By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/06/28/schmidt-kelly-campaigns-at-odds-on-approach-to-medicaid-expansion-in-kansas/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Katie Sawyer, Republican
 gubernatorial candidate Derek Schmidt’s running mate, said neither she 
nor the attorney general would support Medicaid expansion in its current
 proposed form.

Sawyer made the remarks at a candidate forum in Salina over the 
weekend in response to a question from an audience member who asked if 
Schmidt would support a plan to expand KanCare, the state-run Medicaid 
program. The audience member also questioned former Gov. Sam Brownback’s
 stance against expansion, arguing the state lost billions of dollars by
 not expanding.

“I can’t speak to what Gov. Brownback did,” Sawyer said. “What I will
 say pretty clearly is, as it stands right now in its current proposed 
form, Derek Schmidt would not be supportive of expanding Medicaid.”

CJ Grover, campaign manager for Schmidt, said the attorney general 
could not support current proposals because they would assist 
able-bodied Kansans without children without a work requirement. No 
matter who is governor, Grover said he did not believe the Legislature 
was likely to pass Medicaid expansion.

Overall, he said Schmidt considers himself a “open-minded skeptic” on the issue.

“Should the Legislature one day reconsider and decide to advance a 
proposal, there are requirements AG Schmidt believes must be met,” 
Grover said. “First, the state share of the expansion cost must be 
honestly paid for, second there must be a work or job training 
requirement to ensure expansion is not a welfare program but instead a 
way to help able-bodied Kansans who are working to support themselves, 
and third there must be a clear and enforceable prohibition of any 
taxpayer funding for abortion coverage.

According to the most recent Kansas Health Institute estimates, 
expansion in January 2023 would lead to 148,000 newly enrolled Kansans. 
Nearly 88,000 adults who currently fall in the “Medicaid coverage gap” 
would gain coverage if Medicaid were to expand.

The April estimates indicate an increase of 36% from the pre-pandemic
 monthly average KanCare enrollment, but only a 1.4% increase in 
spending. In addition, KHI estimated that the American Rescue Plan Act 
would create $418 million in savings for Kansas over two years if 
KanCare were expanded to low-income adults.

“None of the non-expansion states have adopted expansion since ARPA 
was enacted,” the brief notes in conclusion. “In the meantime, Kansans 
who remain in the coverage gap have few alternatives for comprehensive 
affordable health insurance.”

KHI estimates include indirect effects of expansion enrollment for children and currently eligible adults.

Alliance for a Healthy Kansas estimates the state has lost out on 
over $5.6 billion without expansion and 150,000 Kansans fall in the 
Medicaid gap.

Proponents of expansion also highlight concerns with rural hospital 
closures. Since 2005, nine rural hospitals in the state have closed, and
 of the 105 rural hospitals in Kansas 75 are currently running at a loss
 and are vulnerable to closure, according to a <a target="_blank" href="https://ruralhospitals.chqpr.org/downloads/Rural_Hospitals_at_Risk_of_Closing.pdf">Center for Health Care Quality and Payment Reform study</a>.

Madison Andrus, a campaign spokeswoman for Gov. Laura Kelly, said the governor would continue to strongly support expansion.

