 17-year-old JaMarcus D. Lane, according to a media release.

The shooting happened just after 2:30 p.m. on Friday in the 3100 block of W. Barker Circle.

Police were dispatched to the scene and and found the boy with gunshot wounds. Police have released no additional details or suspect information.

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal shooting that took the life of a teenager in Kansas City, Kansas have identified the victim as 17-year-old JaMarcus D. Lane, according to a media release.The shooting happened just after 2:30 p.m. on Friday in the 3100 block of W. Barker Circle.Police were dispatched to the scene and and found the boy with gunshot wounds. Police have released no additional details or suspect information.

Police ID teen who died in Kansas shooting

WASHINGTON —House Speaker Kevin McCarthy on social media hinted at a possible impeachment inquiry of Attorney General Merrick Garland over the alleged weaponization of the Department of Justice.

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

(Click below to watch White House briefing on the investigation)

In a statement from McCarthy's office, the House Speaker wrote, "Here’s what we just learned from IRS whistleblower testimony: The IRS gave Hunter Biden's tax case preferential treatment. The Department of Justice interfered with the investigation at every turn and the IRS retaliated against those very whistleblowers for telling the truth

"Our committees will continue to follow every lead into the Biden family's shady business dealings and the weaponized Biden Department of Justice. The American people deserve answers and accountability, " McCarthy wrote.

"We need to get to the facts, and that includes reconciling these clear disparities. U.S. Attorney David Weiss must provide answers to the House Judiciary Committee."

"If the whistleblowers' allegations are true, this will be a significant part of a larger impeachment inquiry into Merrick Garland's weaponization of the Department of Justice."

(Click below to watch White House response)

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

The transcript included a message Hunter sent to a business associate alluding to “sitting with his father,” seemingly suggesting that his father was aware of his business dealings.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685582773295.png" alt=""If the whistleblowers' allegations are true, this will be a significant part of a larger impeachment inquiry into Merrick Garland's weaponization of the Department of Justice,"&nbsp; House Speaker Kevin McCarthy wrote on Sunday.-photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>"If the whistleblowers' allegations are true, this will be a significant part of a larger impeachment inquiry into Merrick Garland's weaponization of the Department of Justice,"&nbsp; House Speaker Kevin McCarthy wrote on Sunday.-photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON —House Speaker Kevin McCarthy on social media hinted at a possible impeachment inquiry of Attorney General Merrick Garland over the alleged weaponization of the Department of Justice.Garland continues to push back against&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hunter-biden-irs-justice-department-irs-congress-d242a84d4d6d8e90db68febab168fef7">claims</a>&nbsp;from IRS whistleblowers that the Justice Department interfered with the investigation into Hunter Biden, saying more broadly that attacks on the department’s independence are corrosive.(Click below to watch White House briefing on the investigation)<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We need to get to the facts, and that includes reconciling these clear disparities. U.S. Attorney David Weiss must provide answers to the House Judiciary Committee. If the whistleblowers&#39; allegations are true, this will be a significant part of a larger impeachment inquiry into… <a href="https://t.co/Q3LLeJhW85">https://t.co/Q3LLeJhW85</a>&mdash; Kevin McCarthy (@SpeakerMcCarthy) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerMcCarthy/status/1672994001459490817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>In a statement from McCarthy's office, the House Speaker wrote, "Here’s what we just learned from IRS whistleblower testimony: The IRS gave Hunter Biden's tax case preferential treatment. The Department of Justice interfered with the investigation at every turn and the IRS retaliated against those very whistleblowers for telling the truth"Our committees will continue to follow every lead into the Biden family's shady business dealings and the weaponized Biden Department of Justice. The American people deserve answers and accountability, " McCarthy wrote."We need to get to the facts, and that includes reconciling these clear disparities. U.S. Attorney David Weiss must provide answers to the House Judiciary Committee.""If the whistleblowers' allegations are true, this will be a significant part of a larger impeachment inquiry into Merrick Garland's weaponization of the Department of Justice."(Click below to watch White House response)<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWhiteHouse%2Fvideos%2F289364610159840%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=1958" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>In a separate statement Friday, President Biden's lawyer denounced the idea that the investigation cut any corners, and said it would be “dangerously misleading” to make conclusions based on the transcript.The transcript included a message Hunter sent to a business associate alluding to “sitting with his father,” seemingly suggesting that his father was aware of his business dealings.&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWhiteHouse%2Fvideos%2F289364610159840%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=2923" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Joe Biden has said he’s never spoken to his son about his foreign business. Asked if the president stands by those comments, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre replied: “What I will say is nothing has changed. Nothing has changed, and I will leave it there.”-The AP contributed to this report.

