By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/02/23/kansas-treasurer-state-representative-call-for-answers-in-cold-snap-price-gouging-investigation/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The Kansas state 
treasurer, a legislator and a former school board member Wednesday 
called on Attorney General Derek Schmidt to advance a slow-moving 
investigation of potential price gouging tied to spikes in natural gas 
prices during Winter Storm Uri one year ago.

Last February, Schmidt launched an investigation into the natural gas
 prices, which left Kansas with more than $1 billion in economic 
fallout. Gas prices rose by nearly 200 times, and experts expect Kansas 
utility payers will be feeling the aftereffects for a decade.

Seven months after the storm, as utilities were negotiating plans to 
pass higher rates onto customers, Schmidt said the high prices “appear 
to violate Kansas law” and noted he was seeking outside counsel to aid 
in the investigation.

State treasurer Lynn Rogers said this lack of movement sends the wrong message to Kansans.

“The message it sends is, pay your bills, pay the cost but just wait 
for answers and trust us,” Rogers said. “I don’t think that’s a good 
message for citizens or for elected officials. We need to be doing our 
job.”

Last month, the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/02/10/house-denounces-price-gouging-market-hijinks-of-2021-natural-gas-price-spike/">Kansas House nearly unanimously approved a resolution</a>
 endorsing these investigations and condemning price gouging or market 
manipulation in the aftermath of the winter storm. In addition, the 
regulation called on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to examine
 market conditions from Feb. 6 to 18.

The attorney general has since obtained counsel with specialized expertise, said John Milburn, a spokesman for Schmidt’s office.

The investigation is active and ongoing,” he said. “We have no further comment at this time.”

Laura Guy, a former school teacher and Shawnee Mission School Board 
member, said the wait-and-see approach is not enough. She pointed to 
struggles faced by education faculty across the state.

“The last thing any school district needs right now is outrageous 
bills that drain precious resources away from our students,” Guy said. 
“(Schmidt) has given Kansans nearly no insight on where his 
investigation stands, leaving school districts like (Shawnee Mission) 
questioning whether … cold weather could undo all of our careful 
budgeting.”

On average, Shawnee Mission schools spend about $600,000 in natural 
gas bills for the entire year. During last February’s cold snap, the 
school gas bill ballooned to $1.6 million for a single month.

Auburn-Washburn Unified School District received a gas bill of 
$45,000 instead of its typical bill of $5,000. Newton Public Schools 
received a bill for nearly $200,000, six times the normal cost.

The city utility low-interest loan program, approved by the 
Legislature last year, allows Kansas cities to borrow from the state to 
cover extraordinary natural gas and electric costs. As of Jan. 1, 54 
cities and one municipal energy agency had submitted applications and 
$78,409,646.79 in loans were approved and funded.

Still, Rep. Anne Kuether, a Topeka Democrat, said Kansans deserve answers and financial security.

“This is an issue that doesn’t have a party. This is an issue for the
 everyday people who are having a hard time making ends meet,” Kuether 
said. “Kansans deserve answers, relief, and they also deserve assurances
 that they will be protected for future market manipulations.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645650040585.png" alt="State treasurer Lynn Rogers, accompanied by a state representative and former school board member, asked that the attorney general speed up an investigation into potential price gouging tied to spikes in the cost of natural gas during the cold snap. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>State treasurer Lynn Rogers, accompanied by a state representative and former school board member, asked that the attorney general speed up an investigation into potential price gouging tied to spikes in the cost of natural gas during the cold snap. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/02/23/kansas-treasurer-state-representative-call-for-answers-in-cold-snap-price-gouging-investigation/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The Kansas state 
treasurer, a legislator and a former school board member Wednesday 
called on Attorney General Derek Schmidt to advance a slow-moving 
investigation of potential price gouging tied to spikes in natural gas 
prices during Winter Storm Uri one year ago.Last February, Schmidt launched an investigation into the natural gas
 prices, which left Kansas with more than $1 billion in economic 
fallout. Gas prices rose by nearly 200 times, and experts expect Kansas 
utility payers will be feeling the aftereffects for a decade.Seven months after the storm, as utilities were negotiating plans to 
pass higher rates onto customers, Schmidt said the high prices “appear 
to violate Kansas law” and noted he was seeking outside counsel to aid 
in the investigation.State treasurer Lynn Rogers said this lack of movement sends the wrong message to Kansans.“The message it sends is, pay your bills, pay the cost but just wait 
for answers and trust us,” Rogers said. “I don’t think that’s a good 
message for citizens or for elected officials. We need to be doing our 
job.”Last month, the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/02/10/house-denounces-price-gouging-market-hijinks-of-2021-natural-gas-price-spike/">Kansas House nearly unanimously approved a resolution</a>
 endorsing these investigations and condemning price gouging or market 
manipulation in the aftermath of the winter storm. In addition, the 
regulation called on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to examine
 market conditions from Feb. 6 to 18.The attorney general has since obtained counsel with specialized expertise, said John Milburn, a spokesman for Schmidt’s office.The investigation is active and ongoing,” he said. “We have no further comment at this time.”Laura Guy, a former school teacher and Shawnee Mission School Board 
member, said the wait-and-see approach is not enough. She pointed to 
struggles faced by education faculty across the state.“The last thing any school district needs right now is outrageous 
bills that drain precious resources away from our students,” Guy said. 
“(Schmidt) has given Kansans nearly no insight on where his 
investigation stands, leaving school districts like (Shawnee Mission) 
questioning whether … cold weather could undo all of our careful 
budgeting.”On average, Shawnee Mission schools spend about $600,000 in natural 
gas bills for the entire year. During last February’s cold snap, the 
school gas bill ballooned to $1.6 million for a single month.Auburn-Washburn Unified School District received a gas bill of 
$45,000 instead of its typical bill of $5,000. Newton Public Schools 
received a bill for nearly $200,000, six times the normal cost.The city utility low-interest loan program, approved by the 
Legislature last year, allows Kansas cities to borrow from the state to 
cover extraordinary natural gas and electric costs. As of Jan. 1, 54 
cities and one municipal energy agency had submitted applications and 
$78,409,646.79 in loans were approved and funded.Still, Rep. Anne Kuether, a Topeka Democrat, said Kansans deserve answers and financial security.“This is an issue that doesn’t have a party. This is an issue for the
 everyday people who are having a hard time making ends meet,” Kuether 
said. “Kansans deserve answers, relief, and they also deserve assurances
 that they will be protected for future market manipulations.”

Kan. officials call for answers in cold snap price-gouging investigation

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal attack and have two suspects in custody.

Just before 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, police responded to a 911 call in the 600 block of N. Seneca after a caller reported a person was being beaten on the Seneca Street bridge, according to Officer Trevor Macy.

Officers and EMS responded and located a 30-year-old male victim, identified as Blake Barnes of Wichita. He was transported to an area hospital in critical condition and later pronounced deceased, according t Macy.

Officers contacted the witness who was able to direct them to a suspect – identified as&nbsp;63-year-old David Chandler&nbsp; who was reported to have struck Barnes several times with a metal pipe.

Police took Chandler into custody while he was walking away from the crime scene.

The witness reported another suspect was also involved but left the scene on a bicycle prior to officers arriving. The second suspect, identified as&nbsp;31-year-old Abel Molina, was located in the 400 block of N. Seneca, where he was taken into custody.

Both suspects were transported to the Sedgwick County Jail and booked on requested charges of 2nd degree murder and outstanding warrants. All individuals involved are known to be homeless, according to Macy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645644547356.png" alt="Chandler-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Chandler-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal attack and have two suspects in custody.Just before 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, police responded to a 911 call in the 600 block of N. Seneca after a caller reported a person was being beaten on the Seneca Street bridge, according to Officer Trevor Macy.Officers and EMS responded and located a 30-year-old male victim, identified as Blake Barnes of Wichita. He was transported to an area hospital in critical condition and later pronounced deceased, according t Macy.Officers contacted the witness who was able to direct them to a suspect – identified as&nbsp;63-year-old David Chandler&nbsp; who was reported to have struck Barnes several times with a metal pipe.Police took Chandler into custody while he was walking away from the crime scene.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645644648580.png" alt="Molina photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Molina photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The witness reported another suspect was also involved but left the scene on a bicycle prior to officers arriving. The second suspect, identified as&nbsp;31-year-old Abel Molina, was located in the 400 block of N. Seneca, where he was taken into custody.Both suspects were transported to the Sedgwick County Jail and booked on requested charges of 2nd degree murder and outstanding warrants. All individuals involved are known to be homeless, according to Macy.

2 Kan. men accused of beating victim to death with a pipe

By SHERMAN SMITH <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/02/22/new-kansas-license-plates-would-celebrate-wildlife-and-parks/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The Kansas House gave 
first-round approval Tuesday to legislation creating license plates that
 celebrate wildlife and parks and grant free admission to state parks.

House Bill 2597 would raise an estimated $480,000 in annual royalty 
fees for the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks. The four new 
distinctive plates would celebrate state parks, hunting, fishing, and 
nongame wildlife.

“Kansans are really proud of their passion for whatever they feel 
they’d like to display on their vehicles,” said&nbsp;Rep. Doug Blex, 
R-Independence, the bill’s sponsor.

The secretary of the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks would 
determine a royalty fee of at least $40 and not more than $100 for 
individuals who want one of the new plates, which would become available
 on Jan. 1, 2023. The license plates would double as an annual vehicle 
permit to state parks.

The state agency anticipates a net gain of $281,000 in annual 
revenue, after accounting for the individuals who would replace the $15 
annual permit with a license plate.

The House advanced the bill on a voice vote, along with separate 
legislation that would establish license plates for the cities of Topeka
 and Hutchinson, and one for the Daughters of the American Revolution.