“It will expand quality health care for 150,000 hardworking Kansans 
and create 23,000 jobs,” Andrus said. “That’s good for rural Kansas, 
good for the Kansas economy, and good for Kansas health care workers — 
and it will remain a top priority in her second term.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656514664979.png" alt="Derek Schmidt, a Republican gubernatorial candidate for governor, would not support Medicaid expansion in its current proposed form, said Katie Sawyer, his running mate, during a candidate forum over the weekend. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Derek Schmidt, a Republican gubernatorial candidate for governor, would not support Medicaid expansion in its current proposed form, said Katie Sawyer, his running mate, during a candidate forum over the weekend. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/06/28/schmidt-kelly-campaigns-at-odds-on-approach-to-medicaid-expansion-in-kansas/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Katie Sawyer, Republican
 gubernatorial candidate Derek Schmidt’s running mate, said neither she 
nor the attorney general would support Medicaid expansion in its current
 proposed form.Sawyer made the remarks at a candidate forum in Salina over the 
weekend in response to a question from an audience member who asked if 
Schmidt would support a plan to expand KanCare, the state-run Medicaid 
program. The audience member also questioned former Gov. Sam Brownback’s
 stance against expansion, arguing the state lost billions of dollars by
 not expanding.“I can’t speak to what Gov. Brownback did,” Sawyer said. “What I will
 say pretty clearly is, as it stands right now in its current proposed 
form, Derek Schmidt would not be supportive of expanding Medicaid.”CJ Grover, campaign manager for Schmidt, said the attorney general 
could not support current proposals because they would assist 
able-bodied Kansans without children without a work requirement. No 
matter who is governor, Grover said he did not believe the Legislature 
was likely to pass Medicaid expansion.Overall, he said Schmidt considers himself a “open-minded skeptic” on the issue.“Should the Legislature one day reconsider and decide to advance a 
proposal, there are requirements AG Schmidt believes must be met,” 
Grover said. “First, the state share of the expansion cost must be 
honestly paid for, second there must be a work or job training 
requirement to ensure expansion is not a welfare program but instead a 
way to help able-bodied Kansans who are working to support themselves, 
and third there must be a clear and enforceable prohibition of any 
taxpayer funding for abortion coverage.According to the most recent Kansas Health Institute estimates, 
expansion in January 2023 would lead to 148,000 newly enrolled Kansans. 
Nearly 88,000 adults who currently fall in the “Medicaid coverage gap” 
would gain coverage if Medicaid were to expand.The April estimates indicate an increase of 36% from the pre-pandemic
 monthly average KanCare enrollment, but only a 1.4% increase in 
spending. In addition, KHI estimated that the American Rescue Plan Act 
would create $418 million in savings for Kansas over two years if 
KanCare were expanded to low-income adults.“None of the non-expansion states have adopted expansion since ARPA 
was enacted,” the brief notes in conclusion. “In the meantime, Kansans 
who remain in the coverage gap have few alternatives for comprehensive 
affordable health insurance.”KHI estimates include indirect effects of expansion enrollment for children and currently eligible adults.Alliance for a Healthy Kansas estimates the state has lost out on 
over $5.6 billion without expansion and 150,000 Kansans fall in the 
Medicaid gap.Proponents of expansion also highlight concerns with rural hospital 
closures. Since 2005, nine rural hospitals in the state have closed, and
 of the 105 rural hospitals in Kansas 75 are currently running at a loss
 and are vulnerable to closure, according to a <a target="_blank" href="https://ruralhospitals.chqpr.org/downloads/Rural_Hospitals_at_Risk_of_Closing.pdf">Center for Health Care Quality and Payment Reform study</a>.Madison Andrus, a campaign spokeswoman for Gov. Laura Kelly, said the governor would continue to strongly support expansion.“It will expand quality health care for 150,000 hardworking Kansans 
and create 23,000 jobs,” Andrus said. “That’s good for rural Kansas, 
good for the Kansas economy, and good for Kansas health care workers — 
and it will remain a top priority in her second term.”

Schmidt, Kelly at odds on approach to Medicaid expansion

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects for their involvement in a weekend murder.

Just after 5 a.m. Saturday, sheriff's deputies were sent to a shooting call in the 4400 block of south Rock Road in rural Sedgwick County, according to Lt. Benjamin Blick.&nbsp;

At the scene, first responders found 42-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20076411">David Baeza</a>&nbsp;of Wichita on the side of the road suffering from gunshot wounds, according to Colonel Brian White with the sheriff's department. EMS transported Baeza to an area hospital for treatment.

During an additional search of the rural property, deputies found a man and woman deceased in the backyard of a residence the 4300 block of South Rock Road. They died from apparent gunshot wounds.

While processing the scene, investigators found 43-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=18714449">Joseph Ponse Jr. </a>&nbsp;of Wichita. Deputies booked him on requested charges of first degree murder and a Kansas Department of Corrections arrest and detain order, according to White.

After he was released from the hospital and interviewed, deputies booked<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20076411">&nbsp;Baeza</a>&nbsp;on requested charges of first-degree murder.

