SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man on drug charges after a traffic stop in Salina.

Just after 11p.m. Wednesday,&nbsp;a police officer observed a Hyundai Sonata turn south onto North Ninth Street from West Diamond Drive in Salina, according to Police Captain Paul Forrester

The driver made an improper turn and failed to signal and the officer made a traffic stop at the Pilot Travel Center, 1944 North Ninth Street.

The officer detected the odor of raw marijuana, asked to search the car, and was given permission to do so by the driver identified Kevin Odom, 60, of Deland, Florida.

 During the search, the officer located&nbsp; six medicine bottles containing a total of 21 grams of marijuana and 24 vaccuum-sealed packages of marijuana weighing a total of just under 14 pounds, according to Forrester.

Police arrested Odom on requested charges that include Possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute; greater than 450 grams and less than 30 kilograms No drug tax stamp Possession of drug paraphernalia, Failure to signal and Improper turn.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590673336442.jpeg" alt="Kevin Odom-Photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Kevin Odom-Photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man on drug charges after a traffic stop in Salina.Just after 11p.m. Wednesday,&nbsp;a police officer observed a Hyundai Sonata turn south onto North Ninth Street from West Diamond Drive in Salina, according to Police Captain Paul ForresterThe driver made an improper turn and failed to signal and the officer made a traffic stop at the Pilot Travel Center, 1944 North Ninth Street.The officer detected the odor of raw marijuana, asked to search the car, and was given permission to do so by the driver identified Kevin Odom, 60, of Deland, Florida. During the search, the officer located&nbsp; six medicine bottles containing a total of 21 grams of marijuana and 24 vaccuum-sealed packages of marijuana weighing a total of just under 14 pounds, according to Forrester.Police arrested Odom on requested charges that include Possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute; greater than 450 grams and less than 30 kilograms No drug tax stamp Possession of drug paraphernalia, Failure to signal and Improper turn.

Police: Florida man driving with 14-pounds of pot in Kansas

KANSAS CITY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and continue to search for the suspect who may have forced a woman to drive him from the crime scene.

Just before 6:30p.m.Thursday, police were dispatched to a shooting in the 4700 Block of State Avenue, according to police spokesperson Nancy Chartrand.

Upon arrival, officers found a black male in his early 40s in the parking lot of the parking lot of the Royal Inn. EMS transported him to a local hospital in critical condition.

Investigators believe the person of interest identified as&nbsp; 39-year-old Matthew R. Walker 'Love"&nbsp;left the area in a&nbsp; 1993 teal and silver, Chevy Suburban with Kansas Tag 690KRE. The vehicle has plastic covering the rear passenger and side window.

Police believe Walker forced the driver of the suburban at gunpoint to drive him from the crime scene, according to Chartrand. The driver, victim is identified as 34-year-old Candi Hunter.

Walker described as 6-foot-1, 260 pounds and should be considered armed and dangerous.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590678585970.png" alt="Walker-photo KCK police" />
 <figcaption>Walker-photo KCK police</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and continue to search for the suspect who may have forced a woman to drive him from the crime scene.Just before 6:30p.m.Thursday, police were dispatched to a shooting in the 4700 Block of State Avenue, according to police spokesperson Nancy Chartrand.Upon arrival, officers found a black male in his early 40s in the parking lot of the parking lot of the Royal Inn. EMS transported him to a local hospital in critical condition.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590678748041.png" alt="Actual vehicle -photo KCK police" />
 <figcaption>Actual vehicle -photo KCK police</figcaption>
 </figure>Investigators believe the person of interest identified as&nbsp; 39-year-old Matthew R. Walker 'Love"&nbsp;left the area in a&nbsp; 1993 teal and silver, Chevy Suburban with Kansas Tag 690KRE. The vehicle has plastic covering the rear passenger and side window.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590678803686.png" alt="Candi Hunter photo KCK police" />
 <figcaption>Candi Hunter photo KCK police</figcaption>
 </figure>Police believe Walker forced the driver of the suburban at gunpoint to drive him from the crime scene, according to Chartrand. The driver, victim is identified as 34-year-old Candi Hunter.Walker described as 6-foot-1, 260 pounds and should be considered armed and dangerous.

Police: Kan. woman forced to drive gunman from crime scene

The 36 deaths at Riverbend account for half the COVID-19-related deaths in Wyandotte Co.

By DAN MARGOLIES <a href="https://www.kcur.org/health/2020-05-27/at-least-8-lawsuits-are-now-pending-against-kansas-city-kansas-rehab-facility-over-covid-19-deaths">Kansas News Service</a>

At least eight lawsuits have now been filed against Riverbend Post-Acute Rehabilitation, the Kansas City, Kansas, nursing home <a href="https://wyandotte-county-covid-19-hub-unifiedgov.hub.arcgis.com/" target="_blank">where 132 patients and staff have tested positive for COVID-19</a> and 36 have died.

Attorneys
 representing the nursing home on Tuesday transferred all eight cases to
 federal court in Kansas City, Kansas. They had originally been filed in
 Wyandotte County District Court.

Defendants are allowed to move 
civil actions from state to federal court if there’s a basis for federal
 jurisdiction. In all eight cases, Riverbend’s attorneys invoked the 
federal Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act, a law that 
authorizes the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human 
Services to issue a declaration in response to a public health 
emergency.

Such a declaration provides immunity from liability to 
health care providers who prescribe and administer medications and other
 measures amid public health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Rachel
 Stahle, an attorney who represents families in four of the eight cases,
 said she will seek to have the cases sent back to state court.

“This happened in Wyandotte County and should be heard in Wyandotte County by Wyandotte County jurors,” she said.

Riverbend’s attorneys did not return calls seeking comment.

The
 eight wrongful-death lawsuits were filed on behalf of patients who died
 at Riverbend. In general, they allege that the nursing home was 
negligent in how it handled the spread of the coronavirus, that it 
lacked adequate staff and that it failed to notify the families of the 
outbreak.

<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-04-23/first-lawsuit-filed-against-kansas-city-kansas-rehab-facility-over-covid-19-death" target="_blank">The first lawsuit was filed on April 28</a>
 by the wife and daughter of Okey Long, an 87-year-old retired barber 
who died on April 17. The other lawsuits were filed in the following 
days by family members of other residents who were said to have died of 
COVID-19.

The 36 deaths at Riverbend account for half the COVID-19-related deaths in Wyandotte County.

On April 26, <a href="https://riverbendkansascity.com/covid-19-update/" target="_blank">Riverbend posted a statement on its website</a> offering its condolences to the families and friends of residents who died of COVID-19.

“Given
 the novel nature of the virus and the ability of asymptomatic 
individuals to unknowingly infect others, we believe our team took 
reasonable actions with the resources and information available to us at
 the time,” the statement reads.

“Now, to second guess those on 
the front lines battling a mysterious virus who were doing what they 
could to save lives, just doesn’t feel like a path to justice,” the 
statement says. "If that is the route we choose to take, then skilled 
nursing facilities all across the country will be facing a new crisis 
that threatens the industry’s ability to minister to those in need of 
the care and services it provides.”

As of May 21, at least 7,732 
long-term care facilities in 43 states were reporting 174,381 infections
 and 35,118 deaths, or 42% of all U.S. deaths attributed to COVID-19, <a href="https://www.kff.org/health-costs/issue-brief/state-data-and-policy-actions-to-address-coronavirus/" target="_blank">according to the Kaiser Family Foundation</a>.

Riverbend
 is indirectly owned by The Ensign Group, a publicly traded company 
based in Mission Viejo, California. The company owns about 225 assisted 
living, skilled nursing and rehabilitative care facilities in 13 states.
 It acquired the Kansas City, Kansas, facility in 2016.

In 2019, The Ensign Group earned more than $110 million on revenues of more than $2 billion. <a href="https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1125376/000112537620000076/ensg-20200331.htm" target="_blank">In its most recent quarterly filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission</a>,
 the company said it expected to receive nearly $40 million in federal 
funds under the CARES Act, the $2.2 trillion relief package passed by 
Congress to help prop up health care providers and other businesses amid
 the pandemic.

