JOHNSON COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just after 3:30 p.m. Saturday in Johnson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Honda&nbsp;CBR1000R driven by Skylor Jo Brummer, 35, Lawrence, was traveling on the ramp Interstate 435 westbound to Lackman Road.

The motorcycle traveled off the right side of the roadway into the grassy median where it rolled.

Brummer was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to the&nbsp;Johnson County Medical Examiner's Office. He was wearing a helmet and gloves, according to the KHP.

JOHNSON COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just after 3:30 p.m. Saturday in Johnson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Honda&nbsp;CBR1000R driven by Skylor Jo Brummer, 35, Lawrence, was traveling on the ramp Interstate 435 westbound to Lackman Road.The motorcycle traveled off the right side of the roadway into the grassy median where it rolled.Brummer was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to the&nbsp;Johnson County Medical Examiner's Office. He was wearing a helmet and gloves, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies after motorcycle, Interstate ramp crash

By ALLISON WINTER <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/07/14/as-aging-farmers-retire-lawmakers-explore-how-to-boost-beginning-producers/">States Newsroom</a>

WASHINGTON — More
 than half of American farmers will reach retirement age in the next 10 
years, but the steep price of entry to start a farm, along with rising 
input costs and volatile markets, make it tough for young and beginning 
farmers to take their places.

“Farming is inherently a risky 
business, but in the environment we are in right now, that risk is 
elevated,” Nathan Kauffman, vice president and economist at the Federal 
Reserve Bank of Kansas City in Omaha, testified at a U.S. House 
Agriculture Committee hearing Thursday.&nbsp;

The current financial outlook for farmers is particularly challenging.&nbsp;

Farmers face rising costs for not 
only farmland, but also fertilizer, fuel, seeds and chemicals. These 
rising costs are due in part to the war in Ukraine, strains on the 
global supply system, inflation and severe weather.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, high crop prices that have buoyed farmers over the past year are expected to go down.&nbsp;

“Uncertainty about the outlook for 
the U.S. agriculture economy is high and will depend significantly on 
global factors, particularly the war in Ukraine and the strength of 
global economic activity,” said Kauffman.

Demand for farm loans is expected to 
rise notably, and capital expenditure is expected to decline in the 
coming months for the first time since 2020, according to Kauffman.&nbsp;

House lawmakers are looking for ways 
to mitigate some of these risks and support young and beginning farmers 
in the next farm bill, the sweeping legislation that will set programs 
and funding levels for farm and food support for the next five years.&nbsp;

“It is a national and very critical 
issue. And we must ensure that the next generation of men and women can 
take the place of those who are retiring from this grand occupation 
called farming,”&nbsp; House Agriculture Committee Chairman David Scott, a 
Georgia Democrat, told his colleagues at the hearing.&nbsp;

“This is very critical to me. And credit is one of those tools that we must make readily available,” Scott said.

Aging farmers and the price of entry in the industry pose a challenge for U.S. agriculture.

A third of America’s 3.4 million 
farmers are over 65, according to the most recent agricultural census 
from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The census was taken in 2017 
and published in 2019.&nbsp;

At the time, nearly a million more farmers were within a decade of the milestone retirement age of 65.&nbsp;

The census found that 27% of farmers 
qualify as “new and beginning producers,” with 10 years or less of 
experience in agriculture. Most of those farmers have operations that 
are smaller than average, both in terms of acres and value of 
production, according to USDA.

Members of the House Agriculture 
Committee said they are particularly interested in whether young, 
beginning or underserved farmers have access to credit, so they can get 
started in the high-capital world of agriculture.

“In any agriculture operation, one of
 the most critical relationships the farmer may have is with his or her 
lender. This is especially true for young and beginning producers. 
Farming is capital intensive,” said Rep. Glenn Thompson of Pennsylvania,
 the top Republican on the committee.

“The cost of entry is incredibly high
 and can act as a barrier to entry for these new agriculturalists trying
 to start or grow their farm operations.”

The Agriculture Department’s Farm 
Services Agency has an array of different loans available to farmers, 
including one targeted at young and beginning farmers.&nbsp;

But in practice, producers say, the federal loan process can be laborious, slow and hard to access.

The struggle to obtain a loan can be 
especially acute for Black farmers, who can face racism and 
discrimination in applying for a loan, according to Dania Davy of the 
Alcorn State University Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers 
Policy Research Center in East Point, Georgia.

Black farmers have reached out to her
 group for help when the Farm Services Agency recommended they use their
 credit card instead of a federal loan, or when loan delays put a 
generational family farm at risk.

“As we review the farm bill and 
prepare for the scheduled reauthorization, we must make use of the 
opportunity to prevent the looming threat of loss of Black farms, land 
and livelihoods that has been institutionalized by racially disparate 
credit access,” Davy told the committee.&nbsp;

Davy recommends a more robust civil rights process at the local level with farm loan field agencies.

Julia Asherman, who owns a small 
organic farm in Jeffersonville, Georgia, was able to finance her 
operation with three different Farm Service Agency loans.&nbsp;

But she said even her success story 
highlights some roadblocks in the process. It took two months for her to
 get approval for her loan, and there was no option for pre-approval 
before she identified land to purchase. In a competitive market, a 
landowner would likely move on to the next bidder rather than wait that 
long for a loan.

“Farmers easily lose out on potential
 properties by not being able to act fast, and I’ve known several 
farmers personally who have not been able to use FSA loans to purchase 
for this reason,” Asherman said.

Asherman has a three-acre certified 
organic vegetable and specialty cut flower farm with five employees, 
three full-time and two part-time — a business she runs with no off-farm
 income.&nbsp;

But the FSA loan process is geared toward much larger operations, and it was a struggle to prove the validity of her farm.

“Their expectation of what a farm 
would look like, what it would gross per acre, and what it could produce
 per acre was in a totally different realm from what my understanding 
was, because they were really talking about a different kind of 
farming,” Asherman said.

The hearing was one in a series as the House Agriculture Committee ramps up its oversight work for the 2023 farm bill.&nbsp;