Investigators still have individuals they want to interview in connection with the case, according to White. "This was not a random act and drug activity is believed involved."&nbsp;

The names of the victims have not been released. They did not live at the location where they were killed.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657051599579.png" alt="Ponse-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Ponse-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects for their involvement in a weekend murder.Just after 5 a.m. Saturday, sheriff's deputies were sent to a shooting call in the 4400 block of south Rock Road in rural Sedgwick County, according to Lt. Benjamin Blick.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656781809875.png" alt="Rock Road was closed during the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Rock Road was closed during the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>At the scene, first responders found 42-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20076411">David Baeza</a>&nbsp;of Wichita on the side of the road suffering from gunshot wounds, according to Colonel Brian White with the sheriff's department. EMS transported Baeza to an area hospital for treatment.During an additional search of the rural property, deputies found a man and woman deceased in the backyard of a residence the 4300 block of South Rock Road. They died from apparent gunshot wounds.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657051675461.png" alt="Baeza-photo Sedgwick County." />
 <figcaption>Baeza-photo Sedgwick County.</figcaption>
 </figure>While processing the scene, investigators found 43-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=18714449">Joseph Ponse Jr. </a>&nbsp;of Wichita. Deputies booked him on requested charges of first degree murder and a Kansas Department of Corrections arrest and detain order, according to White.After he was released from the hospital and interviewed, deputies booked<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20076411">&nbsp;Baeza</a>&nbsp;on requested charges of first-degree murder. Investigators still have individuals they want to interview in connection with the case, according to White. "This was not a random act and drug activity is believed involved."&nbsp;The names of the victims have not been released. They did not live at the location where they were killed.&nbsp;

Suspect in Kansas double murder moved from hospital to jail

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Smithfield Foods will pay restaurants and caterers $42 million to settle a lawsuit that accused the giant meat producer of conspiring to inflate pork prices, which will likely only add to concerns about how the lack of competition in the industry affects meat prices.

Lawyers began notifying companies affected by this latest settlement Tuesday. Previously, Smithfield settled with a different group of pork buyers for $83 million, and JBS agreed to pay the restaurants and caterers $12.75 million in the pork lawsuit. Earlier this year, JBS also said it would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-lawsuits-prices-beef-markets-394112b62cb6301ff740e3247971eb3d">pay $52.5 million to settle</a>&nbsp;a similar beef price-fixing lawsuit. Neither Smithfield nor JBS admitted any wrongdoing as part of those settlements, and officials at Smithfield's headquarters in Virginia declined to comment on the details of the deal.

Additional&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-lawsuits-fa91f3a79e4eb9aa5e3d0046e4f16d85">price-fixing lawsuits</a>&nbsp;have also been filed against chicken producers. Nearly $200 million of settlements have been approved in those chicken cases.

The restaurant companies that sued accused the meat processors that control more than 70% of pork production of coordinating efforts to limit the supply of hogs and inflate prices between 2009 and this year.

The lawsuit remains pending against other major pork producers, including Hormel, Tyson Foods, Seaboard Foods and Triumph Foods, and the Agri Stats database company they allegedly used to share confidential information about price, capacity and demand.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/0e87235d52f847e4aae370212843faa7">lawsuit</a>&nbsp;says that the private information in those reports allowed competitors to compare their profits and helped them control the supply and price of pork.

The meat industry argues that supply and demand factors drive prices, not anticompetitive behavior, but the industry's practices have been questioned by the White House, several prominent members of Congress and trade groups.

The Biden administration has announced several efforts to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-lifestyle-business-prices-inflation-78335dba9802d7eb727744301d4489df">boost competition</a>&nbsp;in the industry to help reduce food prices including a $1 billion plan to help independent slaughterhouses expand.

The U.S. Departments of Justice and Agriculture also created a website earlier this year to make it easier for farmers and ranchers to report any concerns about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-c899e1c834f1d7ba272d7c524c5a8e09">anticompetitive behavior</a>&nbsp;in the industry.

A Minnesota federal judge is scheduled to hold a hearing in October to consider whether to approve the Smithfield settlement, but he already gave it preliminary approval in April.