Dan Margolies is senior reporter and editor at KCUR. He can be reached by email at dan@kcur.org or on Twitter @DanMargolies.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590675954803.png" alt="Riverbend Post-Acute Rehabilitation is indirectly owned by The Ensign Group, a California-based operator of long-term care facilities in 13 states. Julie Denesha / KCUR" />
 <figcaption>Riverbend Post-Acute Rehabilitation is indirectly owned by The Ensign Group, a California-based operator of long-term care facilities in 13 states. Julie Denesha / KCUR</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The 36 deaths at Riverbend account for half the COVID-19-related deaths in Wyandotte Co.</h2>By DAN MARGOLIES <a href="https://www.kcur.org/health/2020-05-27/at-least-8-lawsuits-are-now-pending-against-kansas-city-kansas-rehab-facility-over-covid-19-deaths">Kansas News Service</a>At least eight lawsuits have now been filed against Riverbend Post-Acute Rehabilitation, the Kansas City, Kansas, nursing home <a href="https://wyandotte-county-covid-19-hub-unifiedgov.hub.arcgis.com/" target="_blank">where 132 patients and staff have tested positive for COVID-19</a> and 36 have died.Attorneys
 representing the nursing home on Tuesday transferred all eight cases to
 federal court in Kansas City, Kansas. They had originally been filed in
 Wyandotte County District Court.Defendants are allowed to move 
civil actions from state to federal court if there’s a basis for federal
 jurisdiction. In all eight cases, Riverbend’s attorneys invoked the 
federal Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act, a law that 
authorizes the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human 
Services to issue a declaration in response to a public health 
emergency.Such a declaration provides immunity from liability to 
health care providers who prescribe and administer medications and other
 measures amid public health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic.Rachel
 Stahle, an attorney who represents families in four of the eight cases,
 said she will seek to have the cases sent back to state court.“This happened in Wyandotte County and should be heard in Wyandotte County by Wyandotte County jurors,” she said.Riverbend’s attorneys did not return calls seeking comment.The
 eight wrongful-death lawsuits were filed on behalf of patients who died
 at Riverbend. In general, they allege that the nursing home was 
negligent in how it handled the spread of the coronavirus, that it 
lacked adequate staff and that it failed to notify the families of the 
outbreak.<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-04-23/first-lawsuit-filed-against-kansas-city-kansas-rehab-facility-over-covid-19-death" target="_blank">The first lawsuit was filed on April 28</a>
 by the wife and daughter of Okey Long, an 87-year-old retired barber 
who died on April 17. The other lawsuits were filed in the following 
days by family members of other residents who were said to have died of 
COVID-19.The 36 deaths at Riverbend account for half the COVID-19-related deaths in Wyandotte County.On April 26, <a href="https://riverbendkansascity.com/covid-19-update/" target="_blank">Riverbend posted a statement on its website</a> offering its condolences to the families and friends of residents who died of COVID-19.“Given
 the novel nature of the virus and the ability of asymptomatic 
individuals to unknowingly infect others, we believe our team took 
reasonable actions with the resources and information available to us at
 the time,” the statement reads.“Now, to second guess those on 
the front lines battling a mysterious virus who were doing what they 
could to save lives, just doesn’t feel like a path to justice,” the 
statement says. "If that is the route we choose to take, then skilled 
nursing facilities all across the country will be facing a new crisis 
that threatens the industry’s ability to minister to those in need of 
the care and services it provides.”As of May 21, at least 7,732 
long-term care facilities in 43 states were reporting 174,381 infections
 and 35,118 deaths, or 42% of all U.S. deaths attributed to COVID-19, <a href="https://www.kff.org/health-costs/issue-brief/state-data-and-policy-actions-to-address-coronavirus/" target="_blank">according to the Kaiser Family Foundation</a>.Riverbend
 is indirectly owned by The Ensign Group, a publicly traded company 
based in Mission Viejo, California. The company owns about 225 assisted 
living, skilled nursing and rehabilitative care facilities in 13 states.
 It acquired the Kansas City, Kansas, facility in 2016.In 2019, The Ensign Group earned more than $110 million on revenues of more than $2 billion. <a href="https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1125376/000112537620000076/ensg-20200331.htm" target="_blank">In its most recent quarterly filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission</a>,
 the company said it expected to receive nearly $40 million in federal 
funds under the CARES Act, the $2.2 trillion relief package passed by 
Congress to help prop up health care providers and other businesses amid
 the pandemic.Dan Margolies is senior reporter and editor at KCUR. He can be reached by email at dan@kcur.org or on Twitter @DanMargolies.&nbsp;

Lawsuits pile up against rehab facility linked to virus deaths

By CELIA LLOPIS-JEPSEN <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-05-26/expert-tip-sheet-for-pushing-back-against-your-medical-bills">Kansas News Service</a>

Got a medical bill that seems too high? First step: Ask if there’s been a mistake. Next step, fight back.

The tips below come from a dozen experts in law, medical billing and patient advocacy.

They
 agreed on many points, including this frustrating one: None of these 
strategies is guaranteed to make a big — even blatantly excessive — 
medical bill go away. They represent a scattershot approach for people 
with urgent bills now — who can’t sit around and <a href="https://khn.org/news/analysis-who-profits-from-steep-medical-bills-the-people-tasked-with-fixing-them/" target="_blank">wait for Congress</a> to pass reforms to medical billing.

‘Don’t just let the bills pile up and don’t just ignore them.’

<a href="https://business.lehigh.edu/directory/george-nation-iii" target="_blank">George Nation</a>,
 a professor of law and business at Lehigh University, says your biller 
can argue later that you never contested the charge and essentially 
admitted you owe it.

“Put in writing (to them) that you’re 
contesting the bill, that you’re saying it’s unreasonable,” he says. 
“That it’s too high and that you would like to discuss how they came 
about this amount and what a reasonable amount would be.”

You don’t necessarily owe what the biller says you owe.

You
 got an appendectomy. The folks at the hospital deserve to get paid. But
 how much? They asked you in advance to sign a form that might look <a href="https://www.kcur.org/sites/kcur/files/AirMedFlightAuthorization_Redacted.pdf" target="_blank">something like this</a>, effectively promising to pay the eventual bill. But they didn’t give you a price.

Duke University professor of law and business administration <a href="https://law.duke.edu/fac/richman/" target="_blank">Barak Richman</a> says that’s an <a href="https://khn.org/news/one-defensive-strategy-against-surprise-medical-bills-set-your-own-terms/" target="_blank">incomplete contract</a>. So you can push back if the bill is outrageous.

“They are not allowed to extract an extraordinary price based on a contract that leaves no price specified,” he says.

Investigate the market value of your care.

Under contract law, the justifiable price in this situation is market value, professors like Richman and Nation say.

So
 you want to know the market value for a treatment or procedure — what 
hospitals normally get paid for, say, an MRI in your area. What price do
 they agree to with insurers when they strike in-network deals?

Some websites help you explore the going rate near you. Check out the <a href="https://healthcostinstitute.org/data#g-mainbottom" target="_blank">Health Care Cost Institute</a> and its <a href="https://www.guroo.com/" target="_blank">Guroo</a> site. Try <a href="https://www.healthcarebluebook.com/ui/consumerfront" target="_blank">Healthcare Bluebook</a> and <a href="https://www.fairhealthconsumer.org/" target="_blank">FAIR Health</a>. Check what <a href="https://www.medicare.gov/procedure-price-lookup/" target="_blank">Medicare</a> would pay, too.

Then call your biller and negotiate.

“People should come armed with various data points,” says <a href="https://khn.org/news/author/elisabeth-rosenthal/" target="_blank">Elisabeth Rosenthal</a>, a physician-turned-journalist and editor-in-chief of Kaiser Health News.

“I
 tend to like Medicare rates because that’s a rate that has been 
calculated as being fair and including a profit for the provider,” she 
says. “Say, ‘I got a bill for $30,000. I see Medicare would pay $6,000. I
 will give you that. Or I will set up a payment plan for that.’”

Many
 providers say Medicare underpays, she adds. So you might need to up 
your offer to 150% or 200% of Medicare. It may still be a lot less than 
your bill.

Your hospital 
(especially if it’s a not-for-profit) may have financial aid options 
that apply to you, or discounts for paying cash.

But you may need to ask and ask again. As Kaiser Health News found, staff <a href="https://khn.org/news/patients-eligible-for-charity-care-instead-get-big-bills/" target="_blank">don’t always bring it up</a>.

Did you ever get an itemized list of charges?

Ask
 for it. Hospitals and doctors deal with so many patients that people 
sometimes get charged for services they didn’t receive, or a wrong 
billing code slips in. (Check out Rosenthal’s own <a href="https://khn.org/news/analysis-in-medical-billing-fraudulent-charges-weirdly-pass-as-legal/" target="_blank">deep dive</a> into her family’s medical bills.)

Don’t settle for a vague list of categories with subtotals next to each. Experts say you’ll want the itemized version
 to scour for errors or questionable prices. If the biller won’t give 
you that, one advocate recommended telling your state attorney general.

...to your insurer, your doctor, your congressman, your senators. Don’t forget you have a <a href="https://insurance.kansas.gov/complaint/" target="_blank">state insurance commissioner</a>. Federal laws limit their ability to help with some situations, but it’s worth asking.

File
 an appeal to your insurer. That could clear things up, for example, by 
getting your doctor to help show your care was necessary. Or, try your 
employer.

“Employers have a lot of sway with their health plans,” says <a href="https://altarum.org/experts/lynn-quincy" target="_blank">Lynn Quincy</a>,
 director of the Healthcare Value Hub at Altarum. “A lot of times the 
employer can weigh in on behalf of the employee and say, ‘We want this 
to be covered.’”

For 
smaller amounts, if you suspect you’re being overbilled, consider 
challenging it in small claims court. Rules vary by state. <a href="https://www.kansaslegalservices.org/node/103/small-claims-court-basic-information" target="_blank">Here’s a few basics</a> for Kansans.

Listen to this episode of <a href="https://khn.org/news/an-arm-and-a-leg-can-they-freaking-do-that/" target="_blank">An Arm and a Leg Show</a> to hear how patients take their claims to court. The whole thing is a great listen, but if you’re in a hurry, fast-forward to 13:30.

If
 an outrageous bill still won’t go away, you may need a patient advocate
 or a lawyer. That can cost money, so small bills may not be worth it.

Kansans can call the Kansas Bar Association for <a href="https://www.ksbar.org/page/LRS_Public" target="_blank">lawyer referral</a> or for $2-a-minute <a href="https://www.ksbar.org/page/LRS_AskALawyer" target="_blank">legal advice</a>.

Patient advocates work independently or with <a href="https://www.patientadvocate.org/connect-with-services/faq/" target="_blank">nonprofit groups</a>. Give <a href="https://advoconnection.com/" target="_blank">this directory</a> a try or head over to Google.