The House also gave first-round approval to House Bill 2456, which 
would create lifetime hunting and fishing licenses for children younger 
than 5 years old. The license would cost $300.

Rep. Ken Corbet, R-Topeka, said license sales have been down for 15 years.

“This is just a good start to try to pick up a new generation and try
 to keep ’em in Kansas and keep ’em getting ’em outdoors,” Corbet said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645640298498.png" alt="Rep. Doug Blex, R-Independence, sponsored legislation that would create four new distinctive license plates that celebrate parks and wildlife in Kansas. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Doug Blex, R-Independence, sponsored legislation that would create four new distinctive license plates that celebrate parks and wildlife in Kansas. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By SHERMAN SMITH <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/02/22/new-kansas-license-plates-would-celebrate-wildlife-and-parks/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The Kansas House gave 
first-round approval Tuesday to legislation creating license plates that
 celebrate wildlife and parks and grant free admission to state parks.House Bill 2597 would raise an estimated $480,000 in annual royalty 
fees for the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks. The four new 
distinctive plates would celebrate state parks, hunting, fishing, and 
nongame wildlife.“Kansans are really proud of their passion for whatever they feel 
they’d like to display on their vehicles,” said&nbsp;Rep. Doug Blex, 
R-Independence, the bill’s sponsor.The secretary of the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks would 
determine a royalty fee of at least $40 and not more than $100 for 
individuals who want one of the new plates, which would become available
 on Jan. 1, 2023. The license plates would double as an annual vehicle 
permit to state parks.The state agency anticipates a net gain of $281,000 in annual 
revenue, after accounting for the individuals who would replace the $15 
annual permit with a license plate.The House advanced the bill on a voice vote, along with separate 
legislation that would establish license plates for the cities of Topeka
 and Hutchinson, and one for the Daughters of the American Revolution.The House also gave first-round approval to House Bill 2456, which 
would create lifetime hunting and fishing licenses for children younger 
than 5 years old. The license would cost $300.Rep. Ken Corbet, R-Topeka, said license sales have been down for 15 years.“This is just a good start to try to pick up a new generation and try
 to keep ’em in Kansas and keep ’em getting ’em outdoors,” Corbet said.

New Kansas license plates would celebrate wildlife and parks

BARTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating&nbsp; information from two separate sources that controlled substances were being smuggled into the Barton County Jail have made arrests, according to Barton County&nbsp; Sheriff Brian Bellendir.

After detectives launched an investigation, they placed a civilian employee under surveillance. It appears the inmates involved were inmate workers or “trustees." Inmate workers have been allowed to assist with various functions around the jail and in the community, including picking up groceries at local businesses for the jail. An inmate worker was allowed to accompany the jail cook on these errands. 

During the course of the investigation, detectives learned that the employee and the inmate worker had stopped at a residence in the 500 block of Odell in Great Bend while going to get groceries. The inmate exited the vehicle and contacted a person at the residence.

The inmate worker was identified as Hernan Montez, 30 of Great Bend. He was being held on a contempt of court charge, according to Bellendir. At that point, detectives placed the residence on Odell Street under surveillance. 

When the trustee and the employee returned to the jail, the trustee was searched and suspected methamphetamine was discovered. Detectives began the process of obtaining a search warrant for the address on Odell.&nbsp;

While waiting for a search warrant, a vehicle left the residence, and a traffic stop was conducted. During the stop, the suspect became combative, striking two officers and fled on foot from a location near 6th Street and Odell.

The suspect, identified as Reynaldo Martinez, 35, Great Bend, ran back into the house that was under surveillance. Deputies pursued Martinez inside and after a short struggle he was taken into custody. After the search warrant was obtained for drugs for the same residence, deputies found more than a pound of methamphetamine with an estimated street value of approximately $30,000.

During the investigation, detectives obtained information that the civilian employee, Tammy Batt, 45 of Russell, had been involved in an intimate relationship with one of the prisoners.

Tammy Batt was arrested on requested charges of traffic in contraband in a correctional institution and unlawful sexual relations. Batt was arrested and booked. She has since posted a $50,000 bond.

Reynaldo Martinez was arrested on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, no drug tax stamp, two counts battery of a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest and trafficking contraband in a correctional institution. Bond is set at $300,000.

Hernan Montez was arrested on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine and trafficking in contraband in a correctional institution. Bond is set at $50,000.

Two shifts of officers were called in to assist with the operations. This included a complete search of the jail. Based on the findings, it is believed none of the drugs reached general population. It appears the incident was confined to the inmate worker section of the jail, according to Bellendir.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645644461607.jpeg" alt="photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating&nbsp; information from two separate sources that controlled substances were being smuggled into the Barton County Jail have made arrests, according to Barton County&nbsp; Sheriff Brian Bellendir.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645644568229.jpeg" alt="Tammy Batt photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Tammy Batt photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>After detectives launched an investigation, they placed a civilian employee under surveillance. It appears the inmates involved were inmate workers or “trustees." Inmate workers have been allowed to assist with various functions around the jail and in the community, including picking up groceries at local businesses for the jail. An inmate worker was allowed to accompany the jail cook on these errands. During the course of the investigation, detectives learned that the employee and the inmate worker had stopped at a residence in the 500 block of Odell in Great Bend while going to get groceries. The inmate exited the vehicle and contacted a person at the residence.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645644524765.jpeg" alt="Hernan Montez-photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Hernan Montez-photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The inmate worker was identified as Hernan Montez, 30 of Great Bend. He was being held on a contempt of court charge, according to Bellendir. At that point, detectives placed the residence on Odell Street under surveillance. When the trustee and the employee returned to the jail, the trustee was searched and suspected methamphetamine was discovered. Detectives began the process of obtaining a search warrant for the address on Odell.&nbsp;While waiting for a search warrant, a vehicle left the residence, and a traffic stop was conducted. During the stop, the suspect became combative, striking two officers and fled on foot from a location near 6th Street and Odell.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645644548045.jpeg" alt="Reynaldo Martinez" />
 <figcaption>Reynaldo Martinez</figcaption>
 </figure>The suspect, identified as Reynaldo Martinez, 35, Great Bend, ran back into the house that was under surveillance. Deputies pursued Martinez inside and after a short struggle he was taken into custody. After the search warrant was obtained for drugs for the same residence, deputies found more than a pound of methamphetamine with an estimated street value of approximately $30,000.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645644568229.jpeg" alt="Tammy Batt photo Barton CO." />
 <figcaption>Tammy Batt photo Barton CO.</figcaption>
 </figure>During the investigation, detectives obtained information that the civilian employee, Tammy Batt, 45 of Russell, had been involved in an intimate relationship with one of the prisoners.Tammy Batt was arrested on requested charges of traffic in contraband in a correctional institution and unlawful sexual relations. Batt was arrested and booked. She has since posted a $50,000 bond.Reynaldo Martinez was arrested on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, no drug tax stamp, two counts battery of a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest and trafficking contraband in a correctional institution. Bond is set at $300,000.Hernan Montez was arrested on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine and trafficking in contraband in a correctional institution. Bond is set at $50,000.Two shifts of officers were called in to assist with the operations. This included a complete search of the jail. Based on the findings, it is believed none of the drugs reached general population. It appears the incident was confined to the inmate worker section of the jail, according to Bellendir.

Sheriff: Employee smuggled drugs to inmate lover at Barton Co. jail

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a hit-and-run accident and after asking the public for help to locate a vehicle have made an arrest.

On Tuesday night,&nbsp;deputies were able to gather information that led to the arrest of 50-year-old James R. Cunningham of Alma, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

Deputies located Cunningham at his residence and he was taken into custody without incident.&nbsp; He remains jailed on requested charges of failure to stop at an accident resulting in great bodily harm and failure to stop at accident causing injury or damage over $1000.

Just before 2p.m. Monday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call regarding a vehicle versus a bicycle accident in the 5500 block of SW Burlingame Road. 

The driver of the vehicle fled the scene southbound after striking the bicyclist.&nbsp;The bicyclist was transported to a local hospital by American Medical Response with non-life-threatening injuries.

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a hit and run accident continue asking the public for help to locate a&nbsp; silver 2012-2018 Ford Focus, according to Sheriff's Deputy Abigail Christian.

The Sheriff’s Office is attempting to locate the driver of the silver Ford Focus.&nbsp;The vehicle is missing the passenger side mirror. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office (785-251-2200)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645637662654.png" alt="Cunningham-photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Cunningham-photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a hit-and-run accident and after asking the public for help to locate a vehicle have made an arrest.On Tuesday night,&nbsp;deputies were able to gather information that led to the arrest of 50-year-old James R. Cunningham of Alma, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645568563830.png" alt="Security camera image of Cunningham's vehicle after the crash-photo Shawnee Co. Sheriff." />
 <figcaption>Security camera image of Cunningham's vehicle after the crash-photo Shawnee Co. Sheriff.</figcaption>
 </figure>Deputies located Cunningham at his residence and he was taken into custody without incident.&nbsp; He remains jailed on requested charges of failure to stop at an accident resulting in great bodily harm and failure to stop at accident causing injury or damage over $1000.Just before 2p.m. Monday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call regarding a vehicle versus a bicycle accident in the 5500 block of SW Burlingame Road. The driver of the vehicle fled the scene southbound after striking the bicyclist.&nbsp;The bicyclist was transported to a local hospital by American Medical Response with non-life-threatening injuries.-----SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a hit and run accident continue asking the public for help to locate a&nbsp; silver 2012-2018 Ford Focus, according to Sheriff's Deputy Abigail Christian.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645568563830.png" alt="The Ford Focus, pictured here driving southbound on SW Burlingame Road, is now missing the passenger side mirror.-photo Shawnee Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>The Ford Focus, pictured here driving southbound on SW Burlingame Road, is now missing the passenger side mirror.-photo Shawnee Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 2p.m. Monday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call regarding a vehicle versus a bicycle accident in the 5500 block of SW Burlingame Road. The driver of the vehicle fled the scene southbound after striking the bicyclist.&nbsp;The bicyclist was transported to a local hospital by American Medical Response with non-life-threatening injuries.The Sheriff’s Office is attempting to locate the driver of the silver Ford Focus.&nbsp;The vehicle is missing the passenger side mirror. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office (785-251-2200)

Sheriff: Man jailed for hit-and-run of Kansas bicyclist 

TOPEKA — The number of confirmed coronavirus cases* (see below) in Kansas increased by 1,161 to a total of 764,239, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The state reported 13 additional COVID-19 deaths for a total of 7,930.