🎥 House Speaker threatens AG with impeachment inquiry 

JEFFERSON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6:30p.m. Monday in Jefferson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a&nbsp; 2006 Chevy Malibu driven by Amanda Brooks, 34, Topeka, was southbound on Allen Road just south of U.S. 24.

Two juveniles riding on the trunk of the car fell. One of the juveniles had minor injuries, according to the KHP.&nbsp; The agency did not indicate where the juvenile was transported for treatment.

 Brooks was not wearing a seat belt and not injured, according to the KHP. Authorities released no additional details or&nbsp; information on a possible citation.

JEFFERSON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6:30p.m. Monday in Jefferson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a&nbsp; 2006 Chevy Malibu driven by Amanda Brooks, 34, Topeka, was southbound on Allen Road just south of U.S. 24.Two juveniles riding on the trunk of the car fell. One of the juveniles had minor injuries, according to the KHP.&nbsp; The agency did not indicate where the juvenile was transported for treatment. Brooks was not wearing a seat belt and not injured, according to the KHP. Authorities released no additional details or&nbsp; information on a possible citation.

KHP: Juvenile riding on trunk of car injured after fall

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a burglary have made an arrest.

Just before 7:30 a.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to a burglary in progress at a home in the 700 Block NE Chester in Topeka, according to police Lt. Jerry Monasmith.

Officers quickly responded to the area and located the suspect and vehicle, taking them into custody without incident.

As a result of the investigation, Allison Brese, 28, Topeka, was transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Burglary and Theft 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687699992338.png" alt="Brese-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Brese-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a burglary have made an arrest.Just before 7:30 a.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to a burglary in progress at a home in the 700 Block NE Chester in Topeka, according to police Lt. Jerry Monasmith.Officers quickly responded to the area and located the suspect and vehicle, taking them into custody without incident.As a result of the investigation, Allison Brese, 28, Topeka, was transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Burglary and Theft

Police catch woman during burglary of Kansas home

SEDGWICK COUNTY – A Kansas man found guilty of several sexual assaults involving young girls has been sentenced. 

On Friday, District Judge David Kaufman sentenced 25-year-old Raymundo Aguilar of Wichita to four consecutive life sentences plus 114 months with the Dept. of Corrections, plus an additional four years in the Sedgwick County Jail.

On February 27, a jury found Aguilar guilty of three rapes, aggravated criminal sodomy, aggravated indecent solicitation of a child, aggravated indecent liberties with a child, aggravated intimidation of a witness, four counts of violating a protective order and possession of marijuana in four separate criminal cases. 

Aguilar represented himself in his trial. Aguilar’s victims were 12, 13, and 14 at the time of the crimes. One of the victims had a child following a rape.

When adding the sentences together, Aguilar must serve 113.5 years in custody.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687562884283.png" alt="Aguilar-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Aguilar-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY – A Kansas man found guilty of several sexual assaults involving young girls has been sentenced. On Friday, District Judge David Kaufman sentenced 25-year-old Raymundo Aguilar of Wichita to four consecutive life sentences plus 114 months with the Dept. of Corrections, plus an additional four years in the Sedgwick County Jail.On February 27, a jury found Aguilar guilty of three rapes, aggravated criminal sodomy, aggravated indecent solicitation of a child, aggravated indecent liberties with a child, aggravated intimidation of a witness, four counts of violating a protective order and possession of marijuana in four separate criminal cases. Aguilar represented himself in his trial. Aguilar’s victims were 12, 13, and 14 at the time of the crimes. One of the victims had a child following a rape.When adding the sentences together, Aguilar must serve 113.5 years in custody.

Kan. man sentenced for child rape represented himself at trial

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Kelly on Monday appointed Alysia Johnston and Neelima Parasker, and reappointed Jon Rolph to the Kansas Board of Regents, according to a media release from her office.

