SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal stabbing and after asking the public for help to locate a suspect have made an arrest.

On November 30, police responded to a stabbing at a residence in the 1000 block of South Richmond in Wichita, according to officer Paul Cruz. 

Upon arrival, officers located 32-year-old Rickey Mason, who had been stabbed in the chest and later died of his injuries.

The investigation revealed a disturbance occurred between Mason and a suspect identified as Marco Carrillo Fuentes, 31, Wichita over property. During the disturbance the Carrillo-Fuentes produced a knife and stabbed Mason.

The Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office charged Carrillo-Fuentes with 2nd Degree murder in the stabbing death. On Tuesday police arrested him and he is being held in the Sedgwick County Jail.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal stabbing and asking for help to locate a suspect.

Just before 4:00 p.m., Sunday, police responded to a stabbing at a residence in the 1000 block of South Richmond in Wichita, according to officer Paul Cruz. 

The Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office has charged Carrillo-Fuentes with 2nd Degree murder in the stabbing death.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Carrillo-Fuentes is asked to call 911.&nbsp;

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal stabbing and have identified the victim as 32-year-old Rickey Mason of Wichita.

Upon arrival, officers located Mason, who had been stabbed in the chest and later died of his injuries.

The investigation revealed a disturbance occurred between Mason and a known suspect over property. During the disturbance the suspect produced a knife and stabbed Mason.

This was not a random incident, according to Cruz.&nbsp;

SEDGWICK COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating the stabbing death of a man inside a Wichita home on Sunday afternoon.

Just after 4p.m., a witness to the stabbing flagged down firefighters in the 1000 block of south Richmond. Firefighters then called police, who found a 32-year-old man fatally wounded inside the home.

Witnesses told police the stabbing followed a fight involving the victim and another person over property.

Police have not released the victim’s name and had not reported an arrests early Monday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607541787488.png" alt="Carrillo-Fuentes&nbsp;has previous convictions for burglary and criminal damage to property, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>Carrillo-Fuentes&nbsp;has previous convictions for burglary and criminal damage to property, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal stabbing and after asking the public for help to locate a suspect have made an arrest.On November 30, police responded to a stabbing at a residence in the 1000 block of South Richmond in Wichita, according to officer Paul Cruz. Upon arrival, officers located 32-year-old Rickey Mason, who had been stabbed in the chest and later died of his injuries.The investigation revealed a disturbance occurred between Mason and a suspect identified as Marco Carrillo Fuentes, 31, Wichita over property. During the disturbance the Carrillo-Fuentes produced a knife and stabbed Mason.The Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office charged Carrillo-Fuentes with 2nd Degree murder in the stabbing death. On Tuesday police arrested him and he is being held in the Sedgwick County Jail.----------SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal stabbing and asking for help to locate a suspect.Just before 4:00 p.m., Sunday, police responded to a stabbing at a residence in the 1000 block of South Richmond in Wichita, according to officer Paul Cruz. Upon arrival, officers located 32-year-old Rickey Mason, who had been stabbed in the chest and later died of his injuries.The investigation revealed a disturbance occurred between Mason and a suspect identified as Marco Carrillo Fuentes, 31, Wichita over property. During the disturbance the Carrillo-Fuentes produced a knife and stabbed Mason.The Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office has charged Carrillo-Fuentes with 2nd Degree murder in the stabbing death.Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Carrillo-Fuentes is asked to call 911.&nbsp;---------SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal stabbing and have identified the victim as 32-year-old Rickey Mason of Wichita.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607031582921.png" alt="Carrillo-Fuentes has previous convictions for burglary and&nbsp; criminal damage to property, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>Carrillo-Fuentes has previous convictions for burglary and&nbsp; criminal damage to property, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 4:00 p.m., Sunday, police responded to a stabbing at a residence in the 1000 block of South Richmond in Wichita, according to officer Paul Cruz. Upon arrival, officers located Mason, who had been stabbed in the chest and later died of his injuries.The investigation revealed a disturbance occurred between Mason and a known suspect over property. During the disturbance the suspect produced a knife and stabbed Mason.This was not a random incident, according to Cruz.&nbsp;-----------SEDGWICK COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating the stabbing death of a man inside a Wichita home on Sunday afternoon.Just after 4p.m., a witness to the stabbing flagged down firefighters in the 1000 block of south Richmond. Firefighters then called police, who found a 32-year-old man fatally wounded inside the home.Witnesses told police the stabbing followed a fight involving the victim and another person over property.Police have not released the victim’s name and had not reported an arrests early Monday.

After 8 day search police catch Kan. murder suspect

TOPEKA – Kansas and 16 other states are&nbsp;asking the U.S. Supreme Court to hear a lawsuit brought by Texas and review whether voting procedures in several states that are alleged to have departed from state statutory requirements also violated the U.S. Constitution, according to Attorney General Derek Schmidt.

“A month ago, Kansas asked the U.S. Supreme Court to decide whether the Pennsylvania Supreme Court violated the U.S. Constitution by disregarding the plain requirements of that state’s statutory deadline governing mail-in ballots,” Schmidt said. “Our request remains pending at the high court, and the Texas filing yesterday presents to the Court the same important legal question.”

Principally at issue is whether the U.S. Constitution’s express requirement that “the Legislature” in each state set various election requirements means that other state officials, such as state courts, are federally required to follow state election statutes the Legislature has enacted and lack legal authority to order departures from statutory requirements.

In a motion filed Tuesday, Texas asked the U.S. Supreme Court to hear its federal constitutional challenge to election procedures in Michigan, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Georgia that Texas says differed from the requirements of those states’ statutes. Kansas on Wednesday joined with Missouri and 15 other states in filing an amicus brief that asks the high court to grant the Texas motion, hear the case and decide the question.

“These are important and potentially recurring constitutional questions that need an answer to guide states,” Schmidt said. “Kansas ran its elections honestly and by the rules that are supposed to apply evenly to all of us. Texas asserts it can prove four states violated the U.S. Constitution in an election that affects all Americans, so Texas should be heard. Everyone would benefit from clarity about what the U.S. Constitution requires of states as they administer federal elections. Since yesterday, we have been working closely with Missouri to determine the best legal arguments to present to the Court, and those arguments are advanced in this brief.”

<a href="https://ag.ks.gov/media-center/news-releases/2020/12/09/ag-derek-schmidt-kansas-asks-u.s.-supreme-court-to-hear-texas-election-lawsuit">Click here to read</a> a&nbsp; copy of the brief Kansas joined in support of the U.S. Supreme Court hearing the Texas lawsuit.

TOPEKA – Kansas and 16 other states are&nbsp;asking the U.S. Supreme Court to hear a lawsuit brought by Texas and review whether voting procedures in several states that are alleged to have departed from state statutory requirements also violated the U.S. Constitution, according to Attorney General Derek Schmidt.“A month ago, Kansas asked the U.S. Supreme Court to decide whether the Pennsylvania Supreme Court violated the U.S. Constitution by disregarding the plain requirements of that state’s statutory deadline governing mail-in ballots,” Schmidt said. “Our request remains pending at the high court, and the Texas filing yesterday presents to the Court the same important legal question.”Principally at issue is whether the U.S. Constitution’s express requirement that “the Legislature” in each state set various election requirements means that other state officials, such as state courts, are federally required to follow state election statutes the Legislature has enacted and lack legal authority to order departures from statutory requirements.In a motion filed Tuesday, Texas asked the U.S. Supreme Court to hear its federal constitutional challenge to election procedures in Michigan, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Georgia that Texas says differed from the requirements of those states’ statutes. Kansas on Wednesday joined with Missouri and 15 other states in filing an amicus brief that asks the high court to grant the Texas motion, hear the case and decide the question.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Election integrity is central to our republic. And I will defend it at every turn. As I have in other cases - I will help lead the effort in support of Texas’ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SCOTUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SCOTUS</a> filing today. Missouri is in the fight. <a href="https://t.co/V3aLHrYnOF">https://t.co/V3aLHrYnOF</a>&mdash; Eric Schmitt (@Eric_Schmitt) <a href="https://twitter.com/Eric_Schmitt/status/1336506935982624768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“These are important and potentially recurring constitutional questions that need an answer to guide states,” Schmidt said. “Kansas ran its elections honestly and by the rules that are supposed to apply evenly to all of us. Texas asserts it can prove four states violated the U.S. Constitution in an election that affects all Americans, so Texas should be heard. Everyone would benefit from clarity about what the U.S. Constitution requires of states as they administer federal elections. Since yesterday, we have been working closely with Missouri to determine the best legal arguments to present to the Court, and those arguments are advanced in this brief.”<a href="https://ag.ks.gov/media-center/news-releases/2020/12/09/ag-derek-schmidt-kansas-asks-u.s.-supreme-court-to-hear-texas-election-lawsuit">Click here to read</a> a&nbsp; copy of the brief Kansas joined in support of the U.S. Supreme Court hearing the Texas lawsuit.