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.

<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.

As of August 1, 2021, in accordance with an&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">updated CDC/CSTE surveillance case definition</a>, a confirmed case is defined as a person who tested positive by molecular detection (e.g., PCR, NAA) or identification of SARS-CoV-2 through genetic sequencing. A probable case is defined as a person with: a) presumptive lab evidence (antigen) or b) no lab testing but meeting clinical case criteria and is epi-linked. A person will be counted as a new surveillance case (e.g. reinfection) if they test positive for SARS-CoV-2 by a diagnostic test (i.e., molecular, antigen) and it has been greater than 90 days since the previous positive diagnostic test. In addition, a person with sequencing results identifying different SARS-CoV-2 lineages regardless of the time since the previous specimen sequenced will be counted as a new surveillance case.&nbsp;

Cases occurring between&nbsp;September 1, 2020&nbsp;and July 29, 2021 were classified by&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">previous CDC/CSTE case definition,&nbsp;</a>and cases prior to September 1, 2020 were classified by the&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/case-definitions/coronavirus-disease-2019-2020/" target="_blank">original case definition</a>.

TOPEKA — The number of confirmed coronavirus cases* (see below) in Kansas increased by 1,161 to a total of 764,239, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp; &nbsp;The state reported 13 additional COVID-19 deaths for a total of 7,930.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645639597349.png" alt="Wednesday February 23, 2022 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday February 23, 2022 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.As of August 1, 2021, in accordance with an&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">updated CDC/CSTE surveillance case definition</a>, a confirmed case is defined as a person who tested positive by molecular detection (e.g., PCR, NAA) or identification of SARS-CoV-2 through genetic sequencing. A probable case is defined as a person with: a) presumptive lab evidence (antigen) or b) no lab testing but meeting clinical case criteria and is epi-linked. A person will be counted as a new surveillance case (e.g. reinfection) if they test positive for SARS-CoV-2 by a diagnostic test (i.e., molecular, antigen) and it has been greater than 90 days since the previous positive diagnostic test. In addition, a person with sequencing results identifying different SARS-CoV-2 lineages regardless of the time since the previous specimen sequenced will be counted as a new surveillance case.&nbsp;Cases occurring between&nbsp;September 1, 2020&nbsp;and July 29, 2021 were classified by&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">previous CDC/CSTE case definition,&nbsp;</a>and cases prior to September 1, 2020 were classified by the&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/case-definitions/coronavirus-disease-2019-2020/" target="_blank">original case definition</a>.

KDHE: 1,161 new cases, 13 additional COVID deaths

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Shawnee County authorities have charged a Topeka West High School student who was the subject of protests from other students with 11 sex-related crimes. 

District Attorney Mike Kagay says he will ask a judge to charge the student as an adult because of the serious nature of the crimes. The student's name has not been released because he is a juvenile. 

Kagay says the 11 charges involve five alleged victims. Topeka West High School students staged a protest on Sept. 17 because of what they called a lack of response to allegations that the male student had sexually assaulted a female student in July.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631914182570.png" alt="More than 100 students at Topeka West High School held a protest over the school administration's handling of a male student who has been accused of raping a female student last summer.-photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>More than 100 students at Topeka West High School held a protest over the school administration's handling of a male student who has been accused of raping a female student last summer.-photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Shawnee County authorities have charged a Topeka West High School student who was the subject of protests from other students with 11 sex-related crimes. District Attorney Mike Kagay says he will ask a judge to charge the student as an adult because of the serious nature of the crimes. The student's name has not been released because he is a juvenile. Kagay says the 11 charges involve five alleged victims. Topeka West High School students staged a protest on Sept. 17 because of what they called a lack of response to allegations that the male student had sexually assaulted a female student in July.

Kan. teen, subject of sex assault protest, arrested on 11 counts

PLATTE COUNTY—Authorities investigating a fatal weekend accident have identified the victims as 37-year-old Howard Alden of Salina and 14-year-old Kenneth Powell, according to Major Erik Holland with the Platte County Missouri Sheriff's Department.

According to the sheriff, just before 10a.m. Sunday, a 2003 Chrysler Town and Country driven by Alden was westbound on 92 Highway near Highway B.

 The vehicle traveled off the shoulder and the driver overcorrected. The van crossed into the eastbound lanes and struck a 2021 Ford Edge driven by a 67-year-old Mary Miller from Platte City.

Alden and Powell were pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported two other passengers in the van, a six-year-old boy and a five-year-old girl, to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Miller was also hospitalized for treatment of moderate injuries, according to the sheriff's department.

Preliminary investigation indicated that alcohol may be a factor in the crash. The deceased occupants of the Chrysler minivan were not restrained, according Sheriff Mark Owen.&nbsp; The crash remains under investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645456287113.png" alt="Photo courtesy Platte Co. Missouri Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Platte Co. Missouri Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>PLATTE COUNTY—Authorities investigating a fatal weekend accident have identified the victims as 37-year-old Howard Alden of Salina and 14-year-old Kenneth Powell, according to Major Erik Holland with the Platte County Missouri Sheriff's Department.According to the sheriff, just before 10a.m. Sunday, a 2003 Chrysler Town and Country driven by Alden was westbound on 92 Highway near Highway B. The vehicle traveled off the shoulder and the driver overcorrected. The van crossed into the eastbound lanes and struck a 2021 Ford Edge driven by a 67-year-old Mary Miller from Platte City.Alden and Powell were pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported two other passengers in the van, a six-year-old boy and a five-year-old girl, to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Miller was also hospitalized for treatment of moderate injuries, according to the sheriff's department.Preliminary investigation indicated that alcohol may be a factor in the crash. The deceased occupants of the Chrysler minivan were not restrained, according Sheriff Mark Owen.&nbsp; The crash remains under investigation.

Police ID Kansas man, teen who died in Missouri crash

COVID-19 vaccines are unlikely to trigger a rare inflammatory condition linked to coronavirus infection in children, according to an analysis of U.S. government data published Tuesday.

The condition, formally known as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mis/index.html" target="_blank">multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children</a>, involves fever plus symptoms affecting at least two organs and often includes stomach pain, skin rash or bloodshot eyes. It’s a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-news-coronavirus-pandemic-05c95129b7e9877f3e714b278d3deb68">rare complication&nbsp;</a>in kids who have had COVID-19, and very rarely affects adults. The condition often leads to hospitalization, but most patients recover.

First reported in the United Kingdom&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-health-us-news-new-york-ny-state-wire-92f0d11dc10dbebc7e46c57d175f5317">in early 2020</a>, it is sometimes mistaken for Kawasaki disease, which can cause swelling and heart problems. Since February 2020, more than 6,800 cases have been reported in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

As part of COVID-19 vaccine safety monitoring, the CDC and U.S. Food and Drug Administration added the condition to a list of several potential adverse events of special interest. A few cases reported in people with no detectable evidence of coronavirus infection prompted researchers at the CDC and elsewhere to undertake the new&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanchi/home" target="_blank">analysis</a>, which was published Tuesday in The Lancet Child &amp; Adolescent Health.

The possibility that the vaccines could somehow prompt the condition is only theoretical and the analysis found no evidence that it did, said co-author Dr. Buddy Creech, a Vanderbilt University pediatric infectious disease specialist who is leading a study of Moderna shots in children.

“We don’t know what the exact contribution of the vaccine to these illnesses is,” Creech said. “Vaccine alone in absence of a preceding infection appears not to be a substantial trigger.’’

The analysis involved surveillance data for the first nine months of COVID-19 vaccination in the U.S., from December 2020 through August 2021. During that time, the FDA authorized Pfizer’s COVID-19 shots for ages 16 and up; expanded that in May to ages 12 through 15; and authorized Moderna and Johnson &amp; Johnson shots for ages 18 and up.

More than 21 million people aged 12 to 20 received at least one vaccine dose during that time. Twenty-one of them developed the inflammatory condition afterward. All had received Pfizer shots, the analysis found. Fifteen of the 21 had laboratory evidence of a previous COVID-19 infection that could have triggered the condition.

The remaining six had no evidence of a previous infection, but the researchers said they could not conclude definitively that they’d never had COVID-19 or some other infection that could have led to the inflammatory condition. Kids with COVID-19 often have no symptoms and many never get tested.

The results suggest that the inflammatory condition may occur after vaccination in 1 in 1 million children who have had COVID-19, and in 1 in 3 million who have no detectable evidence of previous COVID-19 infection.

Most kids who had COVID-19 don’t develop the post-infection illness, but it is estimated to happen at a significantly higher rate than both of those post-vaccination figures. In April to June 2020, the rate was 200 cases per million in unvaccinated infected people aged 12-20 in the U.S.

“Their findings overall are quite reassuring,” Dr. Mary Beth Son of Boston Children’s Hospital wrote in a commentary accompanying the study.

