TOPEKA —Frigid weather that has sent temperatures plunging across Kansas and the rest of middle America also has power and gas utilities urging customers to dial down the thermostat. 

In addition during a special meeting Monday, Commissioners for the Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) issued an emergency order directing utilities&nbsp; to do all things possible and necessary to ensure adequate amounts of natural gas and electricity to meet the needs of Kansas customers including interconnected non-jurisdictional utilities that depend on them for power, according to a media release from the KCC.

The prolonged stretch of extremely cold temperatures has increased demand, created natural gas supply constraints, and potentially reliability issues.

“It’s in every Kansan’s best interest to conserve electricity and natural gas over the next few days when possible,” said KCC Chairperson Andrew French. “Reducing your usage will help ensure everyone continues to receive these services, and&nbsp;it will save you money on future utility bills.”

Utilities are experiencing wholesale gas prices anywhere from 10 to 200 times higher than normal. Those costs will eventually impact customers through increases in monthly natural gas and electric bills.

Monday’s order also authorizes every jurisdictional electric and natural gas distribution utility that incurs extraordinary costs associated with ensuring its customers continue to receive utility service during this cold weather event to defer those costs to a regulatory asset account for future review by the Commission.&nbsp; This deferral is for accounting purposes only. Any decisions related to ratepayer recovery will be addressed in future proceedings.

Monday order can be <a href="https://estar.kcc.ks.gov/estar/ViewFile.aspx/Emergency_order_naturalgas.coldweather2__(002).pdf?Id=20da2a43-e05a-4255-aee4-deb442fcb6fb">viewed here.</a>

A recording of the Special Business Meeting featuring additional details from KCC Utility staff is available on the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_jyOcfev6o">KCC YouTube channel.</a>

<a href="https://kcc.ks.gov/">Click here t</a>o find conservation tips on the KCC website home page:&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613415088742.png" alt="Commissioners for the Kansas Corporation Commission during Monday's virtual meeting -courtesy&nbsp;&nbsp;the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_jyOcfev6o">KCC YouTube channel.</a>" />
 <figcaption>Commissioners for the Kansas Corporation Commission during Monday's virtual meeting -courtesy&nbsp;&nbsp;the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_jyOcfev6o">KCC YouTube channel.</a></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —Frigid weather that has sent temperatures plunging across Kansas and the rest of middle America also has power and gas utilities urging customers to dial down the thermostat. In addition during a special meeting Monday, Commissioners for the Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) issued an emergency order directing utilities&nbsp; to do all things possible and necessary to ensure adequate amounts of natural gas and electricity to meet the needs of Kansas customers including interconnected non-jurisdictional utilities that depend on them for power, according to a media release from the KCC.The prolonged stretch of extremely cold temperatures has increased demand, created natural gas supply constraints, and potentially reliability issues.“It’s in every Kansan’s best interest to conserve electricity and natural gas over the next few days when possible,” said KCC Chairperson Andrew French. “Reducing your usage will help ensure everyone continues to receive these services, and&nbsp;it will save you money on future utility bills.”Utilities are experiencing wholesale gas prices anywhere from 10 to 200 times higher than normal. Those costs will eventually impact customers through increases in monthly natural gas and electric bills.Monday’s order also authorizes every jurisdictional electric and natural gas distribution utility that incurs extraordinary costs associated with ensuring its customers continue to receive utility service during this cold weather event to defer those costs to a regulatory asset account for future review by the Commission.&nbsp; This deferral is for accounting purposes only. Any decisions related to ratepayer recovery will be addressed in future proceedings.Monday order can be <a href="https://estar.kcc.ks.gov/estar/ViewFile.aspx/Emergency_order_naturalgas.coldweather2__(002).pdf?Id=20da2a43-e05a-4255-aee4-deb442fcb6fb">viewed here.</a>A recording of the Special Business Meeting featuring additional details from KCC Utility staff is available on the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_jyOcfev6o">KCC YouTube channel.</a><a href="https://kcc.ks.gov/">Click here t</a>o find conservation tips on the KCC website home page:&nbsp;

Emergency order in Kan. to ensure adequate natural gas, electricity available

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 1348 to a total of 287,450, the state health department reported Monday afternoon.&nbsp;

Coronavirus deaths were reported at 4406 an increase of 42

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

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

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 1348 to a total of 287,450, the state health department reported Monday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 4406 an increase of 42<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613412843026.png" alt="Monday February 15, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Monday February 15, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple charges after a weekend burglary.

Just after 3a.m. February 13, 2021, shortly after 3 a.m., Sheriff's deputies responded to the 800 block of NE Croco Road on a burglary in progress, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

Deputies arrived and located one suspect identified as Sarah E. Neil, 30, of Topeka inside the home and arrested her.

Just after 4:30a.m., police located a second suspect Brandon J. Norris, 23, of Topeka, with a stolen vehicle in the 300 block of SE Lime. Neil is being held on requested charges of criminal trespass, interference with law enforcement and possession of methamphetamine. Norris remains jailed on charges of possession of methamphetamine and interference with law enforcement.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613410475366.png" alt="Norris photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Norris photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple charges after a weekend burglary.Just after 3a.m. February 13, 2021, shortly after 3 a.m., Sheriff's deputies responded to the 800 block of NE Croco Road on a burglary in progress, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.Deputies arrived and located one suspect identified as Sarah E. Neil, 30, of Topeka inside the home and arrested her.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613410416930.png" alt="Neil-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Neil-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 4:30a.m., police located a second suspect Brandon J. Norris, 23, of Topeka, with a stolen vehicle in the 300 block of SE Lime. Neil is being held on requested charges of criminal trespass, interference with law enforcement and possession of methamphetamine. Norris remains jailed on charges of possession of methamphetamine and interference with law enforcement.&nbsp;

Deputies catch suspect during burglary at Kansas home

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas’ four state-owned casinos reported a 28% drop in revenue last year when they were closed for two months because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The four casinos in Kansas City, Mulvane, Dodge City and Pittsburg generated about $300 million revenue in 2020, down from $416 million the year before. That means state and local governments are receiving less money from gambling.

“It’s been a really difficult year for a lot of businesses and obviously, our casinos are part of that,” said Stephen Durrell, executive director of the Kansas Lottery, which owns the four casinos that are run by private companies.

The casinos closed March 17 because of the pandemic and didn’t reopen until May 22. And ever since reopening, the casinos have been operating at reduced capacity.

For instance, the Kansas Star casino in Mulvane normally runs 1,650 slot machines and 62 gaming tables along with a 10-table poker room. Now, it’s running about 900 slots and 44 tables, and the poker room remains closed.

The casinos also had to spend more on sanitizing their facilities and installing plastic barriers between players and dealers.

The biggest revenue decline was reported at the Hollywood Casino in Kansas City because it relied more heavily on poker revenue than the other casinos. Revenue there fell 35% to $99.4 million in 2020.

At the three other casinos across the state, revenue was down between 22% and 25%.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613408681127.png" alt="Photo courtesy Kansas Star Casino" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kansas Star Casino</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas’ four state-owned casinos reported a 28% drop in revenue last year when they were closed for two months because of the coronavirus pandemic.The four casinos in Kansas City, Mulvane, Dodge City and Pittsburg generated about $300 million revenue in 2020, down from $416 million the year before. That means state and local governments are receiving less money from gambling.“It’s been a really difficult year for a lot of businesses and obviously, our casinos are part of that,” said Stephen Durrell, executive director of the Kansas Lottery, which owns the four casinos that are run by private companies.The casinos closed March 17 because of the pandemic and didn’t reopen until May 22. And ever since reopening, the casinos have been operating at reduced capacity.For instance, the Kansas Star casino in Mulvane normally runs 1,650 slot machines and 62 gaming tables along with a 10-table poker room. Now, it’s running about 900 slots and 44 tables, and the poker room remains closed.The casinos also had to spend more on sanitizing their facilities and installing plastic barriers between players and dealers.The biggest revenue decline was reported at the Hollywood Casino in Kansas City because it relied more heavily on poker revenue than the other casinos. Revenue there fell 35% to $99.4 million in 2020.At the three other casinos across the state, revenue was down between 22% and 25%.