Kansas joins Texas suit to overturn presidential election

JOHNSON COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 4a.m. Wednesday in Johnson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Volvo FedEx semi driven by Christian L. Harris, 24, Liberty, Missouri, was northbound on Kansas 7 just south of K-10.

The vehicle left the roadway to the east and rolled over the guardrail, falling onto K-10 on its top and then caught fire. 

During the falling and collision with the ground, parts of semi struck a westbound 2020 International semi driven by Jason Barbour, 40, Olathe.&nbsp; He was not injured.

OLATHE, Kan. (AP) — Authorities in suburban Kansas City, Kansas, say the driver of a FedEx semitrailer has died after the truck sailed over the side of a highway bridge Wednesday, crashed onto the road below and erupted in flames. 

Police say the crash happened around 4 a.m. Wednesday when the truck launched off the side of the Kansas Highway 7 bridge and landed on Kansas Highway 10 below near Olathe. 

The crash led to a large fire that consumed the truck and shut down all lanes of K-10 in the area as fire crews battled the flames and police investigated the fatal crash. The name of the driver was not immediately released.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607521954884.png" alt="The crash closed Kansas 10 in both directions while crews put out the fire and began the cleanup early Wednesday -photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>The crash closed Kansas 10 in both directions while crews put out the fire and began the cleanup early Wednesday -photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 4a.m. Wednesday in Johnson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Volvo FedEx semi driven by Christian L. Harris, 24, Liberty, Missouri, was northbound on Kansas 7 just south of K-10.The vehicle left the roadway to the east and rolled over the guardrail, falling onto K-10 on its top and then caught fire. During the falling and collision with the ground, parts of semi struck a westbound 2020 International semi driven by Jason Barbour, 40, Olathe.&nbsp; He was not injured.-------OLATHE, Kan. (AP) — Authorities in suburban Kansas City, Kansas, say the driver of a FedEx semitrailer has died after the truck sailed over the side of a highway bridge Wednesday, crashed onto the road below and erupted in flames. Police say the crash happened around 4 a.m. Wednesday when the truck launched off the side of the Kansas Highway 7 bridge and landed on Kansas Highway 10 below near Olathe. The crash led to a large fire that consumed the truck and shut down all lanes of K-10 in the area as fire crews battled the flames and police investigated the fatal crash. The name of the driver was not immediately released.

KHP IDs FedEx driver killed in fiery Kansas crash

SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating a shooting say the victim 59-year-old&nbsp;&nbsp;Gary Ramsey of Wichita has died.

Just before 8p.m. Monday, police responded to report of a shooting in the 1300 Block of North Terrace in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.

At the scene, police found a Ramsey in a Jeep SUV who had been shot and was was in critical condition.&nbsp; EMS transported the man to a local hospital where he died, according to Davidson.

Investigators learned that the victim and an acquaintance had gone to a home in the 1300 Block of North Terrace regarding a&nbsp; prearranged property transaction.&nbsp; There was a disturbance during the transaction. A suspect fired shots a the vehicle as they were leaving that struck the victim.

This was not a random incident, according to Davidson. Police have not reported an arrest.

SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting that critically injured a man.

At the scene, police found a 59-year-old victim in a Jeep SUV who had been shot and was was in critical condition.&nbsp; EMS transported the man to a local hospital were he remains, according to Davidson.

This was not a random incident, according to Davidson. He did not release the victim's name or report an arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607444633419.png" alt="Police on the scene of Monday's investigation photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of Monday's investigation photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating a shooting say the victim 59-year-old&nbsp;&nbsp;Gary Ramsey of Wichita has died.Just before 8p.m. Monday, police responded to report of a shooting in the 1300 Block of North Terrace in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.At the scene, police found a Ramsey in a Jeep SUV who had been shot and was was in critical condition.&nbsp; EMS transported the man to a local hospital where he died, according to Davidson.Investigators learned that the victim and an acquaintance had gone to a home in the 1300 Block of North Terrace regarding a&nbsp; prearranged property transaction.&nbsp; There was a disturbance during the transaction. A suspect fired shots a the vehicle as they were leaving that struck the victim.This was not a random incident, according to Davidson. Police have not reported an arrest.--------SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting that critically injured a man.Just before 8p.m. Monday, police responded to report of a shooting in the 1300 Block of North Terrace in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.At the scene, police found a 59-year-old victim in a Jeep SUV who had been shot and was was in critical condition.&nbsp; EMS transported the man to a local hospital were he remains, according to Davidson.Investigators learned that the victim and an acquaintance had gone to a home in the 1300 Block of North Terrace regarding a&nbsp; prearranged property transaction.&nbsp; There was a disturbance during the transaction. A suspect fired shots a the vehicle as they were leaving that struck the victim.This was not a random incident, according to Davidson. He did not release the victim's name or report an arrest.

Police ID victim in fatal shooting at Kansas home

TOPEKA&nbsp;–Governor Laura Kelly held a press conference Wednesday afternoon to give an update regarding COVID-19 in Kansas.&nbsp; Kansas Department of Health and Environment Secretary Dr. Lee Norman and Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services Secretary Laura Howard also made comments and answered questions.

&nbsp;The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 5,778 to a total of 179,803 the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

Coronavirus deaths were reported at 1,941 an increase of 85.

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

TOPEKA&nbsp;–Governor Laura Kelly held a press conference Wednesday afternoon to give an update regarding COVID-19 in Kansas.&nbsp; Kansas Department of Health and Environment Secretary Dr. Lee Norman and Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services Secretary Laura Howard also made comments and answered questions.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGovLauraKelly%2Fvideos%2F414166709765498%2F&show_text=false&width=560" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>&nbsp;The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 5,778 to a total of 179,803 the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 1,941 an increase of 85.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional numbers from the KDHE.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607537575086.png" alt="Wednesday Dec. 9, 2020 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday Dec. 9, 2020 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎥  Governor updates COVID-19 battle in Kansas 

WICHITA, KAN. – A Kansas was charged in federal court here Wednesday with sexually exploiting a 15-year-old victim, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.

&nbsp;Loren Olson, 68, Marquette, Kan., is charged with one count of producing child pornography and one count of the sex trafficking of a minor.

A criminal complaint filed in federal court in Wichita alleges Olson came to the attention of law enforcement after Facebook made a CyberTipline report to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). Facebook captured content in which Olson communicated with a 15-year-old victim. Olson made reference to having had sex with the victim, taking pictures during their sexual acts and paying the victim after sex.

&nbsp;If convicted, Olson could face a penalty of not less than 15 years and not more than 30 years in federal prison on the production count, and not less than 10 years on the other count. The FBI investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart is prosecuting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607547648538.png" alt="Olson photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Olson photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, KAN. – A Kansas was charged in federal court here Wednesday with sexually exploiting a 15-year-old victim, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.&nbsp;Loren Olson, 68, Marquette, Kan., is charged with one count of producing child pornography and one count of the sex trafficking of a minor.A criminal complaint filed in federal court in Wichita alleges Olson came to the attention of law enforcement after Facebook made a CyberTipline report to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). Facebook captured content in which Olson communicated with a 15-year-old victim. Olson made reference to having had sex with the victim, taking pictures during their sexual acts and paying the victim after sex.&nbsp;If convicted, Olson could face a penalty of not less than 15 years and not more than 30 years in federal prison on the production count, and not less than 10 years on the other count. The FBI investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart is prosecuting.

Facebook tip leads to Kan. man's child sex crime arrest

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Authorities say an outdoor burn pit is responsible for a fire at a Kansas home.