“These three individuals are highly qualified, committed, and dedicated to ensuring our state’s post-secondary institutions remain top-notch,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“I look forward to working with them and the entire Board of Regents as we continue to ensure Kansas’ higher education system is positioned to meet the needs of students, families, and businesses.”&nbsp;

Alysia Johnston has 37 years of experience in community college education. Johnston most recently served as the President for Fort Scott Community College, where she worked closely with the Kansas Board of Regents and the Kansas Technical Education Authority. She served as Vice President for Academic Services for Coffeyville Community College from 2005 to 2015, where she was Chair of the Academic Affairs Committee. Johnston earned a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from Kansas State University and a Master of Science in Biology from Pittsburg State University.&nbsp;

Neelima Parasker is the President and Chief Executive Officer of SnapIT Solutions LLC, an innovative technology company providing IT services, software product development solutions, training, and staffing. With more than 20 years of experience in IT, Parasker has held many leadership positions. She is a Board Member of KansasWorks State Workforce Board and served on the Community Development Advisory Council at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City. Parasker studied at Osmania University, India, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. She later earned her Master of Science in Computer Science from Oklahoma City University.&nbsp;

Jon Rolph currently serves as chair of the board and was originally appointed in 2019. Rolph is President and CEO of Thrive Restaurant Group, which owns and operates more than 50 restaurants across 10 different states.&nbsp;Rolph was a two-time Student Body President at Baylor University, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2001 and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. After graduating, Rolph worked with college student leaders as an intern for the National Student Leadership Forum in Washington, D.C. He returned to Kansas in 2002 to work in the family-owned businesses.&nbsp;

The Kansas Board of Regents is a bipartisan, nine-member board composed of members who serve for a staggered period of four years. Each member is appointed by the Governor, and subject to confirmation by the Senate.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687813671821.png" alt="Neelima Parasker- courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Neelima Parasker- courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Kelly on Monday appointed Alysia Johnston and Neelima Parasker, and reappointed Jon Rolph to the Kansas Board of Regents, according to a media release from her office.“These three individuals are highly qualified, committed, and dedicated to ensuring our state’s post-secondary institutions remain top-notch,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“I look forward to working with them and the entire Board of Regents as we continue to ensure Kansas’ higher education system is positioned to meet the needs of students, families, and businesses.”&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687813620305.png" alt="Alysia Johnston courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Alysia Johnston courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Alysia Johnston has 37 years of experience in community college education. Johnston most recently served as the President for Fort Scott Community College, where she worked closely with the Kansas Board of Regents and the Kansas Technical Education Authority. She served as Vice President for Academic Services for Coffeyville Community College from 2005 to 2015, where she was Chair of the Academic Affairs Committee. Johnston earned a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from Kansas State University and a Master of Science in Biology from Pittsburg State University.&nbsp;Neelima Parasker is the President and Chief Executive Officer of SnapIT Solutions LLC, an innovative technology company providing IT services, software product development solutions, training, and staffing. With more than 20 years of experience in IT, Parasker has held many leadership positions. She is a Board Member of KansasWorks State Workforce Board and served on the Community Development Advisory Council at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City. Parasker studied at Osmania University, India, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. She later earned her Master of Science in Computer Science from Oklahoma City University.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687813726187.png" alt="Jon Rolph courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Jon Rolph courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Jon Rolph currently serves as chair of the board and was originally appointed in 2019. Rolph is President and CEO of Thrive Restaurant Group, which owns and operates more than 50 restaurants across 10 different states.&nbsp;Rolph was a two-time Student Body President at Baylor University, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2001 and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. After graduating, Rolph worked with college student leaders as an intern for the National Student Leadership Forum in Washington, D.C. He returned to Kansas in 2002 to work in the family-owned businesses.&nbsp;The Kansas Board of Regents is a bipartisan, nine-member board composed of members who serve for a staggered period of four years. Each member is appointed by the Governor, and subject to confirmation by the Senate.&nbsp;

Gov. nominates two new members to the Kansas Board of Regents

KANSAS CITY —A 26-year-old Kansas City man has been charged in connection with the early Sunday shooting at 57th&nbsp;and Prospect that left three dead and wounded six others, according to the Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

Keivon M. Greene, 27, Kansas City, faces charges of Assault 1st&nbsp;Degree and Armed Criminal Action. Further charges are expected this week as the investigation of the shooting continues, according t Jean Peters Baker.