“We look forward to moving for final approval of our settlement with Smithfield and continuing to litigate with the remaining defendants,” one of the plaintiffs’ attorneys, Blaine Finley, said.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Smithfield Foods will pay restaurants and caterers $42 million to settle a lawsuit that accused the giant meat producer of conspiring to inflate pork prices, which will likely only add to concerns about how the lack of competition in the industry affects meat prices.Lawyers began notifying companies affected by this latest settlement Tuesday. Previously, Smithfield settled with a different group of pork buyers for $83 million, and JBS agreed to pay the restaurants and caterers $12.75 million in the pork lawsuit. Earlier this year, JBS also said it would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-lawsuits-prices-beef-markets-394112b62cb6301ff740e3247971eb3d">pay $52.5 million to settle</a>&nbsp;a similar beef price-fixing lawsuit. Neither Smithfield nor JBS admitted any wrongdoing as part of those settlements, and officials at Smithfield's headquarters in Virginia declined to comment on the details of the deal.Additional&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-lawsuits-fa91f3a79e4eb9aa5e3d0046e4f16d85">price-fixing lawsuits</a>&nbsp;have also been filed against chicken producers. Nearly $200 million of settlements have been approved in those chicken cases.The restaurant companies that sued accused the meat processors that control more than 70% of pork production of coordinating efforts to limit the supply of hogs and inflate prices between 2009 and this year.The lawsuit remains pending against other major pork producers, including Hormel, Tyson Foods, Seaboard Foods and Triumph Foods, and the Agri Stats database company they allegedly used to share confidential information about price, capacity and demand.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/0e87235d52f847e4aae370212843faa7">lawsuit</a>&nbsp;says that the private information in those reports allowed competitors to compare their profits and helped them control the supply and price of pork.The meat industry argues that supply and demand factors drive prices, not anticompetitive behavior, but the industry's practices have been questioned by the White House, several prominent members of Congress and trade groups.The Biden administration has announced several efforts to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-lifestyle-business-prices-inflation-78335dba9802d7eb727744301d4489df">boost competition</a>&nbsp;in the industry to help reduce food prices including a $1 billion plan to help independent slaughterhouses expand.The U.S. Departments of Justice and Agriculture also created a website earlier this year to make it easier for farmers and ranchers to report any concerns about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-c899e1c834f1d7ba272d7c524c5a8e09">anticompetitive behavior</a>&nbsp;in the industry.A Minnesota federal judge is scheduled to hold a hearing in October to consider whether to approve the Smithfield settlement, but he already gave it preliminary approval in April.“We look forward to moving for final approval of our settlement with Smithfield and continuing to litigate with the remaining defendants,” one of the plaintiffs’ attorneys, Blaine Finley, said.

Smithfield Foods settles pork price-fixing lawsuit for $42M

WASHINGTON —President Biden on Tuesday urged schools to leverage the $122 billion in American Rescue Plan funds to expand programming and services, so students can make up for learning time lost during the pandemic – and recruiting 250,000 new tutors and mentors to help, according to a statement from the White House.

"Due to the pandemic, kids are behind in math and reading. We know how to help bridge this gap.

I'm calling on schools to use American Rescue Plan funds to expand tutoring, summer learning, and afterschool programs and to provide 250,000 more tutors and mentors for our kids."

The <a href="https://www.partnershipstudentsuccess.org/">National Partnership for Student Success</a> (NPSS) supports a nationwide three-year effort that brings together experienced organizations to recruit, screen, train, support, and engage an additional 250,000 caring adults in roles serving as tutors, mentors, student success coaches, wraparound service coordinators, and post-secondary transition coaches, according to the organization's web sire.

"They will work in close coordination with parents, educators, and others in roles that research shows result in gains in reading and math, high school and college graduation rates, reductions in chronic absenteeism, and improved student well-being and mental health."

