TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas is seeing increasingly larger numbers of new COVID-19 cases and a surge in cases of the faster-spreading delta variant as one Kansas City-area county prepares to launch a new phase of its vaccine lottery.

The state averaged 371 new cases a day for the seven days ending Monday, according to state Department of Health and Environment data. That was the highest figure in more than four months, since the agency’s data showed an average of 404 new cases a day for the seven days ending Feb. 26.

The state reported 672 new cases since Friday, bringing the total to more than 321,000, or one case for each of its 2.9 million residents.

The state health department reported a nearly 28% increase in confirmed cases of the delta variant, up 143 cases to 659. Confirming cases of COVID-19 variants requires genetic testing, and so far this month, labs have done it for 8.8% of the state’s positive COVID-19 tests.

In Wyandotte County, the health department already was entering people who got inoculated at its largest vaccination site in daily raffles for $500 gift cards. The department said that starting Wednesday, it also will let people spin for instant prizes.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas is seeing increasingly larger numbers of new COVID-19 cases and a surge in cases of the faster-spreading delta variant as one Kansas City-area county prepares to launch a new phase of its vaccine lottery.The state averaged 371 new cases a day for the seven days ending Monday, according to state Department of Health and Environment data. That was the highest figure in more than four months, since the agency’s data showed an average of 404 new cases a day for the seven days ending Feb. 26.The state reported 672 new cases since Friday, bringing the total to more than 321,000, or one case for each of its 2.9 million residents.The state health department reported a nearly 28% increase in confirmed cases of the delta variant, up 143 cases to 659. Confirming cases of COVID-19 variants requires genetic testing, and so far this month, labs have done it for 8.8% of the state’s positive COVID-19 tests.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626109115821.png" alt="Monday July 12, 2021" />
 <figcaption>Monday July 12, 2021</figcaption>
 </figure>In Wyandotte County, the health department already was entering people who got inoculated at its largest vaccination site in daily raffles for $500 gift cards. The department said that starting Wednesday, it also will let people spin for instant prizes.

Kansas sees COVID surge as delta variant cases keep rising

BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for an alleged sex crime.

Just after 4 a.m. Sunday, a police officer on routine patrol, checking businesses on 10th Street in Great Bend observed a distraught female running towards him, who advised she had just been assaulted inside a local motel, according to a media release.

The victim was able to point out to the officer the vehicle the suspect was attempting to leave the area in. The officer was able to stop the vehicle and occupants.

After an investigation and utilizing surveillance video, officers arrested Gustavo Gomez, age 19, on a requested charge of attempted rape. Gomez was transported to the Barton County Jail where he was booked in lieu of $500,000 bond.

Anyone with information on this case or any other case is encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-793-4120 or Barton County Crime Stoppers at 620-792-1300

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626127124254.png" alt="Gomez photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Gomez photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for an alleged sex crime.Just after 4 a.m. Sunday, a police officer on routine patrol, checking businesses on 10th Street in Great Bend observed a distraught female running towards him, who advised she had just been assaulted inside a local motel, according to a media release.The victim was able to point out to the officer the vehicle the suspect was attempting to leave the area in. The officer was able to stop the vehicle and occupants.After an investigation and utilizing surveillance video, officers arrested Gustavo Gomez, age 19, on a requested charge of attempted rape. Gomez was transported to the Barton County Jail where he was booked in lieu of $500,000 bond.Anyone with information on this case or any other case is encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-793-4120 or Barton County Crime Stoppers at 620-792-1300

Woman running from Kan. motel accuses man of sex crime

TROY, Mo. (AP) — A Missouri woman serving a life sentence for killing a disabled man in 2016 was charged Monday with killing her friend years earlier.

Lincoln County prosecutors charged 62-year-old Pamela Hupp with first-degree murder and armed criminal action in the 2011 slaying of Elizabeth “Betsy” Faria.

Lincoln County Prosecuting Attorney Mike Wood said Hupp convinced Faria to switch a $150,000 life insurance policy to Hupp’s name days before staging her stabbing death to make it look like her husband did it.

Online court records didn’t list a lawyer for Hupp on Monday.

Hupp in 2019 was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/e6af4be707fd496ca1abee10016f6bb5">sentenced to life in prison</a>&nbsp;without the possibility for parole for the 2016 fatal shooting of 33-year-old Louis Gumpenberger.

In that case, Hupp staged a fake kidnapping to divert attention from herself in a re-investigation of the Faria killing, prosecutors said. They claim she cruised St. Charles County, and lured Gumpenberger to her home with claims she was a producer for NBC’s Dateline in need of help reenacting a 911 call. Gumpenberger had mental and physical disabilities from an accident.

Prosecutors say she attempted to lure other people with that same story.

Wood told the Post-Dispatch that investigators mishandled the initial Faria murder investigation by rushing to judge her husband, Russell Faria, as the murderer and then protecting their case by ignoring or concealing evidence that pointed to Hupp.

Faria was sentenced in 2013 to life in prison for his wife’s killing in but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michael-brown-07b3b943963347bd9c74dede5e782e59">the conviction was overturned</a>&nbsp;in 2015. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department last year reached a $2 million settlement with him for the wrongful conviction.

Wood said he and the new sheriff are investigating “misconduct and potentially criminal behavior on the part of (the former) investigators and prosecutors.” Wood said he was “on the fence between (whether it was) really gross negligence and calculated criminal behavior.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626115461659.png" alt="Hupp -photo MODOC" />
 <figcaption>Hupp -photo MODOC</figcaption>
 </figure>TROY, Mo. (AP) — A Missouri woman serving a life sentence for killing a disabled man in 2016 was charged Monday with killing her friend years earlier.Lincoln County prosecutors charged 62-year-old Pamela Hupp with first-degree murder and armed criminal action in the 2011 slaying of Elizabeth “Betsy” Faria.Lincoln County Prosecuting Attorney Mike Wood said Hupp convinced Faria to switch a $150,000 life insurance policy to Hupp’s name days before staging her stabbing death to make it look like her husband did it.Online court records didn’t list a lawyer for Hupp on Monday.Hupp in 2019 was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/e6af4be707fd496ca1abee10016f6bb5">sentenced to life in prison</a>&nbsp;without the possibility for parole for the 2016 fatal shooting of 33-year-old Louis Gumpenberger.In that case, Hupp staged a fake kidnapping to divert attention from herself in a re-investigation of the Faria killing, prosecutors said. They claim she cruised St. Charles County, and lured Gumpenberger to her home with claims she was a producer for NBC’s Dateline in need of help reenacting a 911 call. Gumpenberger had mental and physical disabilities from an accident.Prosecutors say she attempted to lure other people with that same story.Wood told the Post-Dispatch that investigators mishandled the initial Faria murder investigation by rushing to judge her husband, Russell Faria, as the murderer and then protecting their case by ignoring or concealing evidence that pointed to Hupp.Faria was sentenced in 2013 to life in prison for his wife’s killing in but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michael-brown-07b3b943963347bd9c74dede5e782e59">the conviction was overturned</a>&nbsp;in 2015. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department last year reached a $2 million settlement with him for the wrongful conviction.Wood said he and the new sheriff are investigating “misconduct and potentially criminal behavior on the part of (the former) investigators and prosecutors.” Wood said he was “on the fence between (whether it was) really gross negligence and calculated criminal behavior.”

Woman serving life sentence charged in friend's murder

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas teen in connection with a stolen car.