Hearings are set in Washington this 
month to examine farm credit, crop insurance and forestry programs. 
Lawmakers plan to take their show on the road in August with field 
hearings slated in committee members’ districts across the country.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657894752931.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALLISON WINTER <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/07/14/as-aging-farmers-retire-lawmakers-explore-how-to-boost-beginning-producers/">States Newsroom</a>WASHINGTON — More
 than half of American farmers will reach retirement age in the next 10 
years, but the steep price of entry to start a farm, along with rising 
input costs and volatile markets, make it tough for young and beginning 
farmers to take their places.“Farming is inherently a risky 
business, but in the environment we are in right now, that risk is 
elevated,” Nathan Kauffman, vice president and economist at the Federal 
Reserve Bank of Kansas City in Omaha, testified at a U.S. House 
Agriculture Committee hearing Thursday.&nbsp;The current financial outlook for farmers is particularly challenging.&nbsp;Farmers face rising costs for not 
only farmland, but also fertilizer, fuel, seeds and chemicals. These 
rising costs are due in part to the war in Ukraine, strains on the 
global supply system, inflation and severe weather.&nbsp;Meanwhile, high crop prices that have buoyed farmers over the past year are expected to go down.&nbsp;“Uncertainty about the outlook for 
the U.S. agriculture economy is high and will depend significantly on 
global factors, particularly the war in Ukraine and the strength of 
global economic activity,” said Kauffman.Demand for farm loans is expected to 
rise notably, and capital expenditure is expected to decline in the 
coming months for the first time since 2020, according to Kauffman.&nbsp;House lawmakers are looking for ways 
to mitigate some of these risks and support young and beginning farmers 
in the next farm bill, the sweeping legislation that will set programs 
and funding levels for farm and food support for the next five years.&nbsp;“It is a national and very critical 
issue. And we must ensure that the next generation of men and women can 
take the place of those who are retiring from this grand occupation 
called farming,”&nbsp; House Agriculture Committee Chairman David Scott, a 
Georgia Democrat, told his colleagues at the hearing.&nbsp;“This is very critical to me. And credit is one of those tools that we must make readily available,” Scott said.<h2>An aging demographic</h2>Aging farmers and the price of entry in the industry pose a challenge for U.S. agriculture.A third of America’s 3.4 million 
farmers are over 65, according to the most recent agricultural census 
from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The census was taken in 2017 
and published in 2019.&nbsp;At the time, nearly a million more farmers were within a decade of the milestone retirement age of 65.&nbsp;The census found that 27% of farmers 
qualify as “new and beginning producers,” with 10 years or less of 
experience in agriculture. Most of those farmers have operations that 
are smaller than average, both in terms of acres and value of 
production, according to USDA.Members of the House Agriculture 
Committee said they are particularly interested in whether young, 
beginning or underserved farmers have access to credit, so they can get 
started in the high-capital world of agriculture.“In any agriculture operation, one of
 the most critical relationships the farmer may have is with his or her 
lender. This is especially true for young and beginning producers. 
Farming is capital intensive,” said Rep. Glenn Thompson of Pennsylvania,
 the top Republican on the committee.“The cost of entry is incredibly high
 and can act as a barrier to entry for these new agriculturalists trying
 to start or grow their farm operations.”<h2>Challenge for federal loans</h2>The Agriculture Department’s Farm 
Services Agency has an array of different loans available to farmers, 
including one targeted at young and beginning farmers.&nbsp;But in practice, producers say, the federal loan process can be laborious, slow and hard to access.The struggle to obtain a loan can be 
especially acute for Black farmers, who can face racism and 
discrimination in applying for a loan, according to Dania Davy of the 
Alcorn State University Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers 
Policy Research Center in East Point, Georgia.Black farmers have reached out to her
 group for help when the Farm Services Agency recommended they use their
 credit card instead of a federal loan, or when loan delays put a 
generational family farm at risk.“As we review the farm bill and 
prepare for the scheduled reauthorization, we must make use of the 
opportunity to prevent the looming threat of loss of Black farms, land 
and livelihoods that has been institutionalized by racially disparate 
credit access,” Davy told the committee.&nbsp;Davy recommends a more robust civil rights process at the local level with farm loan field agencies.<h2>Long wait for loan approval</h2>Julia Asherman, who owns a small 
organic farm in Jeffersonville, Georgia, was able to finance her 
operation with three different Farm Service Agency loans.&nbsp;But she said even her success story 
highlights some roadblocks in the process. It took two months for her to
 get approval for her loan, and there was no option for pre-approval 
before she identified land to purchase. In a competitive market, a 
landowner would likely move on to the next bidder rather than wait that 
long for a loan.“Farmers easily lose out on potential
 properties by not being able to act fast, and I’ve known several 
farmers personally who have not been able to use FSA loans to purchase 
for this reason,” Asherman said.Asherman has a three-acre certified 
organic vegetable and specialty cut flower farm with five employees, 
three full-time and two part-time — a business she runs with no off-farm
 income.&nbsp;But the FSA loan process is geared toward much larger operations, and it was a struggle to prove the validity of her farm.“Their expectation of what a farm 
would look like, what it would gross per acre, and what it could produce
 per acre was in a totally different realm from what my understanding 
was, because they were really talking about a different kind of 
farming,” Asherman said.The hearing was one in a series as the House Agriculture Committee ramps up its oversight work for the 2023 farm bill.&nbsp;Hearings are set in Washington this 
month to examine farm credit, crop insurance and forestry programs. 
Lawmakers plan to take their show on the road in August with field 
hearings slated in committee members’ districts across the country.

As aging farmers retire, lawmakers explore how to boost new producers

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating child sex crimes from 2016 have taken a wanted suspect into custody.

Just before 4p.m. Wednesday, authorities booked 30-year-old Donquez Ladale Jones into the Sedgwick County Jail, according to online jail records.

Law enforcement had<a href="https://www.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriff/most-wanted/donquez-ladale-jones/"> issued an alert</a> for Jones. He was last known to live in Wichita, according to a 2016 most wanted alert. Jones is being held on a <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=385896">$100,000 bond</a>&nbsp;on requested charged of criminal sodomy with a child.

Authorities have not released details on the arrest.&nbsp;  He is scheduled for a control hearing on July 25, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657801038155.png" alt="Jones-photo Sedgwick County." />
 <figcaption>Jones-photo Sedgwick County.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating child sex crimes from 2016 have taken a wanted suspect into custody.Just before 4p.m. Wednesday, authorities booked 30-year-old Donquez Ladale Jones into the Sedgwick County Jail, according to online jail records.Law enforcement had<a href="https://www.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriff/most-wanted/donquez-ladale-jones/"> issued an alert</a> for Jones. He was last known to live in Wichita, according to a 2016 most wanted alert. Jones is being held on a <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=385896">$100,000 bond</a>&nbsp;on requested charged of criminal sodomy with a child.Authorities have not released details on the arrest.&nbsp; He is scheduled for a control hearing on July 25, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Police capture Kan. man wanted for child sex crimes in 2016 

SHAWNEE COUNTY—A Kansas man died in a plane crash just before noon Saturday in Shawnee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 PV-7 piloted by 72-year-old Steven D. Stuckey of Topeka took off southbound.

The pilot attempted to incline and turn west when the plane stalled, flipped and went nose first into the ground at 5501 NE Shaffer Road in Topeka.

Stuckey was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to Frontier Forensics. He was the only person on the aircraft. The FAA is investigating.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658009974045.png" alt="Google map" />
 <figcaption>Google map</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—A Kansas man died in a plane crash just before noon Saturday in Shawnee County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 PV-7 piloted by 72-year-old Steven D. Stuckey of Topeka took off southbound.The pilot attempted to incline and turn west when the plane stalled, flipped and went nose first into the ground at 5501 NE Shaffer Road in Topeka.Stuckey was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to Frontier Forensics. He was the only person on the aircraft. The FAA is investigating.

Kansas pilot dies in plane crash

WASHINGTON —A former <a href="https://www.karmainternational.com/lance-ashley">Kansas businessman</a> was sentenced Thursday to one year and one day in prison for willfully failing to pay over employment taxes to the IRS, according to the United State's Attorney.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Lance Ashley was the sole owner and operator of Ashley Home Care Services (AHCS), an Overland Park home health care business that provided daily living services to individuals. Ashley was responsible for all financial matters relating to AHCS, including handling payroll and paying expenses. From 2013 through 2016, Ashley did not pay over to the IRS all the federal tax withholdings collected from the wages of AHCS’s employees. Instead, he used some of the funds to pay corporate and personal expenses. After the IRS initiated enforcement efforts in 2016 to collect AHCS’s unpaid employment taxes, Ashley provided fraudulent bank records to the IRS, did not fully disclose all of the company’s bank accounts, filed false IRS forms and attempted to use a recently formed corporation to conceal AHCS’s operations. In total, Ashley’s conduct caused a tax loss to the IRS exceeding $321,000.

In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Julie A. Robinson ordered Ashley to serve two years of supervised release and to pay approximately $321,000 in restitution to the United States.

IRS-Criminal Investigation investigated the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657896341932.png" alt="Lance Ashley courtesy Karma International&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Lance Ashley courtesy Karma International&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON —A former <a href="https://www.karmainternational.com/lance-ashley">Kansas businessman</a> was sentenced Thursday to one year and one day in prison for willfully failing to pay over employment taxes to the IRS, according to the United State's Attorney.According to court documents and statements made in court, Lance Ashley was the sole owner and operator of Ashley Home Care Services (AHCS), an Overland Park home health care business that provided daily living services to individuals. Ashley was responsible for all financial matters relating to AHCS, including handling payroll and paying expenses. From 2013 through 2016, Ashley did not pay over to the IRS all the federal tax withholdings collected from the wages of AHCS’s employees. Instead, he used some of the funds to pay corporate and personal expenses. After the IRS initiated enforcement efforts in 2016 to collect AHCS’s unpaid employment taxes, Ashley provided fraudulent bank records to the IRS, did not fully disclose all of the company’s bank accounts, filed false IRS forms and attempted to use a recently formed corporation to conceal AHCS’s operations. In total, Ashley’s conduct caused a tax loss to the IRS exceeding $321,000.In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Julie A. Robinson ordered Ashley to serve two years of supervised release and to pay approximately $321,000 in restitution to the United States.IRS-Criminal Investigation investigated the case.

Prison: Former Kan. businessman failed to pay employment tax

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A Missouri resident who was infected with a rare brain-eating amoeba that likely happened after swimming in a southeastern Iowa lake has died, health officials said Friday.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services said the patient died due to primary amebic meningoencephalitis, a rare and usually fatal infection caused by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/naegleria/">naegleria fowleri ameba.</a>

Health officials said they believe the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lakes-iowa-missouri-centers-for-disease-control-and-prevention-climate-environment-e3e629a4725a16ae641ea09f250ee247">parasite was contracted</a>&nbsp;at Lake of Three Fires near Bedford, Iowa, about 120 miles north of Kansas City. The name and age of the patient will not be released, officials said.