Kansas' 4 state-owned casinos say revenue down 28% in 2020

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– For the second time in just over a year, Senator Jerry Moran watched an impeachment trial of Donald Trump.&nbsp; On Saturday morning, he voted along with Senator Roger Marshall and Missouri Senators Roy Blunt and Josh Hawley against allowing witnesses to testify in the trial.&nbsp;

On Saturday afternoon, Moran did not join with seven Republicans who voted to convict Trump, the most impeachment defections ever from a president's party.&nbsp;The vote was 57-43 to convict but that was short of the two-thirds majority required. 

Almost immediately after the trial ended, Moran's office released a statement that condemned the former president. 

“The violence at the United States Capitol on January 6 was an attempt to subvert democracy, and I condemn it in the strongest possible terms. Rioters and extremists sought to prevent Members of Congress and Vice President Pence from performing their constitutional obligation to affirm the results of an election, and President Trump was wrong to continue to spread allegations of widespread fraud and not immediately discourage the reprehensible and unpatriotic behavior," Moran's stated in the release.

“The Constitution does not clearly state whether a former president can be tried for impeachment by the Senate, but I believe the impeachment process is intended to be used for considering whether or not ‘The President’ should be removed from office. Because former President Trump is no longer in office, I voted to acquit. Establishing the precedent that the Senate has jurisdiction to convict a former president would cause extreme damage to our country and the future of the presidency.”

During the five day trial, prosecutors said Trump was the inciter in chief whose rally cry to fight like hell unleashed the mob on the Capitol. The defense said there was no insurrection and Trump's words were simply political speech.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599242728082.png" alt="Kansas Senator Jerry Moran joined every GOP senator up for re-election in 2022 except Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and voted to acquit Donald Trump." />
 <figcaption>Kansas Senator Jerry Moran joined every GOP senator up for re-election in 2022 except Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and voted to acquit Donald Trump.</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON&nbsp;– For the second time in just over a year, Senator Jerry Moran watched an impeachment trial of Donald Trump.&nbsp; On Saturday morning, he voted along with Senator Roger Marshall and Missouri Senators Roy Blunt and Josh Hawley against allowing witnesses to testify in the trial.&nbsp;On Saturday afternoon, Moran did not join with seven Republicans who voted to convict Trump, the most impeachment defections ever from a president's party.&nbsp;The vote was 57-43 to convict but that was short of the two-thirds majority required. Almost immediately after the trial ended, Moran's office released a statement that condemned the former president. “The violence at the United States Capitol on January 6 was an attempt to subvert democracy, and I condemn it in the strongest possible terms. Rioters and extremists sought to prevent Members of Congress and Vice President Pence from performing their constitutional obligation to affirm the results of an election, and President Trump was wrong to continue to spread allegations of widespread fraud and not immediately discourage the reprehensible and unpatriotic behavior," Moran's stated in the release.“The Constitution does not clearly state whether a former president can be tried for impeachment by the Senate, but I believe the impeachment process is intended to be used for considering whether or not ‘The President’ should be removed from office. Because former President Trump is no longer in office, I voted to acquit. Establishing the precedent that the Senate has jurisdiction to convict a former president would cause extreme damage to our country and the future of the presidency.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613401916565.png" alt="The moment on Saturday when Senators heard the not guilty verdict against former President Trump.-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>The moment on Saturday when Senators heard the not guilty verdict against former President Trump.-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>During the five day trial, prosecutors said Trump was the inciter in chief whose rally cry to fight like hell unleashed the mob on the Capitol. The defense said there was no insurrection and Trump's words were simply political speech.

Moran condemns Trump after vote against impeachment 

GEARY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspect for alleged drug distribution in Geary County.

On Saturday, police executed a search warrant at the Hi Poynt Studios apartments at 1106 Grant Avenue in Junction City, according to a media release. The warrant and arrests were the result of an investigation into the alleged distribution of marijuana from Hi Poynt Studios over the past few months.

Police arrested Darrin Battiste, 19, and Madison Verdoorn, 24,&nbsp;

Verdoorn was booked on a requested charge of Possession of a Controlled Substance, while Battiste was arrested on requested charges of Possession of Marijuana with the intent to distribute, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and No Drug Tax Stamp.&nbsp;

&nbsp;This was a joint investigation conducted by the Junction City / Geary County Drug Operations Group, according to the release.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613398605915.png" alt="Battiste-photo Geary Co." />
 <figcaption>Battiste-photo Geary Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspect for alleged drug distribution in Geary County.On Saturday, police executed a search warrant at the Hi Poynt Studios apartments at 1106 Grant Avenue in Junction City, according to a media release. The warrant and arrests were the result of an investigation into the alleged distribution of marijuana from Hi Poynt Studios over the past few months.Police arrested Darrin Battiste, 19, and Madison Verdoorn, 24,&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613398150488.png" alt="Verdoorn photo Geary Co." />
 <figcaption>Verdoorn photo Geary Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Verdoorn was booked on a requested charge of Possession of a Controlled Substance, while Battiste was arrested on requested charges of Possession of Marijuana with the intent to distribute, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and No Drug Tax Stamp.&nbsp;&nbsp;This was a joint investigation conducted by the Junction City / Geary County Drug Operations Group, according to the release.

2 arrested for alleged drug distribution from Kan. apartment complex

WASHINGTON (AP) — <a href="https://www.healthcare.gov/">HealthCare.gov’s market </a>for subsidized health plans is open again for a special three-month sign-up window as the Democratic-led Congress pushes a boost in financial help that could cut premiums by double digits.

This enrollment period during the coronavirus pandemic is an early test of President Joe Biden’s strategy to use the Affordable Care Act as a springboard toward health coverage for all. Advancing on a parallel track, the new&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-15-dollar-minimum-wage-450d27c72ba701cb5aef3213cb4bcd8b">COVID-19 relief bill from House Democrats&nbsp;</a>would offer a generous, though temporary, increase in subsidies for people covered by the law known as “Obamacare.”

“It is a hugely important signaling move,” said Katherine Hempstead of the nonpartisan Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. “The administration is doing more than having open enrollment here, they’re saying they want to make this coverage more affordable.”

While policy experts like Hempstead are taking note, it’s unclear how uninsured Americans will respond. Former President Barack Obama’s health law has been on the books over a decade, but surveys consistently show that many people lacking job-based insurance do not realize they may qualify. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that about 33 million people are uninsured this year.

At Foundation Communities, an Austin, Texas, nonprofit that serves low-income working people, program director Kori Hattemer says she’s seeing an uptick in interest. Although her agency had not started advertising, appointments for enrollment assistance booked up quickly. Volunteer counselors are being called back.

For clients, “it’s their last chance probably to enroll in health insurance for 2021,” Hattemer said.

One is Jacklindy Barradez, a housekeeper and restaurant worker unemployed since the start of the pandemic. Her husband hung on to his maintenance job, but the couple and their two children are uninsured. Barradez said a friend told her about the health law and she intends to follow through.

With no health insurance as the pandemic stretches into its second year, Barradez is uneasy. “We are not exempt from having something happen to us,” she said in Spanish, her first language. “Not having the means to respond is extremely worrisome.”

The Biden administration is going the extra mile to try to sign up people such as Barradez.

<a href="https://www.healthcare.gov/">HealthCare.gov</a> will be accepting applications through May 15, a period about twice as long as annual open enrollment. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, which runs the program, has a $50 million advertising budget, five times what the Trump administration would spend on annual open enrollment. Under Biden, there will be a special emphasis on reaching Black and Latino communities that have borne a heavy burden from COVID-19.

Across the country, people in the 36 states served by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthcare.gov/" target="_blank">federal HealthCare.gov marketplace</a>&nbsp;will be able to apply. Additionally, most states that run their own marketplaces are matching the federal effort, giving it the feel of a national campaign.

The appeal for uninsured people could become much clearer if Congress increases premium subsidies as part of its next virus relief package.

“That would be a great incentive to get people in the door,” said Tara Straw, a health policy analyst with the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, which advocates on behalf of low-income people. More generous help would be available not just to the newly enrolled, but to all who are covered through the law’s marketplaces.

By the budget center’s calculations, a family of four making $50,000 would pay $67 a month in premiums for a standard plan, instead of an average of $252 currently, while also qualifying for help with deductibles and copays. The boost in premium assistance would be available for this year and for 2022.

Similarly, a single person making $30,000 a year would pay $85 a month for a standard plan instead of the current $195.

The Democratic proposal would allow more solid middle-class households to qualify for financial help. On the opposite end of the scale, those who’ve experienced unemployment would qualify for extra-generous subsidies.