Just before 9:30 p.m. Sunday, a police officer spotted a reported stolen 2011 Chevy Malibu and attempted to stop it at 13th and Main in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

 The vehicle fled from officers and a pursuit followed which ended in the 300 block Kearney when the driver later identified as 18-year-old Malakai M. Short of Kansas City, Missouri, and several passengers bailed out of the vehicle and ran.

Officers apprehended Short in the 600 block North 2nd and a passenger was apprehended in the 100 block Atchison Street. Police booked Short on a requested charge of possession of a stolen vehicle and fleeing and attempting to elude. He was taken to the County Jail. The 17-year-old passenger was arrested on a requested charge of interference with law enforcement and later released to a guardian, according to Wilson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626097248511.png" alt="Short-photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Short-photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas teen in connection with a stolen car.Just before 9:30 p.m. Sunday, a police officer spotted a reported stolen 2011 Chevy Malibu and attempted to stop it at 13th and Main in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson. The vehicle fled from officers and a pursuit followed which ended in the 300 block Kearney when the driver later identified as 18-year-old Malakai M. Short of Kansas City, Missouri, and several passengers bailed out of the vehicle and ran.Officers apprehended Short in the 600 block North 2nd and a passenger was apprehended in the 100 block Atchison Street. Police booked Short on a requested charge of possession of a stolen vehicle and fleeing and attempting to elude. He was taken to the County Jail. The 17-year-old passenger was arrested on a requested charge of interference with law enforcement and later released to a guardian, according to Wilson.

Police catch teen driving stolen car in Kansas

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Kansas Supreme Court has blocked a man’s attempt to withdraw his guilty pleas after he was sentenced to serve at least 50 years in prison over the July 2018 murders of a woman and her cousin. 

The high court on Friday rejected&nbsp; Matthew Douglas Hutto’s claim that his court-appointed attorney's advice to plead guilty to two premeditated first-degree murder charges meant that the lawyer did not adequately represent him. 

Hutto was part of a group living with Brad Sportsman in the town of Greenleaf that traveled to Topeka to kill Sportsman’s estranged wife. A 17-year-old cousin was staying with her, and they were beaten and stabbed to death.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625951183808.png" alt="Hutto photo Kansas Dept. of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Hutto photo Kansas Dept. of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Kansas Supreme Court has blocked a man’s attempt to withdraw his guilty pleas after he was sentenced to serve at least 50 years in prison over the July 2018 murders of a woman and her cousin. The high court on Friday rejected&nbsp; Matthew Douglas Hutto’s claim that his court-appointed attorney's advice to plead guilty to two premeditated first-degree murder charges meant that the lawyer did not adequately represent him. Hutto was part of a group living with Brad Sportsman in the town of Greenleaf that traveled to Topeka to kill Sportsman’s estranged wife. A 17-year-old cousin was staying with her, and they were beaten and stabbed to death.

Court: Kan. man can't withdraw guilty pleas in double murder

By MATTHEW PERRONE and MIKE STOBBE, Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — Johnson &amp; Johnson’s COVID-19 vaccine may pose a “small possible risk” of a rare but potentially dangerous neurological reaction, U.S. health officials said Monday.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said in a statement it has received reports of 100 people who got the shot developing Guillain-Barré syndrome, an immune system disorder that can cause muscle weakness and occasionally paralysis.

That number represents a tiny fraction of the nearly 13 million Americans who have received the one-dose vaccine. Most cases of the side effect were reported in men — many 50 years old and up — and usually about two weeks after vaccination.

The CDC said it would ask its panel of outside vaccine experts to review the issue at an upcoming meeting. J&amp;J didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.

he government said the vaccines most used in the U.S., made by Pfizer and Moderna, show no risk of the disorder after more than 320 million doses have been administered.

Guillain-Barre syndrome occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks some of its nerve cells, causing muscle weakness and sometimes paralysis that typically is temporary. An estimated 3,000 to 6,000 people develop the syndrome each year, according to the CDC.

Vaccines historically provide broad protection with little risk but come with occasional side effects just like other drugs and medical therapies. The three COVID-19 vaccines used in the U.S. were each tested in tens of thousands of people, but even such huge studies can’t rule out extremely rare side effects.

The CDC and the Food and Drug Administration have been monitoring side effect reports submitted by physicians, drugmakers and patients to a federal vaccine safety database.

Guillain-Barre can be triggered by a number of infections, including flu, cytomegalovirus and Zika virus. But there have been rare cases in which people develop the disorder days or weeks after receiving certain vaccines.

J&amp;J’s vaccine was highly anticipated because of its one-and-done formulation and easy-to-ship refrigeration. But early on, it was linked to another rare risk, of blood clots, and the company hasn’t been able to produce as much as expected because of problems at a Baltimore factory that helps make the shots.

By MATTHEW PERRONE and MIKE STOBBE, Associated PressWASHINGTON (AP) — Johnson &amp; Johnson’s COVID-19 vaccine may pose a “small possible risk” of a rare but potentially dangerous neurological reaction, U.S. health officials said Monday.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said in a statement it has received reports of 100 people who got the shot developing Guillain-Barré syndrome, an immune system disorder that can cause muscle weakness and occasionally paralysis.That number represents a tiny fraction of the nearly 13 million Americans who have received the one-dose vaccine. Most cases of the side effect were reported in men — many 50 years old and up — and usually about two weeks after vaccination.The CDC said it would ask its panel of outside vaccine experts to review the issue at an upcoming meeting. J&amp;J didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.he government said the vaccines most used in the U.S., made by Pfizer and Moderna, show no risk of the disorder after more than 320 million doses have been administered.Guillain-Barre syndrome occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks some of its nerve cells, causing muscle weakness and sometimes paralysis that typically is temporary. An estimated 3,000 to 6,000 people develop the syndrome each year, according to the CDC.Vaccines historically provide broad protection with little risk but come with occasional side effects just like other drugs and medical therapies. The three COVID-19 vaccines used in the U.S. were each tested in tens of thousands of people, but even such huge studies can’t rule out extremely rare side effects.The CDC and the Food and Drug Administration have been monitoring side effect reports submitted by physicians, drugmakers and patients to a federal vaccine safety database.Guillain-Barre can be triggered by a number of infections, including flu, cytomegalovirus and Zika virus. But there have been rare cases in which people develop the disorder days or weeks after receiving certain vaccines.J&amp;J’s vaccine was highly anticipated because of its one-and-done formulation and easy-to-ship refrigeration. But early on, it was linked to another rare risk, of blood clots, and the company hasn’t been able to produce as much as expected because of problems at a Baltimore factory that helps make the shots.___

US officials flag "small" risk with J&J vaccine

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Wichita Police Department Captain died over the weekend from complication associated with COVID-19, according to a social media report from Police Chief Gordon Ramsay.

"It is with great sadness I inform you of the passing of Captain Clay Germany over the weekend due to medical complications associated with Covid-19."

"Before joining WPD, he served as a police officer in Midwest City, OK and in the United States Navy.  Captain Germany joined WPD in 1994, and served in the ranks of Police Officer, Detective, Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Captain."

He most recently served as the Captain over Property Crime Investigations.  

"Captain Germany was a visionary, a consummate team player, a dedicated professional, and an exceptional leader.  His service to the Wichita community was demonstrated in his ability to establish partnerships and be an effective problem solver.  Captain Germany led a life of significance through his work, was a great friend to many and will be sorely missed.  Please keep him and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."