Iowa officials closed the Lake of Three Fires State Park near Taylor County as a precaution on July 7. The beach remains closed.

People are infected when water containing the ameba enters the body through the nose, usually while victims are swimming or diving in lakes and rivers, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention officials say. The fatality rate is more than 97%, according to CDC statistics.

The infections have primarily occurred in southern-tier states. It is the first case discovered in Iowa since infections were first confirmed in 1962 and possibly ever, the CDC said.

Among bordering states, Minnesota has had two cases and Missouri one, with none reported in Illinois, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Kansas has confirmed one case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657393056107.png" alt="Naegleria fowleri ameba or brain-eating amoeba- image CDC" />
 <figcaption>Naegleria fowleri ameba or brain-eating amoeba- image CDC</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — A Missouri resident who was infected with a rare brain-eating amoeba that likely happened after swimming in a southeastern Iowa lake has died, health officials said Friday.The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services said the patient died due to primary amebic meningoencephalitis, a rare and usually fatal infection caused by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/naegleria/">naegleria fowleri ameba.</a>Health officials said they believe the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lakes-iowa-missouri-centers-for-disease-control-and-prevention-climate-environment-e3e629a4725a16ae641ea09f250ee247">parasite was contracted</a>&nbsp;at Lake of Three Fires near Bedford, Iowa, about 120 miles north of Kansas City. The name and age of the patient will not be released, officials said.Iowa officials closed the Lake of Three Fires State Park near Taylor County as a precaution on July 7. The beach remains closed.People are infected when water containing the ameba enters the body through the nose, usually while victims are swimming or diving in lakes and rivers, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention officials say. The fatality rate is more than 97%, according to CDC statistics.The infections have primarily occurred in southern-tier states. It is the first case discovered in Iowa since infections were first confirmed in 1962 and possibly ever, the CDC said.Among bordering states, Minnesota has had two cases and Missouri one, with none reported in Illinois, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Kansas has confirmed one case.

Swimmer infected with brain-eating amoeba dies

LANSING, Kan. (AP) — The Kansas prison in Lansing was placed on lockdown on Friday night after a fight among inmates sent one prisoner to the hospital and left at least three corrections employees injured.

The incident happened about 7 p.m. in a section of the facility that houses violent offenders, said Sarah LaFrenz, a spokeswoman for state Department of Corrections officials. She added that the event led to the “loss of control” over one part of the prison.

Corrections spokesman Randall Bowman confirmed in a text message that the hospitalized inmate was stabbed. He said the rest of the facility had been placed on lockdown as a precautionary measure.

A tactical unit was deployed during the altercation and additional staffing brought in from other facilities. All men had returned to their cells “with minimal resistance" by about 10:30 p.m., corrections officials said.

Lansing, the state's largest and oldest prison for adult men, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-topeka-el-dorado-kansas-prisons-9d2b4ed4e3e0edd14b4a406c5a46b002">other facilities</a>&nbsp;have been beset by staffing shortages in the last couple of years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586477437695.png" alt="Lansing is the state's largest and oldest prison for adult men. Photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Lansing is the state's largest and oldest prison for adult men. Photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>LANSING, Kan. (AP) — The Kansas prison in Lansing was placed on lockdown on Friday night after a fight among inmates sent one prisoner to the hospital and left at least three corrections employees injured.The incident happened about 7 p.m. in a section of the facility that houses violent offenders, said Sarah LaFrenz, a spokeswoman for state Department of Corrections officials. She added that the event led to the “loss of control” over one part of the prison.Corrections spokesman Randall Bowman confirmed in a text message that the hospitalized inmate was stabbed. He said the rest of the facility had been placed on lockdown as a precautionary measure.A tactical unit was deployed during the altercation and additional staffing brought in from other facilities. All men had returned to their cells “with minimal resistance" by about 10:30 p.m., corrections officials said.Lansing, the state's largest and oldest prison for adult men, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-topeka-el-dorado-kansas-prisons-9d2b4ed4e3e0edd14b4a406c5a46b002">other facilities</a>&nbsp;have been beset by staffing shortages in the last couple of years.

Kan. prison placed on lockdown after fight; 3 employees injured 

By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/07/13/kansas-city-resident-hopes-closing-bank-of-kdot-will-improve-safety-of-interstate-70-tight-curve/">Kansas Reflector</a>

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — As Interstate
 70 exits Kansas and enters Missouri, a tight right-angle curve is a 
sight of many accidents over the years, Leo Eilts has witnessed.

Eilts, a resident of the Strawberry Hill neighborhood of Kansas City,
 Kansas, bought a building 16 years ago with a fantastic view 
overlooking the point where the Kansas and Missouri river meet. He 
quickly found his building offered a less pleasant view of accidents 
along that harrowing curve and fixed his security cameras on the point.

“I have a front row seat to a massive demolition derby just down from my building,” Eilts said.

Most of the time, the accidents would be minor, with a few fender 
benders or cars running into guardrails. But one incident stuck with 
Eilts: A cyclist coming onto the curb misjudged the turn, falling over 
the rail to their death.

While Eilts found a Kansas Department of Transportation plans to 
address dangerous aspects of the turn, he could not get an answer on why
 it was not being addressed.

“I made a lot of phone calls to Topeka. I wrote letters and put 
stamps on them. I sent emails and got no reply to everybody,” Eilts 
said. “Finally, one day I had a lady on the phone, and she said don’t 
you know there’s no money in KDOT?”

Dating as far back as 2001, Kansas raided billions from the 
transportation coffers to help other parts of the state budget. Under 
former Gov. Sam Brownback, withdrawals from KDOT ballooned, with more 
than $2 billion taken for other purposes.

Payments have slowed in state budgets under Gov. Laura Kelly. In the 
most recent budget, the state would close the so-called “bank of KDOT” 
during the next fiscal year by not diverting any funds to general 
government uses.

Political leaders, local union leaders and residents like Eilts spoke
 Tuesday of their hopes this will allow the state to finally address 
issues like the dangerous curve in Kansas City.

“We’ve got those monies now, so we’re able to invest in the 
infrastructure and things we need to make the state better,” said Sen. 
Tom Holland, D-Baldwin City. “We finally have the monies now to restart 
those projects that got suspended.”

Mike Kane, speaking for Laborers Local Union 1290, said the restart 
of these many projects would mean a lot for Kansas laborers as well, 
using U.S. Highway 169 as an example.

“I think it’s approximately 290,000 labor hours,” Kane said.

“If you don’t fix your bridge when it deteriorates, materials cost 
twice as much,” he added, and people won’t be able to get to work.

Efforts to close the transportation bank are not new. Sen. Richard 
Hildebrand, a Baxter Springs Republican, introduced a constitutional 
amendment to prevent the Legislature from swiping highway funds for 
other uses.

The failed proposal would have required money raised for 
transportation projects using the state sales tax to be used on those 
projects.