According to court documents filed Monday, Greene was at the shooting crime scene in the area of 57th&nbsp;and Prospect Avenue early Sunday.

This case remains under investigation and other charges are anticipated this week. The defendant identified today remains in a Kansas City hospital and in custody. &nbsp;

Responding officers found two men and a woman dead from gunshot wounds at around 4:30 a.m. Sunday in a parking lot where a crowd had gathered, near an auto shop known to host informal after-hours get-togethers, police said.

Police initially said at least five others where shot and taken to hospitals by private vehicles and ambulances. On Monday, police said they had identified a sixth person who was wounded and taken to a hospital.

The fatalities were identified Monday as Nikko Manning, 22; Jasity Strong, 28; and Camden Brown, 29.

Police said Sunday that another person was wounded in a separate shooting blocks away about 3 a.m. No additional information in that shooting has been released.

Homicide detectives identified Greene in the shooting near the auto shop and took a man into custody in Grandview, Missouri, just after 5 p.m. Sunday.

Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves joined people at the scene in a prayer circle as officers collected evidence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687710602889.png" alt=" On Monday, police said they had identified a sixth person who was wounded and taken to a hospital.-photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption> On Monday, police said they had identified a sixth person who was wounded and taken to a hospital.-photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A 26-year-old Kansas City man has been charged in connection with the early Sunday shooting at 57th&nbsp;and Prospect that left three dead and wounded six others, according to the Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.Keivon M. Greene, 27, Kansas City, faces charges of Assault 1st&nbsp;Degree and Armed Criminal Action. Further charges are expected this week as the investigation of the shooting continues, according t Jean Peters Baker.According to court documents filed Monday, Greene was at the shooting crime scene in the area of 57th&nbsp;and Prospect Avenue early Sunday.This case remains under investigation and other charges are anticipated this week. The defendant identified today remains in a Kansas City hospital and in custody. &nbsp;Responding officers found two men and a woman dead from gunshot wounds at around 4:30 a.m. Sunday in a parking lot where a crowd had gathered, near an auto shop known to host informal after-hours get-togethers, police said.Police initially said at least five others where shot and taken to hospitals by private vehicles and ambulances. On Monday, police said they had identified a sixth person who was wounded and taken to a hospital.The fatalities were identified Monday as Nikko Manning, 22; Jasity Strong, 28; and Camden Brown, 29.Police said Sunday that another person was wounded in a separate shooting blocks away about 3 a.m. No additional information in that shooting has been released.Homicide detectives identified Greene in the shooting near the auto shop and took a man into custody in Grandview, Missouri, just after 5 p.m. Sunday.Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves joined people at the scene in a prayer circle as officers collected evidence.

Police ID victims, suspect in deadly Kansas City mass shooting

By&nbsp;MATT VASILOGAMBROS <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/03/30/u-s-judge-rules-insurers-dont-have-to-cover-many-free-preventive-health-services/">States Newsroom</a>

City leaders in Storm Lake, a rural community of 11,000 in Northwest Iowa, are asking residents not to wash their cars or water their yards and gardens during the hottest part of the day. The city also has cut back on watering public recreational spaces, such as ballfields and golf courses.

These are highly unusual&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://legistarweb-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/attachment/pdf/1953797/6320222023_-_Water_Conservation_2023.pdf">steps</a>&nbsp;in a state that is normally flush with water and even prone to flooding. But the rain in Iowa, along with the rest of the Corn Belt states of the Midwest, has been mysteriously absent this spring, plunging the region into drought.

“It’s something new that residents have never had to really deal with before,” said Keri Navratil, the city manager of Storm Lake.

As California and much of the Western United States ease out of drought conditions after a spectacularly wet winter, the Midwest has fallen victim to a dry, hot spell that could have devastating consequences for the world’s food supply.

“America’s Breadbasket” — the vast corn, soy and wheat fields that extend from the Great Plains to Ohio — hasn’t had enough rain to sustain crop growth, which fuels a major part of the region’s economy, including food, animal feed and ethanol production. The region last suffered a substantial drought in 2012, and before that in 1988.