Just after 3:30a.m. Wednesday, crews responded to a fire at a home at 1900 SE Michigan Avenue in Topeka, according to Fire Marshall Todd Harrison.&nbsp;

Upon arrival, fire crews found smoke and flames coming from the roof of the single story home. Two occupants were able to evacuate prior to the fire departments arrival and crews extinguished the blaze.

A preliminary investigation indicates the fire cause to be accidental, associated with an outdoor burn pit. The estimated dollar loss – $12,500.00; of which $10,000.00 is associated with structural loss and $2,500.00 associated with contents loss, according to Harrison.

As a result of the fire, two adults and two dogs were displaced. Working smoke detectors were not located within the structure of fire origin.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607523675066.png" alt="Fire crews on the scene early Wednesday-photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Fire crews on the scene early Wednesday-photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Authorities say an outdoor burn pit is responsible for a fire at a Kansas home.Just after 3:30a.m. Wednesday, crews responded to a fire at a home at 1900 SE Michigan Avenue in Topeka, according to Fire Marshall Todd Harrison.&nbsp;Upon arrival, fire crews found smoke and flames coming from the roof of the single story home. Two occupants were able to evacuate prior to the fire departments arrival and crews extinguished the blaze.A preliminary investigation indicates the fire cause to be accidental, associated with an outdoor burn pit. The estimated dollar loss – $12,500.00; of which $10,000.00 is associated with structural loss and $2,500.00 associated with contents loss, according to Harrison.As a result of the fire, two adults and two dogs were displaced. Working smoke detectors were not located within the structure of fire origin.

Fire Marshal: Burn pit caused fire at Kansas home

By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/12/08/gop-legislators-frustrated-with-labor-department-response-to-unemployment-problems/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA
 — Frustrations with the state’s distressed unemployment system are 
mounting among Republican legislators on an oversight panel who say they
 are not getting answers to their inquiries.

The
 legislators expressed displeasure with information provided by Ryan 
Wright, acting secretary of the Kansas Department of Labor, and the 
agency’s failure to meet timely deadlines in remedying a backlog of 
unemployment claims and a surge in fraudulent claims.

Sen.
 Caryn Tyson, a Parker Republican, said most questions asked during 
Monday’s meeting of the Special Committee on Economic Recovery remain 
unanswered.

“It
 is extremely difficult for us to do our job when we cannot get the 
responses and the information needed from your department,” Tyson said. 
“We’re trying to move forward and assist you however we possibly can, 
but when we do not have good information, it doesn’t benefit any of 
Kansas.”

When
 the pandemic began in March, unemployment claims surged across Kansas, 
leading to a backlog of more than 25,000 unpaid claims when Wright took 
over as secretary in June. Unemployment claims have decreased since, and
 KDOL has reduced the backlog significantly, but some legislators are 
not convinced the agency has taken sufficient steps.

In
 addition to concerns over Wright’s responses, Tyson added worries about
 the lack of a timeline for when these unemployment issues would be 
remedied.

“We
 have asked for timelines in the past. I know other committees have too,
 and I don’t see any of that, just the fact that we’ve started,” Tyson 
said during the meeting.

Rep.
 Kyle Hoffman, a Coldwater Republican, asked Wright when the backlog of 
Pandemic Unemployment Assistance claims would be paid.

Wright was unable to answer the question specific to PUA and was hesitant to provide a timetable.

“This
 agency made a lot of promises to folks they haven’t been able to keep 
for various reasons, so I’ve been careful not to promise something that 
we can’t absolutely deliver,” Wright said.

He said the hope is to have the backlog handled and checks in the mail by the end of the calendar year.

Wright
 tried to impress upon committee members that KDOL was doing everything 
in its power to mitigate fraud and the claim backlog. Since his 
appointment, the department has brought in more than 100 temporary 
employees who are working around the clock, Wright said.

“I
 know this is incredibly difficult for folks. These are family members, 
the people we go to church with and people who shop in grocery stores 
with,” Wright said. “We understand that. KDOL employees, there are some 
that literally work overnight. They’ve been working overnight for months
 now and then working weekends.”

Legislators
 were dissatisfied with Wright’s responses. That dissatisfaction was 
amplified by Wright’s decision to present his report via Zoom rather 
than in person, as legislators requested.

Sen.
 Richard Hildebrand, a Galena Republican, chose not to ask a question 
rather than deal with a non-answer or technological difficulties.

Hildebrand
 had requested the meeting be moved to an executive session closed to 
the public to ask a question that pertained to KDOL’s fraud resolution 
plan.

“At
 this point, instead of us just banging our head against the wall trying
 to hear what’s going on, I’ll withdraw my closed request,” Hildebrand 
said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607463023609.png" alt="Sen. Caryn Tyson was among legislators who voiced displeasure Monday with the lack of clear answers provided by acting labor secretary Ryan Wright in regard to the state's unemployment system. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Caryn Tyson was among legislators who voiced displeasure Monday with the lack of clear answers provided by acting labor secretary Ryan Wright in regard to the state's unemployment system. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/12/08/gop-legislators-frustrated-with-labor-department-response-to-unemployment-problems/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA
 — Frustrations with the state’s distressed unemployment system are 
mounting among Republican legislators on an oversight panel who say they
 are not getting answers to their inquiries.The
 legislators expressed displeasure with information provided by Ryan 
Wright, acting secretary of the Kansas Department of Labor, and the 
agency’s failure to meet timely deadlines in remedying a backlog of 
unemployment claims and a surge in fraudulent claims.Sen.
 Caryn Tyson, a Parker Republican, said most questions asked during 
Monday’s meeting of the Special Committee on Economic Recovery remain 
unanswered.“It
 is extremely difficult for us to do our job when we cannot get the 
responses and the information needed from your department,” Tyson said. 
“We’re trying to move forward and assist you however we possibly can, 
but when we do not have good information, it doesn’t benefit any of 
Kansas.”When
 the pandemic began in March, unemployment claims surged across Kansas, 
leading to a backlog of more than 25,000 unpaid claims when Wright took 
over as secretary in June. Unemployment claims have decreased since, and
 KDOL has reduced the backlog significantly, but some legislators are 
not convinced the agency has taken sufficient steps.In
 addition to concerns over Wright’s responses, Tyson added worries about
 the lack of a timeline for when these unemployment issues would be 
remedied.“We
 have asked for timelines in the past. I know other committees have too,
 and I don’t see any of that, just the fact that we’ve started,” Tyson 
said during the meeting.Rep.
 Kyle Hoffman, a Coldwater Republican, asked Wright when the backlog of 
Pandemic Unemployment Assistance claims would be paid.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607463078273.jpeg" alt="Rep. Kyle Hoffman’s question in regard to a timeline for addressing Pandemic Unemployment Assistance backlogs was one of several that acting labor secretary Ryan Wright was unable to answer immediately. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Kyle Hoffman’s question in regard to a timeline for addressing Pandemic Unemployment Assistance backlogs was one of several that acting labor secretary Ryan Wright was unable to answer immediately. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>Wright was unable to answer the question specific to PUA and was hesitant to provide a timetable.“This
 agency made a lot of promises to folks they haven’t been able to keep 
for various reasons, so I’ve been careful not to promise something that 
we can’t absolutely deliver,” Wright said.He said the hope is to have the backlog handled and checks in the mail by the end of the calendar year.Wright
 tried to impress upon committee members that KDOL was doing everything 
in its power to mitigate fraud and the claim backlog. Since his 
appointment, the department has brought in more than 100 temporary 
employees who are working around the clock, Wright said.“I
 know this is incredibly difficult for folks. These are family members, 
the people we go to church with and people who shop in grocery stores 
with,” Wright said. “We understand that. KDOL employees, there are some 
that literally work overnight. They’ve been working overnight for months
 now and then working weekends.”Legislators
 were dissatisfied with Wright’s responses. That dissatisfaction was 
amplified by Wright’s decision to present his report via Zoom rather 
than in person, as legislators requested.Sen.
 Richard Hildebrand, a Galena Republican, chose not to ask a question 
rather than deal with a non-answer or technological difficulties.Hildebrand
 had requested the meeting be moved to an executive session closed to 
the public to ask a question that pertained to KDOL’s fraud resolution 
plan.“At
 this point, instead of us just banging our head against the wall trying
 to hear what’s going on, I’ll withdraw my closed request,” Hildebrand 
said.