 Funeral arrangements for Germany are pending at this time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626122120078.png" alt="Police Captain Clay Germany-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Police Captain Clay Germany-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Wichita Police Department Captain died over the weekend from complication associated with COVID-19, according to a social media report from Police Chief Gordon Ramsay."It is with great sadness I inform you of the passing of Captain Clay Germany over the weekend due to medical complications associated with Covid-19.""Before joining WPD, he served as a police officer in Midwest City, OK and in the United States Navy. Captain Germany joined WPD in 1994, and served in the ranks of Police Officer, Detective, Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Captain."He most recently served as the Captain over Property Crime Investigations. "Captain Germany was a visionary, a consummate team player, a dedicated professional, and an exceptional leader. His service to the Wichita community was demonstrated in his ability to establish partnerships and be an effective problem solver. Captain Germany led a life of significance through his work, was a great friend to many and will be sorely missed. Please keep him and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time." Funeral arrangements for Germany are pending at this time.

Wichita Police captain dies from COVID-19 complications

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a drowning at a Kansas lake identified the victim as 19-year-old Daquan I. Hannah, of Florida, according to the Shawnee County Sheriff's Department.

Just after 1p.m. Saturday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received reports of a possible drowning at Lake Shawnee, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

Deputies responded to the scene and learned the 19-year-old entered the water and had not been seen since. The Shawnee Heights Fire District and Mission Township Fire Department began search and rescue measures. 

Around 2:30 p.m., first responders located Hannah and removed him from the water. He was pronounced deceased at the scene, according to Christian.

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a drowning at a Kansas lake.

Deputies responded to the scene and learned a 19-year-old man entered the water and had not been seen since. The Shawnee Heights Fire District and Mission Township Fire Department began search and rescue measures. 

Around 2:30 p.m., first responders located the individual and removed him from the water. He was pronounced deceased at the scene, according to Christian.

Authorities released no additional details including the victim's name. Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625952549214.png" alt="The Shawnee Heights Fire District and Mission Township Fire Department responded to assist with the search.-photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>The Shawnee Heights Fire District and Mission Township Fire Department responded to assist with the search.-photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a drowning at a Kansas lake identified the victim as 19-year-old Daquan I. Hannah, of Florida, according to the Shawnee County Sheriff's Department.Just after 1p.m. Saturday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received reports of a possible drowning at Lake Shawnee, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.Deputies responded to the scene and learned the 19-year-old entered the water and had not been seen since. The Shawnee Heights Fire District and Mission Township Fire Department began search and rescue measures. Around 2:30 p.m., first responders located Hannah and removed him from the water. He was pronounced deceased at the scene, according to Christian.--------SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a drowning at a Kansas lake.Just after 1p.m. Saturday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received reports of a possible drowning at Lake Shawnee, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.Deputies responded to the scene and learned a 19-year-old man entered the water and had not been seen since. The Shawnee Heights Fire District and Mission Township Fire Department began search and rescue measures. Around 2:30 p.m., first responders located the individual and removed him from the water. He was pronounced deceased at the scene, according to Christian. Authorities released no additional details including the victim's name. Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

Update: 19-year-old drowns at Kansas lake

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on weapons charges after a weekend incident.

Just before 10p.m. Saturday police were dispatched to the 3700 block of SW Park South Court in Topeka on the report of gunshots, according to Lt. Shane Hilton.

Upon arrival, a citizen reported that an individual pointed a gun at him and then fired a shot into the air. 

Officers found the suspect identified as 45-year-old Charles Lamb, Jr. of Topeka and convinced him to surrender himself. Officers arrested Lamb on the requested charges of Aggravated Assault, Criminal Discharge of a Firearm and&nbsp;Possession of Stolen Firearm. He remains in custody, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626093451954.png" alt="Lamb" />
 <figcaption>Lamb</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on weapons charges after a weekend incident.Just before 10p.m. Saturday police were dispatched to the 3700 block of SW Park South Court in Topeka on the report of gunshots, according to Lt. Shane Hilton.Upon arrival, a citizen reported that an individual pointed a gun at him and then fired a shot into the air. Officers found the suspect identified as 45-year-old Charles Lamb, Jr. of Topeka and convinced him to surrender himself. Officers arrested Lamb on the requested charges of Aggravated Assault, Criminal Discharge of a Firearm and&nbsp;Possession of Stolen Firearm. He remains in custody, according to online jail records.

Police: Kan. man pointed gun, fired a shot in the air

KANSAS CITY (AP) — For putting their health on the line during the coronavirus pandemic, prison guards in Missouri got an extra $250 per paycheck. Teachers in Georgia received $1,000 bonuses. And in Vermont, nurses, janitors, retail workers and many others got as much as $2,000.

Over the past year, about one-third of U.S. states have used federal COVID-19 relief aid to reward workers considered essential who dutifully reported to jobs during the pandemic. But who qualified for those bonuses -- and how much they received — varied widely, according to an Associated Press review. While some were paid thousands of dollars, others with similar jobs elsewhere received nothing.

As society reopens, momentum to provide pandemic hazard pay appears to be fading — even though the federal government has broadened the ability of state and local governments to provide retroactive pay under a $350 billion aid package enacted by President Joe Biden in March.

So far, only a few states have committed to paying workers extra with money from the American Rescue Plan.

Florida is giving $1,000 bonuses to teachers and first-responders. Minnesota plans to distribute $250 million in bonuses to essential workers, though a special panel won't determine who qualifies until later this year.

This past week, Hawaii Gov. David Ige vetoed a budget provision to pay teachers $2,200 bonuses. The Democratic governor said lawmakers didn't have the authority to tell the state Department of Education how to use the federal money.

Some states remain reluctant to enact bonus programs.

An Oregon proposal to use federal pandemic aid to provide bonuses of up to $2,000 for essential workers failed to make it into the budget that took effect July 1, despite a union lobbying campaign that included thousands of emails and hundreds of phone calls to lawmakers. The proposal would have covered workers in numerous fields, including education, health care, public safety and transportation.

“I don’t think anyone was opposed to it,” said Melissa Unger, executive director of Service Employees International Union Local 503. But “no one prioritized it.”

Although states have until the end of 2024 to decide how to spend the latest federal aid, some advocates worry the realistic window for providing worker bonuses may be closing as more parts of society re-open.

“Unfortunately, the longer you delay doing it, the less it’s going to be on the top of minds of voters and those policymakers,” said Molly Kinder, a fellow at the nonprofit Brookings Institution who tracks pandemic hazard pay policies.

Premium pay is one of just several options provided to states under Biden’s aid package. States also can use the money to backfill budget holes, help businesses and households affected by the economic downturn, fund certain infrastructure projects and pay for public health programs such as COVID-19 testing and vaccinations.

Illinois lawmakers used the federal money for dozens of initiatives in the budget that took effect July 1 — from $75,000 for a high school mentoring and violence prevention program to $200 million for hospitals. Nothing was earmarked for extra pandemic pay, even though Illinois had paid it in the past.

Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker's administration provided a temporary 12% pay boost last year to nearly 24,000 state workers whose jobs put them at risk of contracting COVID-19. Most of the $62 million cost was covered with federal funds.

“Morale-wise, that was a critical thing for my co-workers and I," said Crosby Smith, a care provider at a state home for the developmentally disabled near Chicago. “Because at that time, when COVID hit our facility ... we felt kind of abandoned.”

Smith and his fiancee were among numerous staff and residents at the Ludeman Developmental Center who contracted the virus last year. He said the hazard money helped pay down credit cards and avoid further debt when buying clothing and shoes.

Most states that have provided COVID-19 hazard pay used money from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act signed by then-President Donald Trump in March 2020. While some states limited payments to particular public employees, others passed out money to a wide range of private-sector workers deemed to be doing important jobs.