This story is part of our series, <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-05-26/a-kansans-50k-medical-bill-shows-that-you-dont-always-owe-what-youre-charged" target="_blank">Bills of Health</a>. Got a medical bill you want to share with a reporter? Email celia@kcur.org.

Celia Llopis-Jepsen reports on consumer health and education for the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Celia_LJ" target="_blank">@Celia_LJ</a>
 or email her at celia@kcur.org. The Kansas News Service is a
 collaboration of KCUR, Kansas Public Radio, KMUW and High Plains Public
 Radio focused on health, the social determinants of health and their 
connection to public policy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590586105189.png" alt="Scott Canon / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Scott Canon / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By CELIA LLOPIS-JEPSEN <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-05-26/expert-tip-sheet-for-pushing-back-against-your-medical-bills">Kansas News Service</a>Got a medical bill that seems too high? First step: Ask if there’s been a mistake. Next step, fight back.The tips below come from a dozen experts in law, medical billing and patient advocacy.They
 agreed on many points, including this frustrating one: None of these 
strategies is guaranteed to make a big — even blatantly excessive — 
medical bill go away. They represent a scattershot approach for people 
with urgent bills now — who can’t sit around and <a href="https://khn.org/news/analysis-who-profits-from-steep-medical-bills-the-people-tasked-with-fixing-them/" target="_blank">wait for Congress</a> to pass reforms to medical billing.‘Don’t just let the bills pile up and don’t just ignore them.’<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590585629957.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://business.lehigh.edu/directory/george-nation-iii" target="_blank">George Nation</a>,
 a professor of law and business at Lehigh University, says your biller 
can argue later that you never contested the charge and essentially 
admitted you owe it.“Put in writing (to them) that you’re 
contesting the bill, that you’re saying it’s unreasonable,” he says. 
“That it’s too high and that you would like to discuss how they came 
about this amount and what a reasonable amount would be.”You don’t necessarily owe what the biller says you owe.You
 got an appendectomy. The folks at the hospital deserve to get paid. But
 how much? They asked you in advance to sign a form that might look <a href="https://www.kcur.org/sites/kcur/files/AirMedFlightAuthorization_Redacted.pdf" target="_blank">something like this</a>, effectively promising to pay the eventual bill. But they didn’t give you a price.Duke University professor of law and business administration <a href="https://law.duke.edu/fac/richman/" target="_blank">Barak Richman</a> says that’s an <a href="https://khn.org/news/one-defensive-strategy-against-surprise-medical-bills-set-your-own-terms/" target="_blank">incomplete contract</a>. So you can push back if the bill is outrageous.“They are not allowed to extract an extraordinary price based on a contract that leaves no price specified,” he says.Investigate the market value of your care.Under contract law, the justifiable price in this situation is market value, professors like Richman and Nation say.So
 you want to know the market value for a treatment or procedure — what 
hospitals normally get paid for, say, an MRI in your area. What price do
 they agree to with insurers when they strike in-network deals?Some websites help you explore the going rate near you. Check out the <a href="https://healthcostinstitute.org/data#g-mainbottom" target="_blank">Health Care Cost Institute</a> and its <a href="https://www.guroo.com/" target="_blank">Guroo</a> site. Try <a href="https://www.healthcarebluebook.com/ui/consumerfront" target="_blank">Healthcare Bluebook</a> and <a href="https://www.fairhealthconsumer.org/" target="_blank">FAIR Health</a>. Check what <a href="https://www.medicare.gov/procedure-price-lookup/" target="_blank">Medicare</a> would pay, too.Then call your biller and negotiate.“People should come armed with various data points,” says <a href="https://khn.org/news/author/elisabeth-rosenthal/" target="_blank">Elisabeth Rosenthal</a>, a physician-turned-journalist and editor-in-chief of Kaiser Health News.“I
 tend to like Medicare rates because that’s a rate that has been 
calculated as being fair and including a profit for the provider,” she 
says. “Say, ‘I got a bill for $30,000. I see Medicare would pay $6,000. I
 will give you that. Or I will set up a payment plan for that.’”Many
 providers say Medicare underpays, she adds. So you might need to up 
your offer to 150% or 200% of Medicare. It may still be a lot less than 
your bill.Discounts and charity.Your hospital 
(especially if it’s a not-for-profit) may have financial aid options 
that apply to you, or discounts for paying cash.But you may need to ask and ask again. As Kaiser Health News found, staff <a href="https://khn.org/news/patients-eligible-for-charity-care-instead-get-big-bills/" target="_blank">don’t always bring it up</a>.Did you ever get an itemized list of charges?Ask
 for it. Hospitals and doctors deal with so many patients that people 
sometimes get charged for services they didn’t receive, or a wrong 
billing code slips in. (Check out Rosenthal’s own <a href="https://khn.org/news/analysis-in-medical-billing-fraudulent-charges-weirdly-pass-as-legal/" target="_blank">deep dive</a> into her family’s medical bills.)Don’t settle for a vague list of categories with subtotals next to each. Experts say you’ll want the itemized version
 to scour for errors or questionable prices. If the biller won’t give 
you that, one advocate recommended telling your state attorney general.Complain, complain, complain......to your insurer, your doctor, your congressman, your senators. Don’t forget you have a <a href="https://insurance.kansas.gov/complaint/" target="_blank">state insurance commissioner</a>. Federal laws limit their ability to help with some situations, but it’s worth asking.File
 an appeal to your insurer. That could clear things up, for example, by 
getting your doctor to help show your care was necessary. Or, try your 
employer.“Employers have a lot of sway with their health plans,” says <a href="https://altarum.org/experts/lynn-quincy" target="_blank">Lynn Quincy</a>,
 director of the Healthcare Value Hub at Altarum. “A lot of times the 
employer can weigh in on behalf of the employee and say, ‘We want this 
to be covered.’”How about small claims court?For 
smaller amounts, if you suspect you’re being overbilled, consider 
challenging it in small claims court. Rules vary by state. <a href="https://www.kansaslegalservices.org/node/103/small-claims-court-basic-information" target="_blank">Here’s a few basics</a> for Kansans.Listen to this episode of <a href="https://khn.org/news/an-arm-and-a-leg-can-they-freaking-do-that/" target="_blank">An Arm and a Leg Show</a> to hear how patients take their claims to court. The whole thing is a great listen, but if you’re in a hurry, fast-forward to 13:30.Get someone on your sideIf
 an outrageous bill still won’t go away, you may need a patient advocate
 or a lawyer. That can cost money, so small bills may not be worth it.Kansans can call the Kansas Bar Association for <a href="https://www.ksbar.org/page/LRS_Public" target="_blank">lawyer referral</a> or for $2-a-minute <a href="https://www.ksbar.org/page/LRS_AskALawyer" target="_blank">legal advice</a>.Patient advocates work independently or with <a href="https://www.patientadvocate.org/connect-with-services/faq/" target="_blank">nonprofit groups</a>. Give <a href="https://advoconnection.com/" target="_blank">this directory</a> a try or head over to Google.This story is part of our series, <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-05-26/a-kansans-50k-medical-bill-shows-that-you-dont-always-owe-what-youre-charged" target="_blank">Bills of Health</a>. Got a medical bill you want to share with a reporter? Email celia@kcur.org.Celia Llopis-Jepsen reports on consumer health and education for the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Celia_LJ" target="_blank">@Celia_LJ</a>
 or email her at celia@kcur.org. The Kansas News Service is a
 collaboration of KCUR, Kansas Public Radio, KMUW and High Plains Public
 Radio focused on health, the social determinants of health and their 
connection to public policy.

Expert tip sheet for pushing back against your medical bills

MISSION, Kan. (AP) — Public pools will look very different this summer if they open at all with the coronavirus threat still looming, as staffers will be tasked with maintaining social distancing and spotting COVID-19 symptoms in addition to their primary duties.

Pools that do plan to open will take precautions, including screening temperatures on entry, requiring lifeguards to wear masks and significantly reducing the number of swimmers allowed in the water and locker rooms, said Dr. Justin Sempsrott, the medical director for the lifeguard certification program Starguard Elite and executive director of Lifeguards Without Borders, which works to reduce drownings worldwide.

“It’s definitely not going to be business as usual this season,” he said.

Amid the uncertainty, sales of inflatable pools that cost less than $150 have increased by 165% over the seven-week period that began March 15, compared with the same period last year, according to NPD Group, a data and consulting firm. Meanwhile, most of the people who were planning to install in-ground pools in their yards before the COVID-19 shutdown caused economic havoc have decided to proceed, said Sabeena Hickman, the CEO of the Pool &amp; Hot Tub Alliance, an industry trade group, which reached out to the country’s top 25 residential pool builders.

“It appears as if a lot of people are looking for pools and hot tubs for staycations,” she said. “We are anticipating that it will be a strong season for backyard pools.”

Walmart reported an uptick in the sales of pools and swimming gear such as foam noodles, and Bass Pro Shops said more people have been buying fishing gear and kayaks, though neither company provided specifics.

“If there is a bright spot in this horrible COVID-19 tragedy, it’s the unprecedented interest from fathers, mothers, grandparents, aunts and uncles all wanting to take their family out to enjoy nature,” said Johnny Morris, Bass Pro Shops’ founder and CEO.

Properly chlorinated pools can kill the virus, but youngsters splashing around together could be unwittingly spreading it without knowing they are infected, said Sempsrott, who is also an emergency room doctor in Boise, Idaho, who has treated COVID-19 patients.