GOP legislators frustrated with response to unemployment problems

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 5,778 to a total of 179,803 the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 5,778 to a total of 179,803 the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 1,941 an increase of 85.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional numbers from the KDHE.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607537575086.png" alt="Wednesday Dec. 9, 2020 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday Dec. 9, 2020 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

RENO COUNTY— Authorities in Reno County have charges against a Kansas woman in connection with Dec. 5, fatality accident.

According to the Reno County District Attorney, Viola Rhodes, 31, Hutchinson, is charged with involuntary manslaughter, seven counts of aggravated battery while under the influence, DUI and illegal transportation of liquor.&nbsp;

According to the Reno County Sheriff, Rhodes was driving an SUV in the 3400 Block of South Yoder Road Saturday evening when she lost control of her vehicle and rolled it. 

Seven passengers&nbsp; in the vehicle were injured. One later died at the hospital.

If convicted, Rhodes could face more than five years in prison on the manslaughter charge due to a previous arrest for DUI that is currently under diversion. &nbsp;Each count of aggravated battery carries a maximum of two years in prison, according to the district attorney.

Rhodes asked for a reduction in her bond which was denied by the court. She remains jailed on bond of $200,000. Her next court appearance is set for January 13.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607530198056.jpeg" alt="Rhodes photo Reno Co." />
 <figcaption>Rhodes photo Reno Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY— Authorities in Reno County have charges against a Kansas woman in connection with Dec. 5, fatality accident.According to the Reno County District Attorney, Viola Rhodes, 31, Hutchinson, is charged with involuntary manslaughter, seven counts of aggravated battery while under the influence, DUI and illegal transportation of liquor.&nbsp;According to the Reno County Sheriff, Rhodes was driving an SUV in the 3400 Block of South Yoder Road Saturday evening when she lost control of her vehicle and rolled it. Seven passengers&nbsp; in the vehicle were injured. One later died at the hospital.If convicted, Rhodes could face more than five years in prison on the manslaughter charge due to a previous arrest for DUI that is currently under diversion. &nbsp;Each count of aggravated battery carries a maximum of two years in prison, according to the district attorney.Rhodes asked for a reduction in her bond which was denied by the court. She remains jailed on bond of $200,000. Her next court appearance is set for January 13.

Kan. woman charged in fatal SUV rollover accident

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The state school board is recommending that Kansas elementary schools continue in-person classes even if the spread of the coronavirus in their communities is so great that schools otherwise would close.

The State Board of Education on Tuesday updated its pandemic guidance, which many local school districts are following closely. The change comes after a surge in coronavirus cases across the state over the past month prompted some districts to return to online classes for many or all of their students.

Education Commissioner Randy Watson cited research showing younger students do not get as ill when infected. The state Department of Health and Environment reported that as of Monday, only 3.3% of the state’s 174,000 confirmed or probable cases and none of its more than 1,800 deaths for the pandemic were in children 9 years old or younger.

“The chance for the virus impacting elementary schools, both from a teacher and student standpoint, is so low that the risk of not being in school is higher than being in school,” Watson said.

The board&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cjonline.com/news/20201208/kansas-schools-now-allowed-to-petition-state-for-flexibility-from-key-mandate" target="_blank">also voted Tuesday</a>&nbsp;to allow local districts to subtract up to 20 hours of professional development for staff from required hours of classroom instruction.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The state school board is recommending that Kansas elementary schools continue in-person classes even if the spread of the coronavirus in their communities is so great that schools otherwise would close.The State Board of Education on Tuesday updated its pandemic guidance, which many local school districts are following closely. The change comes after a surge in coronavirus cases across the state over the past month prompted some districts to return to online classes for many or all of their students.Education Commissioner Randy Watson cited research showing younger students do not get as ill when infected. The state Department of Health and Environment reported that as of Monday, only 3.3% of the state’s 174,000 confirmed or probable cases and none of its more than 1,800 deaths for the pandemic were in children 9 years old or younger.“The chance for the virus impacting elementary schools, both from a teacher and student standpoint, is so low that the risk of not being in school is higher than being in school,” Watson said.The board&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cjonline.com/news/20201208/kansas-schools-now-allowed-to-petition-state-for-flexibility-from-key-mandate" target="_blank">also voted Tuesday</a>&nbsp;to allow local districts to subtract up to 20 hours of professional development for staff from required hours of classroom instruction.

Kansas school board: Continue in-person elementary classes

SEDGWICK COUNTY —The Kansas Geological Survey says an earthquake with an estimated magnitude of 2.6 rattled parts of Wichita just before 9a.m. Wednesday.

It is the fifth earthquake of 2.0 magnitude or more reported in the Wichita area in the last two weeks.&nbsp; No serious damage or injuries were reported after Tuesday's 3.3 magnitude quake.&nbsp;

The U.S. Geological Survey said Tuesday's quake hit in east Wichita, about 1.86 miles northeast of Eastborough&nbsp;near 21st and Rock Road.&nbsp; The Wednesday quake was centered just south of that location.

Other earthquakes were reported in the Wichita area on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 27 and Nov. 30.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607529261534.png" alt="Location of Wednesday's quake -KSGS image" />
 <figcaption>Location of Wednesday's quake -KSGS image</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —The Kansas Geological Survey says an earthquake with an estimated magnitude of 2.6 rattled parts of Wichita just before 9a.m. Wednesday.It is the fifth earthquake of 2.0 magnitude or more reported in the Wichita area in the last two weeks.&nbsp; No serious damage or injuries were reported after Tuesday's 3.3 magnitude quake.&nbsp;The U.S. Geological Survey said Tuesday's quake hit in east Wichita, about 1.86 miles northeast of Eastborough&nbsp;near 21st and Rock Road.&nbsp; The Wednesday quake was centered just south of that location.Other earthquakes were reported in the Wichita area on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 27 and Nov. 30.

Fifth minor earthquake in 2 weeks shakes Wichita

LONDON (AP) — British regulators warned Wednesday that people who have a history of serious allergic reactions shouldn’t receive the new Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine as they investigate two adverse reactions that occurred on the first day of the country’s mass vaccination program.

The U.K.’s Medical and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency is looking into whether the reactions were linked to the vaccine. The two people affected were staff members with the National Health Service who had a history of allergies, and both are recovering. Authorities have not specified what their reactions were.

In the meantime, the regulator has issued the warning for anyone who has had a significant allergic reaction to a vaccine, medicine or food. That includes anyone who has been told to carry an adrenaline shot or others who have had potentially fatal allergic reactions.

“As is common with new vaccines the MHRA have advised on a precautionary basis that people with a significant history of allergic reactions do not receive this vaccination after two people with a history of significant allergic reactions responded adversely yesterday,” Professor Stephen Powis, medical director for the NHS in England, said in a statement. “Both are recovering well.”

The medical regulatory agency also said vaccinations should not be carried out in facilities that don’t have resuscitation equipment.

Pfizer and BioNTech said they were working with investigators “to better understand each case and its causes.″

Late-stage trials of the vaccine found “no serious safety concerns,” the companies said. More than 42,000 people have received two doses of the shot during those trials.

“In the pivotal phase three clinical trial, this vaccine was generally well tolerated with no serious safety concerns reported by the independent Data Monitoring Committee,” the companies said.

Documents published by the two companies showed that people with a history of severe allergic reactions were excluded from the trials, and doctors were advised to look out for such reactions in trial participants who weren’t previously known to have severe allergies.

Even in non-emergency situations, health authorities must closely monitor new vaccines and medications because studies in tens of thousands of people can’t detect a rare risk that would affect 1 in 1 million.

Dr. Peter Openshaw, a professor of experimental medicine at Imperial College London, said there is a “very small” chance of an allergic reaction to any vaccine.

The MHRA last week gave emergency authorization to the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, making Britain the first country to allow its widespread use.

The U.K. began its mass vaccination program on Tuesday, offering the shot to people over 80, nursing home staff and some NHS workers. It’s not clear how many people have received the jab so far.

As part of its emergency authorization for the vaccine, the MHRA required healthcare workers to report any adverse reactions to help regulators gather more information about safety and effectiveness.

The agency is monitoring the vaccine rollout closely and “will now investigate these cases in more detail to understand if the allergic reactions were linked to the vaccine or were incidental,” he said. “The fact that we know so soon about these two allergic reactions and that the regulator has acted on this to issue precautionary advice shows that this monitoring system is working well.”