Louisiana spent more than $38 million last year providing $250 payments to more than 152,000 “frontline workers” earning less than $50,000 annually, according to state data provided to the AP. Health care workers received the largest share of the money, followed by grocery store workers and law enforcement personnel. But payments also went to gas station workers, child-care providers, janitors, bus drivers and others.

Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf, a Democrat, used $50 million in federal aid for grants to over 600 businesses to provide a temporary $3 hourly boost to employees earning less than $20 an hour. Health care providers got most of the money, followed by the food industry, according to state data provided to the AP. But millions of dollars also went to cleaning companies and private security firms.

By contrast, South Dakota limited hazard pay to state workers and only for the time they were potentially exposed to COVID-19. One therapy assistant got an extra 40 cents, a pharmacist received $1.80 and a maintenance supervisor got $4, according to state data provided to the AP.

In some states, the cost of hazard pay programs far exceeded initial expectations.

Missouri originally budgeted about $24 million in federal aid to provide an extra $250 per two-week paycheck for state employees working in close-contact institutions such as prisons, mental health facilities and veterans nursing homes. The stipend applied to anyone without unscheduled absences at any facility with at least one COVID-19 case — ultimately covering a lot more people for a much longer period than policymakers had anticipated at the onset of the pandemic.

Missouri ended up paying more than $73 million in hazard stipends to more than 18,000 employees, trigging an additional $24 million in fringe costs such as pension payments and federal taxes, according to state data provided to the AP. The payments ended June 30, and the state has no immediate plans to resume them.

“Without a doubt, it was worth it,” said Missouri Gov. Mike Parson, a Republican. “Some people did some incredible jobs in this state to stay the course and to stay in the line of duty.”

Vermont's hazard pay program also swelled in cost. Last August, the state allotted $28 million of federal funds to pay up to $2,000 to health care employees who worked during the early stages of the pandemic. It later added $22 million to expand the program to retail and grocery workers, child care providers, janitors, trash collectors and others. When those funds were depleted, the state added $10 million more to cover all eligible applicants.

Employees in Vermont’s retail and grocery industries received nearly a third of the total money, almost matching the amount that went to health care fields, according to data provided to the AP.

Demand was high, in part, because Republican Gov. Phil Scott encouraged hesitant big businesses, such as Walmart, to apply on behalf of their employees, said Mike Pieciak, commissioner of the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation. He said consumer spending spiked around the time the payments were distributed.

“The primary goal was to say thank you to those frontline workers, but it had that nice benefit as well of getting the money into the economy,” Pieciak said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625518417256.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — For putting their health on the line during the coronavirus pandemic, prison guards in Missouri got an extra $250 per paycheck. Teachers in Georgia received $1,000 bonuses. And in Vermont, nurses, janitors, retail workers and many others got as much as $2,000.Over the past year, about one-third of U.S. states have used federal COVID-19 relief aid to reward workers considered essential who dutifully reported to jobs during the pandemic. But who qualified for those bonuses -- and how much they received — varied widely, according to an Associated Press review. While some were paid thousands of dollars, others with similar jobs elsewhere received nothing.As society reopens, momentum to provide pandemic hazard pay appears to be fading — even though the federal government has broadened the ability of state and local governments to provide retroactive pay under a $350 billion aid package enacted by President Joe Biden in March.So far, only a few states have committed to paying workers extra with money from the American Rescue Plan.Florida is giving $1,000 bonuses to teachers and first-responders. Minnesota plans to distribute $250 million in bonuses to essential workers, though a special panel won't determine who qualifies until later this year.This past week, Hawaii Gov. David Ige vetoed a budget provision to pay teachers $2,200 bonuses. The Democratic governor said lawmakers didn't have the authority to tell the state Department of Education how to use the federal money.Some states remain reluctant to enact bonus programs.An Oregon proposal to use federal pandemic aid to provide bonuses of up to $2,000 for essential workers failed to make it into the budget that took effect July 1, despite a union lobbying campaign that included thousands of emails and hundreds of phone calls to lawmakers. The proposal would have covered workers in numerous fields, including education, health care, public safety and transportation.“I don’t think anyone was opposed to it,” said Melissa Unger, executive director of Service Employees International Union Local 503. But “no one prioritized it.”Although states have until the end of 2024 to decide how to spend the latest federal aid, some advocates worry the realistic window for providing worker bonuses may be closing as more parts of society re-open.“Unfortunately, the longer you delay doing it, the less it’s going to be on the top of minds of voters and those policymakers,” said Molly Kinder, a fellow at the nonprofit Brookings Institution who tracks pandemic hazard pay policies.Premium pay is one of just several options provided to states under Biden’s aid package. States also can use the money to backfill budget holes, help businesses and households affected by the economic downturn, fund certain infrastructure projects and pay for public health programs such as COVID-19 testing and vaccinations.Illinois lawmakers used the federal money for dozens of initiatives in the budget that took effect July 1 — from $75,000 for a high school mentoring and violence prevention program to $200 million for hospitals. Nothing was earmarked for extra pandemic pay, even though Illinois had paid it in the past.Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker's administration provided a temporary 12% pay boost last year to nearly 24,000 state workers whose jobs put them at risk of contracting COVID-19. Most of the $62 million cost was covered with federal funds.“Morale-wise, that was a critical thing for my co-workers and I," said Crosby Smith, a care provider at a state home for the developmentally disabled near Chicago. “Because at that time, when COVID hit our facility ... we felt kind of abandoned.”Smith and his fiancee were among numerous staff and residents at the Ludeman Developmental Center who contracted the virus last year. He said the hazard money helped pay down credit cards and avoid further debt when buying clothing and shoes.Most states that have provided COVID-19 hazard pay used money from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act signed by then-President Donald Trump in March 2020. While some states limited payments to particular public employees, others passed out money to a wide range of private-sector workers deemed to be doing important jobs.Louisiana spent more than $38 million last year providing $250 payments to more than 152,000 “frontline workers” earning less than $50,000 annually, according to state data provided to the AP. Health care workers received the largest share of the money, followed by grocery store workers and law enforcement personnel. But payments also went to gas station workers, child-care providers, janitors, bus drivers and others.Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf, a Democrat, used $50 million in federal aid for grants to over 600 businesses to provide a temporary $3 hourly boost to employees earning less than $20 an hour. Health care providers got most of the money, followed by the food industry, according to state data provided to the AP. But millions of dollars also went to cleaning companies and private security firms.By contrast, South Dakota limited hazard pay to state workers and only for the time they were potentially exposed to COVID-19. One therapy assistant got an extra 40 cents, a pharmacist received $1.80 and a maintenance supervisor got $4, according to state data provided to the AP.In some states, the cost of hazard pay programs far exceeded initial expectations.Missouri originally budgeted about $24 million in federal aid to provide an extra $250 per two-week paycheck for state employees working in close-contact institutions such as prisons, mental health facilities and veterans nursing homes. The stipend applied to anyone without unscheduled absences at any facility with at least one COVID-19 case — ultimately covering a lot more people for a much longer period than policymakers had anticipated at the onset of the pandemic.Missouri ended up paying more than $73 million in hazard stipends to more than 18,000 employees, trigging an additional $24 million in fringe costs such as pension payments and federal taxes, according to state data provided to the AP. The payments ended June 30, and the state has no immediate plans to resume them.“Without a doubt, it was worth it,” said Missouri Gov. Mike Parson, a Republican. “Some people did some incredible jobs in this state to stay the course and to stay in the line of duty.”Vermont's hazard pay program also swelled in cost. Last August, the state allotted $28 million of federal funds to pay up to $2,000 to health care employees who worked during the early stages of the pandemic. It later added $22 million to expand the program to retail and grocery workers, child care providers, janitors, trash collectors and others. When those funds were depleted, the state added $10 million more to cover all eligible applicants.Employees in Vermont’s retail and grocery industries received nearly a third of the total money, almost matching the amount that went to health care fields, according to data provided to the AP.Demand was high, in part, because Republican Gov. Phil Scott encouraged hesitant big businesses, such as Walmart, to apply on behalf of their employees, said Mike Pieciak, commissioner of the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation. He said consumer spending spiked around the time the payments were distributed.“The primary goal was to say thank you to those frontline workers, but it had that nice benefit as well of getting the money into the economy,” Pieciak said.