Though experts have not tied this event to climate change directly, scientists&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://climatechange.chicago.gov/climate-impacts/climate-impacts-midwest">have warned</a>&nbsp;that climate change will lead to more summer droughts for the Midwest in the years to come.

An unusually dry spring and summerlike heat have stunted crops, forced water conservation measures and lowered levels in major waterways, which could prevent barges from transporting goods downstream.

Missouri Republican Gov. Mike Parson has&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.sos.mo.gov/library/reference/orders/2023/eo5">declared</a>&nbsp;a drought alert to assist counties hurt by these dry conditions. City leaders in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.oak-forest.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=560">Oak Forest, Illinois</a>;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cms1files.revize.com/wentzvillemo/4069_001%20(1).pdf">Wentzville, Missouri</a>; and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/City/Departments/LTU/Utilities/LWS/Conservation">Lincoln, Nebraska</a>, have called on residents to limit their water usage.

The region’s drought conditions are both unusual and concerning, said Dennis Todey, the director of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Midwest Climate Hub, which provides scientific analysis to the region’s agricultural and natural resource managers. This is the fourth year in a row of significant drought for much of the Midwest and Great Plains, he said.

“We’re reaching a point where we absolutely need to start getting rainfall over the main core of the Midwest,” he said. “We’re reaching a very concerning time here.”

This dry spell should not be happening, he added, especially with the return of El Niño, a cyclical weather event in which surface water temperatures in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean rise, causing wetter and warmer global weather. The Midwest is not getting that moisture.

Instead, a high-pressure system — which usually means sunny, calm weather — has parked itself above the region, preventing the precipitation needed for healthy crops and fully flowing waterways such as the Mississippi River. The frequent storms that are typical during the spring, fueled by moisture in the Gulf of Mexico, did not happen.

Though “weird,” this weather pattern is not yet being connected to climate change, said Trent Ford, the Illinois state climatologist, who collects and analyzes the state’s climate data.

“It’s just extremely dry,” he said. “That’s why I said it’s weird. It is sort of this random weather pattern that’s established and has just really either persisted or I suppose evolved in a way to keep this part of the country very, very dry.”

Parts of Illinois have received only around 5% of normal rainfall this month, he added. Several places in the state should have 10 more inches of precipitation than they’ve gotten since April. Cities in the Chicago area are having their driest periods since 1936. Major rivers in the state, such as the Illinois and Kankakee, are at record lows for this time of year.

Nearly 60% of the Midwest, which includes Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio and Wisconsin, is under moderate drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor, which is run jointly by the federal government and the National Drought Mitigation Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Nearly 93% of the region is abnormally dry, with around 16% of it suffering severe drought.

In the Great Plains states of Kansas and Nebraska, the situation is far worse. A quarter of Nebraska and 38% of Kansas are under extreme drought. More than a tenth of Nebraska and 8% of Kansas are in exceptional drought — the monitor’s most severe stage. The Great Plains has had drought conditions for more than a year, though it has received some rain in recent weeks.

The region’s drought couldn’t come at a worse time from an agricultural point of view, said Brad Rippey, a U.S. Department of Agriculture meteorologist and author of the U.S. Drought Monitor&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/">report</a>. While&nbsp;the arid conditions are&nbsp;concerning, he said, there’s still time for the region to rebound.

“It’s still very young in the year, and if you look at drought intensity it’s not high yet,” he said. “Obviously, if it doesn’t rain over the next few weeks, that’s going to change. We’re really watching how this develops.”

These dry conditions have led to topsoil and subsoil moisture depletion, meaning less water in the ground to support planting and growing crops. Additionally, drier conditions have meant a vast browning of grasses and pasture lands, forcing farmers to buy more feed, instead of relying on grazing.

This is a critical time for farmers, as they approach the reproductive stage of crop development, when corn starts to silk and soybeans begin to blossom.

Mark Licht, an associate professor and cropping systems specialist at Iowa State University, recently walked the fields of a farm in Northeast Iowa that planted its soybeans after the early spring rains. Those soybeans didn’t have the moisture to germinate and emerge, he said, which has become a common problem throughout the state.