Republicans who tried but failed to repeal the law under President Donald Trump are calling the Democratic plan a waste of taxpayer dollars. But many Democrats see it as merely a down payment on a more ambitious health care agenda.

The Obama health law now covers more than 20 million people through a combination of subsidized private plans and, in most states, expanded Medicaid.

Experts agree that job losses during the pandemic have led to more uninsured people, but it’s unclear how many more. Some estimates range from 5 million to 10 million, while the Congressional Budget Office suggests a lower number, more like 3 million.

Chris Sloan of the consulting firm Avalere Health says it’s likely that many who became unemployed in the pandemic had no job-based health insurance to begin with. That means they represent the demographic for which the health law was originally designed.

“People are coming back into the workforce as the unemployment rate comes down, but they may not necessarily have the same job or as good a job,” said Sloan. “This will be a an important option for people still facing job and employment insecurity.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609777460613.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — <a href="https://www.healthcare.gov/">HealthCare.gov’s market </a>for subsidized health plans is open again for a special three-month sign-up window as the Democratic-led Congress pushes a boost in financial help that could cut premiums by double digits.This enrollment period during the coronavirus pandemic is an early test of President Joe Biden’s strategy to use the Affordable Care Act as a springboard toward health coverage for all. Advancing on a parallel track, the new&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-15-dollar-minimum-wage-450d27c72ba701cb5aef3213cb4bcd8b">COVID-19 relief bill from House Democrats&nbsp;</a>would offer a generous, though temporary, increase in subsidies for people covered by the law known as “Obamacare.”“It is a hugely important signaling move,” said Katherine Hempstead of the nonpartisan Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. “The administration is doing more than having open enrollment here, they’re saying they want to make this coverage more affordable.”While policy experts like Hempstead are taking note, it’s unclear how uninsured Americans will respond. Former President Barack Obama’s health law has been on the books over a decade, but surveys consistently show that many people lacking job-based insurance do not realize they may qualify. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that about 33 million people are uninsured this year.At Foundation Communities, an Austin, Texas, nonprofit that serves low-income working people, program director Kori Hattemer says she’s seeing an uptick in interest. Although her agency had not started advertising, appointments for enrollment assistance booked up quickly. Volunteer counselors are being called back.For clients, “it’s their last chance probably to enroll in health insurance for 2021,” Hattemer said.One is Jacklindy Barradez, a housekeeper and restaurant worker unemployed since the start of the pandemic. Her husband hung on to his maintenance job, but the couple and their two children are uninsured. Barradez said a friend told her about the health law and she intends to follow through.With no health insurance as the pandemic stretches into its second year, Barradez is uneasy. “We are not exempt from having something happen to us,” she said in Spanish, her first language. “Not having the means to respond is extremely worrisome.”The Biden administration is going the extra mile to try to sign up people such as Barradez.<a href="https://www.healthcare.gov/">HealthCare.gov</a> will be accepting applications through May 15, a period about twice as long as annual open enrollment. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, which runs the program, has a $50 million advertising budget, five times what the Trump administration would spend on annual open enrollment. Under Biden, there will be a special emphasis on reaching Black and Latino communities that have borne a heavy burden from COVID-19.Across the country, people in the 36 states served by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthcare.gov/" target="_blank">federal HealthCare.gov marketplace</a>&nbsp;will be able to apply. Additionally, most states that run their own marketplaces are matching the federal effort, giving it the feel of a national campaign.The appeal for uninsured people could become much clearer if Congress increases premium subsidies as part of its next virus relief package.“That would be a great incentive to get people in the door,” said Tara Straw, a health policy analyst with the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, which advocates on behalf of low-income people. More generous help would be available not just to the newly enrolled, but to all who are covered through the law’s marketplaces.By the budget center’s calculations, a family of four making $50,000 would pay $67 a month in premiums for a standard plan, instead of an average of $252 currently, while also qualifying for help with deductibles and copays. The boost in premium assistance would be available for this year and for 2022.Similarly, a single person making $30,000 a year would pay $85 a month for a standard plan instead of the current $195.The Democratic proposal would allow more solid middle-class households to qualify for financial help. On the opposite end of the scale, those who’ve experienced unemployment would qualify for extra-generous subsidies.Republicans who tried but failed to repeal the law under President Donald Trump are calling the Democratic plan a waste of taxpayer dollars. But many Democrats see it as merely a down payment on a more ambitious health care agenda.The Obama health law now covers more than 20 million people through a combination of subsidized private plans and, in most states, expanded Medicaid.Experts agree that job losses during the pandemic have led to more uninsured people, but it’s unclear how many more. Some estimates range from 5 million to 10 million, while the Congressional Budget Office suggests a lower number, more like 3 million.Chris Sloan of the consulting firm Avalere Health says it’s likely that many who became unemployed in the pandemic had no job-based health insurance to begin with. That means they represent the demographic for which the health law was originally designed.“People are coming back into the workforce as the unemployment rate comes down, but they may not necessarily have the same job or as good a job,” said Sloan. “This will be a an important option for people still facing job and employment insecurity.”

'Obamacare' sign-ups reopen as Dems push for more virus relief

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting in rural Douglas County where two victims have died.

Just before 6:30 p.m Saturday, deputies responded to a call of shots fired in the 2000 block of E 1100 Road north of Lawrence, according to Jennifer Hethcoat, public information officer with the Douglas County Sheriff's office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

At the scene, deputies found three individuals with apparent gunshot wounds. One man was dead when deputies arrived. EMS transported two other individuals to area hospitals with life threatening injuries. One of those men died overnight Sunday, according to Hethcoat.&nbsp;&nbsp;The other victim remained hospitalized in stable condition late Sunday.&nbsp;

This crime scene is located outdoors and Douglas County Sheriff’s Office deputies and detectives worked through the night in freezing cold temperatures to process the crime scene before forecasted snow moved in Sunday morning. 

Deputies are still investigating and conducting interviews but do not have reason to believe there is a suspect at large in the community.

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal shooting in rural Douglas County say a second victim has died.

Just before 6:30 p.m Saturday, deputies responded to a call of shots fired in the 2000 block of E 1100 Road north of Lawrence, according to Jennifer Hethcoat, public information officer with the Douglas County Sheriff's office.&nbsp;

At the scene, deputies found three individuals with apparent gunshot wounds. One man was dead when deputies arrived. EMS transported two other individuals to area hospitals with life threatening injuries.

One of the men transported to a hospital died overnight from apparent gunshot wounds, according to Hethcoat. Authorities have not released names of the victims or reported an arrest.

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting in rural Douglas County.

Just before 6:30 p.m Saturday, deputies responded to a call of shots fired in the 2000 block of E 1100 Road north of Lawrence, according to Jennifer Hethcoat, public information officer with the Douglas County Sheriff's office.&nbsp; 

At the scene, deputies found three individuals with apparent gunshot wounds. One individual was dead when deputies arrived. EMS transported other individuals to area hospitals with life threatening injuries.

Authorities released no additional details.

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting in rural Douglas County where two victims have died.Just before 6:30 p.m Saturday, deputies responded to a call of shots fired in the 2000 block of E 1100 Road north of Lawrence, according to Jennifer Hethcoat, public information officer with the Douglas County Sheriff's office.&nbsp;&nbsp;At the scene, deputies found three individuals with apparent gunshot wounds. One man was dead when deputies arrived. EMS transported two other individuals to area hospitals with life threatening injuries. One of those men died overnight Sunday, according to Hethcoat.&nbsp;&nbsp;The other victim remained hospitalized in stable condition late Sunday.&nbsp;This crime scene is located outdoors and Douglas County Sheriff’s Office deputies and detectives worked through the night in freezing cold temperatures to process the crime scene before forecasted snow moved in Sunday morning. Deputies are still investigating and conducting interviews but do not have reason to believe there is a suspect at large in the community.--------DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal shooting in rural Douglas County say a second victim has died.Just before 6:30 p.m Saturday, deputies responded to a call of shots fired in the 2000 block of E 1100 Road north of Lawrence, according to Jennifer Hethcoat, public information officer with the Douglas County Sheriff's office.&nbsp;At the scene, deputies found three individuals with apparent gunshot wounds. One man was dead when deputies arrived. EMS transported two other individuals to area hospitals with life threatening injuries.One of the men transported to a hospital died overnight from apparent gunshot wounds, according to Hethcoat. Authorities have not released names of the victims or reported an arrest.---------DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting in rural Douglas County.Just before 6:30 p.m Saturday, deputies responded to a call of shots fired in the 2000 block of E 1100 Road north of Lawrence, according to Jennifer Hethcoat, public information officer with the Douglas County Sheriff's office.&nbsp; At the scene, deputies found three individuals with apparent gunshot wounds. One individual was dead when deputies arrived. EMS transported other individuals to area hospitals with life threatening injuries.Authorities released no additional details.