Bonus pay for essential workers varied widely across states

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 672 to a total of 321,109, the state health department reported Monday afternoon.&nbsp;

The state reported 12 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 5188.

<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 672 to a total of 321,109, the state health department reported Monday afternoon.&nbsp;The state reported 12 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 5188.<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/2021/7/1626109115821.png" alt="Monday July 12, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Monday July 12, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) — A Springfield, Missouri hospital on Sunday announced it opened its sixth COVID-19 ward as the delta virus variant rages in the state’s southwest region.

That's the most virus wards Mercy Hospital in Springfield has had. Chief Administrative Officer Erik Frederick tweeted that the hospital needed at most five COVID-19 wards last year.

The hospital was treating 133 virus patients as of Sunday.

“Many local rural communities don’t have high vaccination rates,” Frederick wrote. “They also don’t have a hospital. Get sick, come to Springfield. I think that’s getting left out of the narrative.”

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) — A Springfield, Missouri hospital on Sunday announced it opened its sixth COVID-19 ward as the delta virus variant rages in the state’s southwest region.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">133 COVID+ <a href="https://twitter.com/MercySGF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MercySGF</a>. Opening a 6th COVID unit. Only needed 5 last year. Many local rural communities don’t have high vaccination rates. They also don’t have a hospital. Get sick, come to Springfield. I think that’s getting left out of the narrative. <a href="https://t.co/eu5DSyomX0">https://t.co/eu5DSyomX0</a>&mdash; Erik Frederick (@CAOMercySGF) <a href="https://twitter.com/CAOMercySGF/status/1414238973015339010?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>That's the most virus wards Mercy Hospital in Springfield has had. Chief Administrative Officer Erik Frederick tweeted that the hospital needed at most five COVID-19 wards last year.The hospital was treating 133 virus patients as of Sunday.“Many local rural communities don’t have high vaccination rates,” Frederick wrote. “They also don’t have a hospital. Get sick, come to Springfield. I think that’s getting left out of the narrative.”

SW Missouri hospital opens 6th COVID ward

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

Police are investigating a case as aggravated battery after a Salina man was found severely injured Friday.

Just before 3:30p.m. Friday, police were dispatched to the Travelers Lodge, 254 S. Broadway Boulevard, for the report of a disorderly subject who refused to leave, according to Police Captain Paul Forrester.

A Travelers Lodge employee told police that he was walking by a fenced in area on the north side of the property and heard a man inside moaning. The employee said he could see someone through the wooden fence, which was locked.

When the employee got no response from the man, he called police and waited until officers arrived before he unlocked the fence.

When officers entered the area, they found a 33-year-old Salina man with severe injuries consistent to battery, Forrester said. The man also had a thin blue cable around his neck.

EMS transported the man to Salina Regional Health Center, where doctors confirmed that the man's injuries were consistent with him being dragged face down, Forrester said. The man was later transferred to a Wichita hospital.

Police are contacting area businesses and organizations to see whether surveillance video is available. Additionally, anyone with information about the incident is asked to call the Salina Police Department, Forrester said.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostPolice are investigating a case as aggravated battery after a Salina man was found severely injured Friday.Just before 3:30p.m. Friday, police were dispatched to the Travelers Lodge, 254 S. Broadway Boulevard, for the report of a disorderly subject who refused to leave, according to Police Captain Paul Forrester.A Travelers Lodge employee told police that he was walking by a fenced in area on the north side of the property and heard a man inside moaning. The employee said he could see someone through the wooden fence, which was locked.When the employee got no response from the man, he called police and waited until officers arrived before he unlocked the fence.When officers entered the area, they found a 33-year-old Salina man with severe injuries consistent to battery, Forrester said. The man also had a thin blue cable around his neck.EMS transported the man to Salina Regional Health Center, where doctors confirmed that the man's injuries were consistent with him being dragged face down, Forrester said. The man was later transferred to a Wichita hospital.Police are contacting area businesses and organizations to see whether surveillance video is available. Additionally, anyone with information about the incident is asked to call the Salina Police Department, Forrester said.

Police: Man found severely injured near Kan. hotel property

RAYMORE, Mo. (AP) — Police in suburban Kansas City have arrested a man accused of killing a woman last week in her Raymore home.

Dale Williamson, 41, of Independence faces charges of first-degree murder, armed criminal action and a weapons count in the death of 39-year-old Katie Kellen, police said. Kellen’s body was found Thursday night in her home. Police have not said how she died.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626102579754.png" alt="Williamson is being held in Clay County" />
 <figcaption>Williamson is being held in Clay County</figcaption>
 </figure>RAYMORE, Mo. (AP) — Police in suburban Kansas City have arrested a man accused of killing a woman last week in her Raymore home.Dale Williamson, 41, of Independence faces charges of first-degree murder, armed criminal action and a weapons count in the death of 39-year-old Katie Kellen, police said. Kellen’s body was found Thursday night in her home. Police have not said how she died.Williamson is being held without bond.

Suburban Kansas City police arrest man for woman's murder

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A South Carolina woman who admitted to helping swindle an elderly Wichita-area widow out of more than half a million dollars in a romance scam is due to be sentenced Monday in Sedgwick County District Court.

<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20069884">Kathy Heistand, 68, pleaded guilty </a>in May to the mistreatment of an elder person and theft.

An arrest affidavit said a 74-year-old recently widowed Kansas woman was contacted on Facebook in 2020 by someone who said his name was Victor Patrick and claimed to be a man working on an oil rig in the Gulf of Texas. The two developed an online romance.

Patrick said he’d be with the widow as soon as he retired, but meanwhile he needed money, and he asked the widow to send money to Heistand, who would give the money to Patrick.

The widow sent six cashier’s checks payable to Heistand for a total of $532,000. The widow’s financial institutions warned her it was a scam but she didn’t believe it. During the investigation Heistand said she didn’t know Patrick and that the widow sent her money as part of a business arrangement.

The Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office is recommending five years of probation with 61 months in prison if Heistand violates probation, records show.

The DA’s office said it is recommending probation because Heistand had a “lesser role in the fraud against the victim,” she helped in the investigation. Paying restitution to the victim while on probation outweighs the benefit of sending the 68-year-old to prison.