The state hasn’t had good rain since early May. What rain the state has gotten has been “spotty and patchy,” not providing enough precipitation to sustain the crops, he said. Soybean and corn plants are shorter than expected, with not enough canopy growth to protect the soil from weeds and sustained sunlight, which are harmful to crop development.

There is still some time for crops to rebound if the rain comes back. But if it doesn’t rain by the time the Iowa corn crop starts pollinating in a few weeks, its corn will have fewer kernels, which will raise prices for cattle owners who might have to look for alternative feed sources.

“We’re in a situation where we essentially need very timely rains to be able to get this crop through,” Licht said. “The majority of Iowa corn and soybean production is all rain-fed, and right now we just don’t have any.”

Recent rains in Kansas and Nebraska have helped the wheat crop in those states, said Justin Gilpin, CEO of Kansas Wheat, a wheat-grower advocacy group. But for other parts of the wheat-growing Great Plains states, it wasn’t enough.

“For a big portion of Kansas,” he added in an email to&nbsp;Stateline, “the drought improvement and rains are a little too late to have helped the wheat crop.”

This article was initially published by&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://stateline.org/">Stateline</a>, a part of States Newsroom.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684861752582.png" alt="A severe drought plaguing Kansas spells trouble for the winter wheat harvest. Photo courtesy Kansas Wheat" />
 <figcaption>A severe drought plaguing Kansas spells trouble for the winter wheat harvest. Photo courtesy Kansas Wheat</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;MATT VASILOGAMBROS <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/03/30/u-s-judge-rules-insurers-dont-have-to-cover-many-free-preventive-health-services/">States Newsroom</a>City leaders in Storm Lake, a rural community of 11,000 in Northwest Iowa, are asking residents not to wash their cars or water their yards and gardens during the hottest part of the day. The city also has cut back on watering public recreational spaces, such as ballfields and golf courses.These are highly unusual&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://legistarweb-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/attachment/pdf/1953797/6320222023_-_Water_Conservation_2023.pdf">steps</a>&nbsp;in a state that is normally flush with water and even prone to flooding. But the rain in Iowa, along with the rest of the Corn Belt states of the Midwest, has been mysteriously absent this spring, plunging the region into drought.“It’s something new that residents have never had to really deal with before,” said Keri Navratil, the city manager of Storm Lake.As California and much of the Western United States ease out of drought conditions after a spectacularly wet winter, the Midwest has fallen victim to a dry, hot spell that could have devastating consequences for the world’s food supply.“America’s Breadbasket” — the vast corn, soy and wheat fields that extend from the Great Plains to Ohio — hasn’t had enough rain to sustain crop growth, which fuels a major part of the region’s economy, including food, animal feed and ethanol production. The region last suffered a substantial drought in 2012, and before that in 1988.Though experts have not tied this event to climate change directly, scientists&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://climatechange.chicago.gov/climate-impacts/climate-impacts-midwest">have warned</a>&nbsp;that climate change will lead to more summer droughts for the Midwest in the years to come.An unusually dry spring and summerlike heat have stunted crops, forced water conservation measures and lowered levels in major waterways, which could prevent barges from transporting goods downstream.Missouri Republican Gov. Mike Parson has&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.sos.mo.gov/library/reference/orders/2023/eo5">declared</a>&nbsp;a drought alert to assist counties hurt by these dry conditions. City leaders in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.oak-forest.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=560">Oak Forest, Illinois</a>;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cms1files.revize.com/wentzvillemo/4069_001%20(1).pdf">Wentzville, Missouri</a>; and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/City/Departments/LTU/Utilities/LWS/Conservation">Lincoln, Nebraska</a>, have called on residents to limit their water usage.The region’s drought conditions are both unusual and concerning, said Dennis Todey, the director of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Midwest Climate Hub, which provides scientific analysis to the region’s agricultural and natural resource managers. This is the fourth year in a row of significant drought for much of the Midwest and Great Plains, he said.