Dr. Adam Ratner, a pediatrician-scientist at New York University Langone Health, said the results show that chances are “super rare” for the shots to prompt an immune response that could lead to the inflammatory condition. By contrast, there’s strong evidence that vaccination protects kids from getting COVID-19 as well as the condition, Ratner said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635537216378.png" alt="photo courtesy Pfizer" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy Pfizer</figcaption>
 </figure>By LINDSEY TANNER, Associated PressCOVID-19 vaccines are unlikely to trigger a rare inflammatory condition linked to coronavirus infection in children, according to an analysis of U.S. government data published Tuesday.The condition, formally known as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mis/index.html" target="_blank">multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children</a>, involves fever plus symptoms affecting at least two organs and often includes stomach pain, skin rash or bloodshot eyes. It’s a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-news-coronavirus-pandemic-05c95129b7e9877f3e714b278d3deb68">rare complication&nbsp;</a>in kids who have had COVID-19, and very rarely affects adults. The condition often leads to hospitalization, but most patients recover.First reported in the United Kingdom&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-health-us-news-new-york-ny-state-wire-92f0d11dc10dbebc7e46c57d175f5317">in early 2020</a>, it is sometimes mistaken for Kawasaki disease, which can cause swelling and heart problems. Since February 2020, more than 6,800 cases have been reported in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.As part of COVID-19 vaccine safety monitoring, the CDC and U.S. Food and Drug Administration added the condition to a list of several potential adverse events of special interest. A few cases reported in people with no detectable evidence of coronavirus infection prompted researchers at the CDC and elsewhere to undertake the new&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanchi/home" target="_blank">analysis</a>, which was published Tuesday in The Lancet Child &amp; Adolescent Health.The possibility that the vaccines could somehow prompt the condition is only theoretical and the analysis found no evidence that it did, said co-author Dr. Buddy Creech, a Vanderbilt University pediatric infectious disease specialist who is leading a study of Moderna shots in children.“We don’t know what the exact contribution of the vaccine to these illnesses is,” Creech said. “Vaccine alone in absence of a preceding infection appears not to be a substantial trigger.’’The analysis involved surveillance data for the first nine months of COVID-19 vaccination in the U.S., from December 2020 through August 2021. During that time, the FDA authorized Pfizer’s COVID-19 shots for ages 16 and up; expanded that in May to ages 12 through 15; and authorized Moderna and Johnson &amp; Johnson shots for ages 18 and up.More than 21 million people aged 12 to 20 received at least one vaccine dose during that time. Twenty-one of them developed the inflammatory condition afterward. All had received Pfizer shots, the analysis found. Fifteen of the 21 had laboratory evidence of a previous COVID-19 infection that could have triggered the condition.The remaining six had no evidence of a previous infection, but the researchers said they could not conclude definitively that they’d never had COVID-19 or some other infection that could have led to the inflammatory condition. Kids with COVID-19 often have no symptoms and many never get tested.The results suggest that the inflammatory condition may occur after vaccination in 1 in 1 million children who have had COVID-19, and in 1 in 3 million who have no detectable evidence of previous COVID-19 infection.Most kids who had COVID-19 don’t develop the post-infection illness, but it is estimated to happen at a significantly higher rate than both of those post-vaccination figures. In April to June 2020, the rate was 200 cases per million in unvaccinated infected people aged 12-20 in the U.S.“Their findings overall are quite reassuring,” Dr. Mary Beth Son of Boston Children’s Hospital wrote in a commentary accompanying the study.Dr. Adam Ratner, a pediatrician-scientist at New York University Langone Health, said the results show that chances are “super rare” for the shots to prompt an immune response that could lead to the inflammatory condition. By contrast, there’s strong evidence that vaccination protects kids from getting COVID-19 as well as the condition, Ratner said.___

Report: COVID-19 shots unlikely to prompt rare inflammation in kids

MOSCOW (AP) — The East-West faceoff over Ukraine escalated dramatically Tuesday, with Russian lawmakers authorizing President Vladimir Putin to use military force outside his country and U.S. President Joe Biden and European leaders responding by slapping sanctions on Russian oligarchs and banks.

Both leaders signaled that an even bigger confrontation could lie ahead. Putin has yet to unleash the force of the 150,000 troops massed on three sides of Ukraine, while Biden held back on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-joe-biden-technology-business-vladimir-putin-7e5cb3c142d1142055e9709056d7ca7a">even tougher sanctions&nbsp;</a>that could cause economic turmoil for Russia but said they would go ahead if there is further aggression.

The measures, accompanied by the repositioning of additional U.S. troops to the Baltic nations on NATO’s eastern flank bordering Russia, came as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-joe-biden-vladimir-putin-europe-donetsk-f31ce5178ddf5aad77f60c9d02bb40b6">Russian forces rolled into rebel-held areas</a>&nbsp;in eastern Ukraine after Putin said he was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-joe-biden-boris-johnson-europe-emmanuel-macron-2b7c2949ae3168effce9d0cb2584bb32">recognizing the independence of the separatist regions</a>&nbsp;in defiance of U.S. and European demands.

Speaking at the White House, Biden said the Kremlin had flagrantly violated international law in what he called the “beginning of a Russian invasion of Ukraine.” He warned of more sanctions if Putin went further.

“We are united in our support of Ukraine,” Biden said. “We are united in our opposition to Russian aggression.” When it comes to Russian claims of a justification or pretext for an invasion, Biden said, “None of us should be fooled. None of us will be fooled. There is no justification.”

Hopes for a diplomatic resolution to the threat of invasion, which U.S. officials have for weeks portrayed as all but inevitable, appeared to evaporate. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken canceled plans for a Thursday meeting in Geneva with his Russian counterpart, saying it would not be productive and that Russia’s actions indicated Moscow was not serious about a peaceful path to resolving the crisis.

Western nations sought to present a united front, with more than two dozen European Union members unanimously agreeing to levy&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-business-asia-europe-united-nations-881717d75ad21662562dec7b5c8f43b0">their own initial set of sanctions&nbsp;</a>against Russian officials. Germany also said it was halting the process of certifying the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline from Russia — a lucrative deal long sought by Moscow but criticized by the U.S. for increasing Europe’s reliance on Russian energy.

The U.S., meanwhile,&nbsp;<a href="https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0602" target="_blank">moved to cut off Russia’s government from Western finance</a>, sanctioning two of its banks and blocking it from trading in its debt on American and European markets. The administration’s actions hit civilian leaders in Russia’s leadership hierarchy and two Russian banks considered especially close to the Kremlin and Russia’s military, with more than $80 billion in assets. That includes freezing all of those banks’ assets under U.S. jurisdictions.

Biden, though, did hold back some of the broadest and toughest of the financial penalties contemplated by the U.S., including sanctions that would reinforce the hold that Germany put on any startup of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline; an export ban that would deny Russia U.S. high tech for its industries and military; and sweeping bans that could cripple Russia’s ability to do business with the rest of the world.

Biden said he was moving additional U.S. troops to the Baltics, though he described the deployments as purely “defensive,” asserting, “We have no intention of fighting Russia.” The U.S. is sending about 800 infantry troops and 40 attack aircraft to NATO’s eastern flank from other locations within Europe, according to a senior defense official. In addition, a contingent of F-35 strike fighters and AH-64 Apache attack helicopters will also be relocated.

Earlier Tuesday, members of Russia’s upper house, the Federation Council, voted unanimously to allow Putin to use military force outside the country — effectively formalizing a Russian military deployment to the rebel regions, where an eight-year conflict has killed nearly 14,000 people.

Shortly afterward, Putin laid out three conditions to end the crisis that has threatened to plunge Europe back into war, raising the specter of massive casualties,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-climate-business-russia-europe-a4e956253d3640084f8bdfaa2c901be8">energy shortages across the continent</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-business-asia-tokyo-europe-e6b1a6678833d81272b2dd7b130aa25a">global economic chaos</a>.

Putin said the crisis could be resolved if Kyiv recognizes Russia’s sovereignty over Crimea, the Black Sea peninsula that Moscow annexed after seizing it from Ukraine in 2014, renounces its bid to join NATO and partially demilitarizes. The West has decried the annexation of Crimea as a violation of international law and has previously flatly rejected permanently barring Ukraine from NATO.

Asked whether he has sent any Russian troops into Ukraine and how far they could go, Putin responded: “I haven’t said that the troops will go there right now.” He added that “it’s impossible to forecast a specific pattern of action — it will depend on a concrete situation as it takes shape on the ground.”

The EU announced initial sanctions aimed at the 351 Russian lawmakers who voted for recognizing the two separatist regions in Ukraine, as well as 27 other Russian officials and institutions from the defense and banking sectors. They also sought to limit Moscow’s access to EU capital and financial markets.

With tensions rising and a broader conflict looking more likely, the White House began referring to the Russian deployments in the region known as the Donbas as an “invasion” after initially hesitating to use the term — a red line that Biden had said would result in severe sanctions.

“We think this is, yes, the beginning of an invasion, Russia’s latest invasion into Ukraine,” Jon Finer, principal deputy national security adviser, said on CNN. “An invasion is an invasion, and that is what is underway.”

The White House announced limited sanctions targeting the rebel regions on Monday evening soon after Putin said he was sending in troops. A senior Biden administration official, who briefed reporters about those sanctions, noted “that Russia has occupied these regions since 2014” and that “Russian troops moving into Donbas would not itself be a new step.”

Western leaders have long warned Moscow would look for cover to invade — and just such a pretext appeared to come Monday, when Putin recognized the independence of the Donetsk and Luhansk separatist regions. The Kremlin then raised the stakes further by saying that recognition extends even to the large parts of those two regions now held by Ukrainian forces, including the major Azov Sea port of Mariupol. He added, however, that the rebels should eventually negotiate with Ukraine.