Some pool operators have decided to delay opening or just offer lap swimming and lessons, while others have already called it quits. The National Recreation and Park Association, a nonprofit that advocates on behalf of public parks, recreation and conservation, said 31% of agencies with pools have decided not to open them this summer and 46% were awaiting additional guidance from government and health officials before making a decision. Of those that are opening, only 5% plan to operate fully; the other 18% will do so with truncated offerings.

Among those that have opted not to open their pools this summer is the Kansas City suburb of Mission. In normal times, its outdoor pool is packed with kids, including a roughly 300-strong swim team, afternoon day camps and neighborhood children just looking to cool off and have fun.

City spokeswoman Emily Randel said opening this summer would have been too difficult given the added responsibilities of enforcing social distancing that would largely have fallen to teenage lifeguards. Kansas officials also have made June 8 the earliest that public pools can open.

“Putting it on our youngest staff seems like quite a burden for them,” she said.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and lifeguard certifying agencies recommend that the task of monitoring social distancing not fall to the already-busy lifeguards.

However, Sempsrott said lifeguards will be “essential health care providers” this summer and will need to be provided with protective gear and a plan for what to do if a swimmer who arrives in apparently good health suddenly starts coughing or displaying other COVID-19 symptoms.

“The aquatic industry has been built on safety and prevention,” Sempsrott said. “If we aren’t able to safely open and reduce risk to an acceptable level, it doesn’t make sense to open in the middle of a pandemic.”

There are also financial concerns that need to be weighed. Some places have said they can’t afford to open their pools because of the decline in tax revenue caused by the coronavirus and the efforts to slow it’s spread. New York City, for example, estimates it will save $12 million by keeping its pools closed.

The closures will also mean the loss of many summer swim teams. USA Swimming has already canceled some high-level summer meets.

Sempsrott, meanwhile, warned that there could be more child deaths, as beginner swimmers take their chances in backyard pools without a lifeguard watching and with parents who may be distracted as they juggle working from home.

The kids are going to slip away into the backyard pool because you are on a Zoom meeting,” said Sempsrott. “Before, they would have been in preschool.”

Similar concerns were raised by the American Canoe Association, which also promotes kayaking and rafting. Beth Spilman, the interim executive director of the group, said it is hearing that boating could be at an all-time high this summer and is considering a social media campaign to promote safety.

“We know that there are concerns in the paddling community that there will be an influx of beginner or armature paddlers who are perhaps getting on the water without adequate instruction and that will cause an issue for local safety and rescue and perhaps for the Coast Guard,” she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590421122561.png" alt="Photo courtesy&nbsp; Valley Center, Kansas pool" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy&nbsp; Valley Center, Kansas pool</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;HEATHER HOLLINGSWORTHMISSION, Kan. (AP) — Public pools will look very different this summer if they open at all with the coronavirus threat still looming, as staffers will be tasked with maintaining social distancing and spotting COVID-19 symptoms in addition to their primary duties.Pools that do plan to open will take precautions, including screening temperatures on entry, requiring lifeguards to wear masks and significantly reducing the number of swimmers allowed in the water and locker rooms, said Dr. Justin Sempsrott, the medical director for the lifeguard certification program Starguard Elite and executive director of Lifeguards Without Borders, which works to reduce drownings worldwide.“It’s definitely not going to be business as usual this season,” he said.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fpermalink.php%3Fstory_fbid%3D3229919970359864%26id%3D217547238263834&width=500" width="500" height="230" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>Amid the uncertainty, sales of inflatable pools that cost less than $150 have increased by 165% over the seven-week period that began March 15, compared with the same period last year, according to NPD Group, a data and consulting firm. Meanwhile, most of the people who were planning to install in-ground pools in their yards before the COVID-19 shutdown caused economic havoc have decided to proceed, said Sabeena Hickman, the CEO of the Pool &amp; Hot Tub Alliance, an industry trade group, which reached out to the country’s top 25 residential pool builders.“It appears as if a lot of people are looking for pools and hot tubs for staycations,” she said. “We are anticipating that it will be a strong season for backyard pools.”Walmart reported an uptick in the sales of pools and swimming gear such as foam noodles, and Bass Pro Shops said more people have been buying fishing gear and kayaks, though neither company provided specifics.“If there is a bright spot in this horrible COVID-19 tragedy, it’s the unprecedented interest from fathers, mothers, grandparents, aunts and uncles all wanting to take their family out to enjoy nature,” said Johnny Morris, Bass Pro Shops’ founder and CEO.Properly chlorinated pools can kill the virus, but youngsters splashing around together could be unwittingly spreading it without knowing they are infected, said Sempsrott, who is also an emergency room doctor in Boise, Idaho, who has treated COVID-19 patients.Some pool operators have decided to delay opening or just offer lap swimming and lessons, while others have already called it quits. The National Recreation and Park Association, a nonprofit that advocates on behalf of public parks, recreation and conservation, said 31% of agencies with pools have decided not to open them this summer and 46% were awaiting additional guidance from government and health officials before making a decision. Of those that are opening, only 5% plan to operate fully; the other 18% will do so with truncated offerings.Among those that have opted not to open their pools this summer is the Kansas City suburb of Mission. In normal times, its outdoor pool is packed with kids, including a roughly 300-strong swim team, afternoon day camps and neighborhood children just looking to cool off and have fun.City spokeswoman Emily Randel said opening this summer would have been too difficult given the added responsibilities of enforcing social distancing that would largely have fallen to teenage lifeguards. Kansas officials also have made June 8 the earliest that public pools can open.“Putting it on our youngest staff seems like quite a burden for them,” she said.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and lifeguard certifying agencies recommend that the task of monitoring social distancing not fall to the already-busy lifeguards.However, Sempsrott said lifeguards will be “essential health care providers” this summer and will need to be provided with protective gear and a plan for what to do if a swimmer who arrives in apparently good health suddenly starts coughing or displaying other COVID-19 symptoms.“The aquatic industry has been built on safety and prevention,” Sempsrott said. “If we aren’t able to safely open and reduce risk to an acceptable level, it doesn’t make sense to open in the middle of a pandemic.”There are also financial concerns that need to be weighed. Some places have said they can’t afford to open their pools because of the decline in tax revenue caused by the coronavirus and the efforts to slow it’s spread. New York City, for example, estimates it will save $12 million by keeping its pools closed.The closures will also mean the loss of many summer swim teams. USA Swimming has already canceled some high-level summer meets.Sempsrott, meanwhile, warned that there could be more child deaths, as beginner swimmers take their chances in backyard pools without a lifeguard watching and with parents who may be distracted as they juggle working from home.The kids are going to slip away into the backyard pool because you are on a Zoom meeting,” said Sempsrott. “Before, they would have been in preschool.”Similar concerns were raised by the American Canoe Association, which also promotes kayaking and rafting. Beth Spilman, the interim executive director of the group, said it is hearing that boating could be at an all-time high this summer and is considering a social media campaign to promote safety.“We know that there are concerns in the paddling community that there will be an influx of beginner or armature paddlers who are perhaps getting on the water without adequate instruction and that will cause an issue for local safety and rescue and perhaps for the Coast Guard,” she said.___

Communities face tough choices on opening public pools

SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after a standoff in Topeka.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, police responded to the area of 10th and Fairlawn in Topeka after report of a suspicious vehicle, which was determined to be stolen, according to&nbsp;LT Manuel Munoz.

When officers attempted to stop the driver later identified as 26-year-old Brandon Baker of Topeka.

 He attempted to elude the officers and&nbsp;was driving very erratically. He led officers to the 1200 block of SW Harvey and ran into an apartment. 

In addition to Topeka Police, Shawnee Co. Sheriff’s Deputies and Kansas Highway Patrol also responded to the scene.&nbsp;

 Baker refused to come out of the apartment. After several hours of negotiation, Baker came out and was taken into custody without incident.

Baker was booked into the Shawnee Co. Dept. of Corrections for Aggravated Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer, Possession of Stolen Property, and several traffic charges, according to Munoz.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590662602437.png" alt="Baker has previous convictions for drugs and obstruction, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Baker has previous convictions for drugs and obstruction, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after a standoff in Topeka.&nbsp;On Wednesday, police responded to the area of 10th and Fairlawn in Topeka after report of a suspicious vehicle, which was determined to be stolen, according to&nbsp;LT Manuel Munoz.When officers attempted to stop the driver later identified as 26-year-old Brandon Baker of Topeka. He attempted to elude the officers and&nbsp;was driving very erratically. He led officers to the 1200 block of SW Harvey and ran into an apartment. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590611528909.png" alt="Law enforcement at the scene of the standoff Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp; Photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Law enforcement at the scene of the standoff Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp; Photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>In addition to Topeka Police, Shawnee Co. Sheriff’s Deputies and Kansas Highway Patrol also responded to the scene.&nbsp; Baker refused to come out of the apartment. After several hours of negotiation, Baker came out and was taken into custody without incident.Baker was booked into the Shawnee Co. Dept. of Corrections for Aggravated Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer, Possession of Stolen Property, and several traffic charges, according to Munoz.

Kansas felon in stolen vehicle jailed after standoff 

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — The U.S. surpassed a jarring milestone Wednesday in the coronavirus pandemic: 100,000 deaths.

That number is the best estimate and most assuredly an undercount. But it represents the stark reality that more&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2e242bc89a073d6724a7f158e4c9d40d">Americans have died&nbsp;</a>from the virus than from the Vietnam and Korean wars combined.