“We’re reaching a point where we absolutely need to start getting rainfall over the main core of the Midwest,” he said. “We’re reaching a very concerning time here.”This dry spell should not be happening, he added, especially with the return of El Niño, a cyclical weather event in which surface water temperatures in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean rise, causing wetter and warmer global weather. The Midwest is not getting that moisture.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687806543059.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Instead, a high-pressure system — which usually means sunny, calm weather — has parked itself above the region, preventing the precipitation needed for healthy crops and fully flowing waterways such as the Mississippi River. The frequent storms that are typical during the spring, fueled by moisture in the Gulf of Mexico, did not happen.Though “weird,” this weather pattern is not yet being connected to climate change, said Trent Ford, the Illinois state climatologist, who collects and analyzes the state’s climate data.“It’s just extremely dry,” he said. “That’s why I said it’s weird. It is sort of this random weather pattern that’s established and has just really either persisted or I suppose evolved in a way to keep this part of the country very, very dry.”Parts of Illinois have received only around 5% of normal rainfall this month, he added. Several places in the state should have 10 more inches of precipitation than they’ve gotten since April. Cities in the Chicago area are having their driest periods since 1936. Major rivers in the state, such as the Illinois and Kankakee, are at record lows for this time of year.Nearly 60% of the Midwest, which includes Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio and Wisconsin, is under moderate drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor, which is run jointly by the federal government and the National Drought Mitigation Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Nearly 93% of the region is abnormally dry, with around 16% of it suffering severe drought.In the Great Plains states of Kansas and Nebraska, the situation is far worse. A quarter of Nebraska and 38% of Kansas are under extreme drought. More than a tenth of Nebraska and 8% of Kansas are in exceptional drought — the monitor’s most severe stage. The Great Plains has had drought conditions for more than a year, though it has received some rain in recent weeks.The region’s drought couldn’t come at a worse time from an agricultural point of view, said Brad Rippey, a U.S. Department of Agriculture meteorologist and author of the U.S. Drought Monitor&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/">report</a>. While&nbsp;the arid conditions are&nbsp;concerning, he said, there’s still time for the region to rebound.“It’s still very young in the year, and if you look at drought intensity it’s not high yet,” he said. “Obviously, if it doesn’t rain over the next few weeks, that’s going to change. We’re really watching how this develops.”These dry conditions have led to topsoil and subsoil moisture depletion, meaning less water in the ground to support planting and growing crops. Additionally, drier conditions have meant a vast browning of grasses and pasture lands, forcing farmers to buy more feed, instead of relying on grazing.This is a critical time for farmers, as they approach the reproductive stage of crop development, when corn starts to silk and soybeans begin to blossom.Mark Licht, an associate professor and cropping systems specialist at Iowa State University, recently walked the fields of a farm in Northeast Iowa that planted its soybeans after the early spring rains. Those soybeans didn’t have the moisture to germinate and emerge, he said, which has become a common problem throughout the state.The state hasn’t had good rain since early May. What rain the state has gotten has been “spotty and patchy,” not providing enough precipitation to sustain the crops, he said. Soybean and corn plants are shorter than expected, with not enough canopy growth to protect the soil from weeds and sustained sunlight, which are harmful to crop development.There is still some time for crops to rebound if the rain comes back. But if it doesn’t rain by the time the Iowa corn crop starts pollinating in a few weeks, its corn will have fewer kernels, which will raise prices for cattle owners who might have to look for alternative feed sources.“We’re in a situation where we essentially need very timely rains to be able to get this crop through,” Licht said. “The majority of Iowa corn and soybean production is all rain-fed, and right now we just don’t have any.”Recent rains in Kansas and Nebraska have helped the wheat crop in those states, said Justin Gilpin, CEO of Kansas Wheat, a wheat-grower advocacy group. But for other parts of the wheat-growing Great Plains states, it wasn’t enough.“For a big portion of Kansas,” he added in an email to&nbsp;Stateline, “the drought improvement and rains are a little too late to have helped the wheat crop.”This article was initially published by&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://stateline.org/">Stateline</a>, a part of States Newsroom.