Dr. June Raine, head of the medical regulatory agency, informed a Parliamentary committee about the reactions during previously scheduled testimony on the pandemic.

“We know from the very extensive clinical trials that this wasn’t a feature” of the vaccine, she said. “But if we need to strengthen our advice, now that we have had this experience in the vulnerable populations, the groups who have been selected as a priority, we get that advice to the field immediately.”

LONDON (AP) — British regulators warned Wednesday that people who have a history of serious allergic reactions shouldn’t receive the new Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine as they investigate two adverse reactions that occurred on the first day of the country’s mass vaccination program.The U.K.’s Medical and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency is looking into whether the reactions were linked to the vaccine. The two people affected were staff members with the National Health Service who had a history of allergies, and both are recovering. Authorities have not specified what their reactions were.In the meantime, the regulator has issued the warning for anyone who has had a significant allergic reaction to a vaccine, medicine or food. That includes anyone who has been told to carry an adrenaline shot or others who have had potentially fatal allergic reactions.“As is common with new vaccines the MHRA have advised on a precautionary basis that people with a significant history of allergic reactions do not receive this vaccination after two people with a history of significant allergic reactions responded adversely yesterday,” Professor Stephen Powis, medical director for the NHS in England, said in a statement. “Both are recovering well.”The medical regulatory agency also said vaccinations should not be carried out in facilities that don’t have resuscitation equipment.Pfizer and BioNTech said they were working with investigators “to better understand each case and its causes.″Late-stage trials of the vaccine found “no serious safety concerns,” the companies said. More than 42,000 people have received two doses of the shot during those trials.“In the pivotal phase three clinical trial, this vaccine was generally well tolerated with no serious safety concerns reported by the independent Data Monitoring Committee,” the companies said.Documents published by the two companies showed that people with a history of severe allergic reactions were excluded from the trials, and doctors were advised to look out for such reactions in trial participants who weren’t previously known to have severe allergies.Even in non-emergency situations, health authorities must closely monitor new vaccines and medications because studies in tens of thousands of people can’t detect a rare risk that would affect 1 in 1 million.Dr. Peter Openshaw, a professor of experimental medicine at Imperial College London, said there is a “very small” chance of an allergic reaction to any vaccine.The MHRA last week gave emergency authorization to the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, making Britain the first country to allow its widespread use.The U.K. began its mass vaccination program on Tuesday, offering the shot to people over 80, nursing home staff and some NHS workers. It’s not clear how many people have received the jab so far.As part of its emergency authorization for the vaccine, the MHRA required healthcare workers to report any adverse reactions to help regulators gather more information about safety and effectiveness.The agency is monitoring the vaccine rollout closely and “will now investigate these cases in more detail to understand if the allergic reactions were linked to the vaccine or were incidental,” he said. “The fact that we know so soon about these two allergic reactions and that the regulator has acted on this to issue precautionary advice shows that this monitoring system is working well.”Dr. June Raine, head of the medical regulatory agency, informed a Parliamentary committee about the reactions during previously scheduled testimony on the pandemic.“We know from the very extensive clinical trials that this wasn’t a feature” of the vaccine, she said. “But if we need to strengthen our advice, now that we have had this experience in the vulnerable populations, the groups who have been selected as a priority, we get that advice to the field immediately.”___

Warning issued about Pfizer virus vaccine after patients fall ill

PASCAGOULA, Miss. (AP) — Investigators say DNA testing has identified a Missouri toddler whose body was found on a riverbank in Mississippi in 1982.

The child long known only as “Baby Jane” or “Delta Dawn” has been identified as 18-month-old Alisha Ann Heinrich. The sheriff of Jackson County, Mississippi, announced the child’s identity at a news conference Friday.

Sheriff Mike Ezell said a deputy found the girl's body on the bank of coastal Mississippi's Escatawpa River on Dec. 5, 1982.

Her mother, Gwendolyn Mae Clemons — sometimes also known as Gwendolyn Mae Clemons Heinrich — was a 23-year-old resident of Joplin, Missouri. She left home on Thanksgiving 1982 along with her baby daughter and a boyfriend, telling relatives that they planned to start a new life in Florida, Ezell said.

Clemons hasn’t been heard from since 1982, Ezell said. The man she was dating later returned to Missouri and is now deceased, he said. The sheriff did not release his name.

Not long after authorities found Baby Jane, former Jackson County Sheriff’s Deputy Virgil Moore and his wife asked to give her a proper burial since no one had claimed her body. The baby's body was exhumed from a cemetery in the county in 2009 so investigators could obtain DNA.

Authorities said the break came when the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received information needed to identify the child and her mother with the aid of Othram Inc., a Texas-based company specializing in DNA technology.

Orthrom determined the baby’s lineage through DNA testing and tracked down the child’s aunt and others relatives, which ultimately helped find her identity. Investigators traveled to speak with the mother’s family.

“They were still under the assumption that Alisha was alive and living somewhere but they were very thankful that after 38 years, the case was still being investigated,” FBI agent Joe Bignell said.

On Dec. 3, 1982, witnesses reported seeing a woman carrying a toddler along Mississippi Highway 63 and Interstate 10 in Jackson County. One person told investigators she was monitoring the CB radio that night when there was chatter about a woman with a child walking down the interstate in distress but refusing to let anyone help her.

Two days later, a truck driver called police to report seeing a woman's body in the Escatawpa River. A deputy responded and, while searching for the woman, found the baby's body.

Though authorities dredged for the woman's body, it was never found.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607514985706.png" alt="Image courtesy Jackson Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy Jackson Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>PASCAGOULA, Miss. (AP) — Investigators say DNA testing has identified a Missouri toddler whose body was found on a riverbank in Mississippi in 1982.The child long known only as “Baby Jane” or “Delta Dawn” has been identified as 18-month-old Alisha Ann Heinrich. The sheriff of Jackson County, Mississippi, announced the child’s identity at a news conference Friday.Sheriff Mike Ezell said a deputy found the girl's body on the bank of coastal Mississippi's Escatawpa River on Dec. 5, 1982.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607515115624.png" alt="Alisha Ann Heinrich-photo Jackson Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Alisha Ann Heinrich-photo Jackson Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>Her mother, Gwendolyn Mae Clemons — sometimes also known as Gwendolyn Mae Clemons Heinrich — was a 23-year-old resident of Joplin, Missouri. She left home on Thanksgiving 1982 along with her baby daughter and a boyfriend, telling relatives that they planned to start a new life in Florida, Ezell said.Clemons hasn’t been heard from since 1982, Ezell said. The man she was dating later returned to Missouri and is now deceased, he said. The sheriff did not release his name.Not long after authorities found Baby Jane, former Jackson County Sheriff’s Deputy Virgil Moore and his wife asked to give her a proper burial since no one had claimed her body. The baby's body was exhumed from a cemetery in the county in 2009 so investigators could obtain DNA.Authorities said the break came when the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received information needed to identify the child and her mother with the aid of Othram Inc., a Texas-based company specializing in DNA technology.Orthrom determined the baby’s lineage through DNA testing and tracked down the child’s aunt and others relatives, which ultimately helped find her identity. Investigators traveled to speak with the mother’s family.“They were still under the assumption that Alisha was alive and living somewhere but they were very thankful that after 38 years, the case was still being investigated,” FBI agent Joe Bignell said.On Dec. 3, 1982, witnesses reported seeing a woman carrying a toddler along Mississippi Highway 63 and Interstate 10 in Jackson County. One person told investigators she was monitoring the CB radio that night when there was chatter about a woman with a child walking down the interstate in distress but refusing to let anyone help her.Two days later, a truck driver called police to report seeing a woman's body in the Escatawpa River. A deputy responded and, while searching for the woman, found the baby's body.Though authorities dredged for the woman's body, it was never found.

DNA identifies Missouri toddler found in 1982

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Bar owners in Kansas’ largest city are challenging rules designed to slow the spread of COVID-19, hoping to use the courts to overturn a mask mandate, limits on public gatherings and an 11 p.m. closing time for bars and restaurants.

If the bar owners and others suing officials in Wichita and its home of Sedgwick County are successful, they would take the county back to business as it was before the coronavirus pandemic reached Kansas in early March.