“It’s a striking reminder of how dangerous this virus can be,” said Josh Michaud, associate director of global health policy with the Kaiser Family Foundation in Washington.

The once-unthinkable toll appears to be just the beginning of untold misery in the months ahead as Las Vegas casinos and Walt Disney World make plans to reopen, crowds of unmasked Americans swarm beaches and public health officials predict a resurgence by fall.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, issued a stern warning after watching video of Memorial Day crowds gathered at a pool party in Missouri.

“We have a situation in which you see that type of crowding with no mask and people interacting. That’s not prudent, and that’s inviting a situation that could get out of control,” he said during an interview Wednesday on CNN. “Don’t start leapfrogging some of the recommendations in the guidelines because that’s really tempting fate and asking for trouble.”

Worldwide, the virus has infected more than 5.6 million people and killed over 350,000, with the U.S. having the most confirmed cases and deaths by far, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University. Europe has recorded about 170,000 deaths, while the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f768f47203908b834e245fbf7f0b3ccc">U.S. reached more than 100,000</a>&nbsp;in less than four months.

The true death toll from the virus, which emerged in China late last year and was first reported in the U.S. in January, is widely believed to be significantly higher, with experts saying many victims died of COVID-19 without ever being tested for it.

Early on, President Donald Trump downplayed the severity of the coronavirus, likening it to the flu, and predicted the U.S. wouldn’t reach 100,000 deaths.

“I think we’ll be substantially under that number,” Trump said on April 10. Ten days later, he said, “We’re going toward 50- or 60,000 people.” Ten days after that: “We’re probably heading to 60,000, 70,000.”

Critics have said deaths spiked because Trump was slow to respond, but he has contended on Twitter that it could have been 20 times higher without his actions. He has urged states to reopen their economies after months of stay-at-home restrictions.

Las Vegas casinos can welcome tourists again on June 4. SeaWorld and Walt Disney World plan to reopen to limited numbers of tourists in Orlando, Florida, in June and July. And people who have been cooped up indoors began venturing outside in droves, often without practicing social distancing or wearing masks.

Kelly Hove, 79, of Twin Falls, Idaho, an internationally known pianist, died at a nursing home on April 12 of complications from COVID-19 after a long battle with dementia. Her sister-in-law Jan Hove fears that more will die as states start lifting restrictions.

“I think going back too soon is going to cause more deaths, so I’m incredibly concerned,” she said. “And I don’t think we have adequate leadership. ... It’s an absolute joke, from the White House down.”

The virus exacted an especially vicious toll on Trump’s hometown of New York City and its surrounding suburbs, killing more than 21,000. At the peak, hundreds of people were dying per day in New York City, and hospitals, ambulances and first responders were inundated with patients.

There is no vaccine or treatment for COVID-19, though several emergency treatments are being used after showing some promise in preliminary testing.

Worldwide, about a dozen vaccine candidates are starting to be tested or getting close to it. Health officials have said studies of a potential vaccine might be done by late this year or early next year.

Only half of Americans said they would be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/dacdc8bc428dd4df6511bfa259cfec44">willing to get vaccinated</a>&nbsp;if scientists are successful in developing a vaccine, according to a poll released Wednesday from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

For most, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.

Among the 100,000 fatalities was 74-year-old Michael Ganci of Newington, Connecticut, who died March 21. He was a public school teacher, a grandfather and father of four, and a 4th-degree belt Sensei in Kyokushin karate.

Ganci, who had a compromised immune system, died at a hospital in Hartford three days after showing symptoms. His family was not allowed to be with him and tried to text and talk with him on his cellphone during his final days. His wife of 48 years also tested positive for COVID-19 and had to grieve alone.

For their daughter, 45-year-old Joanna Ganci of Beverly, Massachusetts, the milestone is important to understand the scope of the virus.

“But at the same time, I think the danger of counting, the danger of statistics, is that it just minimizes the human element,” she said. “It’s like, what number is going to make an impact for people who haven’t been touched by it?”

It’s not even clear when the coronavirus turned deadly in the United States. Initially, it was believed the first U.S. deaths from the virus were in late February in a Seattle suburb. But by mid-April, it was determined that two people with the coronavirus died in California as many as three weeks earlier.

Comparing countries is tricky, given varying levels of testing and that some coronavirus deaths can be missed. According to figures tracked by Johns Hopkins University, the death rate per 100,000 people is lower in the U.S. than in Italy, France and Spain but higher than in Germany, China, South Korea, Singapore, Japan, New Zealand and Australia.

“The experience of other countries shows that death at that scale was preventable,” said Michaud of the Kaiser Family Foundation. “To some extent, the United States suffers from having a slow start and inconsistent approach. We might have seen a different trajectory if different policies were put into place earlier and more forcefully.”

Countries with low death rates suppressed the virus “through lots of testing, contact tracing and policies to support isolation and quarantine of people at risk,” Michaud said.

Dr. Wafaa El-Sadr, director of ICAP, a global health center at Columbia University, called the U.S. death rate shocking.

“It reflects the fact that we have neglected basic fundamentals for health,” El-Sadr said. “So, now we are in this shameful situation. It is the most vulnerable people in our midst — the elderly, the poor, members of racial/ethnic minority groups — who are the ones disproportionately getting sick and dying.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590661594503.png" alt="The U.S. is also approaching 1.7 million cases of the coronavirus-Image courtesy John Hopkins University" />
 <figcaption>The U.S. is also approaching 1.7 million cases of the coronavirus-Image courtesy John Hopkins University</figcaption>
 </figure>HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — The U.S. surpassed a jarring milestone Wednesday in the coronavirus pandemic: 100,000 deaths.That number is the best estimate and most assuredly an undercount. But it represents the stark reality that more&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2e242bc89a073d6724a7f158e4c9d40d">Americans have died&nbsp;</a>from the virus than from the Vietnam and Korean wars combined.“It’s a striking reminder of how dangerous this virus can be,” said Josh Michaud, associate director of global health policy with the Kaiser Family Foundation in Washington.The once-unthinkable toll appears to be just the beginning of untold misery in the months ahead as Las Vegas casinos and Walt Disney World make plans to reopen, crowds of unmasked Americans swarm beaches and public health officials predict a resurgence by fall.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586814827197.png" alt="Dr. Anthony Fauci during a Coronavirus Task Force briefing -image courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Anthony Fauci during a Coronavirus Task Force briefing -image courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, issued a stern warning after watching video of Memorial Day crowds gathered at a pool party in Missouri.“We have a situation in which you see that type of crowding with no mask and people interacting. That’s not prudent, and that’s inviting a situation that could get out of control,” he said during an interview Wednesday on CNN. “Don’t start leapfrogging some of the recommendations in the guidelines because that’s really tempting fate and asking for trouble.”Worldwide, the virus has infected more than 5.6 million people and killed over 350,000, with the U.S. having the most confirmed cases and deaths by far, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University. Europe has recorded about 170,000 deaths, while the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f768f47203908b834e245fbf7f0b3ccc">U.S. reached more than 100,000</a>&nbsp;in less than four months.The true death toll from the virus, which emerged in China late last year and was first reported in the U.S. in January, is widely believed to be significantly higher, with experts saying many victims died of COVID-19 without ever being tested for it.Early on, President Donald Trump downplayed the severity of the coronavirus, likening it to the flu, and predicted the U.S. wouldn’t reach 100,000 deaths.“I think we’ll be substantially under that number,” Trump said on April 10. Ten days later, he said, “We’re going toward 50- or 60,000 people.” Ten days after that: “We’re probably heading to 60,000, 70,000.”Critics have said deaths spiked because Trump was slow to respond, but he has contended on Twitter that it could have been 20 times higher without his actions. He has urged states to reopen their economies after months of stay-at-home restrictions.Las Vegas casinos can welcome tourists again on June 4. SeaWorld and Walt Disney World plan to reopen to limited numbers of tourists in Orlando, Florida, in June and July. And people who have been cooped up indoors began venturing outside in droves, often without practicing social distancing or wearing masks.Kelly Hove, 79, of Twin Falls, Idaho, an internationally known pianist, died at a nursing home on April 12 of complications from COVID-19 after a long battle with dementia. Her sister-in-law Jan Hove fears that more will die as states start lifting restrictions.“I think going back too soon is going to cause more deaths, so I’m incredibly concerned,” she said. “And I don’t think we have adequate leadership. ... It’s an absolute joke, from the White House down.”The virus exacted an especially vicious toll on Trump’s hometown of New York City and its surrounding suburbs, killing more than 21,000. At the peak, hundreds of people were dying per day in New York City, and hospitals, ambulances and first responders were inundated with patients.There is no vaccine or treatment for COVID-19, though several emergency treatments are being used after showing some promise in preliminary testing.Worldwide, about a dozen vaccine candidates are starting to be tested or getting close to it. Health officials have said studies of a potential vaccine might be done by late this year or early next year.Only half of Americans said they would be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/dacdc8bc428dd4df6511bfa259cfec44">willing to get vaccinated</a>&nbsp;if scientists are successful in developing a vaccine, according to a poll released Wednesday from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.For most, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.Among the 100,000 fatalities was 74-year-old Michael Ganci of Newington, Connecticut, who died March 21. He was a public school teacher, a grandfather and father of four, and a 4th-degree belt Sensei in Kyokushin karate.Ganci, who had a compromised immune system, died at a hospital in Hartford three days after showing symptoms. His family was not allowed to be with him and tried to text and talk with him on his cellphone during his final days. His wife of 48 years also tested positive for COVID-19 and had to grieve alone.For their daughter, 45-year-old Joanna Ganci of Beverly, Massachusetts, the milestone is important to understand the scope of the virus.“But at the same time, I think the danger of counting, the danger of statistics, is that it just minimizes the human element,” she said. “It’s like, what number is going to make an impact for people who haven’t been touched by it?”It’s not even clear when the coronavirus turned deadly in the United States. Initially, it was believed the first U.S. deaths from the virus were in late February in a Seattle suburb. But by mid-April, it was determined that two people with the coronavirus died in California as many as three weeks earlier.Comparing countries is tricky, given varying levels of testing and that some coronavirus deaths can be missed. According to figures tracked by Johns Hopkins University, the death rate per 100,000 people is lower in the U.S. than in Italy, France and Spain but higher than in Germany, China, South Korea, Singapore, Japan, New Zealand and Australia.“The experience of other countries shows that death at that scale was preventable,” said Michaud of the Kaiser Family Foundation. “To some extent, the United States suffers from having a slow start and inconsistent approach. We might have seen a different trajectory if different policies were put into place earlier and more forcefully.”Countries with low death rates suppressed the virus “through lots of testing, contact tracing and policies to support isolation and quarantine of people at risk,” Michaud said.Dr. Wafaa El-Sadr, director of ICAP, a global health center at Columbia University, called the U.S. death rate shocking.“It reflects the fact that we have neglected basic fundamentals for health,” El-Sadr said. “So, now we are in this shameful situation. It is the most vulnerable people in our midst — the elderly, the poor, members of racial/ethnic minority groups — who are the ones disproportionately getting sick and dying.”