"The NPSS will help our nation meet this goal by supporting schools, non-profit organizations, colleges, workplaces, state agencies, and community-based champions in working together to provide students with people-powered supports based on locally determined needs. It will help organizations expand, improve and/or create high-quality, evidence-based programs to support students’ learning and thriving."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627053425831.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON —President Biden on Tuesday urged schools to leverage the $122 billion in American Rescue Plan funds to expand programming and services, so students can make up for learning time lost during the pandemic – and recruiting 250,000 new tutors and mentors to help, according to a statement from the White House."Due to the pandemic, kids are behind in math and reading. We know how to help bridge this gap.I'm calling on schools to use American Rescue Plan funds to expand tutoring, summer learning, and afterschool programs and to provide 250,000 more tutors and mentors for our kids."The <a href="https://www.partnershipstudentsuccess.org/">National Partnership for Student Success</a> (NPSS) supports a nationwide three-year effort that brings together experienced organizations to recruit, screen, train, support, and engage an additional 250,000 caring adults in roles serving as tutors, mentors, student success coaches, wraparound service coordinators, and post-secondary transition coaches, according to the organization's web sire."They will work in close coordination with parents, educators, and others in roles that research shows result in gains in reading and math, high school and college graduation rates, reductions in chronic absenteeism, and improved student well-being and mental health.""The NPSS will help our nation meet this goal by supporting schools, non-profit organizations, colleges, workplaces, state agencies, and community-based champions in working together to provide students with people-powered supports based on locally determined needs. It will help organizations expand, improve and/or create high-quality, evidence-based programs to support students’ learning and thriving."

Biden urges schools to take action with $122B of Rescue Plan funds

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities continue their search for a Salina man who has not been seen in over two weeks and is being considered a missing, endangered person.

Police are looking for information concerning a Chevrolet Express van they believe is connected to the disappearance of a Salina man.

On June 18, the Salina Police Department reported it was investigating the disappearance of 44-year-old Nathan Philip Thompson who at that time hadn't been seen in approximately a week. Police said Thompson was being considered a missing endangered person.

He is described as being 6-foot-2, weighs 184 pounds with brown hair and hazel eyes.

On June 21, the Salina Police Department reported investigators, developed information that the a Chevrolet Express van was possibly used to facilitate the disappearance of Nathan Thompson. The Salina Police Department has the van in its possession and are asking the public for any information they can provide with regards to the van since June 9th, 2022. Police especially want information on sightings of the vehicle in rural areas.

Anyone that has seen the van and/or its driver should contact the Salina Police Department, Crime Stoppers or the tip line below.

If you have had contact with Nathan Thompson since June 1, 2022, have information concerning his disappearance, or have information relative to the fire at 1635 Elgin please contact the Salina Police Department at 785-826-7210. You may also call Crimestoppers at 785-825-TIPS or make an online tip at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#">https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#</a>. Tipsters may also contact the Salina Police Department at (785) 826-7210 and ask to speak to Detective Lemon, case 2022-17281.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655917384049.png" alt="Police seek information about this van.Photo Salina Police Department" />
 <figcaption>Police seek information about this van.Photo Salina Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities continue their search for a Salina man who has not been seen in over two weeks and is being considered a missing, endangered person.Police are looking for information concerning a Chevrolet Express van they believe is connected to the disappearance of a Salina man.On June 18, the Salina Police Department reported it was investigating the disappearance of 44-year-old Nathan Philip Thompson who at that time hadn't been seen in approximately a week. Police said Thompson was being considered a missing endangered person.He is described as being 6-foot-2, weighs 184 pounds with brown hair and hazel eyes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655577117894.jpeg" alt="Nathan Phillip Thompson -photo from May 2022" />
 <figcaption>Nathan Phillip Thompson -photo from May 2022</figcaption>
 </figure>On June 21, the Salina Police Department reported investigators, developed information that the a Chevrolet Express van was possibly used to facilitate the disappearance of Nathan Thompson. The Salina Police Department has the van in its possession and are asking the public for any information they can provide with regards to the van since June 9th, 2022. Police especially want information on sightings of the vehicle in rural areas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655917461520.png" alt="The van police believe is connected to Thompson's disappearance" />
 <figcaption>The van police believe is connected to Thompson's disappearance</figcaption>
 </figure>Anyone that has seen the van and/or its driver should contact the Salina Police Department, Crime Stoppers or the tip line below.If you have had contact with Nathan Thompson since June 1, 2022, have information concerning his disappearance, or have information relative to the fire at 1635 Elgin please contact the Salina Police Department at 785-826-7210. You may also call Crimestoppers at 785-825-TIPS or make an online tip at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#">https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#</a>. Tipsters may also contact the Salina Police Department at (785) 826-7210 and ask to speak to Detective Lemon, case 2022-17281.