The district attorney’s office plans a Monday news conference to discuss the prominence of romance scams in the Wichita area, according to a news release

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626086481360.png" alt="The widow sent six cashier’s checks payable to Heistand for a total of $532,000.&nbsp; Heistand remains jailed in Sedgwick County." />
 <figcaption>The widow sent six cashier’s checks payable to Heistand for a total of $532,000.&nbsp; Heistand remains jailed in Sedgwick County.</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A South Carolina woman who admitted to helping swindle an elderly Wichita-area widow out of more than half a million dollars in a romance scam is due to be sentenced Monday in Sedgwick County District Court.<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20069884">Kathy Heistand, 68, pleaded guilty </a>in May to the mistreatment of an elder person and theft.An arrest affidavit said a 74-year-old recently widowed Kansas woman was contacted on Facebook in 2020 by someone who said his name was Victor Patrick and claimed to be a man working on an oil rig in the Gulf of Texas. The two developed an online romance.Patrick said he’d be with the widow as soon as he retired, but meanwhile he needed money, and he asked the widow to send money to Heistand, who would give the money to Patrick.The widow sent six cashier’s checks payable to Heistand for a total of $532,000. The widow’s financial institutions warned her it was a scam but she didn’t believe it. During the investigation Heistand said she didn’t know Patrick and that the widow sent her money as part of a business arrangement.The Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office is recommending five years of probation with 61 months in prison if Heistand violates probation, records show.The DA’s office said it is recommending probation because Heistand had a “lesser role in the fraud against the victim,” she helped in the investigation. Paying restitution to the victim while on probation outweighs the benefit of sending the 68-year-old to prison.The district attorney’s office plans a Monday news conference to discuss the prominence of romance scams in the Wichita area, according to a news release

Romance scam: Woman swindled Kan. widow of $532,000

By SUZANNE PEREZ <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2021-07-08/even-with-delta-driving-a-covid-resurgence-most-kansas-schools-ditch-mask-rules">Kansas News Service</a>

WICHITA&nbsp;— Most Kansas schoolchildren and teachers, 
regardless of whether they’ve been vaccinated against COVID-19, won’t be
 required to wear face masks next school year.

Schools find 
themselves under pressure to return to more normal, pre-pandemic 
operations. But officials say they stand ready to pivot — including 
reinstating mask mandates — if the pandemic worsens dramatically.

“Should
 adjustments to our plan be required,” said Alicia Thompson, 
superintendent of the state’s largest school district in Wichita, “we 
will bring our pandemic leadership team back together to recommend 
adjustments.”

She said her district weighed current data on 
infection rates, along with guidance from local health officials and 
feedback from a community survey, to craft the <a href="https://www.usd259.org/WPSadvance" target="_blank">district’s plan.</a>

Starting
 this month in Wichita schools, masks are optional. Vaccinations are not
 required. And regular activities will resume, including volunteers and 
visitors in schools.

Several large districts in Johnson County, 
including Olathe and Blue Valley, also lifted mask mandates that had 
been in place more than a year.

It’s a controversial call. Health officials <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/441/KDHE-Mask-Guidance-PDF---5-15-21" target="_blank">recommend mask wearing while indoors</a>
 for people who aren’t fully vaccinated or who have a compromised immune
 system. And children younger than 12 aren’t eligible to get a vaccine.

Meanwhile,
 the new, more-infectious Delta variant of the virus now accounts for 
80% of coronavirus cases in the state and for nearly all new 
hospitalizations.

Fewer than half of Kansans eligible for vaccinations have been inoculated.

A few large districts, including Shawnee Mission in Johnson County, have yet to decide on masks for this fall.

Spokesman
 David Smith said Shawnee Mission leaders are “still looking for some 
clear guidance” from health officials on masks and other COVID 
protocols, especially for vulnerable elementary school populations.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended that schools <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/operation-strategy.html#fully-vacc" target="_blank">continue to use COVID-19 prevention strategies</a>, including masks and social distancing, through the last school year.

The
 agency has not released guidance for the coming year. The CDC website 
says to look for updated guidance “in the coming weeks.”

Wichita 
school board member Ben Blankley said continued precautions, 
particularly with unvaccinated elementary-schoolers, could prevent 
outbreaks and related quarantines.

“I’d hate to be in a situation 
where we send entire classrooms out on quarantine and disrupt a bunch of
 people’s livelihoods again just because we decided that particular 
pandemic precautions were unpopular with some people,” he said.

Brent
 Lewis, president of the Wichita teachers union, said he agrees with the
 decision to make face masks optional. Leaders are trying to balance 
COVID-19 concerns with a desire to keep schools open and comfortable, he
 said.

But he worries that possible outbreaks could lead to widespread quarantines. Federal law <a href="https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/fmla/pandemic" target="_blank">does not require districts to provide paid leave</a>
 to employees who are sick with COVID-19, under quarantine or caring for
 someone with COVID, so teachers would have to use their personal leave 
time.

It’s unclear how many of Wichita’s 4,200 teachers are 
vaccinated, but Lewis said about three-fourths signed up for vaccines 
when they were made available this spring.

In Olathe, superintendent John Allison said masks will be “highly encouraged but not required” for students, staff and visitors.

Board member LeEtta Felter asked how that will play out in classrooms if some parents want their children masked.

“I
 don’t want to unduly burden our teachers with being the mask gestapo,” 
she said. “How will we accommodate a family’s preference for their child
 to wear a mask ... and (have) no bullying?”

Allison said school leaders will talk about strategies before school starts this fall.

“We don’t tolerate bullying for whatever reason,” he said. “Masks would fit into that.”

Thompson,
 the Wichita superintendent, said COVID-19 taught school districts and 
families to be flexible. The protocol when students return Aug. 12 could
 change.

“We can say with confidence that we have now led in a 
pandemic, but none of us yet have led coming out of a pandemic,” she 
said. “There will be many lessons to be learned over the next year.”