Update: 2nd victim dies after rural Kansas shooting

CLAYTON, Mo. (AP) — Two people have been charged with stealing a funeral home van that had a body inside from a gas station in the St. Louis area.

Brian Schaake, 38, was charged Saturday with a felony charge of stealing a motor vehicle. Thirty-one-year-old Christina Kalb was charged with a misdemeanor charge of tampering with a motor vehicle.

Kalb was released from custody, officials said. Schaake was being held Saturday on $40,000 cash bond.

In a probable cause statement, St. Louis County Police detective Scott Russell said Schaake likely wouldn’t show up in court because his last address was out of state and he was believed to be homeless. Officials listed the same Springfield, Illinois, address for both him and Kalb.

The funeral home van was stolen&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/st-louis-festus-michael-brown-6416f99cb32132d5cd3abb1b7aa3eaa1">Thursday</a>&nbsp;from a QuikTrip gas station in the Spanish Lake area of unincorporated St. Louis County after it was left unattended with the engine running.

The body was recovered after the van was spotted about 45 miles (72.42 kilometers) away the next day at a Walmart in Festus. Schaake and Kalb were arrested inside the store.

According to court records, Schaake admitted to stealing the van with Kalb.

ST. LOUIS (AP) — A funeral home van stolen from a St. Louis-area convenience store has now been recovered, and so has the body of a deceased woman that was inside the van.

St. Louis County police said two suspects were arrested about 10 a.m. Friday in Festus, Missouri, a day after the van was stolen in the Spanish Lake area of north St. Louis County, about 55 miles away. No other details were released.

Police say the driver of the funeral home van left it running Thursday at a Quik Trip store in north St. Louis County, and went inside. The van was gone when he came back out.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613225568342.png" alt="Photo St. Louis Co. Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo St. Louis Co. Police</figcaption>
 </figure>CLAYTON, Mo. (AP) — Two people have been charged with stealing a funeral home van that had a body inside from a gas station in the St. Louis area.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613388352338.png" alt="Schaake" />
 <figcaption>Schaake</figcaption>
 </figure>Brian Schaake, 38, was charged Saturday with a felony charge of stealing a motor vehicle. Thirty-one-year-old Christina Kalb was charged with a misdemeanor charge of tampering with a motor vehicle.Kalb was released from custody, officials said. Schaake was being held Saturday on $40,000 cash bond.In a probable cause statement, St. Louis County Police detective Scott Russell said Schaake likely wouldn’t show up in court because his last address was out of state and he was believed to be homeless. Officials listed the same Springfield, Illinois, address for both him and Kalb.The funeral home van was stolen&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/st-louis-festus-michael-brown-6416f99cb32132d5cd3abb1b7aa3eaa1">Thursday</a>&nbsp;from a QuikTrip gas station in the Spanish Lake area of unincorporated St. Louis County after it was left unattended with the engine running.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613388186285.png" alt="Kalb-photo St. Louis Co." />
 <figcaption>Kalb-photo St. Louis Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The body was recovered after the van was spotted about 45 miles (72.42 kilometers) away the next day at a Walmart in Festus. Schaake and Kalb were arrested inside the store.According to court records, Schaake admitted to stealing the van with Kalb.----------ST. LOUIS (AP) — A funeral home van stolen from a St. Louis-area convenience store has now been recovered, and so has the body of a deceased woman that was inside the van.St. Louis County police said two suspects were arrested about 10 a.m. Friday in Festus, Missouri, a day after the van was stolen in the Spanish Lake area of north St. Louis County, about 55 miles away. No other details were released.Police say the driver of the funeral home van left it running Thursday at a Quik Trip store in north St. Louis County, and went inside. The van was gone when he came back out.

2 charged in theft of funeral home van that had body inside

TOPEKA&nbsp;– On Sunday afternoon, Governor Laura Kelly issued a State of Disaster Emergency due to wind chill warnings and stress on utility and natural gas providers.&nbsp;

The state has experienced bitter winter temperatures and below zero wind chills for more than a week, which has put stress on utility and natural gas providers across the state. The declaration authorizes the use of state resources and personnel to assist with response and recovery operations in affected counties that meet certain criteria.

“As the extreme cold temperatures continue to affect the region, we are urging Kansans to conserve energy in order to help ensure a continued supply of natural gas and electricity and keep their own personal costs down,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.

Because of the sub-zero temperatures which causes an increased energy demand and natural gas supply constraints, utilities are currently experiencing wholesale natural gas prices anywhere from 10 to 100 times higher than normal. Those costs will eventually flow through to consumers, and increase monthly natural gas and electric bills.

Customers can keep these costs down by reducing their natural gas and electric usage at this critical time.

Here are some things each household can do to help in the conservation effort and slow down the increases in energy bills due to high usage:

TOPEKA&nbsp;– On Sunday afternoon, Governor Laura Kelly issued a State of Disaster Emergency due to wind chill warnings and stress on utility and natural gas providers.&nbsp;The state has experienced bitter winter temperatures and below zero wind chills for more than a week, which has put stress on utility and natural gas providers across the state. The declaration authorizes the use of state resources and personnel to assist with response and recovery operations in affected counties that meet certain criteria.“As the extreme cold temperatures continue to affect the region, we are urging Kansans to conserve energy in order to help ensure a continued supply of natural gas and electricity and keep their own personal costs down,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.Because of the sub-zero temperatures which causes an increased energy demand and natural gas supply constraints, utilities are currently experiencing wholesale natural gas prices anywhere from 10 to 100 times higher than normal. Those costs will eventually flow through to consumers, and increase monthly natural gas and electric bills.Customers can keep these costs down by reducing their natural gas and electric usage at this critical time.Here are some things each household can do to help in the conservation effort and slow down the increases in energy bills due to high usage:<ul>
 <li>Keep warm, not hot. When possible wear additional layers of clothing, consider turning down your thermostat and check your programmable settings.</li><li>Seal leaks around doors and windows. Apply weather stripping or caulk to seal gaps and cracks around windows and doors to stop air leaks and prevent energy loss. If that is not an option, you can also cover windows with towels, sheets or plastic to help keep the warm air in your house.</li><li>Reduce the temperature on your water heater. Set the temperature on your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or put it on the “warm” setting. If your home will be vacant for two days or more, set the dial to the pilot position for even more savings.</li><li>Close blinds and curtains.&nbsp;This helps keep warm air inside, especially if the sun is not shining.</li><li>Change or clean filters. A clean filter on your furnace can lower your energy consumption by 5 to 15 percent. Dirty filters cost more to use and overwork the equipment.</li><li>Hold off on doing chores.&nbsp;Doing laundry and washing dishes can both use natural gas to heat the water and your dryer. If you can, wait until the extreme cold weather passes to complete these activities. If you cannot wait, use the cold setting where possible.</li><li>Install foam gaskets on electrical switches and outlets. Electrical switches and outlets can account for up to 10 percent of your home’s energy loss.</li>
 </ul>

State of Disaster Emergency due to cold, stress on utility and natural gas providers

MONTGOMERY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on numerous charges after an altercation.

On&nbsp; February 10, sheriff's deputies were called to the area of CR 2200 and CR 5700, east of Coffeyville to investigate a suspicious vehicle in the area pulling onto private property and looking around, according to Sheriff Ron Wade.

The vehicle was described as a white Ford truck with a blue tailgate. Upon arriving in the area, a Montgomery County Deputy observed a vehicle matching that description.

The deputy also observed the driver, later identified as Jon Henry Jones V, 48 of Coffeyville, was not wearing a seatbelt. At that point the Deputy attempted to performed a traffic stop on the vehicle and after a short distance the truck pulled to the side of the road. 

When the deputy approached the vehicle, he made contact with Jones who alleged began to threaten the deputy, according to Wade.