Search continues: Foul play could be involved in Kan. man's disappearance

HARPER COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just after 11 a.m. Tuesday in Harper County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Nissan Frontier driven by Jimmy Anderson, 58, Wichita, was traveling northeast on Kansas 2 just&nbsp; south of NE 140 Road.

The pickup crossed the center line and struck a 2023 Kenworth semi driven by Jimmy Ladner, 58, Medicine Lodge head-on.&nbsp;

Anderson was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Prairie Rose mortuary. Ladner was not injured. Anderson was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657072190400.png" alt="The pickup came to rest in the east ditch. -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>The pickup came to rest in the east ditch. -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>HARPER COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just after 11 a.m. Tuesday in Harper County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Nissan Frontier driven by Jimmy Anderson, 58, Wichita, was traveling northeast on Kansas 2 just&nbsp; south of NE 140 Road.The pickup crossed the center line and struck a 2023 Kenworth semi driven by Jimmy Ladner, 58, Medicine Lodge head-on.&nbsp;Anderson was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Prairie Rose mortuary. Ladner was not injured. Anderson was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies after head-on pickup, semi crash

Even if high gas prices are draining your budget, don’t fall for this
 scam. Scammers are tempting drivers with phony gas station gift cards. 
It's really a way to get your credit card details and other personal 
information. &nbsp;&nbsp;

You see a post on social media, get an email, or take a survey that 
says you won a $500 gas station gift card. Currently, the scam claims to
 be from Shell, but watch out for scammers using different gas station 
brands too.

To get the gift card, you only need to pay a small fee. But when 
scammers get your credit or debit card information, they will likely 
charge your account for amounts you never approved. One consumer told <a href="https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker" target="_blank">BBB Scam Tracker</a>:
 “They said I won a Shell gas card and had to pay $1.95 for shipping. A 
day later, they took $89.95 out of my account. I called about the 
charge, and they fixed it, but the next day, another $89.95 was taken 
out again.”

In addition to your credit card information, the scam may also 
request other personal details. Some consumers say they were asked to 
fill out a form and provide their name, phone number, physical address, 
credit card information, and other details. Sharing these details with 
scammers can open you up to identity theft.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579883951052.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BBBEven if high gas prices are draining your budget, don’t fall for this
 scam. Scammers are tempting drivers with phony gas station gift cards. 
It's really a way to get your credit card details and other personal 
information. &nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>How the scam works</h2>You see a post on social media, get an email, or take a survey that 
says you won a $500 gas station gift card. Currently, the scam claims to
 be from Shell, but watch out for scammers using different gas station 
brands too.To get the gift card, you only need to pay a small fee. But when 
scammers get your credit or debit card information, they will likely 
charge your account for amounts you never approved. One consumer told <a href="https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker" target="_blank">BBB Scam Tracker</a>:
 “They said I won a Shell gas card and had to pay $1.95 for shipping. A 
day later, they took $89.95 out of my account. I called about the 
charge, and they fixed it, but the next day, another $89.95 was taken 
out again.”In addition to your credit card information, the scam may also 
request other personal details. Some consumers say they were asked to 
fill out a form and provide their name, phone number, physical address, 
credit card information, and other details. Sharing these details with 
scammers can open you up to identity theft.<h2>How to avoid prize scams</h2><ul>
 <li>Never pay to win. No legitimate company will ask 
you to pay money to receive something you won or to get a free gift. If 
someone asks you to pay even a small fee to receive a prize, you’re 
probably dealing with a scammer. </li><li>Do your research. <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/21686-how-to-avoid-impostor-scams" target="_blank">Impostor scams</a>
 are common, so if a large company seems to be offering you a free gift,
 do some research first. Visit the company’s official website (by typing
 it into your web browser, not by following a link someone sent you) to 
see if they really are participating in some kind of giveaway. </li><li>Don’t act on impulse. Scammers are hoping you’ll 
get so excited about their offer that you won’t stop thinking about any 
suspicious details. Use your good judgment and question any offer that 
seems too good to be true.</li>
 </ul>