Suzanne Perez reports on education for KMUW in Wichita and the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter @SuzPerezICT.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625774939950.png" alt="Wichita students were required to wear masks at summer school programs. Masks are now optional for all students, teachers and visitors. Suzanne Perez / KMUW" />
 <figcaption>Wichita students were required to wear masks at summer school programs. Masks are now optional for all students, teachers and visitors. Suzanne Perez / KMUW</figcaption>
 </figure>By SUZANNE PEREZ <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2021-07-08/even-with-delta-driving-a-covid-resurgence-most-kansas-schools-ditch-mask-rules">Kansas News Service</a>WICHITA&nbsp;— Most Kansas schoolchildren and teachers, 
regardless of whether they’ve been vaccinated against COVID-19, won’t be
 required to wear face masks next school year.Schools find 
themselves under pressure to return to more normal, pre-pandemic 
operations. But officials say they stand ready to pivot — including 
reinstating mask mandates — if the pandemic worsens dramatically.“Should
 adjustments to our plan be required,” said Alicia Thompson, 
superintendent of the state’s largest school district in Wichita, “we 
will bring our pandemic leadership team back together to recommend 
adjustments.”She said her district weighed current data on 
infection rates, along with guidance from local health officials and 
feedback from a community survey, to craft the <a href="https://www.usd259.org/WPSadvance" target="_blank">district’s plan.</a>Starting
 this month in Wichita schools, masks are optional. Vaccinations are not
 required. And regular activities will resume, including volunteers and 
visitors in schools.Several large districts in Johnson County, 
including Olathe and Blue Valley, also lifted mask mandates that had 
been in place more than a year.It’s a controversial call. Health officials <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/441/KDHE-Mask-Guidance-PDF---5-15-21" target="_blank">recommend mask wearing while indoors</a>
 for people who aren’t fully vaccinated or who have a compromised immune
 system. And children younger than 12 aren’t eligible to get a vaccine.Meanwhile,
 the new, more-infectious Delta variant of the virus now accounts for 
80% of coronavirus cases in the state and for nearly all new 
hospitalizations.Fewer than half of Kansans eligible for vaccinations have been inoculated.A few large districts, including Shawnee Mission in Johnson County, have yet to decide on masks for this fall.Spokesman
 David Smith said Shawnee Mission leaders are “still looking for some 
clear guidance” from health officials on masks and other COVID 
protocols, especially for vulnerable elementary school populations.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended that schools <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/operation-strategy.html#fully-vacc" target="_blank">continue to use COVID-19 prevention strategies</a>, including masks and social distancing, through the last school year.The
 agency has not released guidance for the coming year. The CDC website 
says to look for updated guidance “in the coming weeks.”Wichita 
school board member Ben Blankley said continued precautions, 
particularly with unvaccinated elementary-schoolers, could prevent 
outbreaks and related quarantines.“I’d hate to be in a situation 
where we send entire classrooms out on quarantine and disrupt a bunch of
 people’s livelihoods again just because we decided that particular 
pandemic precautions were unpopular with some people,” he said.Brent
 Lewis, president of the Wichita teachers union, said he agrees with the
 decision to make face masks optional. Leaders are trying to balance 
COVID-19 concerns with a desire to keep schools open and comfortable, he
 said.But he worries that possible outbreaks could lead to widespread quarantines. Federal law <a href="https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/fmla/pandemic" target="_blank">does not require districts to provide paid leave</a>
 to employees who are sick with COVID-19, under quarantine or caring for
 someone with COVID, so teachers would have to use their personal leave 
time.It’s unclear how many of Wichita’s 4,200 teachers are 
vaccinated, but Lewis said about three-fourths signed up for vaccines 
when they were made available this spring.In Olathe, superintendent John Allison said masks will be “highly encouraged but not required” for students, staff and visitors.Board member LeEtta Felter asked how that will play out in classrooms if some parents want their children masked.“I
 don’t want to unduly burden our teachers with being the mask gestapo,” 
she said. “How will we accommodate a family’s preference for their child
 to wear a mask ... and (have) no bullying?”Allison said school leaders will talk about strategies before school starts this fall.“We don’t tolerate bullying for whatever reason,” he said. “Masks would fit into that.”Thompson,
 the Wichita superintendent, said COVID-19 taught school districts and 
families to be flexible. The protocol when students return Aug. 12 could
 change.“We can say with confidence that we have now led in a 
pandemic, but none of us yet have led coming out of a pandemic,” she 
said. “There will be many lessons to be learned over the next year.”Suzanne Perez reports on education for KMUW in Wichita and the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter @SuzPerezICT.

Despite COVID Delta resurgence, most Kan. schools ditch mask rules 

DENVER (AP) — Four people have been arrested and more than a dozen weapons and hundreds of rounds of ammunition have been seized at a downtown Denver hotel that is close to several events planned in conjunction with this week's Major League Baseball All-Star Game.

Officers responding to a tip searched two rooms at the Maven Hotel, a block from Coors Field, on Friday night. Three men and a woman in their 40s were arrested, and two vehicles were impounded to be searched for evidence.

The recovered weapons included several rifles, a law enforcement official told The Associated Press.

So far, investigators have not found any evidence to suggest the group was plotting a mass shooting or other similar attack, the official said, while cautioning that the investigation is still in its early stages. The official could not discuss the matter publicly and spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity.

Authorities were called after an employee found the guns in a hotel room, the official said.

The men who were arrested are being investigated for possession of a weapon by a previous offender, and the woman, who has a separate warrant, is being investigated on a drug charge.

“We have no reason to believe this incident was connected to terrorism or a threat directed at the All-Star Game,” the FBI said in a statement released Sunday. “We are not aware of any threat to the All-Star Game events, venues, players or the community at this time.”

Meanwhile, Mayor Michael Hancock and police Chief Paul Pazen praised the hotel’s staff for alerting authorities and sought to ease any concerns that the area around the ballpark is unsafe. They declined to say what, if anything, the suspects were planning to do with the firearms.

“We don’t know what we don’t know. That’s what the investigation is all about,” Pazen said during a news conference. “We need to identify exactly, to the extent possible, why (the) individuals were here in the first place, why (the) proximity to downtown. We don’t have those answers.”

Coors Field will host the All-Star Game on Tuesday, but festivities have been underway in and around the ballpark and downtown for the past several days.

Police said in a statement that visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious or illegal behavior.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626087575274.png" alt="The Maven Hotel is a block from Coors Field -Google image" />
 <figcaption>The Maven Hotel is a block from Coors Field -Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>DENVER (AP) — Four people have been arrested and more than a dozen weapons and hundreds of rounds of ammunition have been seized at a downtown Denver hotel that is close to several events planned in conjunction with this week's Major League Baseball All-Star Game.Officers responding to a tip searched two rooms at the Maven Hotel, a block from Coors Field, on Friday night. Three men and a woman in their 40s were arrested, and two vehicles were impounded to be searched for evidence.The recovered weapons included several rifles, a law enforcement official told The Associated Press.So far, investigators have not found any evidence to suggest the group was plotting a mass shooting or other similar attack, the official said, while cautioning that the investigation is still in its early stages. The official could not discuss the matter publicly and spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity.Authorities were called after an employee found the guns in a hotel room, the official said.The men who were arrested are being investigated for possession of a weapon by a previous offender, and the woman, who has a separate warrant, is being investigated on a drug charge.“We have no reason to believe this incident was connected to terrorism or a threat directed at the All-Star Game,” the FBI said in a statement released Sunday. “We are not aware of any threat to the All-Star Game events, venues, players or the community at this time.”Meanwhile, Mayor Michael Hancock and police Chief Paul Pazen praised the hotel’s staff for alerting authorities and sought to ease any concerns that the area around the ballpark is unsafe. They declined to say what, if anything, the suspects were planning to do with the firearms.“We don’t know what we don’t know. That’s what the investigation is all about,” Pazen said during a news conference. “We need to identify exactly, to the extent possible, why (the) individuals were here in the first place, why (the) proximity to downtown. We don’t have those answers.”Coors Field will host the All-Star Game on Tuesday, but festivities have been underway in and around the ballpark and downtown for the past several days.Police said in a statement that visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious or illegal behavior.___

Report: Hotel maid finds guns, ammo near MLB All-Star game

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Five Kansas City police officers facing criminal charges remain on the job, with four on administrative duty and one still on patrol.

Community leaders who have been critical of the Kansas City Police Department say they are particularly angry that a detective charged with manslaughter, Eric DeValkenaere, remains on administrative duty and is being paid,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article252529253.html">according&nbsp;</a>to the Kansas City Star.

“I think it’s despicable,” said Randy Fikki, senior pastor of Unity Southeast, who led several Black Lives Matter demonstrations last summer.

Police spokeswoman Capt. Leslie Foreman said department’s policies give supervisors discretion to determine whether to suspend officers and whether that suspension should be paid or unpaid.

That is despite a separate policy that says officers charged with a crime related to their use of a department firearm will be suspended, which would apply to DeValkenaere, who is charged in the 2019 shooting of Cameron Lamb in Lamb’s backyard following a traffic incident. Officials said that policy requiring suspension when an officer's gun is used is under review.

DeValkenaere was suspended with pay after the shooting, but returned to work in January. He is the only one charged in an incident involving a gun.

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas, who serves on the supervisory Board of Kansas City Police Commissioners, said officers charged with felonies should be suspended with pay. But Lucas said the department's policies need to be clarified.

“I would think that we need to be consistent with the policies as produced,” Lucas said. “In all situations, to the extent that there is a departure, I find it very troubling. And I would hope, although not be optimistic, that the board would ensure that those policies are being followed.”