Condemnation from around the world was quick. In Washington, lawmakers from both parties in Congress vowed continued U.S. support for Ukraine, even as some pushed for swifter and even more severe sanctions on Russia. Senators had been considering a sanctions package but held off as the White House pursued its strategy.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he would consider breaking diplomatic ties with Russia, and Kyiv recalled its ambassador in Moscow.

If Putin pushes farther into Ukraine, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg insisted the West would move in lockstep. “If Russia decides once again to use force against Ukraine, there will be even stronger sanctions, even a higher price to pay,” he said.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the U.K. would slap sanctions on five Russian banks and three wealthy individuals. He warned a full-scale offensive would bring “further powerful sanctions.”

Zelenskyy said he was calling up some of the country’s military reservists but added there was no need for a full military mobilization.

In an address to the nation, Zelenskyy said his decree applied only to those assigned to the so-called operational reserve, which is typically activated during ongoing hostilities, and covers “a special period of time,” without clarifying what that means.

“Today there is no need for a full mobilization. We need to quickly add additional staff to the Ukrainian army and other military formations,” he said. The head of the National Security and Defense Council, Oleksii Danilov, said earlier this year that Ukraine can call up up to 2.5 million people.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645627171978.png" alt="On Tuesday, President Biden met withmForeign Minister Dmytro Kuleba of Ukraine to reaffirm the United States’ commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and to update him on the U.S. response to Russia’s actions.-photo White House " />
 <figcaption>On Tuesday, President Biden met withmForeign Minister Dmytro Kuleba of Ukraine to reaffirm the United States’ commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and to update him on the U.S. response to Russia’s actions.-photo White House </figcaption>
 </figure>MOSCOW (AP) — The East-West faceoff over Ukraine escalated dramatically Tuesday, with Russian lawmakers authorizing President Vladimir Putin to use military force outside his country and U.S. President Joe Biden and European leaders responding by slapping sanctions on Russian oligarchs and banks.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWhiteHouse%2Fvideos%2F491628512503524%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=360" 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>Both leaders signaled that an even bigger confrontation could lie ahead. Putin has yet to unleash the force of the 150,000 troops massed on three sides of Ukraine, while Biden held back on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-joe-biden-technology-business-vladimir-putin-7e5cb3c142d1142055e9709056d7ca7a">even tougher sanctions&nbsp;</a>that could cause economic turmoil for Russia but said they would go ahead if there is further aggression.The measures, accompanied by the repositioning of additional U.S. troops to the Baltic nations on NATO’s eastern flank bordering Russia, came as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-joe-biden-vladimir-putin-europe-donetsk-f31ce5178ddf5aad77f60c9d02bb40b6">Russian forces rolled into rebel-held areas</a>&nbsp;in eastern Ukraine after Putin said he was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-joe-biden-boris-johnson-europe-emmanuel-macron-2b7c2949ae3168effce9d0cb2584bb32">recognizing the independence of the separatist regions</a>&nbsp;in defiance of U.S. and European demands.Speaking at the White House, Biden said the Kremlin had flagrantly violated international law in what he called the “beginning of a Russian invasion of Ukraine.” He warned of more sanctions if Putin went further.“We are united in our support of Ukraine,” Biden said. “We are united in our opposition to Russian aggression.” When it comes to Russian claims of a justification or pretext for an invasion, Biden said, “None of us should be fooled. None of us will be fooled. There is no justification.”Hopes for a diplomatic resolution to the threat of invasion, which U.S. officials have for weeks portrayed as all but inevitable, appeared to evaporate. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken canceled plans for a Thursday meeting in Geneva with his Russian counterpart, saying it would not be productive and that Russia’s actions indicated Moscow was not serious about a peaceful path to resolving the crisis.Western nations sought to present a united front, with more than two dozen European Union members unanimously agreeing to levy&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-business-asia-europe-united-nations-881717d75ad21662562dec7b5c8f43b0">their own initial set of sanctions&nbsp;</a>against Russian officials. Germany also said it was halting the process of certifying the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline from Russia — a lucrative deal long sought by Moscow but criticized by the U.S. for increasing Europe’s reliance on Russian energy.The U.S., meanwhile,&nbsp;<a href="https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0602" target="_blank">moved to cut off Russia’s government from Western finance</a>, sanctioning two of its banks and blocking it from trading in its debt on American and European markets. The administration’s actions hit civilian leaders in Russia’s leadership hierarchy and two Russian banks considered especially close to the Kremlin and Russia’s military, with more than $80 billion in assets. That includes freezing all of those banks’ assets under U.S. jurisdictions.Biden, though, did hold back some of the broadest and toughest of the financial penalties contemplated by the U.S., including sanctions that would reinforce the hold that Germany put on any startup of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline; an export ban that would deny Russia U.S. high tech for its industries and military; and sweeping bans that could cripple Russia’s ability to do business with the rest of the world.Biden said he was moving additional U.S. troops to the Baltics, though he described the deployments as purely “defensive,” asserting, “We have no intention of fighting Russia.” The U.S. is sending about 800 infantry troops and 40 attack aircraft to NATO’s eastern flank from other locations within Europe, according to a senior defense official. In addition, a contingent of F-35 strike fighters and AH-64 Apache attack helicopters will also be relocated.Earlier Tuesday, members of Russia’s upper house, the Federation Council, voted unanimously to allow Putin to use military force outside the country — effectively formalizing a Russian military deployment to the rebel regions, where an eight-year conflict has killed nearly 14,000 people.Shortly afterward, Putin laid out three conditions to end the crisis that has threatened to plunge Europe back into war, raising the specter of massive casualties,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-climate-business-russia-europe-a4e956253d3640084f8bdfaa2c901be8">energy shortages across the continent</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-business-asia-tokyo-europe-e6b1a6678833d81272b2dd7b130aa25a">global economic chaos</a>.Putin said the crisis could be resolved if Kyiv recognizes Russia’s sovereignty over Crimea, the Black Sea peninsula that Moscow annexed after seizing it from Ukraine in 2014, renounces its bid to join NATO and partially demilitarizes. The West has decried the annexation of Crimea as a violation of international law and has previously flatly rejected permanently barring Ukraine from NATO.Asked whether he has sent any Russian troops into Ukraine and how far they could go, Putin responded: “I haven’t said that the troops will go there right now.” He added that “it’s impossible to forecast a specific pattern of action — it will depend on a concrete situation as it takes shape on the ground.”The EU announced initial sanctions aimed at the 351 Russian lawmakers who voted for recognizing the two separatist regions in Ukraine, as well as 27 other Russian officials and institutions from the defense and banking sectors. They also sought to limit Moscow’s access to EU capital and financial markets.With tensions rising and a broader conflict looking more likely, the White House began referring to the Russian deployments in the region known as the Donbas as an “invasion” after initially hesitating to use the term — a red line that Biden had said would result in severe sanctions.“We think this is, yes, the beginning of an invasion, Russia’s latest invasion into Ukraine,” Jon Finer, principal deputy national security adviser, said on CNN. “An invasion is an invasion, and that is what is underway.”The White House announced limited sanctions targeting the rebel regions on Monday evening soon after Putin said he was sending in troops. A senior Biden administration official, who briefed reporters about those sanctions, noted “that Russia has occupied these regions since 2014” and that “Russian troops moving into Donbas would not itself be a new step.”Western leaders have long warned Moscow would look for cover to invade — and just such a pretext appeared to come Monday, when Putin recognized the independence of the Donetsk and Luhansk separatist regions. The Kremlin then raised the stakes further by saying that recognition extends even to the large parts of those two regions now held by Ukrainian forces, including the major Azov Sea port of Mariupol. He added, however, that the rebels should eventually negotiate with Ukraine.Condemnation from around the world was quick. In Washington, lawmakers from both parties in Congress vowed continued U.S. support for Ukraine, even as some pushed for swifter and even more severe sanctions on Russia. Senators had been considering a sanctions package but held off as the White House pursued its strategy.Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he would consider breaking diplomatic ties with Russia, and Kyiv recalled its ambassador in Moscow.If Putin pushes farther into Ukraine, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg insisted the West would move in lockstep. “If Russia decides once again to use force against Ukraine, there will be even stronger sanctions, even a higher price to pay,” he said.British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the U.K. would slap sanctions on five Russian banks and three wealthy individuals. He warned a full-scale offensive would bring “further powerful sanctions.”Zelenskyy said he was calling up some of the country’s military reservists but added there was no need for a full military mobilization.In an address to the nation, Zelenskyy said his decree applied only to those assigned to the so-called operational reserve, which is typically activated during ongoing hostilities, and covers “a special period of time,” without clarifying what that means.“Today there is no need for a full mobilization. We need to quickly add additional staff to the Ukrainian army and other military formations,” he said. The head of the National Security and Defense Council, Oleksii Danilov, said earlier this year that Ukraine can call up up to 2.5 million people.___

Biden moves more U.S. troops to the Baltics over Russia threat

Program to date has committed over $4.6B to support more than 12M students

WASHINGTON — The Federal Communications Commission today announced that it is committing over $86 million in the 10th wave of Emergency Connectivity Fund program support.  Since its June 2021 launch, the program has committed over $4.62 billion supporting all 50 states, Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the District of Columbia.  This latest round of funding will support over 240,000 students and provide funding for over 350 schools, 29 libraries and 8 consortia, which are approved to receive over 239,000 connected devices and over 96,000 broadband connections.

“The Emergency Connectivity Fund is the single biggest effort to close the Homework Gap, and connect students and libraries with reliable broadband service,” said Chairwoman Rosenworcel.  “The need for help is clear, and we’re making progress.  Since the program opened last June, thousands of schools and libraries signed up, and we are now providing funding for over 10 million connected devices and over 5 million broadband connections throughout the country.”

To ensure that ECF recipients get the full benefit of the equipment and services requested, the Wireline Competition Bureau adopted an order yesterday extending the date by which beneficiaries must use the funding by one year to June 30, 2023.