The lawsuit is <a href="https://unmaskthetruths.org/?fbclid=IwAR0WnbX6M5ri0i5caaJe8Bjme6SdLq-9pCmFRBIPHDWQGSPKCwprfBbybA0">partially crowd-funded</a> by<a href="https://www.facebook.com/UnmasktheTruth7/?ref=page_internal"> “Unmask the Truths,”</a> a Facebook and web-based group of mask opponents. It was first filed in state district court in late November, but attorneys for both sides had it moved to federal court this month because the lawsuit alleges that pandemic rules violate the business owners’ rights to free speech and due legal process under the U.S. Constitution.

“A face mask has become a symbol of an attempt by the government to gain control of its citizenry,” the lawsuit claims. “Forcing them to wear face masks is forcing them to convey a message with which they disagree.”

The lawsuit was filed by 10 businesses, their owners and two other Sedgwick County residents who allege that their rights as citizens are violated.

Sedgwick County has the most reported confirmed and probable coronavirus cases of any of the state’s 105 counties, according the state Department of Health and Environment. It had nearly 31,000 cases for the pandemic as of Monday, or 60 for every 1,000 residents, with 172 reported COVID-19 deaths. It had more than 5,700 new cases during the two weeks ending Monday.

Wichita Mayor Brandon Whipple said the business owners are worried about their families and employees, “so I get it.”

“But the other thing too is we’ve got to be thinking mid- and long-term where stopping and slowing down the spread of COVID is vital to getting our economy back to normal again,” he said.

Kansas also has reported about 60 confirmed and probable coronavirus cases for every 1,000 residents since the pandemic began, for a total of more than 174,000 cases. It also has reported more than 5,500 hospitalizations and 1,856 deaths as of Monday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607513381435.png" alt="Photo courtesy <a href="https://unmaskthetruths.org/?fbclid=IwAR0WnbX6M5ri0i5caaJe8Bjme6SdLq-9pCmFRBIPHDWQGSPKCwprfBbybA0">Unmask the Truth</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy <a href="https://unmaskthetruths.org/?fbclid=IwAR0WnbX6M5ri0i5caaJe8Bjme6SdLq-9pCmFRBIPHDWQGSPKCwprfBbybA0">Unmask the Truth</a></figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Bar owners in Kansas’ largest city are challenging rules designed to slow the spread of COVID-19, hoping to use the courts to overturn a mask mandate, limits on public gatherings and an 11 p.m. closing time for bars and restaurants.If the bar owners and others suing officials in Wichita and its home of Sedgwick County are successful, they would take the county back to business as it was before the coronavirus pandemic reached Kansas in early March.The lawsuit is <a href="https://unmaskthetruths.org/?fbclid=IwAR0WnbX6M5ri0i5caaJe8Bjme6SdLq-9pCmFRBIPHDWQGSPKCwprfBbybA0">partially crowd-funded</a> by<a href="https://www.facebook.com/UnmasktheTruth7/?ref=page_internal"> “Unmask the Truths,”</a> a Facebook and web-based group of mask opponents. It was first filed in state district court in late November, but attorneys for both sides had it moved to federal court this month because the lawsuit alleges that pandemic rules violate the business owners’ rights to free speech and due legal process under the U.S. Constitution.“A face mask has become a symbol of an attempt by the government to gain control of its citizenry,” the lawsuit claims. “Forcing them to wear face masks is forcing them to convey a message with which they disagree.”The lawsuit was filed by 10 businesses, their owners and two other Sedgwick County residents who allege that their rights as citizens are violated.Sedgwick County has the most reported confirmed and probable coronavirus cases of any of the state’s 105 counties, according the state Department of Health and Environment. It had nearly 31,000 cases for the pandemic as of Monday, or 60 for every 1,000 residents, with 172 reported COVID-19 deaths. It had more than 5,700 new cases during the two weeks ending Monday.Wichita Mayor Brandon Whipple said the business owners are worried about their families and employees, “so I get it.”“But the other thing too is we’ve got to be thinking mid- and long-term where stopping and slowing down the spread of COVID is vital to getting our economy back to normal again,” he said.Kansas also has reported about 60 confirmed and probable coronavirus cases for every 1,000 residents since the pandemic began, for a total of more than 174,000 cases. It also has reported more than 5,500 hospitalizations and 1,856 deaths as of Monday.

Bar owners seek return to pre-pandemic rules in Kansas

BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman in connection with alleged child endangerment in Great Bend.

Just before noon Tuesday, deputies were at a home at 1212 Baker in Great Bend attempting to contact 36-year-old Audra Cross in reference to harboring a runaway case they were investigating, according to a media release.

Deputies were unable to make contact with anyone inside the residence. While on scene, another juvenile who had been reported as a runaway through the Great Bend Police Department, called his mother on the phone. The juvenile told his mother he was in the house and the police were outside. The mother of the juvenile contacted the Police Department and stated she was told by the juvenile he had a firearm and would use it. Officers with the Great Bend Police Department responded to assist.

Deputies were able to contact Cross over the phone and got her to come out of the residence. She advised law enforcement that Horacio Carrasco-Olivias, age 21, was also inside the residence. Carrasco-Olivias eventually exited the residence. Cross along with Carrasco-Olivias stated there was no one else inside the residence. Cross and Carrasco-Olivias were interviewed and left the area.

Officers were able to make contact by phone with the juvenile, who later came out of the residence. Officers learned the juvenile had been staying at the residence for several nights.

A short time later, deputies located Cross and Carrasco-Olivias in the area. Cross and Carrasco-Olivias were arrested for contributing to a child's misconduct. A search warrant was later obtained for the residence. Items belonging to the juvenile were located inside the residence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607514169350.png" alt="In November, police arrested Audra M. Cross on requested charges of distribution of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, no drug tax stamp and child endangerment, according to the Barton Co. Sheriff's Department." />
 <figcaption>In November, police arrested Audra M. Cross on requested charges of distribution of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, no drug tax stamp and child endangerment, according to the Barton Co. Sheriff's Department.</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman in connection with alleged child endangerment in Great Bend.Just before noon Tuesday, deputies were at a home at 1212 Baker in Great Bend attempting to contact 36-year-old Audra Cross in reference to harboring a runaway case they were investigating, according to a media release.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607469372650.jpeg" alt="Police on the scene of the standoff Tuesday -photo Great Bend Police" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the standoff Tuesday -photo Great Bend Police</figcaption>
 </figure>Deputies were unable to make contact with anyone inside the residence. While on scene, another juvenile who had been reported as a runaway through the Great Bend Police Department, called his mother on the phone. The juvenile told his mother he was in the house and the police were outside. The mother of the juvenile contacted the Police Department and stated she was told by the juvenile he had a firearm and would use it. Officers with the Great Bend Police Department responded to assist.Deputies were able to contact Cross over the phone and got her to come out of the residence. She advised law enforcement that Horacio Carrasco-Olivias, age 21, was also inside the residence. Carrasco-Olivias eventually exited the residence. Cross along with Carrasco-Olivias stated there was no one else inside the residence. Cross and Carrasco-Olivias were interviewed and left the area.Officers were able to make contact by phone with the juvenile, who later came out of the residence. Officers learned the juvenile had been staying at the residence for several nights.A short time later, deputies located Cross and Carrasco-Olivias in the area. Cross and Carrasco-Olivias were arrested for contributing to a child's misconduct. A search warrant was later obtained for the residence. Items belonging to the juvenile were located inside the residence.

Kansas woman arrested after standoff in Great Bend

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration dived back into Capitol Hill’s confusing COVID-19 negotiations, offering a $916 billion package to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi that would send a $600 direct payment to most Americans but eliminate a $300-per-week employment benefit favored by a bipartisan group of Senate negotiators.

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin made the offer to Pelosi late Tuesday afternoon, he said in a statement. He offered few details, though House GOP Leader Kevin McCarthy said it proposes the $600 direct payment for individuals and $1,200 for couples, which is half&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/61b3d38360745d64a98a2ab813501b13">the payment delivered by the March pandemic relief bill</a>.

Mnuchin reached out to Pelosi after a call with top congressional GOP leaders, including Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, who remains at odds with Democratic leaders over COVID-19 relief. Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., responded to Mnuchin’s entreaty with a statement that said they would prefer to let a bipartisan group take the lead.