Drought hits the Midwest, threatening crops and the world’s food supply

By JENNIFER SHUTT&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/03/30/u-s-judge-rules-insurers-dont-have-to-cover-many-free-preventive-health-services/">States Newsroom</a>

By JENNIFER SHUTT&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/03/30/u-s-judge-rules-insurers-dont-have-to-cover-many-free-preventive-health-services/">States Newsroom</a>WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden pledged Friday to hold the line against attempts to restrict reproductive rights and abortion access during a campaign rally with the country’s leading abortion rights organizations.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">It’s time to restore Roe v. Wade once and for all. <a href="https://t.co/clMks641a7">pic.twitter.com/clMks641a7</a>&mdash; Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1672382856989999117?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">When Roe v. Wade was overturned, we committed that we&#39;d never stop fighting for your reproductive rights. That hasn&#39;t changed. Today, I signed a third reproductive health care Executive Order that strengthens access to contraception – an essential part of reproductive care. <a href="https://t.co/66jVxlTzUz">pic.twitter.com/66jVxlTzUz</a>&mdash; President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1672290015181717509?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“The court got Roe right 50 years ago, and I believe Congress should restore the protections of Roe v. Wade once and for all,” said Biden, who is seeking reelection in 2024. “But we need your help.”The rally was held the day before the one-year anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to end the nationwide, constitutional right to an abortion that stood for nearly 50 years.That ruling, Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, said “the authority to regulate abortion is returned to the people and their elected representatives.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I commit to the American people that we’re going to keep fighting to safeguard access to health care, including the right to choose which was ripped away by an extreme Supreme Court decision. <a href="https://t.co/YAAoV7zkem">pic.twitter.com/YAAoV7zkem</a>&mdash; President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1672635701660114945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Speaking from the Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C., Biden said Republicans are likely to advance a nationwide ban on abortion if they gain control of Congress and the White House during the 2024 elections.“Make no mistake this election is about freedom on the ballot,” Biden said.Ahead of his speech, NARAL Pro-Choice America and Planned Parenthood Action Fund endorsed Biden’s reelection campaign. EMILY’s List, which supports female politicians who back reproductive rights, endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris.Harris said during the rally that reproductive rights and access to abortion are based on “one of the most important principles upon which our nation was founded.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The only way to stop those who are committed to taking away women’s rights and freedoms in every state is to elect a Congress that will pass a law restoring Roe v. Wade. Vice President <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KamalaHarris</a> and I will continue to lead the fight to protect a woman’s right to an abortion. <a href="https://t.co/sHwsWV8dgb">pic.twitter.com/sHwsWV8dgb</a>&mdash; Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1672665939341373444?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“The importance of freedom … to make decisions about one’s own life, one’s own body. The freedom to be free from government interference when it comes to one’s private decisions — decisions that are about heart and home,” Harris said.Executive orderBefore the campaign event on Friday, Biden signed an&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/06/23/fact-sheet-president-biden-issues-executive-order-on-strengthening-access-to-contraception/">executive order</a>&nbsp;aimed at increasing access to and affordability of contraception.The move calls on several federal agencies to “consider new guidance” for private health insurance companies, which are required to provide contraception at no cost under the 2010 health care law, or the Affordable Care Act.The executive order calls on the secretary of Health and Human Services to consider new guidance for Medicare and Medicaid that would expand access to contraception.Biden also called on the Defense and Veterans Affairs departments as well as the Office of Personnel Management “to consider new actions to ensure robust coverage of contraception for Service members, veterans, and Federal employees and ensure that they and their families understand how to access these benefits.”The executive order doesn’t include a timeline for when the White House would like those federal agencies to issue guidance that could expand access to and affordability of contraception.Clare Coleman, president and CEO of the National Family Planning and Reproductive Health Association, said in a written statement that the organization is “dismayed that this order does not require tangible steps to protect access and does not include any firm deadlines.”“For example, it is imperative that the administration explicitly enforce Medicaid’s free choice of provider protection; however, today’s executive order is silent on states’ ignoring federal law,” Coleman said, referring to a section of Medicaid law that allows patients to obtain medical services from any willing and qualified provider. “This blatant violation exacerbates an already dire health care access problem, and it is within the power of this administration to do something about it.”The NFPRHA, Coleman said, urges “the White House to do all it can to confront the growing threats to contraception.”Democrats in Congress&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/democrats-congress-renew-push-protect-access-birth-control">have reintroduced a bill that would guarantee access to contraception</a>.The legislation is designed to protect access to birth control in the event the U.S. Supreme Court were to overturn the cases that extended constitutional privacy rights to those decisions.That legislation, however, is unlikely to move through the divided Congress.