“It always bothered me to read in the paper and see where the state 
was sweeping funds out of the Bank of KDOT,” Hildebrand said in 2020, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/politics/state/2020/03/10/proposal-in-kansas-senate-would-end-raid-on-highway-funds/1548180007/">as reported by the Topeka Capital-Journal</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657731131960.png" alt="Leo Eilts has witnessed many accidents, ranging from minor to fatal, at the tight right-angle curve as Interstate 70 exits Kansas and enters Missouri. With the state budget set to close the so-called Bank of KDOT, Eilts is hopeful projects like fixing the dangerous curve can be addressed. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Leo Eilts has witnessed many accidents, ranging from minor to fatal, at the tight right-angle curve as Interstate 70 exits Kansas and enters Missouri. With the state budget set to close the so-called Bank of KDOT, Eilts is hopeful projects like fixing the dangerous curve can be addressed. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/07/13/kansas-city-resident-hopes-closing-bank-of-kdot-will-improve-safety-of-interstate-70-tight-curve/">Kansas Reflector</a>KANSAS CITY, Kan. — As Interstate
 70 exits Kansas and enters Missouri, a tight right-angle curve is a 
sight of many accidents over the years, Leo Eilts has witnessed.Eilts, a resident of the Strawberry Hill neighborhood of Kansas City,
 Kansas, bought a building 16 years ago with a fantastic view 
overlooking the point where the Kansas and Missouri river meet. He 
quickly found his building offered a less pleasant view of accidents 
along that harrowing curve and fixed his security cameras on the point.“I have a front row seat to a massive demolition derby just down from my building,” Eilts said.Most of the time, the accidents would be minor, with a few fender 
benders or cars running into guardrails. But one incident stuck with 
Eilts: A cyclist coming onto the curb misjudged the turn, falling over 
the rail to their death.While Eilts found a Kansas Department of Transportation plans to 
address dangerous aspects of the turn, he could not get an answer on why
 it was not being addressed.“I made a lot of phone calls to Topeka. I wrote letters and put 
stamps on them. I sent emails and got no reply to everybody,” Eilts 
said. “Finally, one day I had a lady on the phone, and she said don’t 
you know there’s no money in KDOT?”Dating as far back as 2001, Kansas raided billions from the 
transportation coffers to help other parts of the state budget. Under 
former Gov. Sam Brownback, withdrawals from KDOT ballooned, with more 
than $2 billion taken for other purposes.Payments have slowed in state budgets under Gov. Laura Kelly. In the 
most recent budget, the state would close the so-called “bank of KDOT” 
during the next fiscal year by not diverting any funds to general 
government uses.Political leaders, local union leaders and residents like Eilts spoke
 Tuesday of their hopes this will allow the state to finally address 
issues like the dangerous curve in Kansas City.“We’ve got those monies now, so we’re able to invest in the 
infrastructure and things we need to make the state better,” said Sen. 
Tom Holland, D-Baldwin City. “We finally have the monies now to restart 
those projects that got suspended.”Mike Kane, speaking for Laborers Local Union 1290, said the restart 
of these many projects would mean a lot for Kansas laborers as well, 
using U.S. Highway 169 as an example.“I think it’s approximately 290,000 labor hours,” Kane said.“If you don’t fix your bridge when it deteriorates, materials cost 
twice as much,” he added, and people won’t be able to get to work.Efforts to close the transportation bank are not new. Sen. Richard 
Hildebrand, a Baxter Springs Republican, introduced a constitutional 
amendment to prevent the Legislature from swiping highway funds for 
other uses.The failed proposal would have required money raised for 
transportation projects using the state sales tax to be used on those 
projects.“It always bothered me to read in the paper and see where the state 
was sweeping funds out of the Bank of KDOT,” Hildebrand said in 2020, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/politics/state/2020/03/10/proposal-in-kansas-senate-would-end-raid-on-highway-funds/1548180007/">as reported by the Topeka Capital-Journal</a>.

Will ‘Bank of KDOT’ closure improve safety of I-70 tight curve?

WASHINGTON (AP) — The House has voted to restore&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/abortion">abortion</a>&nbsp;rights nationwide in Democrats' first legislative response to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">Supreme Court’s landmark decision overturning Roe v. Wade</a>.

The bill has little chance of becoming law, with the necessary support lacking in the 50-50 Senate. Yet voting marks the beginning of a new era in the debate as lawmakers, governors and legislatures grapple with the impact of the court's decision.

The legislation passed 219-210. The House also passed a second bill to prohibit punishment for a woman or child who decides to travel to another state to get an abortion, 223-205.

“Just three weeks ago the Supreme Court took a wrecking ball to the fundamental rights by overturning Roe v. Wade,” said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi ahead of the votes, gathering with other Democratic women on the steps of the Capitol. “It is outrageous that 50 years later, women must again fight for our most basic rights against an extremist court.”

Republicans spoke forcefully against the two bills, praising the Supreme Court’s decision and warning that the legislation would go further than Roe ever did when it comes to legalizing abortion.

Urging her colleagues to vote no, Washington GOP Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers called abortion “the greatest human rights issue of our generation.”

She said the Democratic legislation “has nothing to do with protecting the health of women. It has everything to do with forcing an extreme agenda on the American people.”

By overturning Roe, the court has allowed states to enact strict abortion limits, including many that had previously been deemed unconstitutional. The ruling is expected to lead to abortion bans in roughly half the states.

Already, a number of GOP-controlled states have moved quickly to curtail or outlaw abortion, while states controlled by Democrats have sought to champion access. Voters&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-biden-nancy-pelosi-womens-rights-government-and-politics-c410dbe9a8321b35a4e779b2fb226de5">now rank abortion</a>&nbsp;as among the most pressing issues facing the country, a shift in priorities that Democrats hope will reshape the political landscape in their favor for the midterm elections.

This is the second time the House has passed the bill, which would expand on the protections Roe had previously provided by banning what supporters say are medically unnecessary restrictions that block access to safe and accessible abortions. It would prevent abortion bans earlier than 24 weeks, which is when fetal viability, the ability of a human fetus to survive outside the uterus, is generally thought to begin. It allows exceptions for abortions after fetal viability when a provider determines the life or health of the mother is at risk.

The Democrats’ proposal would also prevent states from requiring providers to share “medically inaccurate” information, or from requiring additional tests or waiting periods, often aimed at dissuading a patient from having an abortion.

The bill that would prohibit punishment for traveling out of state would specify that doctors can’t be punished for providing reproductive care outside their home state. Democratic Rep. Lizzie Fletcher of Texas, one of the bill’s authors, said the threats to travel “fail to reflect the fundamental rights that are granted in our Constitution.”

Democrats have highlighted the case of a 10-year-old girl who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-us-supreme-court-health-indiana-indianapolis-8708e35d637dd9aa83681113250e0875">had to cross state lines</a>&nbsp;into Indiana to get an abortion after being raped, calling it an example of how the court's decision is already having severe consequences.

“We don’t have to imagine why this might matter. We don’t need to conjure up hypotheticals. We already know what’s happened,” Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar said Thursday on the Senate floor.

“Should the next little 10-year-old's right or 12-year-old's right or 14-year-old's right to get the care that she desperately needs be put in jeopardy?"

The Constitution doesn’t explicitly say travel between states is a right, though the Supreme Court has said it is a right that “has been firmly established and repeatedly recognized.” Yet the court has never said exactly where the right to travel comes from and that could leave it open to challenge or elimination, as the right to an abortion was.

Lawmakers in Missouri earlier this year, for example,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-business-health-lawsuits-missouri-b795a9cf11a28488b875f774c3b414c2">considered</a>&nbsp;making it illegal to “aid or abet” abortions that violate Missouri law, even if they occur out of state. The proposal was ultimately shelved.

Democrats have teed up more bills for passage in the coming weeks. Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, D-Md., said Friday that the House will vote next week on legislation guaranteeing a right to contraception.

GOP Sen. James Lankford of Oklahoma, who supports instituting a nationwide ban on abortion, accused his colleagues across the aisle Thursday of seeking to “inflame" the issue of abortion. He said proponents of the travel bill should ask themselves, “Does the child in the womb have the right to travel in their future?”

Only two Senate Republicans, Sens. Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins, have been supportive of abortion rights, but they do not support the Democrats' proposal, calling it too far-reaching. They have introduced alternative legislation that would bar states from placing an "undue burden” on a woman's ability to obtain an abortion before fetal viability, among other provisions.

When pressed Thursday on whether Democrats should work with the two senators, Pelosi pushed back, “We’re not going to negotiate a woman’s right to choose."

Since the court's ruling last month, some activists have accused President Joe Biden and other top Democrats of failing to respond forcefully enough to the decision. Biden, who denounced the court's ruling as “extreme,” last week&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-biden-us-supreme-court-government-and-politics-0e6496122de46f1039cbb2b5145d6d60">issued an executive order</a>&nbsp;intended to head off some potential penalties that women seeking abortion may face. His administration has also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-health-government-and-politics-4221f9306a596904b9af2e0d1fad23b9">warned medical providers</a>&nbsp;that they must offer abortion if the life of the mother is at risk.

Meanwhile, the Democratic National Committee has already&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-health-mitch-mcconnell-government-and-politics-3cf10d1e1b3dc46ea202a466a86ae9ea">launched a digital ad campaign</a>&nbsp;to energize voters on the issue, warning that Republicans’ ultimate goal is to outlaw abortion nationwide.