The funding can be used to support off-campus learning, such as nightly homework, to ensure students across the country have the necessary support to keep up with their education.  Total commitments to date are supporting over 11,000 schools, 900 libraries, and 130 consortia for over 10 million connected devices and over 5 million broadband connections.  Today’s announcement includes over $30 million in commitments from Window 1 applications and nearly $56 million in commitments from Window 2 applications. 

More details about which schools and libraries have received funding commitments can be found <a href="https://www.fcc.gov/emergency-connectivity-fund">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645641596540.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Program to date has committed over $4.6B to support more than 12M students</h2>FCCWASHINGTON — The Federal Communications Commission today announced that it is committing over $86 million in the 10th wave of Emergency Connectivity Fund program support. Since its June 2021 launch, the program has committed over $4.62 billion supporting all 50 states, Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the District of Columbia. This latest round of funding will support over 240,000 students and provide funding for over 350 schools, 29 libraries and 8 consortia, which are approved to receive over 239,000 connected devices and over 96,000 broadband connections.“The Emergency Connectivity Fund is the single biggest effort to close the Homework Gap, and connect students and libraries with reliable broadband service,” said Chairwoman Rosenworcel. “The need for help is clear, and we’re making progress. Since the program opened last June, thousands of schools and libraries signed up, and we are now providing funding for over 10 million connected devices and over 5 million broadband connections throughout the country.”To ensure that ECF recipients get the full benefit of the equipment and services requested, the Wireline Competition Bureau adopted an order yesterday extending the date by which beneficiaries must use the funding by one year to June 30, 2023.The funding can be used to support off-campus learning, such as nightly homework, to ensure students across the country have the necessary support to keep up with their education. Total commitments to date are supporting over 11,000 schools, 900 libraries, and 130 consortia for over 10 million connected devices and over 5 million broadband connections. Today’s announcement includes over $30 million in commitments from Window 1 applications and nearly $56 million in commitments from Window 2 applications. More details about which schools and libraries have received funding commitments can be found <a href="https://www.fcc.gov/emergency-connectivity-fund">HERE</a>.

FCC: Another $86M going to connect students, libraries to internet

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after a traffic stop and arrest.

Just before 11a.m. February 20, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on a green 1993 Chevrolet 1500 pickup truck in the 900 block of SE 53rd Street in Topeka, according to Deputy Abigail Christian. The windshield was broken and the license plate, that did not belong to that vehicle, had expired in 2015. The driver identified as 40-year-old Joshua W. Banfield of Topeka, also had a suspended driver’s license.

Banfield was taken into custody and remains jailed on requested charges ofmcriminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, failure to provide proof of insurance, vehicle registration not assigned, failure to register vehicle in the State of Kansas, driving with an obstructed windshield and driving with a suspended driver’s license. 

Banfied has previous convictions that include aggravated assault, theft, criminal damage to property, criminal possession of a weapon and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645629632030.png" alt="&nbsp;Banfied has previous convictions that include aggravated assault, theft, criminal damage to property, criminal possession of a weapon and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Banfied has previous convictions that include aggravated assault, theft, criminal damage to property, criminal possession of a weapon and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after a traffic stop and arrest.Just before 11a.m. February 20, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on a green 1993 Chevrolet 1500 pickup truck in the 900 block of SE 53rd Street in Topeka, according to Deputy Abigail Christian. The windshield was broken and the license plate, that did not belong to that vehicle, had expired in 2015. The driver identified as 40-year-old Joshua W. Banfield of Topeka, also had a suspended driver’s license.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645629240135.png" alt="Banfield remain jailed in Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Banfield remain jailed in Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>Banfield was taken into custody and remains jailed on requested charges ofmcriminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, failure to provide proof of insurance, vehicle registration not assigned, failure to register vehicle in the State of Kansas, driving with an obstructed windshield and driving with a suspended driver’s license. Banfied has previous convictions that include aggravated assault, theft, criminal damage to property, criminal possession of a weapon and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kan. man released from prison in January is in custody on new charges

For parents of high school students, SAT scores are a huge deal. With
 college admissions and scholarships on the line, paying for tutors and 
test prep materials may be worth the price. But watch out for con 
artists eager to take advantage of this. Scammers – with access to kids’
 names and school information – are tricking parents into paying for 
bogus SAT prep materials.&nbsp; &nbsp;

You get an unsolicited call from a person claiming to be from <a href="https://privacy.collegeboard.org/important-information-about-telemarketing-internet-scams" target="_blank">the College Board</a>,
 the company responsible for SAT tests, or another educational 
organization. The caller claims to be confirming your address, so they 
can send test prep materials, such as books, CDs, or videos, that your 
child requested at school.

It seems so believable! Several victims reported to <a href="http://www.bbb.org/scamtracker" target="_blank">BBB Scam Tracker</a> that the caller even had their child’s name, phone number, and/or school information.

Of course, there’s a catch. The caller needs you to pay a deposit, 
sometimes several hundred dollars, for the materials. They claim it will
 be refunded when the materials are returned. &nbsp;Unfortunately, if you 
provide your address and credit card details, the materials will never 
arrive, and your deposit will never be refunded. Scammers now have your 
credit card number and other personal information.

To learn more ways to protect yourself, read about <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/21686-who-is-really-contacting-you" target="_blank">impostor scams</a>. Also, the <a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2018/10/college-test-prep-scams-are-happening" target="_blank">Federal Trade Commission’s alert</a> about test prep cons.

If you’ve spotted a scam (whether or not you’ve lost money), report it to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/ScamTracker" target="_blank">BBB.org/ScamTracker</a>. Your report can help others avoid falling victim to scams. Find more information about scams and how to avoid them at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/scams/8767-bbb-tips-10-steps-to-avoid-scams" target="_blank">BBB.org/AvoidScams</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579883951052.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BBBFor parents of high school students, SAT scores are a huge deal. With
 college admissions and scholarships on the line, paying for tutors and 
test prep materials may be worth the price. But watch out for con 
artists eager to take advantage of this. Scammers – with access to kids’
 names and school information – are tricking parents into paying for 
bogus SAT prep materials.&nbsp; &nbsp;<h2>How the scam works</h2>You get an unsolicited call from a person claiming to be from <a href="https://privacy.collegeboard.org/important-information-about-telemarketing-internet-scams" target="_blank">the College Board</a>,
 the company responsible for SAT tests, or another educational 
organization. The caller claims to be confirming your address, so they 
can send test prep materials, such as books, CDs, or videos, that your 
child requested at school.It seems so believable! Several victims reported to <a href="http://www.bbb.org/scamtracker" target="_blank">BBB Scam Tracker</a> that the caller even had their child’s name, phone number, and/or school information.Of course, there’s a catch. The caller needs you to pay a deposit, 
sometimes several hundred dollars, for the materials. They claim it will
 be refunded when the materials are returned. &nbsp;Unfortunately, if you 
provide your address and credit card details, the materials will never 
arrive, and your deposit will never be refunded. Scammers now have your 
credit card number and other personal information.<h2>How to avoid test prep scams</h2><ul>
 <li>Always be wary of unsolicited callers. If someone 
calls out of the blue, always research their organization before you 
share personal information or agree to receive services or products. 
Look up the business they claim to represent at BBB.org. Search the name
 along with the words “scam” or “complaint” to find out if other 
consumers have had negative experiences. Check <a href="https://www.bbb.org/ScamTracker" target="_blank">BBB Scam Tracker</a> to see if anyone else has filed a report about the company. </li><li>Double check with your child. If scammers say they 
are calling because of a service your child requested, tell them you 
need to check with your child and hang up. Make sure their claims are 
legitimate before you call back or accept a return call. The same is <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/scams/16918-bbb-tip-emergency-scams" target="_blank">true for emergency scams</a>. </li><li>Understand the College Board’s practices. The 
College Board will never ask you for bank or credit card information 
over the phone or via email. If a caller suggests otherwise, hang up. 
Learn <a href="https://privacy.collegeboard.org/important-information-about-telemarketing-internet-scams" target="_blank">more about the College Board’s policies</a>. </li><li>Use your credit card when possible. Credit cards 
may refund your money if they spot a fraudulent charge or if you report 
one in a timely manner. You may not be offered the same protection if 
you pay with your debit card or other payment options. Never agree to 
pay a stranger with a money wire, prepaid cards, or <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/scams/13038-how-to-avoid-digital-wallet-scams-on-paypal-venmo-and-other-services" target="_blank">digital wallet</a>, such as Cash App or Venmo.</li>
 </ul><h2>For more information</h2>To learn more ways to protect yourself, read about <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/21686-who-is-really-contacting-you" target="_blank">impostor scams</a>. Also, the <a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2018/10/college-test-prep-scams-are-happening" target="_blank">Federal Trade Commission’s alert</a> about test prep cons.If you’ve spotted a scam (whether or not you’ve lost money), report it to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/ScamTracker" target="_blank">BBB.org/ScamTracker</a>. Your report can help others avoid falling victim to scams. Find more information about scams and how to avoid them at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/scams/8767-bbb-tips-10-steps-to-avoid-scams" target="_blank">BBB.org/AvoidScams</a>.&nbsp;

Scam alert: Watch out for SAT prep scams

By SHERMAN SMITH <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/02/22/kansas-house-advances-constitutional-amendment-requiring-elected-sheriffs/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Rep. Eric Smith 
encouraged House members Tuesday to support a constitutional amendment 
requiring counties to elect sheriffs, rather than risk the possibility 
of a county commission gaining authority to appoint the position.

Smith, a Republican from Burlington who said his “real job” as a 
deputy sheriff for Coffee County supports his political hobby, joined 
other supporters of the proposal in arguing it is important to shield 
top law enforcement officers from the scrutiny of other elected 
officials.