After a short verbal exchange, Jones sped off and the deputy gave pursuit. Jones then drove the truck into a ditch where the it became disabled. 

Other deputies arrived on scene and discovered the man slumped over the steering wheel. Deputies removed Jones from the truck and he became combative. After a short altercation deputies took Jones into custody.

Sheriff’s office officials are recommending Jones be charged with Criminal threat against LEO, Interference with LEO, attempt to flee or attempt to elude LEO, various traffic violations. He is also under investigation for DUI pending further investigation.

Sheriff Ron Wade said “I am thankful that the incident ended with no injuries and my Deputies were able to take a dangerous individual off the streets”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613150452006.png" alt="Jones photo Montgomery County" />
 <figcaption>Jones photo Montgomery County</figcaption>
 </figure>MONTGOMERY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on numerous charges after an altercation.On&nbsp; February 10, sheriff's deputies were called to the area of CR 2200 and CR 5700, east of Coffeyville to investigate a suspicious vehicle in the area pulling onto private property and looking around, according to Sheriff Ron Wade.The vehicle was described as a white Ford truck with a blue tailgate. Upon arriving in the area, a Montgomery County Deputy observed a vehicle matching that description.The deputy also observed the driver, later identified as Jon Henry Jones V, 48 of Coffeyville, was not wearing a seatbelt. At that point the Deputy attempted to performed a traffic stop on the vehicle and after a short distance the truck pulled to the side of the road. When the deputy approached the vehicle, he made contact with Jones who alleged began to threaten the deputy, according to Wade.After a short verbal exchange, Jones sped off and the deputy gave pursuit. Jones then drove the truck into a ditch where the it became disabled. Other deputies arrived on scene and discovered the man slumped over the steering wheel. Deputies removed Jones from the truck and he became combative. After a short altercation deputies took Jones into custody.Sheriff’s office officials are recommending Jones be charged with Criminal threat against LEO, Interference with LEO, attempt to flee or attempt to elude LEO, various traffic violations. He is also under investigation for DUI pending further investigation.Sheriff Ron Wade said “I am thankful that the incident ended with no injuries and my Deputies were able to take a dangerous individual off the streets”

Kansas man jailed after altercation with sheriff's deputy

Senate bill places operational control of sports books with casinos

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/02/11/convenience-stores-municipal-governments-want-piece-of-action-if-kansas-legalizes-sports-betting/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansas Lottery 
retailers, local units of government and addiction counselors expressed 
concern Thursday about being excluded in a Kansas Senate bill from 
opportunities to share in revenue from legalizing sports gambling 
statewide.

A Senate bill years in the
 making would place operational control of onsite and online sports 
betting in Kansas with the four state-owned, contractor-managed casinos 
in Pittsburg, Mulvane, Dodge City and Kansas City, Kansas. The <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/02/10/kansas-casino-managers-betting-senate-bill-catalyst-for-legalizing-sports-gambling/">Senate’s casino model</a>
 would differ from the preference of some Kansas House members who want 
to involve the 1,100 convenience store retailers that sell Kansas 
Lottery tickets in the new business of gambling on sporting events.

Becky Schwartz, 
representing a trade association of 250 independent fuel distribution 
and convenience store retailers in Kansas, told the Senate Federal and 
State Affairs Committee the organization opposed <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/fisc_note_sb84_00_0000.pdf">Senate Bill 84</a>
 unless amended to open sports gambling to lottery retailers. She said 
several large convenience store chains were interested in branching out 
into sports betting at the retail level.

“Sports wagering hosted by
 the Kansas Lottery is a natural fit for current lottery retailers,” 
Schwartz said. “They have a financial track record with the Kansas 
Lottery and have the sufficient resources to support the activities 
required to conduct sports wagering.”

Sen. Jeff Longbine, an 
Emporia Republican, said involving convenience stores in betting on 
sports would create an unacceptable financial liability for the state. 
The proposed Senate bill would place that profit-and-loss burden on 
shoulders on casinos operating the sports books.

“I think under that 
model,” Longbine said of the convenience-store option, “the taxpayers of
 the state of Kansas would take the risk. I think that was the concern 
of the Senate last year. We did not want to put the state at risk and 
have the state assuming the risk of wins and losses within sports 
gaming.”

Meanwhile, the League of 
Kansas Municipalities recommended adjustment of the Senate bill to be 
consistent with existing state gambling law guaranteeing 3% of revenue 
from sports wagering was shared with local units of government. The 
municipal government organization otherwise takes no position on 
legalization of sports betting, said John Goodyear, general counsel to 
the League of Kansas Municipalities.

“This contribution is made
 to help local governments to bear the increased local costs associated 
with having a gaming facility,” he said. “These items include like the 
maintenance of the streets leading up to the gaming facility and 
increased law enforcement presence around facilities.”

Deb Stidham, of the Kansas
 Association of Addiction Professionals, said the sports wagering bill 
ought to be modified to enhance spending on work to prevent and treat 
problem gambling. Under current law, she said, the bulk of revenue 
sharing from casinos for addiction intervention was directed at people 
with alcohol or drug issues and eligible for Medicaid. Of about $8 
million drawn annually from casinos, Stidham said, less than $900,000 
was devoted specifically to gambling addiction.

Legislation to legalize 
sports betting in Kansas should dedicate at least 2% of revenue for the 
Problem Gambling and Addiction Fund and support the goal of mitigating 
harm caused by legalized gambling, she said. The money can be invested 
in public education, treatment screening and counseling services, she 
said.

“Everyone who profits from
 sports betting bears responsibility for gambling problems. The only way
 to maximize benefits from sports betting is to minimize problem 
gambling,” Stidham said. “The addition of sports betting into our state 
will bring an unprecedented blitz of advertising to urge Kansans to bet 
instantly from their phone on every action by every player on every play
 in every game in every sport.”

She said an estimated 
46,000 adults in Kansas suffered from a gambling disorder. This 
population is 10 times more likely to attempt suicide and have higher 
rates of substance abuse and mental health disorders, she said.

Terry Humphrey, who 
lobbies for the Humane Society of the United States and Stray Dog 
Policy, recommended the Senate committee expand the bill’s prohibition 
on sports wagering on greyhound races conducted in Kansas. She said a 
coalition of 39 animal welfare organizations in Kansas believe the bill 
ought to ban sports bets on all greyhound racing regardless of location.

Lobbyist Jason Watkins, 
representing Ruffin Companies and Kansans for Fair Play, proposed an 
amendment to authorize three closed horse or greyhound race tracts to 
engage in sports gambling operations. Tracks in Park City, Frotenac and 
Kansas City, Kansas, are closed because the 40% of profits claimed by 
the state from slot machines at those tracks is excessive given casinos 
are taxed at a rate of 22%, Watkins said.

He said the Senate bill 
would unfairly deny racetrack owners an opportunity to participate in 
sports wagering in conjunction with the four state-owned casinos, the 
Kansas Speedway complex, the Sporting KC soccer facility at Children’s 
Mercy Park and potentially tribal casinos.

“We trust that very soon, the Kansas Legislature will do the right thing and act to grow jobs, incomes and tax revenue by <a href="https://www.cjonline.com/news/20180427/senate-rejects-bill-lowering-tax-bite-on-slot-machines-at-kansas-dog-horse-racetracks">creating parity in gaming revenue taxes</a>,”
 Watkins said. “The tracks will reopen in Kansas, and when they do, they
 should have the right to offer sports wagering just like the casinos.”

Supporters of the Senate 
version of the sports gambling bill offered testimony Wednesday. The 
committee didn’t take action on the bill after the second day of 
hearings Thursday. The Senate panel is likely to begin fine-tuning the 
sports wagering legislation Feb. 24 with the expectation senators will 
attempt to amend the bill.