The bipartisan group, led by Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia and GOP Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, among others, is seeking to rally lawmakers in both parties behind a $908 billion framework that includes a $300-per-week pandemic jobless benefit and $160 billion for states and local governments. It is more generous than a GOP plan that’s been filibustered twice already but far smaller than a wish list assembled by House Democrats.

McConnell had earlier proposed shelving a top Democratic priority — aid to state and local governments — in exchange for dropping his own pet provision, a shield against lawsuits for COVID-related negligence. Democrats angrily rejected the idea, saying McConnell was undermining the efforts of a bipartisan group of Senate negotiators and reneging on earlier statements that state and local aid would likely have to be an element of a COVID-19 relief agreement given Democratic control of the House.

The $916 billion Mnuchin offer, the separate ongoing talks among key rank-and-file senators, and the shifting demands by the White House all add up to muddled, confusing prospects for a long-delayed COVID-19 aid package. The pressure to deliver is intense — all sides say failure isn’t an option.

The Mnuchin plan resurrects direct payments that are popular with Trump and the public but that are disliked by many Republican lawmakers who say they are costly and send too much aid to people who do not need it. Democrats generally embrace the idea.

“Right now we’re targeting struggling families, failing businesses, health care workers and we don’t have a stimulus check to every single person, regardless of need,” said Collins.

McConnell said Congress will not adjourn without providing the long-overdue COVID-19 relief. He had previously said he would not put any pandemic relief bill on the floor that does not include the liability shield, which is being sought by businesses, universities, nonprofits, and others that are reopening during the pandemic.

“Leaving here without a COVID relief package cannot happen,” McConnell said. “Why don’t we set aside the two obviously most contentious issues. We know we’re going to be confronted with another request after the first of the year. We’ll live to fight those another day.”

Top Senate Democrat Schumer immediately rejected the entreaty, saying the state and local relief is sought by many Republicans, too, including some conservatives like Bill Cassidy of Louisiana and Mitt Romney of Utah. Pelosi blasted McConnell’s offer as an attempt to undercut the bipartisan group whose framework she supports as a foundation for the negotiations.

Pelosi initially demanded more than $900 billion for state and local governments this spring, but the fiscal situation in the states hasn’t been as bad as feared and Democratic leaders could be willing to accept a $160 billion proposal by the moderate group.

Already, Capitol Hill leaders are moving a government shutdown deadline to the end of next week, but progress is slow and key decisions are yet to be made. The House has scheduled a vote on a one-week temporary government funding bill for Wednesday. Without the measure, the government would shut down this weekend.

Separately, Pelosi and Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Richard Shelby, R-Ala., spoke by phone on Monday to try to kick start talks on a separate $1.4 trillion government-wide spending bill. That measure is held up over issues like protections for the sage grouse, the Census and accounting maneuvers being employed by lawmakers to squeeze $12 billion more into the legislation.

McConnell initially proposed a sweeping five-year liability shield, retroactive to December 2019, to protect companies and organizations from COVID-19-related lawsuits. Democrats, along with their allies in labor and civil rights groups, roundly dismissed that approach as a danger to workers. And there hasn’t been a wave of lawsuits.

“Contrary to the majority leader’s dire predictions, there has been no flood of COVID lawsuits. In fact, quite the opposite,” said Schumer, D-N.Y. “Far from the pandemic of lawsuits, there’s barely been a trickle.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601548046725.png" alt="Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin met with House Speaker Nancy&nbsp; Pelosi again Tuesday." />
 <figcaption>Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin met with House Speaker Nancy&nbsp; Pelosi again Tuesday.</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration dived back into Capitol Hill’s confusing COVID-19 negotiations, offering a $916 billion package to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi that would send a $600 direct payment to most Americans but eliminate a $300-per-week employment benefit favored by a bipartisan group of Senate negotiators.Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin made the offer to Pelosi late Tuesday afternoon, he said in a statement. He offered few details, though House GOP Leader Kevin McCarthy said it proposes the $600 direct payment for individuals and $1,200 for couples, which is half&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/61b3d38360745d64a98a2ab813501b13">the payment delivered by the March pandemic relief bill</a>.Mnuchin reached out to Pelosi after a call with top congressional GOP leaders, including Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, who remains at odds with Democratic leaders over COVID-19 relief. Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., responded to Mnuchin’s entreaty with a statement that said they would prefer to let a bipartisan group take the lead.The bipartisan group, led by Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia and GOP Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, among others, is seeking to rally lawmakers in both parties behind a $908 billion framework that includes a $300-per-week pandemic jobless benefit and $160 billion for states and local governments. It is more generous than a GOP plan that’s been filibustered twice already but far smaller than a wish list assembled by House Democrats.McConnell had earlier proposed shelving a top Democratic priority — aid to state and local governments — in exchange for dropping his own pet provision, a shield against lawsuits for COVID-related negligence. Democrats angrily rejected the idea, saying McConnell was undermining the efforts of a bipartisan group of Senate negotiators and reneging on earlier statements that state and local aid would likely have to be an element of a COVID-19 relief agreement given Democratic control of the House.The $916 billion Mnuchin offer, the separate ongoing talks among key rank-and-file senators, and the shifting demands by the White House all add up to muddled, confusing prospects for a long-delayed COVID-19 aid package. The pressure to deliver is intense — all sides say failure isn’t an option.The Mnuchin plan resurrects direct payments that are popular with Trump and the public but that are disliked by many Republican lawmakers who say they are costly and send too much aid to people who do not need it. Democrats generally embrace the idea.“Right now we’re targeting struggling families, failing businesses, health care workers and we don’t have a stimulus check to every single person, regardless of need,” said Collins.McConnell said Congress will not adjourn without providing the long-overdue COVID-19 relief. He had previously said he would not put any pandemic relief bill on the floor that does not include the liability shield, which is being sought by businesses, universities, nonprofits, and others that are reopening during the pandemic.“Leaving here without a COVID relief package cannot happen,” McConnell said. “Why don’t we set aside the two obviously most contentious issues. We know we’re going to be confronted with another request after the first of the year. We’ll live to fight those another day.”Top Senate Democrat Schumer immediately rejected the entreaty, saying the state and local relief is sought by many Republicans, too, including some conservatives like Bill Cassidy of Louisiana and Mitt Romney of Utah. Pelosi blasted McConnell’s offer as an attempt to undercut the bipartisan group whose framework she supports as a foundation for the negotiations.Pelosi initially demanded more than $900 billion for state and local governments this spring, but the fiscal situation in the states hasn’t been as bad as feared and Democratic leaders could be willing to accept a $160 billion proposal by the moderate group.Already, Capitol Hill leaders are moving a government shutdown deadline to the end of next week, but progress is slow and key decisions are yet to be made. The House has scheduled a vote on a one-week temporary government funding bill for Wednesday. Without the measure, the government would shut down this weekend.Separately, Pelosi and Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Richard Shelby, R-Ala., spoke by phone on Monday to try to kick start talks on a separate $1.4 trillion government-wide spending bill. That measure is held up over issues like protections for the sage grouse, the Census and accounting maneuvers being employed by lawmakers to squeeze $12 billion more into the legislation.McConnell initially proposed a sweeping five-year liability shield, retroactive to December 2019, to protect companies and organizations from COVID-19-related lawsuits. Democrats, along with their allies in labor and civil rights groups, roundly dismissed that approach as a danger to workers. And there hasn’t been a wave of lawsuits.“Contrary to the majority leader’s dire predictions, there has been no flood of COVID lawsuits. In fact, quite the opposite,” said Schumer, D-N.Y. “Far from the pandemic of lawsuits, there’s barely been a trickle.”

Latest virus relief plan offers direct payments, jobless benefit

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a series of armed robberies and have a third suspect in custody.

Just before 9p.m. Dec. 3, police responded to an armed robbery call at the Jumpstart, 3805 W. 21st&nbsp;Street North in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.

Upon arrival, officers contacted a store employee who reported two suspects entering the store and demanding cash while one suspect was armed with a rifle.

Cash was taken by the suspects, who then fled the store on foot.&nbsp; No one was injured.

Through the investigation of the Jumpstart robbery, investigators learned that Johnny Washington, 28; Antonio Martin, 26, and Cameron Burns, 28, were involved.&nbsp;

Police arrested Martin and Burns last week. On Monday police arrested Washington in Derby with the assistance of the Derby Police Department, according to Davidson.

Through further investigation, investigators learned Washington was involved in four additional armed robberies.