“I just want want you to consider the idea that when you have an 
elected sheriff out there, that individual serves you and serves your 
constituents as an individual who has to uphold those values that they 
were elected on, and you can hold them accountable for that,” Smith 
said.

The House advanced <a target="_blank" href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hcr5022/">the constitutional amendment</a>
 on a voice vote. If two-thirds of the members of both the House and 
Senate approve the resolution, voters will get to decide the issue in 
November. In additional to requiring counties to elect sheriffs every 
four years, the amendment specifies that a sheriff can only be removed 
from office by a recall vote or legal action by the attorney general.

Supporters of the amendment, including Rep. John Resman, a retired 
deputy sheriff and Republican from Olathe, raised concerns about 
discussions by the Johnson County Charter Commission as the basis for 
needing the amendment. Opponents included a Republican and Democratic 
representative from Riley County, which is served by a countywide police
 department.

Resman said he was personally involved in investigations in Johnson 
County that involved city or county government officials who conducted 
criminal activity and were charged with crimes.

“I think this is extremely important that the people realize or 
understand that the sheriff has the ultimate authority for investigating
 these types of crimes,” Resman said. “And there won’t be any 
interference by bureaucrats or by the county commissioners.”

Rep. Stephanie Clayton, D-Overland Park, said she favored “local 
control” and a community’s ability to determine the system that works 
best.

“I don’t generally support the entire state imposing their will on Johnson County,” Clayton said.

Rep. Ken Collins, R-Mulberry, speaking in favor of the elected 
sheriff requirement, said the position of county sheriff holds a 
“special place” in the way of life for many Kansans.

“I could go back to my home district and ask someone who their state 
representative is, and they might know that it’s me,” Collins said. “I 
could ask someone to name their county commissioners, their mayor or 
their city officials, and they might or might not know. But ask them to 
name their sheriff, and I would venture to guess that a majority would 
give you the correct answer without having to think about it.”

Currently, Riley County is the lone outlier among the state’s 105 counties. The other 104 have a sheriff who is elected.

Rep. Michael Dodson, R-Manhattan, said the county’s unique 
arrangement saves taxpayers money. There is one jail, one training 
complex, one emergency response team, one set of mental health 
specialists, and consolidated dispatch. The police force can&nbsp;send an 
officer off to a six-month training course because others are available 
to cover necessary shifts.

Every county should be able to choose the system that works best, Dodson said.

“If a county wishes to have a sheriff, that’s a great choice,” Dodson
 said. “Likewise, if a county wishes to consolidate, they should be able
 to do that.”

Rep. Sydney Carlin, D-Manhattan, also opposed the amendment.

Rep. Tatum Lee, R-Ness City, thanked the law enforcement officers who
 watched the debate from the public gallery. Addressing the gallery 
violates&nbsp;chamber rules.

“The power should always be with the people. Always, always be with 
the people,” Lee said. “And the fact that we would try to give some 
committee in some county board somewhere control of that is just crazy 
to me.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645569763098.png" alt="Rep. Eric Smith, a Burlington Republican and deputy sheriff for Coffee County, asked lawmakers to consider the implications of a board-controlled law enforcement leader. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Eric Smith, a Burlington Republican and deputy sheriff for Coffee County, asked lawmakers to consider the implications of a board-controlled law enforcement leader. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By SHERMAN SMITH <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/02/22/kansas-house-advances-constitutional-amendment-requiring-elected-sheriffs/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Rep. Eric Smith 
encouraged House members Tuesday to support a constitutional amendment 
requiring counties to elect sheriffs, rather than risk the possibility 
of a county commission gaining authority to appoint the position.Smith, a Republican from Burlington who said his “real job” as a 
deputy sheriff for Coffee County supports his political hobby, joined 
other supporters of the proposal in arguing it is important to shield 
top law enforcement officers from the scrutiny of other elected 
officials.“I just want want you to consider the idea that when you have an 
elected sheriff out there, that individual serves you and serves your 
constituents as an individual who has to uphold those values that they 
were elected on, and you can hold them accountable for that,” Smith 
said.The House advanced <a target="_blank" href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hcr5022/">the constitutional amendment</a>
 on a voice vote. If two-thirds of the members of both the House and 
Senate approve the resolution, voters will get to decide the issue in 
November. In additional to requiring counties to elect sheriffs every 
four years, the amendment specifies that a sheriff can only be removed 
from office by a recall vote or legal action by the attorney general.Supporters of the amendment, including Rep. John Resman, a retired 
deputy sheriff and Republican from Olathe, raised concerns about 
discussions by the Johnson County Charter Commission as the basis for 
needing the amendment. Opponents included a Republican and Democratic 
representative from Riley County, which is served by a countywide police
 department.Resman said he was personally involved in investigations in Johnson 
County that involved city or county government officials who conducted 
criminal activity and were charged with crimes.“I think this is extremely important that the people realize or 
understand that the sheriff has the ultimate authority for investigating
 these types of crimes,” Resman said. “And there won’t be any 
interference by bureaucrats or by the county commissioners.”Rep. Stephanie Clayton, D-Overland Park, said she favored “local 
control” and a community’s ability to determine the system that works 
best.“I don’t generally support the entire state imposing their will on Johnson County,” Clayton said.Rep. Ken Collins, R-Mulberry, speaking in favor of the elected 
sheriff requirement, said the position of county sheriff holds a 
“special place” in the way of life for many Kansans.“I could go back to my home district and ask someone who their state 
representative is, and they might know that it’s me,” Collins said. “I 
could ask someone to name their county commissioners, their mayor or 
their city officials, and they might or might not know. But ask them to 
name their sheriff, and I would venture to guess that a majority would 
give you the correct answer without having to think about it.”Currently, Riley County is the lone outlier among the state’s 105 counties. The other 104 have a sheriff who is elected.Rep. Michael Dodson, R-Manhattan, said the county’s unique 
arrangement saves taxpayers money. There is one jail, one training 
complex, one emergency response team, one set of mental health 
specialists, and consolidated dispatch. The police force can&nbsp;send an 
officer off to a six-month training course because others are available 
to cover necessary shifts.Every county should be able to choose the system that works best, Dodson said.“If a county wishes to have a sheriff, that’s a great choice,” Dodson
 said. “Likewise, if a county wishes to consolidate, they should be able
 to do that.”Rep. Sydney Carlin, D-Manhattan, also opposed the amendment.Rep. Tatum Lee, R-Ness City, thanked the law enforcement officers who
 watched the debate from the public gallery. Addressing the gallery 
violates&nbsp;chamber rules.“The power should always be with the people. Always, always be with 
the people,” Lee said. “And the fact that we would try to give some 
committee in some county board somewhere control of that is just crazy 
to me.”

Kan. House advances constitutional amendment requiring elected sheriffs

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Pentagon has approved the deployment of 700 unarmed National Guard troops to the nation’s capital as it prepares for trucker convoys that are planning protests against pandemic restrictions beginning next week.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin approved the request Tuesday from the District of Columbia government and the U.S. Capitol Police, the Pentagon said in a statement Tuesday night.

The troops would be used to assist with traffic control during demonstrations expected in the city in the coming days, the Pentagon said. Four hundred Guard members from the District of Columbia Guard will be joined by 300 Guard members from other states, according to the statement.

Guard members will not carry firearms or take part in law enforcement or domestic-surveillance activities, the Pentagon said.

Modeled after recent trucker protests in Canada, separate truck convoys have been planned through online forums with names like the People’s Convoy and the American Truckers Freedom Fund — all with different starting points, departure dates and routes. Some are scheduled to arrive in time for President Joe Biden’s State of the Union address on March 1, though others may arrive afterward.

The convoys follow the recent Canadian truckers’ protest which shut down the busiest U.S. Canadian border crossing and besieged the streets of the capital, Ottawa, for weeks to protest government pandemic restrictions. The multiple blockades were broken up by police last week, with more than 100 arrests.

It remains to be seen if any of the U.S. convoys would seek to actively shut down Washington’s streets, the way their Canadian counterparts did in Ottawa. Some convoy organizers have spoken of plans to briefly roll through the city, then focus on shutting down the Beltway, which encircles the capital.

A statement from the People’s Convoy specifically says the trucks “will NOT be going into DC proper.” That convoy is planning to embark Wednesday from southern California and arrive in D.C. around March 5.

The U.S. convoys seek an immediate lifting of what they say are heavy-handed government pandemic restrictions like mask mandates and vaccine requirements. The American Truckers Freedom Fund website says the group is protesting “the unscientific, unconstitutional overreach of the federal government.”

Vaccines have proven highly effective at preventing COVID-19 infections, especially serious illness and death, and high-quality masks offer strong protection against spreading or contracting the disease. Public sentiment, especially among conservatives, has been shifting against government mandates as the pandemic heads into its third year.

People’s Convoy organizer Mike Landis, in a video testimonial on the group’s website, said the current COVID vaccine “is not proven yet” but supported individual choice on whether to take it or not. Landis said the convoy was open to all vehicles and said the primary goal was to pressure Biden to lift the national state of emergency.

“We want this government to bring back the Constitution,” Landis said. “We do not want to be under a dictatorship communism-style regime, like where we are right now.”

A state of emergency in the U.S. was declared by President Donald Trump in March 2020. Last week, Biden announced his intention to extend it beyond the current March 1 expiration date.

The websites organizing the American trucker convoys directly reference the inspiration of the Canadian movement. A statement on the People’s Convoy website pays homage to “our brave and courageous neighbors to the north — our Canadian brothers and sisters who led the charge.”

Metropolitan Police Department Chief Robert Contee said Friday that his department was closely monitoring the shifting information and would be devoting additional police manhours in a rolling state of heightened alert over the next few weeks. In the meantime, he warned D.C. residents to stay alert for unexpected traffic snarls.