Tim Carpenter has reported on Kansas for 35 years. He covered the Capitol for 16 years at the Topeka Capital-Journal and previously worked for the Lawrence Journal-World and United Press International.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613150373355.png" alt="Sen. Jeff Longbine, a Republican from Emporia, said allowing convenience stores, as opposed to casinos. engage in the business of sports gambling in Kansas sets taxpayers up to absorb losses sustained through bets placed at those retail stores. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Jeff Longbine, a Republican from Emporia, said allowing convenience stores, as opposed to casinos. engage in the business of sports gambling in Kansas sets taxpayers up to absorb losses sustained through bets placed at those retail stores. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Senate bill places operational control of sports books with casinos</h2>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/02/11/convenience-stores-municipal-governments-want-piece-of-action-if-kansas-legalizes-sports-betting/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansas Lottery 
retailers, local units of government and addiction counselors expressed 
concern Thursday about being excluded in a Kansas Senate bill from 
opportunities to share in revenue from legalizing sports gambling 
statewide.A Senate bill years in the
 making would place operational control of onsite and online sports 
betting in Kansas with the four state-owned, contractor-managed casinos 
in Pittsburg, Mulvane, Dodge City and Kansas City, Kansas. The <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/02/10/kansas-casino-managers-betting-senate-bill-catalyst-for-legalizing-sports-gambling/">Senate’s casino model</a>
 would differ from the preference of some Kansas House members who want 
to involve the 1,100 convenience store retailers that sell Kansas 
Lottery tickets in the new business of gambling on sporting events.Becky Schwartz, 
representing a trade association of 250 independent fuel distribution 
and convenience store retailers in Kansas, told the Senate Federal and 
State Affairs Committee the organization opposed <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/fisc_note_sb84_00_0000.pdf">Senate Bill 84</a>
 unless amended to open sports gambling to lottery retailers. She said 
several large convenience store chains were interested in branching out 
into sports betting at the retail level.“Sports wagering hosted by
 the Kansas Lottery is a natural fit for current lottery retailers,” 
Schwartz said. “They have a financial track record with the Kansas 
Lottery and have the sufficient resources to support the activities 
required to conduct sports wagering.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613150433261.png" alt="Terry Humphrey, who lobbies on behalf of the Humane Society of the United States and for Stray Dog Policy, urged a Kansas Senate committee to adjust the bill to ban all wagers on greyhound races in the United States rather than only races conducted in Kansas. (Screenshot/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Terry Humphrey, who lobbies on behalf of the Humane Society of the United States and for Stray Dog Policy, urged a Kansas Senate committee to adjust the bill to ban all wagers on greyhound races in the United States rather than only races conducted in Kansas. (Screenshot/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>Sen. Jeff Longbine, an 
Emporia Republican, said involving convenience stores in betting on 
sports would create an unacceptable financial liability for the state. 
The proposed Senate bill would place that profit-and-loss burden on 
shoulders on casinos operating the sports books.“I think under that 
model,” Longbine said of the convenience-store option, “the taxpayers of
 the state of Kansas would take the risk. I think that was the concern 
of the Senate last year. We did not want to put the state at risk and 
have the state assuming the risk of wins and losses within sports 
gaming.”Meanwhile, the League of 
Kansas Municipalities recommended adjustment of the Senate bill to be 
consistent with existing state gambling law guaranteeing 3% of revenue 
from sports wagering was shared with local units of government. The 
municipal government organization otherwise takes no position on 
legalization of sports betting, said John Goodyear, general counsel to 
the League of Kansas Municipalities.“This contribution is made
 to help local governments to bear the increased local costs associated 
with having a gaming facility,” he said. “These items include like the 
maintenance of the streets leading up to the gaming facility and 
increased law enforcement presence around facilities.”Deb Stidham, of the Kansas
 Association of Addiction Professionals, said the sports wagering bill 
ought to be modified to enhance spending on work to prevent and treat 
problem gambling. Under current law, she said, the bulk of revenue 
sharing from casinos for addiction intervention was directed at people 
with alcohol or drug issues and eligible for Medicaid. Of about $8 
million drawn annually from casinos, Stidham said, less than $900,000 
was devoted specifically to gambling addiction.Legislation to legalize 
sports betting in Kansas should dedicate at least 2% of revenue for the 
Problem Gambling and Addiction Fund and support the goal of mitigating 
harm caused by legalized gambling, she said. The money can be invested 
in public education, treatment screening and counseling services, she 
said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613150459644.png" alt="Becky Schwartz, a lobbyist with a group of retail businesses in Fuel True — Independent Energy and Convenience, said the Senate’s sports betting bill should be dramatically amended to allow stores selling Kansas Lottery tickets to engage in sports wagering activities. (Screenshot/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Becky Schwartz, a lobbyist with a group of retail businesses in Fuel True — Independent Energy and Convenience, said the Senate’s sports betting bill should be dramatically amended to allow stores selling Kansas Lottery tickets to engage in sports wagering activities. (Screenshot/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>“Everyone who profits from
 sports betting bears responsibility for gambling problems. The only way
 to maximize benefits from sports betting is to minimize problem 
gambling,” Stidham said. “The addition of sports betting into our state 
will bring an unprecedented blitz of advertising to urge Kansans to bet 
instantly from their phone on every action by every player on every play
 in every game in every sport.”She said an estimated 
46,000 adults in Kansas suffered from a gambling disorder. This 
population is 10 times more likely to attempt suicide and have higher 
rates of substance abuse and mental health disorders, she said.Terry Humphrey, who 
lobbies for the Humane Society of the United States and Stray Dog 
Policy, recommended the Senate committee expand the bill’s prohibition 
on sports wagering on greyhound races conducted in Kansas. She said a 
coalition of 39 animal welfare organizations in Kansas believe the bill 
ought to ban sports bets on all greyhound racing regardless of location.Lobbyist Jason Watkins, 
representing Ruffin Companies and Kansans for Fair Play, proposed an 
amendment to authorize three closed horse or greyhound race tracts to 
engage in sports gambling operations. Tracks in Park City, Frotenac and 
Kansas City, Kansas, are closed because the 40% of profits claimed by 
the state from slot machines at those tracks is excessive given casinos 
are taxed at a rate of 22%, Watkins said.He said the Senate bill 
would unfairly deny racetrack owners an opportunity to participate in 
sports wagering in conjunction with the four state-owned casinos, the 
Kansas Speedway complex, the Sporting KC soccer facility at Children’s 
Mercy Park and potentially tribal casinos.“We trust that very soon, the Kansas Legislature will do the right thing and act to grow jobs, incomes and tax revenue by <a href="https://www.cjonline.com/news/20180427/senate-rejects-bill-lowering-tax-bite-on-slot-machines-at-kansas-dog-horse-racetracks">creating parity in gaming revenue taxes</a>,”
 Watkins said. “The tracks will reopen in Kansas, and when they do, they
 should have the right to offer sports wagering just like the casinos.”Supporters of the Senate 
version of the sports gambling bill offered testimony Wednesday. The 
committee didn’t take action on the bill after the second day of 
hearings Thursday. The Senate panel is likely to begin fine-tuning the 
sports wagering legislation Feb. 24 with the expectation senators will 
attempt to amend the bill.Tim Carpenter has reported on Kansas for 35 years. He covered the Capitol for 16 years at the Topeka Capital-Journal and previously worked for the Lawrence Journal-World and United Press International.

C-stores, cities want piece of action if Kan. legalizes sports betting

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Some Kansas Republican legislators are backing a bill that would make it a felony for anyone besides a family member or caregiver to return another person’s absentee ballot.

The bill is facing pushback from Democratic lawmakers and voting rights advocates who say the legislation would make it harder for many racial minorities, older voters and people with disabilities to cast ballots. Those critics say the move would criminalize nonprofit groups and church volunteers for helping people to vote and would address a problem that doesn’t exist.

Proponents say banning so-called “ballot harvesting” would prevent political groups and candidates from unfairly influencing elections. The House Election Committee has held a hearing on the bill but has not yet voted.

The effort comes as Republican lawmakers across the country are pushing to set&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bills-voting-rights-elections-coronavirus-pandemic-voter-registration-0e94844d72d2a2bf8b51b1c950bd64fc">tougher voting rules</a>&nbsp;after former President Donald Trump and his GOP allies, without evidence, said the 2020 election was marred by fraud. “Ballot harvesting” was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/voting-lawsuits-elections-politics-campaigns-e8aecaa434b2b1040525d533e2d3b7ed">among the practices they called out</a>.

Legislators in nine states have proposed bills to impose or increase strict limits on who can help return a voter’s ballot, according to the Brennan Center for Justice, a public policy institute based at New York University School of Law.

University of Kansas political scientist Patrick Miller said Democrat and Republican candidates have historically collected and returned ballots as a campaign strategy. The practice has become an issue within the past decade, he said.

“I think it became more controversial, particularly in places in the South, like Georgia for example or Florida, where you had community groups coming into minority communities and trying to do these ballot collections,” Miller said.