“We have to elect a couple more Democratic senators so that we can get around the filibuster so that we can pass legislation that truly impacts a woman’s right to choose,” she said. “There’s no halfway measure.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657917592672.jpeg" alt="When pressed Thursday on whether Democrats should work with the two senators, Pelosi pushed back, “We’re not going to negotiate a woman’s right to choose."-photo courtesy House Speaker's office" />
 <figcaption>When pressed Thursday on whether Democrats should work with the two senators, Pelosi pushed back, “We’re not going to negotiate a woman’s right to choose."-photo courtesy House Speaker's office</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The House has voted to restore&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/abortion">abortion</a>&nbsp;rights nationwide in Democrats' first legislative response to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">Supreme Court’s landmark decision overturning Roe v. Wade</a>.The bill has little chance of becoming law, with the necessary support lacking in the 50-50 Senate. Yet voting marks the beginning of a new era in the debate as lawmakers, governors and legislatures grapple with the impact of the court's decision.The legislation passed 219-210. The House also passed a second bill to prohibit punishment for a woman or child who decides to travel to another state to get an abortion, 223-205.“Just three weeks ago the Supreme Court took a wrecking ball to the fundamental rights by overturning Roe v. Wade,” said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi ahead of the votes, gathering with other Democratic women on the steps of the Capitol. “It is outrageous that 50 years later, women must again fight for our most basic rights against an extremist court.”Republicans spoke forcefully against the two bills, praising the Supreme Court’s decision and warning that the legislation would go further than Roe ever did when it comes to legalizing abortion.Urging her colleagues to vote no, Washington GOP Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers called abortion “the greatest human rights issue of our generation.”She said the Democratic legislation “has nothing to do with protecting the health of women. It has everything to do with forcing an extreme agenda on the American people.”By overturning Roe, the court has allowed states to enact strict abortion limits, including many that had previously been deemed unconstitutional. The ruling is expected to lead to abortion bans in roughly half the states.Already, a number of GOP-controlled states have moved quickly to curtail or outlaw abortion, while states controlled by Democrats have sought to champion access. Voters&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-biden-nancy-pelosi-womens-rights-government-and-politics-c410dbe9a8321b35a4e779b2fb226de5">now rank abortion</a>&nbsp;as among the most pressing issues facing the country, a shift in priorities that Democrats hope will reshape the political landscape in their favor for the midterm elections.This is the second time the House has passed the bill, which would expand on the protections Roe had previously provided by banning what supporters say are medically unnecessary restrictions that block access to safe and accessible abortions. It would prevent abortion bans earlier than 24 weeks, which is when fetal viability, the ability of a human fetus to survive outside the uterus, is generally thought to begin. It allows exceptions for abortions after fetal viability when a provider determines the life or health of the mother is at risk.The Democrats’ proposal would also prevent states from requiring providers to share “medically inaccurate” information, or from requiring additional tests or waiting periods, often aimed at dissuading a patient from having an abortion.The bill that would prohibit punishment for traveling out of state would specify that doctors can’t be punished for providing reproductive care outside their home state. Democratic Rep. Lizzie Fletcher of Texas, one of the bill’s authors, said the threats to travel “fail to reflect the fundamental rights that are granted in our Constitution.”Democrats have highlighted the case of a 10-year-old girl who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-us-supreme-court-health-indiana-indianapolis-8708e35d637dd9aa83681113250e0875">had to cross state lines</a>&nbsp;into Indiana to get an abortion after being raped, calling it an example of how the court's decision is already having severe consequences.“We don’t have to imagine why this might matter. We don’t need to conjure up hypotheticals. We already know what’s happened,” Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar said Thursday on the Senate floor.“Should the next little 10-year-old's right or 12-year-old's right or 14-year-old's right to get the care that she desperately needs be put in jeopardy?"The Constitution doesn’t explicitly say travel between states is a right, though the Supreme Court has said it is a right that “has been firmly established and repeatedly recognized.” Yet the court has never said exactly where the right to travel comes from and that could leave it open to challenge or elimination, as the right to an abortion was.Lawmakers in Missouri earlier this year, for example,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-business-health-lawsuits-missouri-b795a9cf11a28488b875f774c3b414c2">considered</a>&nbsp;making it illegal to “aid or abet” abortions that violate Missouri law, even if they occur out of state. The proposal was ultimately shelved.Democrats have teed up more bills for passage in the coming weeks. Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, D-Md., said Friday that the House will vote next week on legislation guaranteeing a right to contraception.GOP Sen. James Lankford of Oklahoma, who supports instituting a nationwide ban on abortion, accused his colleagues across the aisle Thursday of seeking to “inflame" the issue of abortion. He said proponents of the travel bill should ask themselves, “Does the child in the womb have the right to travel in their future?”Only two Senate Republicans, Sens. Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins, have been supportive of abortion rights, but they do not support the Democrats' proposal, calling it too far-reaching. They have introduced alternative legislation that would bar states from placing an "undue burden” on a woman's ability to obtain an abortion before fetal viability, among other provisions.When pressed Thursday on whether Democrats should work with the two senators, Pelosi pushed back, “We’re not going to negotiate a woman’s right to choose."Since the court's ruling last month, some activists have accused President Joe Biden and other top Democrats of failing to respond forcefully enough to the decision. Biden, who denounced the court's ruling as “extreme,” last week&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-biden-us-supreme-court-government-and-politics-0e6496122de46f1039cbb2b5145d6d60">issued an executive order</a>&nbsp;intended to head off some potential penalties that women seeking abortion may face. His administration has also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-health-government-and-politics-4221f9306a596904b9af2e0d1fad23b9">warned medical providers</a>&nbsp;that they must offer abortion if the life of the mother is at risk.Meanwhile, the Democratic National Committee has already&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-health-mitch-mcconnell-government-and-politics-3cf10d1e1b3dc46ea202a466a86ae9ea">launched a digital ad campaign</a>&nbsp;to energize voters on the issue, warning that Republicans’ ultimate goal is to outlaw abortion nationwide.“We have to elect a couple more Democratic senators so that we can get around the filibuster so that we can pass legislation that truly impacts a woman’s right to choose,” she said. “There’s no halfway measure.”

2nd House vote to restore abortion rights won't survive Senate

Quick help for suicidal thoughts and other mental health emergencies is as easy <a href="https://988lifeline.org/">as 9-8-8.</a>

The United States’ first nationwide three-digit mental health crisis hotline goes live on Saturday.

The new “9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline” will connect callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and offer a broader range of services for people experiencing a mental health crisis or substance use crisis. 

Callers will be connected to resources in their local community and to in-person crisis services where available. Kansans who dial 9-8-8 will be routed to a local crisis specialist trained to address unique concerns and needs, which may include assessment, stabilization, referral, and follow-up.

The federal government has provided over $280 million to help states create systems that will do much more, including mobile mental health crisis teams that can be sent to people’s homes and emergency mental health centers, similar to urgent care clinics that treat physical aches and pains.

“This is one of the most exciting things that has happened” in mental health care, said Dr. Brian Hepburn, a psychiatrist who heads the National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors.

Hepburn cautions that when 988 kicks off, it will not be like “the flick of a switch. It’s going to take a number of years in order for us to be able to reach everybody across the country."

Some states already have comprehensive mental health crisis systems, but others have a long way to go. And widespread shortages of mental health specialists are expected to slow their ability to expand services.

A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rand.org/pubs/working_papers/WRA1955-1-v2.html">RAND Corp. survey</a>&nbsp;published last month found that fewer than half of state or regional public health officials were confident about being ready for 988, which is expected to generate an influx of calls.

Nearly 60% said call-center staffers had specialized suicide prevention training; half said they had mobile crisis response teams available 24/7 with licensed counselors; and fewer than one-third had urgent mental-health care units.

The 988 system will build on the&nbsp;<a href="https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/">National Suicide Prevention Lifeline</a>, an existing network of over 200 crisis centers nationwide staffed by counselors who answer millions of calls each year — about 2.4 million in 2020. Calls to the old lifeline, 1-800-273-8255, will still go through even with 988 in place.

“If we can get 988 to work like 911 … lives will be saved,’’ said Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra.

Dispatching paramedics for heart attacks and police for crimes makes sense — but not for psychiatric emergencies, mental health advocates say. Calls to 911 for those crises often lead to violent law enforcement encounters and trips to jail or crowded emergency rooms where suicidal people can wait days for treatment.

The 988 system “is a real opportunity to do things right," said Hannah Wesolowski of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nami.org/Home">National Alliance on Mental Illness</a>.

Sustained funding will be needed. According to the National Academy of State Health Policy, four states have enacted laws to impose telecommunications fees to support 988 and many others are working on the issue.

A desperate call to a Utah state senator in 2013 helped spark the idea of a three-digit mental health crisis line.

Sen. Daniel Thatcher says a good friend sought his help after taking his suicidal son to an emergency room, only to be told by a doctor to come back if the boy hurt himself.