Washington is being held on requested charges that include five counts of aggravated robbery and one count of aggravated assault, stemming from robbery investigations beginning in July.&nbsp; &nbsp;Washington is also accused of aggravated battery domestic violence (DV) strangulation regarding an ongoing DV investigation and outstanding warrants.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607432018405.png" alt="Washington -photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Washington -photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a series of armed robberies and have a third suspect in custody.Just before 9p.m. Dec. 3, police responded to an armed robbery call at the Jumpstart, 3805 W. 21st&nbsp;Street North in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.Upon arrival, officers contacted a store employee who reported two suspects entering the store and demanding cash while one suspect was armed with a rifle.Cash was taken by the suspects, who then fled the store on foot.&nbsp; No one was injured.Through the investigation of the Jumpstart robbery, investigators learned that Johnny Washington, 28; Antonio Martin, 26, and Cameron Burns, 28, were involved.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607177871108.png" alt="Martin photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Martin photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Police arrested Martin and Burns last week. On Monday police arrested Washington in Derby with the assistance of the Derby Police Department, according to Davidson.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607177814900.png" alt="Burns-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Burns-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Through further investigation, investigators learned Washington was involved in four additional armed robberies.Washington is being held on requested charges that include five counts of aggravated robbery and one count of aggravated assault, stemming from robbery investigations beginning in July.&nbsp; &nbsp;Washington is also accused of aggravated battery domestic violence (DV) strangulation regarding an ongoing DV investigation and outstanding warrants.

Kan. man jailed for 5 armed robberies over 6-months

By BRIAN GRIMMETT <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/tricky-who-how-and-when-getting-kansans-covid-19-vaccinations">Kansas News Service</a>

WICHITA — The first of potentially several COVID-19 vaccines could get emergency approval by the end of the week.

But
 that major milestone is just the beginning of the work for local and 
state health departments in Kansas that will have to get the 
pandemic-stalling shots to people — and decide who gets it first, when 
and how.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment said 
trucks full of Pfizer’s coronavirus vaccine will ship this week to the 
five ultra-cold storage locations, including at the University of Kansas
 Health System hospital in Kansas City, Kansas.

“Which may mean we can begin vaccinating as early as Friday,” said Health System Chief Medical Officer Steve Stites.

But the logistic problems get more complicated from there.

Vaccinations
 might begin at the end of this week, but the state only expects to get 
23,750 doses in the first deliveries. That’s not enough to even 
vaccinate all of the people considered to be in Phase 1a of the 
distribution plan — doctors, nurses and other staff in direct contact 
with COVID patients. The state estimates that's about 35,000-40,000 
people, each needing two doses.

That means hospitals and clinics will have to make tough decisions about who is first in line.

“We’ve
 spent hours and hours and hours and hours and hours looking at how 
we’ll distribute the vaccine here internally and how we start 
identifying people,” Stites said.

In the state’s latest <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/284/COVID-19-Vaccine" target="_blank">vaccine plan</a>, Phase 1 will also include other highly vulnerable people, including nursing home residents.

As
 more vaccines become available, distribution will expand to other 
essential workers and at-risk populations in Phase 2, likely next 
spring. Then, as production ramps up more, the state will move to Phase 3
 sometime next summer and provide the vaccine to everybody.

But the exact order of who gets it and when remains still vague and an advisory group is hashing out those standards.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607453817117.png" alt=" Medical students and staff from the University of Missouri-Kansas City administer flu shots. Carlos Moreno / KCUR" />
 <figcaption> Medical students and staff from the University of Missouri-Kansas City administer flu shots. Carlos Moreno / KCUR</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRIAN GRIMMETT <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/tricky-who-how-and-when-getting-kansans-covid-19-vaccinations">Kansas News Service</a>WICHITA — The first of potentially several COVID-19 vaccines could get emergency approval by the end of the week.But
 that major milestone is just the beginning of the work for local and 
state health departments in Kansas that will have to get the 
pandemic-stalling shots to people — and decide who gets it first, when 
and how.The Kansas Department of Health and Environment said 
trucks full of Pfizer’s coronavirus vaccine will ship this week to the 
five ultra-cold storage locations, including at the University of Kansas
 Health System hospital in Kansas City, Kansas.“Which may mean we can begin vaccinating as early as Friday,” said Health System Chief Medical Officer Steve Stites.But the logistic problems get more complicated from there.Vaccinations
 might begin at the end of this week, but the state only expects to get 
23,750 doses in the first deliveries. That’s not enough to even 
vaccinate all of the people considered to be in Phase 1a of the 
distribution plan — doctors, nurses and other staff in direct contact 
with COVID patients. The state estimates that's about 35,000-40,000 
people, each needing two doses.That means hospitals and clinics will have to make tough decisions about who is first in line.“We’ve
 spent hours and hours and hours and hours and hours looking at how 
we’ll distribute the vaccine here internally and how we start 
identifying people,” Stites said.In the state’s latest <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/284/COVID-19-Vaccine" target="_blank">vaccine plan</a>, Phase 1 will also include other highly vulnerable people, including nursing home residents.As
 more vaccines become available, distribution will expand to other 
essential workers and at-risk populations in Phase 2, likely next 
spring. Then, as production ramps up more, the state will move to Phase 3
 sometime next summer and provide the vaccine to everybody.But the exact order of who gets it and when remains still vague and an advisory group is hashing out those standards.Some of those decisions could be politically fraught, especially when it comes to serving vulnerable populations.Statistics
 show that the coronavirus hit prisons particularly hard — after all, it
 can be hard to socially distance and hand sanitizer is banned because 
it’s made of alcohol. And there's a risk of the disease bouncing in and 
out of the prison, to the community and back. That makes inmates and 
guards good candidates to get the shots early.“But one could 
easily anticipate that there will be pushback if a state announces it’s 
going to focus one of its earliest phases of vaccination on prisons 
before it makes it available for the general population,” said R. Alta 
Charo, professor of law and bioethics at the University of Wisconsin.That’s just among the first challenges. The<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2019_20/committees/ctte_leg_budget_1/documents/testimony/20201201_04.pdf" target="_blank"> logistics of getting the vaccine</a> from manufacturer to patient present another hurdle.The
 first two likely approved vaccines need to be stored at temperatures 
ranging from -15 to -80 degrees Celsius. While the state doesn’t need to
 purchase extra or special freezers, getting the vaccine from storage 
into the hands of hospitals and clinics across the state, and ultimately
 into Kansans, is extremely complex.The Pfizer vaccine, for 
example, can be stored for up to six months at one of the state’s five 
ultra-cold freezer storage locations.But to leave the ultra-cold
 storage facility and get to individual clinics, it will need to be 
packed in special containers filled with dry ice. Those thermal 
containers can keep the vaccine at a safe temperature for up to five 
days.When a clinic is ready to administer the vaccine, workers 
will thaw it, dilute it and place it in a syringe, which has to be used 
within six hours.Get any of those steps wrong and the vaccine becomes ineffective and has to be thrown out.Phil
 Griffin, KDHE’s deputy director of disease control and prevention, said
 the state has lots of experience with vaccines and is confident it can 
safely and effectively distribute COVID vaccines much like it does with 
so many others.But even once the state knows who should get it, when, and how, there are still more hurdles.“A vaccine is only a vaccine," Griffin said. “It’s the vaccination that really matters.”So,
 how do you convince millions of people, spread out over the whole 
state, with varying access to information, to go get a vaccine?“One
 of the things we talk a lot about is how we can really push the vaccine
 out versus trying to pull people to a vaccine location,” said Alice 
Weingartner, the chief strategy officer with the <a href="https://www.communitycareks.org/overview/#" target="_blank">Community Care Network of Kansas</a> — more than 40 clinics serving vulnerable and hard-to-reach populations.In
 addition to COVID vaccine-specific events, the clinics will also push 
for patients to get the vaccine at normal routine visits to the office.Weingartner
 said it will require a lot of effort and communication from public 
health officials to convince those skeptical of the vaccine of its 
usefulness and that it’s the best tool to beat the pandemic.“Once
 the ball gets rolling, we’ll be in good shape,” she said. “And we’ll 
see people become very positive and accepting of this.”Brian
 Grimmett reports on the environment, energy and natural resources for 
KMUW in Wichita and the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on 
Twitter @briangrimmett or email him at grimmett@kmuw.org.