Some policing experts criticized the decision to keep officers who have been charged on the force.

“Criminal charges raise serious concerns about an officer’s fitness to protect and serve,” said Lauren Bonds, legal director for the National Police Accountability Project. “The chief’s decision to allow officers to continue their employment while charges are pending needlessly exposes communities to abuse and undermines the prosecutor’s decision to pursue an indictment.”

Sgt. Matthew Neal was indicted last year on a felony assault charge for allegedly placing his knee on the back of a 15-year-old boy’s neck and forcing the boy’s head into the pavement while in handcuffs.

Matthew Brummett and Charles Prichard both face felony assault charges for alleged excessive use of force when they arrested Breona Hill in May 2019. A video showed officers pinning her to the ground and slamming her head into the pavement.

Nicholas McQuillen was charged this year with misdemeanor assault for allegedly pepper spraying a teenager at protests last summer. He is the only charged officer still on patrol.

All five officers are white. All of the victims in the cases are Black.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Five Kansas City police officers facing criminal charges remain on the job, with four on administrative duty and one still on patrol.Community leaders who have been critical of the Kansas City Police Department say they are particularly angry that a detective charged with manslaughter, Eric DeValkenaere, remains on administrative duty and is being paid,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article252529253.html">according&nbsp;</a>to the Kansas City Star.“I think it’s despicable,” said Randy Fikki, senior pastor of Unity Southeast, who led several Black Lives Matter demonstrations last summer.Police spokeswoman Capt. Leslie Foreman said department’s policies give supervisors discretion to determine whether to suspend officers and whether that suspension should be paid or unpaid.That is despite a separate policy that says officers charged with a crime related to their use of a department firearm will be suspended, which would apply to DeValkenaere, who is charged in the 2019 shooting of Cameron Lamb in Lamb’s backyard following a traffic incident. Officials said that policy requiring suspension when an officer's gun is used is under review.DeValkenaere was suspended with pay after the shooting, but returned to work in January. He is the only one charged in an incident involving a gun.Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas, who serves on the supervisory Board of Kansas City Police Commissioners, said officers charged with felonies should be suspended with pay. But Lucas said the department's policies need to be clarified.“I would think that we need to be consistent with the policies as produced,” Lucas said. “In all situations, to the extent that there is a departure, I find it very troubling. And I would hope, although not be optimistic, that the board would ensure that those policies are being followed.”Some policing experts criticized the decision to keep officers who have been charged on the force.“Criminal charges raise serious concerns about an officer’s fitness to protect and serve,” said Lauren Bonds, legal director for the National Police Accountability Project. “The chief’s decision to allow officers to continue their employment while charges are pending needlessly exposes communities to abuse and undermines the prosecutor’s decision to pursue an indictment.”Sgt. Matthew Neal was indicted last year on a felony assault charge for allegedly placing his knee on the back of a 15-year-old boy’s neck and forcing the boy’s head into the pavement while in handcuffs.Matthew Brummett and Charles Prichard both face felony assault charges for alleged excessive use of force when they arrested Breona Hill in May 2019. A video showed officers pinning her to the ground and slamming her head into the pavement.Nicholas McQuillen was charged this year with misdemeanor assault for allegedly pepper spraying a teenager at protests last summer. He is the only charged officer still on patrol.All five officers are white. All of the victims in the cases are Black.

5 Kansas City officers charged with crimes still on the job

WASHINGTON (AP) — Pfizer says it plans to meet with top U.S. health officials Monday to discuss the drugmaker’s request for federal authorization of a third dose of its COVID-19 vaccine as President Joe Biden’s chief medical adviser acknowledged that “it is entirely conceivable, maybe likely” that booster shots will be needed.

The company said it was scheduled to have the meeting with the Food and Drug Administration and other officials Monday, days after Pfizer asserted that booster shots would be needed within 12 months.

Pfizer’s Dr. Mikael Dolsten&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-coronavirus-pandemic-science-health-34c3f2536747a7c08980d7359a8de70c">told The Associated Press&nbsp;</a>last week that early data from the company’s booster study suggests people’s antibody levels jump five- to 10-fold after a third dose, compared to their second dose months earlier — evidence it believes supports the need for a booster.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Pfizer says it plans to meet with top U.S. health officials Monday to discuss the drugmaker’s request for federal authorization of a third dose of its COVID-19 vaccine as President Joe Biden’s chief medical adviser acknowledged that “it is entirely conceivable, maybe likely” that booster shots will be needed.The company said it was scheduled to have the meeting with the Food and Drug Administration and other officials Monday, days after Pfizer asserted that booster shots would be needed within 12 months.Pfizer’s Dr. Mikael Dolsten&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-coronavirus-pandemic-science-health-34c3f2536747a7c08980d7359a8de70c">told The Associated Press&nbsp;</a>last week that early data from the company’s booster study suggests people’s antibody levels jump five- to 10-fold after a third dose, compared to their second dose months earlier — evidence it believes supports the need for a booster.On Sunday,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.niaid.nih.gov/about/director" target="_blank">Dr. Anthony Fauci</a>&nbsp;didn’t rule out the possibility but said it was too soon for the government to recommend another shot. He said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the FDA did the right thing last week by pushing back against Pfizer’s assertion with their statement that they did not view booster shots as necessary “at this time.”Fauci said clinical studies and laboratory data have yet to fully bear out the need for a booster to the current two-shot Pfizer and Moderna vaccines or the one-shot Johnson &amp; Johnson regimen.“Right now, given the data and the information we have, we do not need to give people a third shot,” he said. “That doesn’t mean we stop there. ... There are studies being done now ongoing as we speak about looking at the feasibility about if and when we should be boosting people.”He said it was quite possible in the coming months “as data evolves” that the government may urge a booster based on such factors as age and underlying medical conditions. “Certainly it is entirely conceivable, maybe likely at some time, we will need a boost,″ Fauci said.Monday’s planned meeting between Pfizer and U.S. health officials was first reported by The Washington Post.Currently only about 48% of the U.S. population is fully vaccinated. Some parts of the country have far lower immunization rates, and in those places the delta variant is surging. Last week, Dr. Rochelle Walensky, the CDC director, said that’s leading to “two truths” — highly immunized swaths of America are getting back to normal while hospitalizations are rising in other places.Fauci said it was inexplicable that some Americans are so resistant to getting a vaccine when scientific data show how effective it is in staving off COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations, and he was dismayed by efforts to block making vaccinations more accessible, such as Biden’s suggestion of door-to-door outreach.Gov. Asa Hutchinson, R-Ark., agreed Sunday that there is a vaccine resistance in Southern and rural states like his because “you have that more conservative approach, skepticism about government.”Describing his efforts to boost vaccinations in his state, which is seeing rising infections, Hutchinson said “no one wants an agent knocking on a door,” but “we do want those that do not have access otherwise to make sure they know about it.”The grassroots component of the federal vaccination campaign has been in operation since April, when supplies of shots began outpacing demand. It was outlined and funded by Congress in the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief bill passed in March and overwhelmingly is carried out by local officials and private sector workers and volunteers.Rep. Adam Kinzinger, R-Ill., blasted opposition to vaccination efforts from some GOP lawmakers as “absolute insanity.” He said House Republican leader Kevin McCarthy of California and others in the party need to speak out against “these absolute clown politicians playing on your vaccine fears for their own selfish gain.”Fauci appeared on CNN’s “State of the Union,” ABC’s “This Week” and CBS’ “Face the Nation”; Hutchinson spoke on ABC, and Kinzinger was on CNN.