Thatcher has battled depression and at 17, he also considered suicide. He knew that despondent people in crisis may lack the wherewithal to seek out help or to remember the 10-digit national suicide lifeline number.

Thatcher found that many of Utah’s in-state crisis lines went straight to police dispatchers or voicemail. He wondered why there was no 911 service for mental health, and the idea got national attention after he mentioned it to longtime Sen. Orrin Hatch.

In 2020, Congress passed the bill designating the 3-digit crisis number and then-President Donald Trump signed it into law.

Thatcher’s mother was a nurse and knew where to get him help. He says 988 has the potential to make it that easy for others.

“If you get help, you live. It really is that simple,’’ Thatcher said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657909299467.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Quick help for suicidal thoughts and other mental health emergencies is as easy <a href="https://988lifeline.org/">as 9-8-8.</a>The United States’ first nationwide three-digit mental health crisis hotline goes live on Saturday.The new “9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline” will connect callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and offer a broader range of services for people experiencing a mental health crisis or substance use crisis. Callers will be connected to resources in their local community and to in-person crisis services where available. Kansans who dial 9-8-8 will be routed to a local crisis specialist trained to address unique concerns and needs, which may include assessment, stabilization, referral, and follow-up.The federal government has provided over $280 million to help states create systems that will do much more, including mobile mental health crisis teams that can be sent to people’s homes and emergency mental health centers, similar to urgent care clinics that treat physical aches and pains.“This is one of the most exciting things that has happened” in mental health care, said Dr. Brian Hepburn, a psychiatrist who heads the National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors.Hepburn cautions that when 988 kicks off, it will not be like “the flick of a switch. It’s going to take a number of years in order for us to be able to reach everybody across the country."Some states already have comprehensive mental health crisis systems, but others have a long way to go. And widespread shortages of mental health specialists are expected to slow their ability to expand services.A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rand.org/pubs/working_papers/WRA1955-1-v2.html">RAND Corp. survey</a>&nbsp;published last month found that fewer than half of state or regional public health officials were confident about being ready for 988, which is expected to generate an influx of calls.Nearly 60% said call-center staffers had specialized suicide prevention training; half said they had mobile crisis response teams available 24/7 with licensed counselors; and fewer than one-third had urgent mental-health care units.The 988 system will build on the&nbsp;<a href="https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/">National Suicide Prevention Lifeline</a>, an existing network of over 200 crisis centers nationwide staffed by counselors who answer millions of calls each year — about 2.4 million in 2020. Calls to the old lifeline, 1-800-273-8255, will still go through even with 988 in place.“If we can get 988 to work like 911 … lives will be saved,’’ said Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra.Dispatching paramedics for heart attacks and police for crimes makes sense — but not for psychiatric emergencies, mental health advocates say. Calls to 911 for those crises often lead to violent law enforcement encounters and trips to jail or crowded emergency rooms where suicidal people can wait days for treatment.The 988 system “is a real opportunity to do things right," said Hannah Wesolowski of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nami.org/Home">National Alliance on Mental Illness</a>.Sustained funding will be needed. According to the National Academy of State Health Policy, four states have enacted laws to impose telecommunications fees to support 988 and many others are working on the issue.A desperate call to a Utah state senator in 2013 helped spark the idea of a three-digit mental health crisis line.Sen. Daniel Thatcher says a good friend sought his help after taking his suicidal son to an emergency room, only to be told by a doctor to come back if the boy hurt himself.Thatcher has battled depression and at 17, he also considered suicide. He knew that despondent people in crisis may lack the wherewithal to seek out help or to remember the 10-digit national suicide lifeline number.Thatcher found that many of Utah’s in-state crisis lines went straight to police dispatchers or voicemail. He wondered why there was no 911 service for mental health, and the idea got national attention after he mentioned it to longtime Sen. Orrin Hatch.In 2020, Congress passed the bill designating the 3-digit crisis number and then-President Donald Trump signed it into law.Thatcher’s mother was a nurse and knew where to get him help. He says 988 has the potential to make it that easy for others.“If you get help, you live. It really is that simple,’’ Thatcher said.

988 hotline now available in Kansas for mental health emergencies

JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia — President Joe Biden said Friday that gas prices across the U.S. “have been coming down every single day to the best of my knowledge” but cautioned that his visit to Saudi Arabia may not have an immediate impact on what Americans are paying at the pump.

(click the video to watch the President's comments from Jeddah)

The Biden administration has said that record high rates of U.S. inflation aren’t yet reflecting falling gas prices, which have been dropping in many parts of the country since mid-June. Asked about whether his trip to the Middle East would further accelerate those declines, Biden responded: “I suspect you won’t see that for another couple of weeks.”

Speaking to reporters, the president was also asked about Democratic West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin’s opposition to a White House backed energy plan that Biden says can lower costs while also combating climate change.

Manchin’s refusing to support the plan could mean it won’t pass the Senate. Biden said, “I didn’t negotiate with Joe Manchin,” but added of his climate change goals, “I’m not going away.”

Biden vowed to use “every power I have as president” to move the U.S. toward greener energy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657900907332.png" alt="Following a subdued airport greeting, a fist bump between President Biden and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at Al Salam Royal Palace in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.-photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Following a subdued airport greeting, a fist bump between President Biden and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at Al Salam Royal Palace in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.-photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia — President Joe Biden said Friday that gas prices across the U.S. “have been coming down every single day to the best of my knowledge” but cautioned that his visit to Saudi Arabia may not have an immediate impact on what Americans are paying at the pump.(click the video to watch the President's comments from Jeddah)<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWhiteHouse%2Fvideos%2F878290469795746%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=260" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>The Biden administration has said that record high rates of U.S. inflation aren’t yet reflecting falling gas prices, which have been dropping in many parts of the country since mid-June. Asked about whether his trip to the Middle East would further accelerate those declines, Biden responded: “I suspect you won’t see that for another couple of weeks.”Speaking to reporters, the president was also asked about Democratic West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin’s opposition to a White House backed energy plan that Biden says can lower costs while also combating climate change.Manchin’s refusing to support the plan could mean it won’t pass the Senate. Biden said, “I didn’t negotiate with Joe Manchin,” but added of his climate change goals, “I’m not going away.”Biden vowed to use “every power I have as president” to move the U.S. toward greener energy.

🎥Biden's Saudi trip won't immediately impact gas prices

PUEBLO COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a murder and asking for help in locating 33-year-old Tyler Jordan Mitchell.

On Wednesday, officials in Colorado issued a warrant for Mitchell’s arrest for the crime of 1st Degree Murder in relation to the death of a 33-year-old woman, according to a media release.

Mitchell is described as a white male, approximately 5-foot-8 and 140 pounds. He has a large tattoo on his left forearm that states “Est. 1989”. 

His&nbsp; right arm is deformed, and he usually keeps it in a shoulder sling. 

He is frequently seen on the north side of Pueblo, but may be in route to the Wichita, Kansas area.

Mitchell should be considered dangerous and if you see him, do not approach him.&nbsp;

  If you have any information about the whereabouts of Tyler J. Mitchell, please contact the Pueblo Police Department (719-553-2502), or local law enforcement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657832190500.png" alt="Mitchell-photo Pueblo Police" />
 <figcaption>Mitchell-photo Pueblo Police</figcaption>
 </figure>PUEBLO COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a murder and asking for help in locating 33-year-old Tyler Jordan Mitchell.On Wednesday, officials in Colorado issued a warrant for Mitchell’s arrest for the crime of 1st Degree Murder in relation to the death of a 33-year-old woman, according to a media release.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657832368816.png" alt="He has a large tattoo on his left forearm that states “Est. 1989”.Photo Pueblo Police" />
 <figcaption>He has a large tattoo on his left forearm that states “Est. 1989”.Photo Pueblo Police</figcaption>
 </figure>Mitchell is described as a white male, approximately 5-foot-8 and 140 pounds. He has a large tattoo on his left forearm that states “Est. 1989”. His&nbsp; right arm is deformed, and he usually keeps it in a shoulder sling. He is frequently seen on the north side of Pueblo, but may be in route to the Wichita, Kansas area.Mitchell should be considered dangerous and if you see him, do not approach him.&nbsp; If you have any information about the whereabouts of Tyler J. Mitchell, please contact the Pueblo Police Department (719-553-2502), or local law enforcement.&nbsp;

Search continues for murder suspect who may be headed to Kansas

&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects following a Wednesday afternoon theft in northeast Kansas.