US death toll from coronavirus surges past 100,000 people

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities have arrested a suspect on drug charges after a two month investigation.

On Tuesday, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office and the Shawnee County Drug Enforcement Task Force concluded a two month investigation by serving a narcotic search warrant in the 4400 Block of SE Weekley Court, according to Sgt. Todd Stallbaumer.

 Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office deputies, along with the Topeka Police Department and the Rossville Police Department, located methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia used to ingest and consume narcotics at the residence.

They also arrested Wayne H. McCauley, 50, of Topeka, and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections for possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590594939355.png" alt="McCauley" />
 <figcaption>McCauley</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities have arrested a suspect on drug charges after a two month investigation.On Tuesday, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office and the Shawnee County Drug Enforcement Task Force concluded a two month investigation by serving a narcotic search warrant in the 4400 Block of SE Weekley Court, according to Sgt. Todd Stallbaumer. Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office deputies, along with the Topeka Police Department and the Rossville Police Department, located methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia used to ingest and consume narcotics at the residence.They also arrested Wayne H. McCauley, 50, of Topeka, and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections for possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Kansas man arrested following 2-month drug investigation

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating alleged child sex crimes from 2012 have charged Wichita Police Department (WPD) Officer Joshua Hageman with two counts of indecent liberties with a child, according to Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office. 

The charges stem from the recent investigation of an incident that occurred approximately seven years ago and before Hageman was employed by the police department.

Hageman has been placed on administrative leave without pay, according to police department spokesperson Charley Davidson.

Wichita police officials recently learned of a 2012 incident involving Hageman, 20-years-old at the time, inappropriately touching two fifteen-year-old girls while at a home in Colwich, Kansas.

The incident was investigated and presented to the DA’s Office leading to the charges.

WPD officials requested the investigation involve the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, as part of a collaborative agreement to ensure transparency and avoid conflicts of interest.

Hageman has been employed as a WPD police officer for three years

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590672897696.png" alt="Hageman -photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Hageman -photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating alleged child sex crimes from 2012 have charged Wichita Police Department (WPD) Officer Joshua Hageman with two counts of indecent liberties with a child, according to Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office. The charges stem from the recent investigation of an incident that occurred approximately seven years ago and before Hageman was employed by the police department.Hageman has been placed on administrative leave without pay, according to police department spokesperson Charley Davidson.Wichita police officials recently learned of a 2012 incident involving Hageman, 20-years-old at the time, inappropriately touching two fifteen-year-old girls while at a home in Colwich, Kansas.The incident was investigated and presented to the DA’s Office leading to the charges.WPD officials requested the investigation involve the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, as part of a collaborative agreement to ensure transparency and avoid conflicts of interest.Hageman has been employed as a WPD police officer for three years

Kansas police officer charged with child sex crimes

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Two suspects arrested in connection with a deadly apartment complex drug deal have made their first court appearances, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney.

Preston Reynolds, 18, and Missy Barber, 20, were charged Tuesday with first degree murder and both remain jailed on a $500,000 bond, according to online jail records.

Just after 5p.m. May 21, police responded to a shooting call at an apartment complex near N. West Street and W. 13th&nbsp;Street in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.

Upon arrival, officers located 21-year-old Earnest Jefferson with multiple gunshot wounds.&nbsp; Jefferson was pronounced dead on the scene.&nbsp;

Police also located&nbsp; 19-year-old Jahbreel Rounds in the parking lot with multiple gunshot wounds.&nbsp; He was transported to an area hospital for medical treatment and died on Monday, according to officer Kevin Wheeler.

At approximately 5:40 p.m. Thursday, 18-year-old Preston Reynolds arrived at a local hospital with a gunshot wound to his leg.&nbsp;&nbsp; Reynolds was treated and released from the hospital and booked into jail, according to Davidson.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The investigation revealed that 20-year-old Missy Barber and Reynolds drove to the apartment complex to conduct a drug transaction with Jefferson and Rounds.&nbsp;

While they were in a vehicle in the parking lot, a disturbance occurred, and shots were fired, injuring Jefferson,&nbsp; Rounds and Reynolds.&nbsp; Reynolds and Barber left the scene in the vehicle.

Investigators were able to learn of Barber’s involvement in the incident. She was located at an apartment complex in the 1700 block of South Glenn and arrested without incident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590164086715.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Reynolds photo Sedgwick CountySEDGWICK COUNTY —Two suspects arrested in connection with a deadly apartment complex drug deal have made their first court appearances, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney.Preston Reynolds, 18, and Missy Barber, 20, were charged Tuesday with first degree murder and both remain jailed on a $500,000 bond, according to online jail records.Just after 5p.m. May 21, police responded to a shooting call at an apartment complex near N. West Street and W. 13th&nbsp;Street in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.Upon arrival, officers located 21-year-old Earnest Jefferson with multiple gunshot wounds.&nbsp; Jefferson was pronounced dead on the scene.&nbsp;Police also located&nbsp; 19-year-old Jahbreel Rounds in the parking lot with multiple gunshot wounds.&nbsp; He was transported to an area hospital for medical treatment and died on Monday, according to officer Kevin Wheeler.At approximately 5:40 p.m. Thursday, 18-year-old Preston Reynolds arrived at a local hospital with a gunshot wound to his leg.&nbsp;&nbsp; Reynolds was treated and released from the hospital and booked into jail, according to Davidson.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590164510351.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BarberThe investigation revealed that 20-year-old Missy Barber and Reynolds drove to the apartment complex to conduct a drug transaction with Jefferson and Rounds.&nbsp;While they were in a vehicle in the parking lot, a disturbance occurred, and shots were fired, injuring Jefferson,&nbsp; Rounds and Reynolds.&nbsp; Reynolds and Barber left the scene in the vehicle.Investigators were able to learn of Barber’s involvement in the incident. She was located at an apartment complex in the 1700 block of South Glenn and arrested without incident.

Kan. man wounded in drug deal shooting charged with murder

LEAVENWORTH, Kan. (AP) — A soldier stationed in Kansas saved “countless lives” Wednesday when he hit a man with his car as the man was shooting randomly at people on a bridge near an Army base, a police chief said.

One person was injured by the shooter, according to Leavenworth police Chief Patrick Kitchens. That person, also a soldier, was a random victim, Kitchens said.

Officers initially believed they were responding to <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/5eceab32ebfb13423b264776">a road rage incident on the Centennial Bridge</a> that connects Leavenworth, Kansas, and Platte City, Missouri, not far from Fort Leavenworth, Kitchens said. Instead, they discovered that a man had been using multiple weapons to fire randomly at vehicles. The suspect was trapped under a car, Kitchens said.

Kitchens said the soldier who ran over the gunman had been waiting in traffic when he saw what was happening.

“The soldier intervened by striking the shooter with his vehicle, causing him to be critically injured, but ending the encounter with the active shooter and likely saving countless lives,” Kitchens said.

Both the shooting victim and the suspect were in serious but stable condition in a Kansas City hospital, police said.

Kitchens said no motive for the shooting has been determined. The suspect is from Platte County, Missouri.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590616991045.png" alt="Law enforcement at the scene Wednesday afternoon -photo courtesy KMBC TV" />
 <figcaption>Law enforcement at the scene Wednesday afternoon -photo courtesy KMBC TV</figcaption>
 </figure>LEAVENWORTH, Kan. (AP) — A soldier stationed in Kansas saved “countless lives” Wednesday when he hit a man with his car as the man was shooting randomly at people on a bridge near an Army base, a police chief said.One person was injured by the shooter, according to Leavenworth police Chief Patrick Kitchens. That person, also a soldier, was a random victim, Kitchens said.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fleavenworthpolice%2Fvideos%2F257642472152545%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Officers initially believed they were responding to <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/5eceab32ebfb13423b264776">a road rage incident on the Centennial Bridge</a> that connects Leavenworth, Kansas, and Platte City, Missouri, not far from Fort Leavenworth, Kitchens said. Instead, they discovered that a man had been using multiple weapons to fire randomly at vehicles. The suspect was trapped under a car, Kitchens said.Kitchens said the soldier who ran over the gunman had been waiting in traffic when he saw what was happening.“The soldier intervened by striking the shooter with his vehicle, causing him to be critically injured, but ending the encounter with the active shooter and likely saving countless lives,” Kitchens said.Both the shooting victim and the suspect were in serious but stable condition in a Kansas City hospital, police said.Kitchens said no motive for the shooting has been determined. The suspect is from Platte County, Missouri.