Scam alert: Cash-strapped drivers scammed with fake gas gift cards

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A legislator has resigned her seat after being convicted of falsely claiming she was giving patients stem cell treatments for COVID-19.

Republican state Rep. Tricia Derges of Nixa, Missouri, sent her resignation letter to House Speaker Rob Vescovo on Friday.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-springfield-government-and-politics-8fa7c47948f170ef3b6a16df95380022">She was convicted in June on 22 counts</a>&nbsp;including wire fraud, illegal distribution of controlled substances and making false statements to investigators.

Federal prosecutors argued she claimed nearly $900,000 in federal funding for COVID-19 treatments that weren’t performed or had already been performed. They also alleged she promoted amniotic fluid as a COVID-19 treatment and other diseases by falsely claiming it contained stem cells.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-business-health-missouri-springfield-c90f154c5937e038f62aa63151a2c75c">Her narcotics license was placed on probation</a>&nbsp;for three years in January. At the time, she refused to resign her House seat but was stripped of her committee assignments and barred from party caucus meetings. The state GOP prohibited her from running for reelection as a Republican this fall.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612227622244.png" alt="Rep. Tricia Derges- courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Tricia Derges- courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — A legislator has resigned her seat after being convicted of falsely claiming she was giving patients stem cell treatments for COVID-19.Republican state Rep. Tricia Derges of Nixa, Missouri, sent her resignation letter to House Speaker Rob Vescovo on Friday.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-springfield-government-and-politics-8fa7c47948f170ef3b6a16df95380022">She was convicted in June on 22 counts</a>&nbsp;including wire fraud, illegal distribution of controlled substances and making false statements to investigators.Federal prosecutors argued she claimed nearly $900,000 in federal funding for COVID-19 treatments that weren’t performed or had already been performed. They also alleged she promoted amniotic fluid as a COVID-19 treatment and other diseases by falsely claiming it contained stem cells.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-business-health-missouri-springfield-c90f154c5937e038f62aa63151a2c75c">Her narcotics license was placed on probation</a>&nbsp;for three years in January. At the time, she refused to resign her House seat but was stripped of her committee assignments and barred from party caucus meetings. The state GOP prohibited her from running for reelection as a Republican this fall.

Lawmaker resigns after conviction for COVID treatment fraud

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

SALINA —A Kansas man who accidentally&nbsp; shot himself was later arrested.

Just after 7:30p.m. July 2, police were dispatched to the Village Inn, 453 S. Broadway in Salina for the report of shots fired in the parking lot, according to Salina Police Captain Gary Hanus.

When they arrived, they encountered Oscar Zamarron, 41, of Salina, who had a gunshot wound on his left wrist. During the investigation, officers determined that Zamarron had accidentally discharged the gun.

Hanus said Zamarron was transported by EMS to Salina Regional Health Center, where he was treated and released. Officers also discovered that Zamarron was not legally able to possess a firearm, so he was arrested on the following requested charges of Criminal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, Criminal use of a weapon, Unlawful discharge of a firearm, Disorderly conduct

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656853456976.jpeg" alt="Oscar Zamarron-photo&nbsp;Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Oscar Zamarron-photo&nbsp;Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostSALINA —A Kansas man who accidentally&nbsp; shot himself was later arrested.Just after 7:30p.m. July 2, police were dispatched to the Village Inn, 453 S. Broadway in Salina for the report of shots fired in the parking lot, according to Salina Police Captain Gary Hanus.When they arrived, they encountered Oscar Zamarron, 41, of Salina, who had a gunshot wound on his left wrist. During the investigation, officers determined that Zamarron had accidentally discharged the gun.Hanus said Zamarron was transported by EMS to Salina Regional Health Center, where he was treated and released. Officers also discovered that Zamarron was not legally able to possess a firearm, so he was arrested on the following requested charges of Criminal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, Criminal use of a weapon, Unlawful discharge of a firearm, Disorderly conduct

Police arrest Kansas man who accidentally shot himself 

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal shooting have identified the victim as 39-year-old Louis Cantrell of Topeka.