Just after 3 p.m.July 13, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office was called in reference to a theft at the Dollar General Store in Mayetta, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

  It was reported that two individuals involved in the incident allegedly stole a scanner, printer and cell phone from an ice vendor at the store. 

 The two suspects on a black motorcycle traveled south on U.S. Highway 75. The pair had also allegedly caused a disturbance at the Holton Walmart earlier in the day, according to Morse.

The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office and Sheriff Brian Hill assisted with the search for the pair.  Both subjects were located approximately 30 miles south of Topeka on the Kansas Turnpike by the Kansas Highway Patrol. 

 The two were arrested and transported to the Jackson County Jail.  The two suspects were identified as Jason Darrell Mathes, 47, of Kyle, Texas and Stephani Elyse Rodriquez, 34, of Austin, Texas. They remain jailed on requested theft charges, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657828322646.png" alt="Mathes-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Mathes-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects following a Wednesday afternoon theft in northeast Kansas.Just after 3 p.m.July 13, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office was called in reference to a theft at the Dollar General Store in Mayetta, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. It was reported that two individuals involved in the incident allegedly stole a scanner, printer and cell phone from an ice vendor at the store. The two suspects on a black motorcycle traveled south on U.S. Highway 75. The pair had also allegedly caused a disturbance at the Holton Walmart earlier in the day, according to Morse.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657828381911.png" alt=" Rodriquez-photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption> Rodriquez-photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office and Sheriff Brian Hill assisted with the search for the pair. Both subjects were located approximately 30 miles south of Topeka on the Kansas Turnpike by the Kansas Highway Patrol. The two were arrested and transported to the Jackson County Jail. The two suspects were identified as Jason Darrell Mathes, 47, of Kyle, Texas and Stephani Elyse Rodriquez, 34, of Austin, Texas. They remain jailed on requested theft charges, according to online jail records.

Sheriff: Couple arrested after Kan. Turnpike motorcycle chase

By SHERMAN SMITH <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/07/15/kansas-abortion-ban-is-the-plan-officials-pushing-constitutional-amendment-tell-gop-crowd/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — A regional director of 
the Value Them Both Coalition told a meeting of Reno County Republicans 
last month that the organization has legislation ready to ban abortion 
in Kansas if voters adopt a constitutional amendment Aug. 2.

A state senator also told the crowd he wanted to pass laws “with my goal of life starting at conception.”

The expressed intent to ban abortion stands in direct contrast with 
public statements by supporters of the constitutional amendment, who 
have repeatedly insisted the Aug. 2 vote is not about banning abortion. 
The comments support the fears of those who are working to defeat the 
amendment.

“We are pleased that a Value Them Both representative was finally 
honest and forthright about their real goal to ban abortion completely 
in Kansas,” said Ashley All, spokeswoman for Kansans for Constitutional 
Freedom, which opposes the amendment. “We now have confirmation — from 
their own campaign staff and legislative leaders — that if this 
amendment passes, the Kansas Legislature will move quickly to pass the 
most extreme ban on abortion possible.”

The Kansas Supreme Court in a 2019 ruling said the state 
constitution’s right to bodily autonomy includes the decision to 
terminate a pregnancy. Passage of the Value Them Both amendment would 
invalidate the Supreme Court’s decision and give the Legislature 
unlimited authority to pass restrictions on reproductive rights — or a 
complete abortion ban, without exceptions.

Comments from the June 14 meeting in Haven were captured on audio obtained by Kansas Reflector.

In the audio, Lori Chrisman identifies herself to the crowd as an 18-county regional director for the Value Them Both Coalition.

“I’m in charge of in getting getting out the vote with, and knocking 
on doors, and making phone calls, working on grassroots initiatives on 
this,” Chrisman said.

An unidentified man in the audience then asks if someone can explain what happens when the constitutional amendment passes.

“We do have one ready — <a target="_blank" href="http://kslegislature.com/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2746/">HB2746</a> — so we’ll move that up,” Chrisman said.

“It’s out there,” she added, “but it’s not voted on or anything yet.”

The bill she referenced was introduced this past session by Rep. 
Trevor Jacobs, a Fort Scott Republican. The legislation would 
criminalize all abortions from the moment of fertilization until birth. 
The felony level would be the same as murder. There are exceptions for 
miscarriages, stillbirths and ectopic pregnancies, but not for rape, 
incest, or to save the life of a mother.

Mackenzie Haddix, a deputy spokeswoman for the Value Them Both 
Coalition, said Chrisman is no longer with the organization and didn’t 
speak on behalf of the coalition.

The proposed constitutional amendment, Haddix said, “is not a ban on abortion.”

Danielle Underwood, a spokeswoman for Kansans for Life, said the 
organization had nothing to do with the drafting of HB2746 and that the 
legislation has nothing to do with the constitutional amendment. She 
didn’t respond to a question about whether Kansans for Life would 
support the bill if the amendment were to pass.

During the meeting, Sen. Caryn Tyson, a Parker Republican who is 
running for state treasurer, clarified that the bill would have to be 
re-introduced next year, because all bills died when the session ended 
in May.

Sen. Mark Steffen, a Hutchinson Republican, said the state Supreme 
Court “hijacked the abortion issue” with its ruling in 2019. After the 
amendment passes, he said, the Legislature can take action.

“We’ll be able to make further laws, further refinement, with my goal of life starting at conception,” Steffen said.

His comments were answered by loud applause.

The meeting took place 10 days before the U.S. Supreme Court 
overturned Roe v. Wade, leaving each state to determine its own rules on
 abortion. Because the Kansas Supreme Court ruling was based on the 
state constitution, abortion remains legal in Kansas.

Republican lawmakers and leaders of the Value Them Both Coalition, 
which includes Kansans for Life and faith-based groups, have been 
careful to avoid saying what legislation they intend to pursue if the 
amendment passes. Instead, they have focused their messaging on 
preserving restrictions in state law that could be challenged under the 
2019 ruling. It isn’t clear which restrictions, if any, would be found 
unlawful.

The restrictions currently in place include a ban on abortions beyond
 22 weeks from gestation, except when a mother’s health is severely 
compromised. Taxpayer money can only be used in cases that involve rape 
or incest, or to save the life of the mother.