Police: Kan. soldier saved lives by stopping shooter on bridge

&nbsp;SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after a traffic stop.

Just after 2:30a.m. Tuesday, Sheriff's deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 2300 block of SE Cedarwood Drive for a traffic violation, according to Sgt. Todd Stallbaumer.

Through the investigation at the scene, the driver, Christopher T. Parkhurst, 31, of Topeka, was arrested and transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Felon in possession of a firearm, Possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, Possession of paraphernalia, Driving without a license and Driving without insurance, according to Stallbaumer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590512199589.png" alt="Parkhurst photo Shawnee County. He has previous convictions for theft, burglary and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>Parkhurst photo Shawnee County. He has previous convictions for theft, burglary and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after a traffic stop.Just after 2:30a.m. Tuesday, Sheriff's deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 2300 block of SE Cedarwood Drive for a traffic violation, according to Sgt. Todd Stallbaumer.Through the investigation at the scene, the driver, Christopher T. Parkhurst, 31, of Topeka, was arrested and transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Felon in possession of a firearm, Possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, Possession of paraphernalia, Driving without a license and Driving without insurance, according to Stallbaumer.

Kansas felon jailed for alleged marijuana distribution

Chlorine gas cloud over Atchison photo courtesy Corie Dunn

TOPEKA, KAN.&nbsp;– Harcros Chemicals, Inc., and MGP Ingredients, Inc., today were fined $1 million each for violating the federal Clean Air Act when a cloud of toxic chlorine gas was released over Atchison, Kan., in 2016, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister. Both companies have paid the fines.

U.S. District Court Judge Daniel Crabtree sentenced the companies during a hearing in federal court in Topeka today. Both companies pleaded guilty to negligently&nbsp;violating the Clean Air Act, which is a Class A misdemeanor.

In their pleas, they admitted that on Oct. 21, 2016, a greenish-yellow chlorine gas cloud formed at MGP Ingredients’ facility in Atchison when 4,000 gallons of sulfuric acid were mistakenly combined with 5,800 gallons of sodium hypochlorite. The Atchison County Department of Emergency Management ordered community members to shelter in place and to evacuate in some areas. Approximately 140 individuals including members of the public, first responders, employees of MGP Ingredients and Harcos Chemicals sought medical attention.

“The chemicals involved in this case posed serious public health and environmental dangers,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Cate Holston of EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division in Kansas.  “EPA and its law enforcement partners are committed to holding responsible parties accountable for actions that put an entire community at risk.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580513648407.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Chlorine gas cloud over Atchison photo courtesy Corie DunnTOPEKA, KAN.&nbsp;– Harcros Chemicals, Inc., and MGP Ingredients, Inc., today were fined $1 million each for violating the federal Clean Air Act when a cloud of toxic chlorine gas was released over Atchison, Kan., in 2016, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister. Both companies have paid the fines.U.S. District Court Judge Daniel Crabtree sentenced the companies during a hearing in federal court in Topeka today. Both companies pleaded guilty to negligently&nbsp;violating the Clean Air Act, which is a Class A misdemeanor.In their pleas, they admitted that on Oct. 21, 2016, a greenish-yellow chlorine gas cloud formed at MGP Ingredients’ facility in Atchison when 4,000 gallons of sulfuric acid were mistakenly combined with 5,800 gallons of sodium hypochlorite. The Atchison County Department of Emergency Management ordered community members to shelter in place and to evacuate in some areas. Approximately 140 individuals including members of the public, first responders, employees of MGP Ingredients and Harcos Chemicals sought medical attention.“The chemicals involved in this case posed serious public health and environmental dangers,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Cate Holston of EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division in Kansas.  “EPA and its law enforcement partners are committed to holding responsible parties accountable for actions that put an entire community at risk.”

Two Kan. companies fined $1 million in chlorine gas case

Douglas County (AP) — Kansas county officials had various reactions on Wednesday to Gov. Laura Kelly’s decision to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a5e30a0ec7a5943ada9f03af22ee1970">give them the authority</a>&nbsp;to determine their own coronavirus restrictions, with some deciding to keep the current rules in place and others planning meetings to discuss how to proceed.

Wyandotte, Douglas and Lyon counties, in eastern Kansas, issued news releases saying they would continue to enforce restrictions Kelly imposed as part of a phased plan to reopen the state’s economy. Johnson County, the state’s most populous county, said restrictions on the size of gatherings and how businesses can operate would now be only guidelines.

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3b5l0RLAD0">Officials in Sedgwick </a>and Ford counties met Wednesday to discuss their next steps.

Johnson County health officials said in a news release that they believe residents and businesses should continue to follow the safety guidance from Kelly’s reopening plan.

“It is crucial that we all continue to practice physical distancing, wear barrier masks where we cannot maintain social distancing, practice good hygiene and make decisions that protect the health of the community,” said Dr. John LeMaster, the county’s public health officer.

Wyandotte County health officials said they would impose Kelly’s original restrictions until at least June 8, in part because the county has many residents who are at high risk of contracting COVID-19. The county reported 1,268 confirmed cases and 72 deaths as of Wednesday.

The restrictions include banning gatherings of more than 15 people and the closing of bars and nightclubs, most swimming pools, large entertainment venues, events such as fairs and festivals, and overnight summer camps.

“No matter what political battles rage at the state level, our fight has been and will continue to be against the novel coronavirus,” Mayor David Alvey said in a news release. “We will restrict, or relax, as much as is necessary to prevent overwhelming first responders and our health care system, while simultaneously working to re-open our community at the appropriate time.”

Douglas County Health Officer Dr. Thomas Marcellino said the county wanted to stay with current restrictions because “we think it’s a good plan that is working in our area.” Through Tuesday, the county had had 63 confirmed COVID-19 cases.

Lyon County officials said the current restrictions will remain because the virus continues to “endanger the public health, safety and welfare of persons and property within the borders” of the county.

Ford County Administrator J.D. Gilbert said he spoke with county commissioners Tuesday night after Kelly issued her order and most said they wanted to “sleep on it” for a few hours before deciding how their counties should proceed.

Ahead of their meeting Wednesday, several Sedgwick County commissioners told The Wichita Eagle that they didn’t want to issue any new county orders to replace the statewide orders.

“We’ve done a very good job of not having a massive outbreak,” Commissioner Mike O’Donnell said. “We need to keep that in mind going forward — that we want to limit that — but we can do that without any mandates or orders. We can do that by suggestions and trusting businesses are going to do what’s best for their customers and employees.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590604695103.png" alt="Sedgwick County Commissioners met Wednesday afternoon" />
 <figcaption>Sedgwick County Commissioners met Wednesday afternoon</figcaption>
 </figure>Douglas County (AP) — Kansas county officials had various reactions on Wednesday to Gov. Laura Kelly’s decision to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a5e30a0ec7a5943ada9f03af22ee1970">give them the authority</a>&nbsp;to determine their own coronavirus restrictions, with some deciding to keep the current rules in place and others planning meetings to discuss how to proceed.Wyandotte, Douglas and Lyon counties, in eastern Kansas, issued news releases saying they would continue to enforce restrictions Kelly imposed as part of a phased plan to reopen the state’s economy. Johnson County, the state’s most populous county, said restrictions on the size of gatherings and how businesses can operate would now be only guidelines.<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3b5l0RLAD0">Officials in Sedgwick </a>and Ford counties met Wednesday to discuss their next steps.Johnson County health officials said in a news release that they believe residents and businesses should continue to follow the safety guidance from Kelly’s reopening plan.“It is crucial that we all continue to practice physical distancing, wear barrier masks where we cannot maintain social distancing, practice good hygiene and make decisions that protect the health of the community,” said Dr. John LeMaster, the county’s public health officer.Wyandotte County health officials said they would impose Kelly’s original restrictions until at least June 8, in part because the county has many residents who are at high risk of contracting COVID-19. The county reported 1,268 confirmed cases and 72 deaths as of Wednesday.The restrictions include banning gatherings of more than 15 people and the closing of bars and nightclubs, most swimming pools, large entertainment venues, events such as fairs and festivals, and overnight summer camps.“No matter what political battles rage at the state level, our fight has been and will continue to be against the novel coronavirus,” Mayor David Alvey said in a news release. “We will restrict, or relax, as much as is necessary to prevent overwhelming first responders and our health care system, while simultaneously working to re-open our community at the appropriate time.”Douglas County Health Officer Dr. Thomas Marcellino said the county wanted to stay with current restrictions because “we think it’s a good plan that is working in our area.” Through Tuesday, the county had had 63 confirmed COVID-19 cases.Lyon County officials said the current restrictions will remain because the virus continues to “endanger the public health, safety and welfare of persons and property within the borders” of the county.Ford County Administrator J.D. Gilbert said he spoke with county commissioners Tuesday night after Kelly issued her order and most said they wanted to “sleep on it” for a few hours before deciding how their counties should proceed.Ahead of their meeting Wednesday, several Sedgwick County commissioners told The Wichita Eagle that they didn’t want to issue any new county orders to replace the statewide orders.“We’ve done a very good job of not having a massive outbreak,” Commissioner Mike O’Donnell said. “We need to keep that in mind going forward — that we want to limit that — but we can do that without any mandates or orders. We can do that by suggestions and trusting businesses are going to do what’s best for their customers and employees.”