Rep. Blake Carpenter, a Republican from Derby who leads the House Election Committee, said he is concerned with voters losing “custody” of their ballot when they entrust someone to return it for them.

“We do not know what the intention of these third parties are. Sometimes they’re good. Other times they might not be,” Carpenter said.

Rep. Avery Anderson, a Newton Republican who supports the bill, said his 2020 opponent, former state Rep. Tim Hodge, offered to submit voters’ ballots. Hodge said in written legislative testimony that “most of the time, these were constituents who my opponent had no relation to, and who he had helped register to vote just a few weeks earlier.”

“It’s called campaigning, not cheating,” Hodge said in an interview.

The League of Women Voters of Kansas and the NAACP’s Kansas chapter say the bill would make it difficult for Kansans who don’t have family living nearby to vote.

Dr. T. La Mont Holder, president of the Missionary Baptist State Convention of Kansas and the senior pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, which is believed to be the oldest Black Baptist church in Wichita, said his congregation includes people who are disabled and live in neighborhoods that lack mailboxes.

“Why do legislators feel that they have to determine who is the best person to deliver my ballot?” Holder asked. “Republicans talk about they want less government in their business. So why is it around the issue of voter rights? I have a right to ask anybody I want to deliver my ballot to the appropriate place.”

There is no evidence in Kansas that allowing someone to drop off a voter’s ballot has led to fraud. But the bill’s main proponent, Rep. Bill Sutton, a Gardner Republican, points to an incident in a North Carolina congressional race in 2018, in which workers for a Republican operative testified afterward that they were directed to collect blank or incomplete ballots, forge signatures and fill in votes.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Some Kansas Republican legislators are backing a bill that would make it a felony for anyone besides a family member or caregiver to return another person’s absentee ballot.The bill is facing pushback from Democratic lawmakers and voting rights advocates who say the legislation would make it harder for many racial minorities, older voters and people with disabilities to cast ballots. Those critics say the move would criminalize nonprofit groups and church volunteers for helping people to vote and would address a problem that doesn’t exist.Proponents say banning so-called “ballot harvesting” would prevent political groups and candidates from unfairly influencing elections. The House Election Committee has held a hearing on the bill but has not yet voted.The effort comes as Republican lawmakers across the country are pushing to set&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bills-voting-rights-elections-coronavirus-pandemic-voter-registration-0e94844d72d2a2bf8b51b1c950bd64fc">tougher voting rules</a>&nbsp;after former President Donald Trump and his GOP allies, without evidence, said the 2020 election was marred by fraud. “Ballot harvesting” was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/voting-lawsuits-elections-politics-campaigns-e8aecaa434b2b1040525d533e2d3b7ed">among the practices they called out</a>.Legislators in nine states have proposed bills to impose or increase strict limits on who can help return a voter’s ballot, according to the Brennan Center for Justice, a public policy institute based at New York University School of Law.University of Kansas political scientist Patrick Miller said Democrat and Republican candidates have historically collected and returned ballots as a campaign strategy. The practice has become an issue within the past decade, he said.“I think it became more controversial, particularly in places in the South, like Georgia for example or Florida, where you had community groups coming into minority communities and trying to do these ballot collections,” Miller said.Rep. Blake Carpenter, a Republican from Derby who leads the House Election Committee, said he is concerned with voters losing “custody” of their ballot when they entrust someone to return it for them.“We do not know what the intention of these third parties are. Sometimes they’re good. Other times they might not be,” Carpenter said.Rep. Avery Anderson, a Newton Republican who supports the bill, said his 2020 opponent, former state Rep. Tim Hodge, offered to submit voters’ ballots. Hodge said in written legislative testimony that “most of the time, these were constituents who my opponent had no relation to, and who he had helped register to vote just a few weeks earlier.”“It’s called campaigning, not cheating,” Hodge said in an interview.The League of Women Voters of Kansas and the NAACP’s Kansas chapter say the bill would make it difficult for Kansans who don’t have family living nearby to vote.Dr. T. La Mont Holder, president of the Missionary Baptist State Convention of Kansas and the senior pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, which is believed to be the oldest Black Baptist church in Wichita, said his congregation includes people who are disabled and live in neighborhoods that lack mailboxes.“Why do legislators feel that they have to determine who is the best person to deliver my ballot?” Holder asked. “Republicans talk about they want less government in their business. So why is it around the issue of voter rights? I have a right to ask anybody I want to deliver my ballot to the appropriate place.”There is no evidence in Kansas that allowing someone to drop off a voter’s ballot has led to fraud. But the bill’s main proponent, Rep. Bill Sutton, a Gardner Republican, points to an incident in a North Carolina congressional race in 2018, in which workers for a Republican operative testified afterward that they were directed to collect blank or incomplete ballots, forge signatures and fill in votes.___

Bill would limit who could return your absentee ballot

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Nobody was injured in a fire at a home when the resident attempted to heat a frozen water line.

Just after noon Saturday, crews responded to a home at 635 NE Poplar Street in Topeka, according to Fire Marshall Todd Harrison. Upon arrival fire crews found smoke coming from the single story wood frame residence. The man who lived in the home escaped without injury.

&nbsp;A preliminary investigation indicates the fire cause to be accidental, associated with the heating of a frozen water line.

The estimated dollar loss – $36,000.00; of which $35,000.00 is associated with structural loss and $1,000.00 associated with contents loss.Working smoke detectors were not located within the home, according to Harrison.

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Nobody was injured in a fire at a home when the resident attempted to heat a frozen water line.Just after noon Saturday, crews responded to a home at 635 NE Poplar Street in Topeka, according to Fire Marshall Todd Harrison. Upon arrival fire crews found smoke coming from the single story wood frame residence. The man who lived in the home escaped without injury.&nbsp;A preliminary investigation indicates the fire cause to be accidental, associated with the heating of a frozen water line.The estimated dollar loss – $36,000.00; of which $35,000.00 is associated with structural loss and $1,000.00 associated with contents loss.Working smoke detectors were not located within the home, according to Harrison.

Fire Marshal: Heating frozen water line caused Kan. house fire

SAN DIEGO (AP) — The Biden administration on Friday announced plans for tens of thousands of asylum-seekers waiting in Mexico for their next immigration court hearings to be allowed into the United States while their cases proceed. 

The first of an estimated 25,000 asylum-seekers in Mexico with active cases will be allowed in the United States on Feb. 19, authorities said. They plan to start slowly with two border crossings each processing up to 300 people a day and a third crossing taking fewer. Administration officials declined to name them out of fear they may encourage a rush of people to those locations.

The move is a major step toward dismantling one of former President Donald Trump's most consequential policies to deter asylum-seekers from coming to the U.S. About 70,000 asylum-seekers were enrolled in “Remain in Mexico,” officially called “Migrant Protection Protocols,” since it was introduced in January 2019.

On Biden's first day in office, the Homeland Security Department suspended the policy for new arrivals. Since then, some asylum-seekers picked up at the border have been released in the U.S. with notices to appear in court.

Biden is quickly making good on a campaign promise to end the policy, which the Trump administration said was critical to reversing a surge of asylum-seekers that peaked in 2019. But the policy also exposed people to violence in Mexican border cities and made it extremely difficult for them to find lawyers and communicate with courts about their cases.

“As President Biden has made clear, the U.S. government is committed to rebuilding a safe, orderly, and humane immigration system,” said Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. “This latest action is another step in our commitment to reform immigration policies that do not align with our nation’s values.”

Homeland Security said the move “should not be interpreted as an opening for people to migrate irregularly to the United States.” Administration officials have said repeatedly that the vast majority of people who cross the border illegally are quickly expelled under a public health order in place since the pandemic struck in March, but releases of some asylum-seeking families in Texas and California has worked against that messaging.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said Thursday that she was concerned that limited releases in the U.S. may encourage others to cross illegally because “we don’t want people to put themselves in danger at a time where it is not the right time to come, because we have not had time to put in place a humane and moral system and process.”

Hearings for people enrolled in “Remain in Mexico” have been suspended since June due to the pandemic. Getting word out on when to report to the border for release in the United States may prove a daunting job.

Homeland Security said it would soon announce a “virtual registration process” available online and by phone for people to learn where and when they should report. It urged asylum-seekers not to report to the border unless instructed.

Asylum-seekers will be tested for COVID-19 before entering the U.S.