By SHERMAN SMITH <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/07/15/kansas-abortion-ban-is-the-plan-officials-pushing-constitutional-amendment-tell-gop-crowd/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — A regional director of 
the Value Them Both Coalition told a meeting of Reno County Republicans 
last month that the organization has legislation ready to ban abortion 
in Kansas if voters adopt a constitutional amendment Aug. 2.A state senator also told the crowd he wanted to pass laws “with my goal of life starting at conception.”The expressed intent to ban abortion stands in direct contrast with 
public statements by supporters of the constitutional amendment, who 
have repeatedly insisted the Aug. 2 vote is not about banning abortion. 
The comments support the fears of those who are working to defeat the 
amendment.“We are pleased that a Value Them Both representative was finally 
honest and forthright about their real goal to ban abortion completely 
in Kansas,” said Ashley All, spokeswoman for Kansans for Constitutional 
Freedom, which opposes the amendment. “We now have confirmation — from 
their own campaign staff and legislative leaders — that if this 
amendment passes, the Kansas Legislature will move quickly to pass the 
most extreme ban on abortion possible.”The Kansas Supreme Court in a 2019 ruling said the state 
constitution’s right to bodily autonomy includes the decision to 
terminate a pregnancy. Passage of the Value Them Both amendment would 
invalidate the Supreme Court’s decision and give the Legislature 
unlimited authority to pass restrictions on reproductive rights — or a 
complete abortion ban, without exceptions.Comments from the June 14 meeting in Haven were captured on audio obtained by Kansas Reflector.In the audio, Lori Chrisman identifies herself to the crowd as an 18-county regional director for the Value Them Both Coalition.“I’m in charge of in getting getting out the vote with, and knocking 
on doors, and making phone calls, working on grassroots initiatives on 
this,” Chrisman said.An unidentified man in the audience then asks if someone can explain what happens when the constitutional amendment passes.“We do have one ready — <a target="_blank" href="http://kslegislature.com/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2746/">HB2746</a> — so we’ll move that up,” Chrisman said.“It’s out there,” she added, “but it’s not voted on or anything yet.”The bill she referenced was introduced this past session by Rep. 
Trevor Jacobs, a Fort Scott Republican. The legislation would 
criminalize all abortions from the moment of fertilization until birth. 
The felony level would be the same as murder. There are exceptions for 
miscarriages, stillbirths and ectopic pregnancies, but not for rape, 
incest, or to save the life of a mother.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zQBF1ssKMIQ"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In the audio, Lori Chrisman identifies herself to the crowd as an 18-county regional director for the Value Them Both Coalition.“I’m in charge of in getting getting out the vote with, and knocking 
on doors, and making phone calls, working on grassroots initiatives on 
this,” Chrisman said.An unidentified man in the audience then asks if someone can explain what happens when the constitutional amendment passes.“We do have one ready — <a target="_blank" href="http://kslegislature.com/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2746/">HB2746</a> — so we’ll move that up,” Chrisman said.“It’s out there,” she added, “but it’s not voted on or anything yet.”The bill she referenced was introduced this past session by Rep. 
Trevor Jacobs, a Fort Scott Republican. The legislation would 
criminalize all abortions from the moment of fertilization until birth. 
The felony level would be the same as murder. There are exceptions for 
miscarriages, stillbirths and ectopic pregnancies, but not for rape, 
incest, or to save the life of a mother.Mackenzie Haddix, a deputy spokeswoman for the Value Them Both 
Coalition, said Chrisman is no longer with the organization and didn’t 
speak on behalf of the coalition.The proposed constitutional amendment, Haddix said, “is not a ban on abortion.”Danielle Underwood, a spokeswoman for Kansans for Life, said the 
organization had nothing to do with the drafting of HB2746 and that the 
legislation has nothing to do with the constitutional amendment. She 
didn’t respond to a question about whether Kansans for Life would 
support the bill if the amendment were to pass.During the meeting, Sen. Caryn Tyson, a Parker Republican who is 
running for state treasurer, clarified that the bill would have to be 
re-introduced next year, because all bills died when the session ended 
in May.Sen. Mark Steffen, a Hutchinson Republican, said the state Supreme 
Court “hijacked the abortion issue” with its ruling in 2019. After the 
amendment passes, he said, the Legislature can take action.“We’ll be able to make further laws, further refinement, with my goal of life starting at conception,” Steffen said.His comments were answered by loud applause.The meeting took place 10 days before the U.S. Supreme Court 
overturned Roe v. Wade, leaving each state to determine its own rules on
 abortion. Because the Kansas Supreme Court ruling was based on the 
state constitution, abortion remains legal in Kansas.Republican lawmakers and leaders of the Value Them Both Coalition, 
which includes Kansans for Life and faith-based groups, have been 
careful to avoid saying what legislation they intend to pursue if the 
amendment passes. Instead, they have focused their messaging on 
preserving restrictions in state law that could be challenged under the 
2019 ruling. It isn’t clear which restrictions, if any, would be found 
unlawful.The restrictions currently in place include a ban on abortions beyond
 22 weeks from gestation, except when a mother’s health is severely 
compromised. Taxpayer money can only be used in cases that involve rape 
or incest, or to save the life of the mother.

🎙 Officials pushing amendment: Kansas abortion ban is the plan

KHIMKI, Russia (AP) — A lawyer for WNBA star Brittney Griner at her drug possession trial in Russia on Friday gave the court a U.S. doctor's letter recommending she use medical cannabis to treat pain.

Griner, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and standout for the Phoenix Mercury, was arrested at Moscow's Sheremetyevo Airport in February after customs officials said they found vape canisters containing cannabis oil in her luggage. She faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted on charges of transporting drugs.

In court last week, Griner pleaded guilty and acknowledged possessing the canisters but said she had no criminal intent and said they were in her luggage because she packed hastily in her return to Russia to play for the UMMC Ekaterinburg basketball team during the WNBA's offseason.

In Russia’s judicial system, admitting guilt doesn’t automatically end a trial. Since that plea, her court sessions have focused on in-person and written testimony to her good character and athletic prowess.

Griner wore a Nirvana T-shirt as she sat inside the defendant's cage that is customary in Russian courtrooms. At one point, she held up a photo of fellow WNBA players wearing her name and No. 42 on their uniforms in tribute during part of Sunday's All-Star Game in Chicago.

“The attending physician gave Brittney recommendations for the use of medical cannabis," said her lawyer, Maria Blagovolina. "The permission was issued on behalf of the Arizona Department of Health.”

Medical marijuana is not legal in Russia.

The defense on Friday also submitted tests she underwent as part of an anti-doping check, which didn't detect any prohibited substances in her system.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646510097872.png" alt="The 31-year-old Griner, one of the most recognizable players in women’s basketball, has won two Olympic gold medals with the U.S., a WNBA championship with the Phoenix Mercury and a national championship at Baylor. She is a seven-time All-Star and three-time Big 12 Player of the year at Baylor-photo courtesy Phoenix Mercury" />
 <figcaption>The 31-year-old Griner, one of the most recognizable players in women’s basketball, has won two Olympic gold medals with the U.S., a WNBA championship with the Phoenix Mercury and a national championship at Baylor. She is a seven-time All-Star and three-time Big 12 Player of the year at Baylor-photo courtesy Phoenix Mercury</figcaption>
 </figure>KHIMKI, Russia (AP) — A lawyer for WNBA star Brittney Griner at her drug possession trial in Russia on Friday gave the court a U.S. doctor's letter recommending she use medical cannabis to treat pain.Griner, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and standout for the Phoenix Mercury, was arrested at Moscow's Sheremetyevo Airport in February after customs officials said they found vape canisters containing cannabis oil in her luggage. She faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted on charges of transporting drugs.In court last week, Griner pleaded guilty and acknowledged possessing the canisters but said she had no criminal intent and said they were in her luggage because she packed hastily in her return to Russia to play for the UMMC Ekaterinburg basketball team during the WNBA's offseason.In Russia’s judicial system, admitting guilt doesn’t automatically end a trial. Since that plea, her court sessions have focused on in-person and written testimony to her good character and athletic prowess.Griner wore a Nirvana T-shirt as she sat inside the defendant's cage that is customary in Russian courtrooms. At one point, she held up a photo of fellow WNBA players wearing her name and No. 42 on their uniforms in tribute during part of Sunday's All-Star Game in Chicago.“The attending physician gave Brittney recommendations for the use of medical cannabis," said her lawyer, Maria Blagovolina. "The permission was issued on behalf of the Arizona Department of Health.”Medical marijuana is not legal in Russia.The defense on Friday also submitted tests she underwent as part of an anti-doping check, which didn't detect any prohibited substances in her system.The next hearing of Griner's case was scheduled for July 26.U.S. President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken have said they are doing all they could to win her release, as well as that of other Americans the U.S. considers “wrongly detained” by Russia, including former Marine Paul Whelan who is serving 16 years on an espionage conviction.Washington may have little leverage with Moscow, though, because of strong animosity over its military operation in Ukraine.“In the hearings yesterday and today what became very clear is the tremendous amount of respect and admiration both in the United States and here in Russia where Miss Griner has been playing basketball for seven years, not only for her professional achievements but for her character and integrity,” U.S. Embassy charge d'affaires Elizabeth Rood said outside the courthouse in the Moscow suburb of Khimki, where the airport is located.The director and team captain of UMMC Ektaerinburg testified on her behalf on Thursday.Russian media have speculated that Griner could be swapped for Russian arms trader Viktor Bout, nicknamed “the Merchant of Death,” who is serving a 25-year sentence in the U.S. after being convicted of conspiracy to kill U.S. citizens and providing aid to a terrorist organization.Russia has agitated for Bout’s release for years. But the wide discrepancy in the seriousness of their cases could make such a trade unpalatable to Washington. Others have suggested that Griner could be traded along with Whelan, who is serving 16 years in Russia on an espionage conviction that the U.S. has described as a setup.The State Department’s designation of Griner as wrongfully detained moves her case under the supervision of its special presidential envoy for hostage affairs, effectively the government’s chief hostage negotiator. The classification has irritated Russia.Asked about the possibility of Griner being swapped for a Russian jailed in the U.S., Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, the senior Russian diplomat, has noted that until her trial is over “there are no formal or procedural reasons to talk about any further steps.”Ryabkov warned that U.S. criticism, including the description of Griner as wrongfully detained and dismissive comments about the Russian judicial system, “makes it difficult to engage in detailed discussion of any possible exchanges.”Griner’s detention has been authorized through Dec. 20, suggesting the trial could last months. Griner’s lawyers, however, said they expect it to conclude around the beginning of August.