Kansas counties mull their approach to virus restrictions

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — The launch of a SpaceX rocket ship with two NASA astronauts on a history-making flight into orbit has been called off with 16 minutes to go in the countdown because of the danger of lightning. Liftoff is rescheduled for Saturday. 

The spacecraft was set to blast off Wednesday afternoon for the International Space Station, ushering in a new era in commercial spaceflight and putting NASA back in the business of launching astronauts from U.S. for the first time in nearly a decade. 

Ever since the space shuttle was retired in 2011, NASA has relied on Russian rockets to carry astronauts to and from the space station.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590607352992.png" alt="Doug Hurley and Bob Behnken in the Dragon capsule Wednesday afternoon -image courtesy CSPAN via NASA TV" />
 <figcaption>Doug Hurley and Bob Behnken in the Dragon capsule Wednesday afternoon -image courtesy CSPAN via NASA TV</figcaption>
 </figure>CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — The launch of a SpaceX rocket ship with two NASA astronauts on a history-making flight into orbit has been called off with 16 minutes to go in the countdown because of the danger of lightning. Liftoff is rescheduled for Saturday. The spacecraft was set to blast off Wednesday afternoon for the International Space Station, ushering in a new era in commercial spaceflight and putting NASA back in the business of launching astronauts from U.S. for the first time in nearly a decade. Ever since the space shuttle was retired in 2011, NASA has relied on Russian rockets to carry astronauts to and from the space station.----------CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — With thunderstorms threatening a delay, two NASA astronauts climbed aboard a SpaceX rocket ship Wednesday for liftoff on a history-making flight that was seen as a giant leap forward for the booming business of commercial space travel.<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?472395-1/coverage-spacex-crew-dragon-launch">Click here to watch the launch</a>&nbsp;just after 3:30p.m. CDTSpace veterans Doug Hurley and Bob Behnken were scheduled to ride into orbit aboard the brand-new Dragon capsule on top of a Falcon 9 rocket, taking off for the International Space Station at 3:33 p.m. CDT from the same launch pad used by the Apollo moon missions a half-century ago.Smiling, waving and giving the traditional thumbs-up as Vice President Mike Pence looked on, the two men said farewell to their families — exchanging blown kisses and pantomiming hugs for their young sons from a coronavirus-safe distance — before setting out for the pad in a gull-wing Tesla SUV, another product from SpaceX’s visionary founder, Elon Musk.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590609143930.png" alt="Image courtesy CSPAN via NASA TV" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy CSPAN via NASA TV</figcaption>
 </figure>Thunder could be heard rumbling as the convoy of vehicles made its way toward the rocket. And a tornado warning was issued moments after the astronauts climbed into their capsule.The flight would mark the first time a private company sent humans into orbit.It would also be the first time in nearly a decade that the United States launched astronauts into orbit from U.S. soil. Ever since the space shuttle was retired in 2011, NASA has relied on Russian spaceships launched from Kazakhstan to take U.S. astronauts to and from the space station.With 2 1/2 hours to go before liftoff, controllers put the chances of launch at just 40 percent because of thunderstorms at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. In the event of a postponement, the next launch opportunity would be Saturday.The preparations took place in the shadow of the coronavirus outbreak that has killed an estimated 100,000 Americans.“We’re launching American astronauts on American rockets from American soil. We haven’t done this really since 2011, so this is a unique moment in time,” NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine said.With this launch, he said, “everybody can look up and say, ’Look, the future is so much brighter than the present.′ And I really hope that this is an inspiration to the world.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elonmusk</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASA</a> Administrator <a href="https://twitter.com/JimBridenstine?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JimBridenstine</a> talks to <a href="https://twitter.com/AstroBehnken?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AstroBehnken</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/Astro_Doug?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Astro_Doug</a> prior to <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpaceX</a> Crew Dragon Launch - LIVE on C-SPAN2 <a href="https://t.co/lwK99EafFC">https://t.co/lwK99EafFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/KNcyTJvfy1">pic.twitter.com/KNcyTJvfy1</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1265687988715098112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Musk, wearing a mask and keeping his distance, chatted with the two NASA astronauts just before they left for the launch pad. The mission would put Musk and SpaceX in the same league as only three countries — Russia, the U.S. and China, which sent astronauts into orbit in that order.“What today is about is reigniting the dream of space and getting people fired up about the future,” he said in a NASA interview.A solemn-sounding Musk said he felt his responsibilities most strongly when he saw the astronauts’ wives and sons just before launch. He said he told them: “We’ve done everything we can to make sure your dads come back OK.”NASA pushed ahead with the launch despite the viral outbreak but kept the guest list at Kennedy extremely limited and asked spectators to stay at home. Still, beaches and parks along Florida’s Space Coast are open again, and hours before the launch, cars and RVs already were lining the causeway in Cape Canaveral.The space agency also estimated 1 million people were watching the launch preparations online during the afternoon.President Donald Trump also planned to fly in for the liftoff.Among the sightseers was Erin Gatz, who came prepared for both rain and pandemic. Accompanied by her 14-year-old daughter and 12-year-old son, she brought face masks and a small tent to protect against the elements.She said the children had faint memories of watching in person one of the last shuttle launches almost a decade ago when they were preschoolers.“I wanted them to see the flip side and get to see the next era of space travel,” said Gatz, who lives in Deltona, Florida. “It’s exciting and hopeful.”Hurley, 53, and Behnken, 49, are both&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/8918d6d1b5f147d96ac7ab51ed414554">two-time shuttle fliers</a>.NASA hired SpaceX and Boeing in 2014 to transport astronauts to the space station in a new kind of public-private partnership.. Development of SpaceX’s Dragon and Boeing’s Starliner capsules took longer than expected, however. Boeing’s craft is not expected to fly astronauts into space until early 2021.“We’re doing it differently than we’ve ever done it before,” Bridenstine said. “We’re transforming how we do spaceflight in the future.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590575652116.png" alt="NASA astronauts Douglas Hurley, left, and Robert Behnken, wearing SpaceX spacesuits, are seen as they depart the Neil A. Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building for Launch Complex 39A during a dress rehearsal prior to the Demo-2 mission launch, Saturday. Credits: NASA/ Bill Ingalls" />
 <figcaption>NASA astronauts Douglas Hurley, left, and Robert Behnken, wearing SpaceX spacesuits, are seen as they depart the Neil A. Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building for Launch Complex 39A during a dress rehearsal prior to the Demo-2 mission launch, Saturday. Credits: NASA/ Bill Ingalls</figcaption>
 </figure>CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — With the weather looking up, SpaceX and NASA officials vowed Tuesday to keep crew safety the top priority for the nation’s first astronaut launch to orbit in nearly a decade.<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?472395-1/coverage-spacex-crew-dragon-launch">Click here</a> to watch the launchVeteran NASA astronauts Doug Hurley and Bob Behnken were set to make history Wednesday afternoon, riding SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket and Dragon capsule to the International Space Station on a test flight.SpaceX was on the cusp of becoming the first private company to put astronauts in orbit, something achieved by just three countries — Russia, the U.S. and China.On the eve of the launch, NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine said from Kennedy Space Center that both the space agency and SpaceX have been diligent about making sure everyone in the launch loop knows they’re free to halt the countdown if there’s a concern.President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence are expected at Kennedy for the planned 4:33 p.m. liftoff, but “our highest priority” will remain the astronauts’ safety, according to Bridenstine.Bridenstine said he texted the two astronauts Monday and told them, “`If you want me to stop this thing for any reason, say so. I will stop it in a heartbeat if you want me to.′ They both came back and they said, ‘We’re go for launch.’ ”Hans Koenigsmann, a SpaceX vice president, said Monday evening that he and other company workers have imagined themselves in the astronauts’ shoes on launch day — “or their helmets.”“That changes the equation pretty dramatically,” he said.SpaceX has been launching cargo capsules to the space station since 2012.“It’s a huge step, obviously, going from cargo ... to launching two people that are dads as we call them and have families, kids, wives.,” Koenigsmann added.NASA will have input throughout the countdown, but in the end, it will be SpaceX giving the final go — with NASA’s concurrence.“SpaceX is controlling the vehicle, there’s no fluff about that,” Norm Knight, a NASA flight operations manager, said Monday.The odds of acceptable launch weather improved Tuesday to 60%. But that didn’t factor in conditions along the Dragon’s route to orbit.SpaceX needs relatively calm waves and wind up the U.S. and Canadian seaboard and across the North Atlantic to Ireland, in case astronauts Hurley and Behnken need to make an emergency splashdown.If SpaceX does not launch during Wednesday’s split-second window, the next try would be Saturday. Liftoff is set for 4:33 p.m. EDT.The last time astronauts launched from Florida was on NASA’s final space shuttle flight in July 2011. Hurley was the pilot of that mission.NASA hired SpaceX and Boeing in 2014 to transport astronauts to the space station, after commercial cargo shipments had taken off. Development of SpaceX’s Dragon and Boeing’s Starliner capsules took longer than expected, however, and the U.S. has been paying Russia to launch NASA astronauts in the interim.