The announcement provides no relief to people whose cases were dismissed or denied, though administration officials did not rule out additional measures. Advocates argue that communication problems, including lack of working addresses in Mexico, caused some to miss hearings and lose their cases as a result.

More people are getting stopped crossing the border illegally since Biden took office.

Raul Ortiz, deputy chief of the Border Patrol, said Tuesday that more than 3,000 people had been stopped crossing the border illegally in each of the previous 10 days, compared to a daily average of 2,426 in January.

About 50 to 80 adults and children have been arriving daily since Jan. 27 at Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley in Texas, which temporarily houses people released by the Border Patrol, said Sister Norma Pimentel, the group’s executive director. The charity tests for COVID-19 and sends anyone who tests positive to a hotel for isolation.

Jewish Family Service of San Diego housed 191 asylum-seekers the first 10 days of February after the were released by U.S. authorities, up from 144 in January and 54 in December, said Eitan Peled, the group’s border services advocate. They are quarantined in hotels for 10 days.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1571685357129.png" alt="Photo courtesy Homeland Security&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Homeland Security&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>SAN DIEGO (AP) — The Biden administration on Friday announced plans for tens of thousands of asylum-seekers waiting in Mexico for their next immigration court hearings to be allowed into the United States while their cases proceed. The first of an estimated 25,000 asylum-seekers in Mexico with active cases will be allowed in the United States on Feb. 19, authorities said. They plan to start slowly with two border crossings each processing up to 300 people a day and a third crossing taking fewer. Administration officials declined to name them out of fear they may encourage a rush of people to those locations.The move is a major step toward dismantling one of former President Donald Trump's most consequential policies to deter asylum-seekers from coming to the U.S. About 70,000 asylum-seekers were enrolled in “Remain in Mexico,” officially called “Migrant Protection Protocols,” since it was introduced in January 2019.On Biden's first day in office, the Homeland Security Department suspended the policy for new arrivals. Since then, some asylum-seekers picked up at the border have been released in the U.S. with notices to appear in court.Biden is quickly making good on a campaign promise to end the policy, which the Trump administration said was critical to reversing a surge of asylum-seekers that peaked in 2019. But the policy also exposed people to violence in Mexican border cities and made it extremely difficult for them to find lawyers and communicate with courts about their cases.“As President Biden has made clear, the U.S. government is committed to rebuilding a safe, orderly, and humane immigration system,” said Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. “This latest action is another step in our commitment to reform immigration policies that do not align with our nation’s values.”Homeland Security said the move “should not be interpreted as an opening for people to migrate irregularly to the United States.” Administration officials have said repeatedly that the vast majority of people who cross the border illegally are quickly expelled under a public health order in place since the pandemic struck in March, but releases of some asylum-seeking families in Texas and California has worked against that messaging.White House press secretary Jen Psaki said Thursday that she was concerned that limited releases in the U.S. may encourage others to cross illegally because “we don’t want people to put themselves in danger at a time where it is not the right time to come, because we have not had time to put in place a humane and moral system and process.”Hearings for people enrolled in “Remain in Mexico” have been suspended since June due to the pandemic. Getting word out on when to report to the border for release in the United States may prove a daunting job.Homeland Security said it would soon announce a “virtual registration process” available online and by phone for people to learn where and when they should report. It urged asylum-seekers not to report to the border unless instructed.Asylum-seekers will be tested for COVID-19 before entering the U.S.The announcement provides no relief to people whose cases were dismissed or denied, though administration officials did not rule out additional measures. Advocates argue that communication problems, including lack of working addresses in Mexico, caused some to miss hearings and lose their cases as a result.More people are getting stopped crossing the border illegally since Biden took office.Raul Ortiz, deputy chief of the Border Patrol, said Tuesday that more than 3,000 people had been stopped crossing the border illegally in each of the previous 10 days, compared to a daily average of 2,426 in January.About 50 to 80 adults and children have been arriving daily since Jan. 27 at Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley in Texas, which temporarily houses people released by the Border Patrol, said Sister Norma Pimentel, the group’s executive director. The charity tests for COVID-19 and sends anyone who tests positive to a hotel for isolation.Jewish Family Service of San Diego housed 191 asylum-seekers the first 10 days of February after the were released by U.S. authorities, up from 144 in January and 54 in December, said Eitan Peled, the group’s border services advocate. They are quarantined in hotels for 10 days.

Thousands of asylum-seekers to be allowed in US starting this week

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?508959-1/impeachment-trial">Click here to watch</a>&nbsp;the replay of Day 5 of the impeachment trial

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate on Saturday acquitted Donald Trump of inciting the horrific attack on the U.S. Capitol, concluding a historic impeachment trial that exposed the fragility of America’s democratic traditions and left a divided nation to come to terms with the violence sparked by his defeated presidency.

Barely a month since the deadly Jan. 6 riot that stunned the world, the Senate convened for a rare Saturday session to deliver its verdict, voting while armed National Guard troops continued to stand their posts outside the iconic building.

The quick trial, the nation’s first of a former president, showed how perilously close the invaders had come to destroying the nation’s deep tradition of a peaceful transfer of presidential power after Trump had refused to concede the election. Rallying outside the White House, he unleashed a mob of supporters to “fight like hell” for him at the Capitol just as Congress was certify Democrat Joe Biden’s victory. As hundreds stormed the building, some in tactical gear engaging in bloody combat with police, lawmakers fled for their lives. Five people died.

The verdict, on a vote of 57-43, is all but certain to influence not only the former president’s political future but that of the senators sworn to deliver impartial justice as jurors. Seven Republicans joined all Democrats to convict, but it was far from the two-third threshold required.

The verdict after the uprising leaves unresolved the nation’s wrenching divisions over Trump’s brand of politics that led to the most violent domestic attack on one of America’s three branches of government.

“Senators, we are in a dialogue with history, a conversation with our past, with a hope for our future,” said Rep. Madeleine Dean, D-Pa.., one of the House prosecutors in closing arguments.

“What we do here, what is being asked of each of us here in this moment will be remembered. History has found us.”

Trump, unrepentant, welcomed the his second impeachment acquittal and said his movement “has only just begun.” He slammed the trial as “yet another phase of the greatest witch hunt in the history of our Country.”

Though he was acquitted, it was easily the largest number of senators to ever vote to find a president of their own party guilty of an impeachment charge.

Voting to find Trump guilty were GOP Sens. Richard Burr of North Carolina, Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, Susan Collins of Maine, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Mitt Romney of Utah, Ben Sasse of Nebraska and Patrick Toomey of Pennsylvania.

The trial had been momentarily thrown into confusion when senators suddenly wanted to consider potential witnesses, an hours-long standoff Saturday that stalled the momentum toward a vote. Prolonged proceedings would be politically risky, particularly for Biden’s new presidency and his emerging legislative agenda. The trial came amid the searing COVID-19 crisis, and the Biden White House trying to rush pandemic relief through Congress.

Biden has hardly weighed in on the proceedings and was spending the weekend with family at the presidential retreat in Camp David, Maryland.

Many senators kept their votes closely held until the final moments, Republicans in particularly now thrust into minority status. Democrats took narrow control of the Senate with runoff elections in Georgia on Jan. 5, the day before the siege.

The nearly weeklong trial has delivered a grim and graphic narrative of the riot and its consequences in ways that senators, most of whom fled for their own safety that day, acknowledge they are still coming to grips with.

House prosecutors have argued that Trump’s was the “inciter in chief” stoking a months-long campaign, and orchestrated pattern of violent rhetoric and false claims that unleashed the mob. Five people died, including a rioter who was shot and a police officer.

Trump’s lawyers countered that Trump’s words were not intended to incite the violence and that impeachment is nothing but a “witch hunt” designed to prevent him from serving in office again.

Only by watching the graphic videos — rioters calling out menacingly for House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Vice President Mike Pence, who was presiding over the vote tally — did senators say they began to understand just how perilously close the country came to chaos.

Many Republicans representing states where the former president remains popular doubt whether Trump was fully responsible or if impeachment is the appropriate response.

In closing arguments, lead prosecutor Michael van der Veen fell back on the procedural argument that Republican senators have embraced in their own reasoning of the case what he said is a “phony impeachment show trial.”

“Mr. Trump is innocent of the charges against him,” said Michael van der Veen. “The act of incitement never happened.”