“There will be disruptions to traffic, that kind of thing,” Contee said. “I think we need to be very candid with the public about what some of the expectations, based upon what we’ve seen in Ottawa, that we might see here in the District.”

Contee called the Ottawa standoff “an incredible situation — one that we have not seen here in the District of Columbia.”

Contee and Mayor Muriel Bowser memorably predicted unrest several days before the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the Capitol Building. They warned residents to stay indoors and called for additional resources, but the Capitol Police and National Guard were still caught unprepared when crowds of Trump supporters overran the building, resulting in several deaths and numerous injuries.

Lingering memories of that debacle have fueled a heightened sense of anxiety and speculation over the coming convoys. But Bowser said she wasn’t yet warning residents to avoid the Capitol area or the National Mall.

“We’re not at a point to give specific instructions to residents just yet. We will,” Bowser said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645615380398.png" alt="The troops would be used to assist with traffic control during demonstrations expected in the city in the coming days, according to the Pentagon.-photo courtesy WJLA TV" />
 <figcaption>The troops would be used to assist with traffic control during demonstrations expected in the city in the coming days, according to the Pentagon.-photo courtesy WJLA TV</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Pentagon has approved the deployment of 700 unarmed National Guard troops to the nation’s capital as it prepares for trucker convoys that are planning protests against pandemic restrictions beginning next week.Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin approved the request Tuesday from the District of Columbia government and the U.S. Capitol Police, the Pentagon said in a statement Tuesday night.The troops would be used to assist with traffic control during demonstrations expected in the city in the coming days, the Pentagon said. Four hundred Guard members from the District of Columbia Guard will be joined by 300 Guard members from other states, according to the statement.Guard members will not carry firearms or take part in law enforcement or domestic-surveillance activities, the Pentagon said.Modeled after recent trucker protests in Canada, separate truck convoys have been planned through online forums with names like the People’s Convoy and the American Truckers Freedom Fund — all with different starting points, departure dates and routes. Some are scheduled to arrive in time for President Joe Biden’s State of the Union address on March 1, though others may arrive afterward.The convoys follow the recent Canadian truckers’ protest which shut down the busiest U.S. Canadian border crossing and besieged the streets of the capital, Ottawa, for weeks to protest government pandemic restrictions. The multiple blockades were broken up by police last week, with more than 100 arrests.It remains to be seen if any of the U.S. convoys would seek to actively shut down Washington’s streets, the way their Canadian counterparts did in Ottawa. Some convoy organizers have spoken of plans to briefly roll through the city, then focus on shutting down the Beltway, which encircles the capital.A statement from the People’s Convoy specifically says the trucks “will NOT be going into DC proper.” That convoy is planning to embark Wednesday from southern California and arrive in D.C. around March 5.The U.S. convoys seek an immediate lifting of what they say are heavy-handed government pandemic restrictions like mask mandates and vaccine requirements. The American Truckers Freedom Fund website says the group is protesting “the unscientific, unconstitutional overreach of the federal government.”Vaccines have proven highly effective at preventing COVID-19 infections, especially serious illness and death, and high-quality masks offer strong protection against spreading or contracting the disease. Public sentiment, especially among conservatives, has been shifting against government mandates as the pandemic heads into its third year.People’s Convoy organizer Mike Landis, in a video testimonial on the group’s website, said the current COVID vaccine “is not proven yet” but supported individual choice on whether to take it or not. Landis said the convoy was open to all vehicles and said the primary goal was to pressure Biden to lift the national state of emergency.“We want this government to bring back the Constitution,” Landis said. “We do not want to be under a dictatorship communism-style regime, like where we are right now.”A state of emergency in the U.S. was declared by President Donald Trump in March 2020. Last week, Biden announced his intention to extend it beyond the current March 1 expiration date.The websites organizing the American trucker convoys directly reference the inspiration of the Canadian movement. A statement on the People’s Convoy website pays homage to “our brave and courageous neighbors to the north — our Canadian brothers and sisters who led the charge.”Metropolitan Police Department Chief Robert Contee said Friday that his department was closely monitoring the shifting information and would be devoting additional police manhours in a rolling state of heightened alert over the next few weeks. In the meantime, he warned D.C. residents to stay alert for unexpected traffic snarls.“There will be disruptions to traffic, that kind of thing,” Contee said. “I think we need to be very candid with the public about what some of the expectations, based upon what we’ve seen in Ottawa, that we might see here in the District.”Contee called the Ottawa standoff “an incredible situation — one that we have not seen here in the District of Columbia.”Contee and Mayor Muriel Bowser memorably predicted unrest several days before the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the Capitol Building. They warned residents to stay indoors and called for additional resources, but the Capitol Police and National Guard were still caught unprepared when crowds of Trump supporters overran the building, resulting in several deaths and numerous injuries.Lingering memories of that debacle have fueled a heightened sense of anxiety and speculation over the coming convoys. But Bowser said she wasn’t yet warning residents to avoid the Capitol area or the National Mall.“We’re not at a point to give specific instructions to residents just yet. We will,” Bowser said.

Pentagon deploys National Guard ahead trucker convoys in DC

FORD COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a juvenile for bringing weapons to school.

On Tuesday, the Comanche Middle School Resource Officer was notified of a situation by school staff that an 11-year old male student brought a weapon to school on February 18, according to a media release.

The student admitted to bringing a knife on the 18th and said there was currently a gun in his bag. 

The School Resource Officer searched the student’s bag and located what appeared to be a firearm and a magazine. 

Upon examination, the firearm was determined to be an Airsoft style gun and the magazine contained live firearm ammunition. There was no compatibility with the toy gun and the ammunition for the firearm to function. 

We have no information that the student displayed or threatened anyone with any of the mentioned weapons. The student was placed into police custody without incident and removed from the school. 

This investigation is still pending and no further information will be released. We do not believe the student had a plan of harming anyone at the school.

FORD COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a juvenile for bringing weapons to school.On Tuesday, the Comanche Middle School Resource Officer was notified of a situation by school staff that an 11-year old male student brought a weapon to school on February 18, according to a media release.The student admitted to bringing a knife on the 18th and said there was currently a gun in his bag. The School Resource Officer searched the student’s bag and located what appeared to be a firearm and a magazine. Upon examination, the firearm was determined to be an Airsoft style gun and the magazine contained live firearm ammunition. There was no compatibility with the toy gun and the ammunition for the firearm to function. We have no information that the student displayed or threatened anyone with any of the mentioned weapons. The student was placed into police custody without incident and removed from the school. This investigation is still pending and no further information will be released. We do not believe the student had a plan of harming anyone at the school.

Police: 11-year-old brought knife, firearm to Kan. middle school

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A former Kansas City detective convicted of fatally shooting a Black man will remain free on bond while his conviction is appealed, a judge ruled Tuesday.

Jackson County Circuit Court Presiding Judge J. Dale Youngs ruled that Eric DeValkenaere, who is white, can stay out of prison during the appeal of his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-race-and-ethnicity-kansas-city-933d3aba9b37c83145fba5818d557c02">conviction for second-degree involuntary manslaughter and armed criminal</a>&nbsp;action in the death of 26-year-old Cameron Lamb.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592994941014.png" alt="DeValkenaere photo KCPD" />
 <figcaption>DeValkenaere photo KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — A former Kansas City detective convicted of fatally shooting a Black man will remain free on bond while his conviction is appealed, a judge ruled Tuesday.Jackson County Circuit Court Presiding Judge J. Dale Youngs ruled that Eric DeValkenaere, who is white, can stay out of prison during the appeal of his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-race-and-ethnicity-kansas-city-933d3aba9b37c83145fba5818d557c02">conviction for second-degree involuntary manslaughter and armed criminal</a>&nbsp;action in the death of 26-year-old Cameron Lamb.DeValkenaere’s attorney, Molly Hastings argued at an earlier hearing that he should be allowed to remain out of prison during his appeals because he is not a flight risk and the judge found “no evidence of malice” in DeValkenaere’s conduct.Youngs, who convicted the former detective in a bench trial in November, said in a hearing in January that he had never in 13 years on the bench allowed a defendant to remain free on bond after they were convicted.But in his ruling Tuesday, Youngs said “the defendant’s incarceration without bond or other conditions that I might impose on him is not necessary to ensure his appearance at future proceedings,” KSHB-TV&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kshb.com/news/crime/kcpd-detective-who-killed-cameron-lamb-will-be-granted-bond-on-appeal" target="_blank">reported</a>.DeValkenaere has remained free on $30,000 bond since he was convicted.DeValkenaere is schedule to be sentenced March 4. Youngs’ ruling means the former detective will not be jailed immediately but would serve whatever sentence the judge imposes if his appeal fails. He faces up to four years in prison on the manslaughter charge and at least three years for armed criminal action.Lamb was shot while backing a pickup truck into his garage on Dec. 3, 2019, after chasing his girlfriend’s convertible in a stolen pickup truck.DeValkenaere&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-race-and-ethnicity-kansas-city-933d3aba9b37c83145fba5818d557c02">testified at his trial</a>&nbsp;in November that he fired after he saw Lamb point a gun at his partner, Troy Schwalm.Prosecutors argued police did not have a legal reason to be on the property and had staged the shooting scene to support their claims that Lamb was armed.When he convicted DeValkenaere, Youngs said the officers violated Lamb’s constitutional rights because they had no probable cause to believe he had committed a crime, had no warrant for Lamb’s arrest and had no search warrant or consent to be on the property. He did not address the allegations that evidence had been planted.DeVlakenaere was suspended from the police force after his conviction and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-kansas-city-2af535a9a637024a23b3530c1c20cc2e">left the force in January.</a>&nbsp;Police have not said if he was fired, resigned or retired.