Just before 1a.m. Tuesday, police responded to report of a shooting in the 200 Block SE Lawrence Street in Topeka, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith. Upon arrival, officers located Cantrell suffering from a gunshot wound. An ambulance transported him to an area hospital. 

Medical personnel pronounced him deceased, according to Monasmith.&nbsp; Police released no additional details Tuesday afternoon.

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting.

Just before 1a.m. Tuesday, police responded to report of a shooting in the 200 Block SE Lawrence Street in Topeka, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith. 

&nbsp;Upon arrival, officers located an adult suffering from a gunshot wound. An ambulance transported the victim to an area hospital. 

Medical personnel pronounced the victim deceased, according to Monasmith.&nbsp; Police released no additional details early Tuesday.

Medical personnel pronounced the victim deceased, according to Monasmith.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657034249250.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation early Tuesday -photo by Phil Anderson courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation early Tuesday -photo by Phil Anderson courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal shooting have identified the victim as 39-year-old Louis Cantrell of Topeka.Just before 1a.m. Tuesday, police responded to report of a shooting in the 200 Block SE Lawrence Street in Topeka, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith. Upon arrival, officers located Cantrell suffering from a gunshot wound. An ambulance transported him to an area hospital. Medical personnel pronounced him deceased, according to Monasmith.&nbsp; Police released no additional details Tuesday afternoon.----------SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting.Just before 1a.m. Tuesday, police responded to report of a shooting in the 200 Block SE Lawrence Street in Topeka, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith. &nbsp;Upon arrival, officers located an adult suffering from a gunshot wound. An ambulance transported the victim to an area hospital. Medical personnel pronounced the victim deceased, according to Monasmith.&nbsp; Police released no additional details early Tuesday.Just before 1a.m. Tuesday, police responded to report of a shooting in the 200 Block SE Lawrence Street in Topeka, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith. &nbsp;Upon arrival, officers located an adult suffering from a gunshot wound. An ambulance transported the victim to an area hospital. Medical personnel pronounced the victim deceased, according to Monasmith.&nbsp;&nbsp;----------------SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting.Just before 1a.m. Tuesday, police responded to report of a shooting in the 200 Block SE Lawrence Street in Topeka, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith. &nbsp;Upon arrival, officers located an adult suffering from a gunshot wound. An ambulance transported the victim to an area hospital. Medical personnel pronounced the victim deceased, according to Monasmith.&nbsp; Police released no additional details early Tuesday.

Homicide: Police ID Kansas man who died in shooting

FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a hit-and-run accident and asking the public for help to locate a vehicle.

Just before 1a.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to a pedestrian accident involving a 44-year-old man at the intersection of Fulton Street and 12th Street in Garden City, according to a media release.

Upon arrival, officers located the man lying in the roadway. The man was alert and able to speak to first responders.

The investigation revealed that the man had left El Patron Bar and was crossing Fulton Street when he was struck by a Chevrolet Silverado. 

Witnesses said that the Silverado was driving recklessly, and the vehicle fled the accident scene before officers arrived.&nbsp; EMS transported the man to St. Catherine Hospital for treatment. 

Officers are attempting to identify the driver of the vehicle. Anyone with information is asked to contact police.&nbsp; The victim's name has not been released.

FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a hit-and-run accident and asking the public for help to locate a vehicle.Just before 1a.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to a pedestrian accident involving a 44-year-old man at the intersection of Fulton Street and 12th Street in Garden City, according to a media release.Upon arrival, officers located the man lying in the roadway. The man was alert and able to speak to first responders.The investigation revealed that the man had left El Patron Bar and was crossing Fulton Street when he was struck by a Chevrolet Silverado. Witnesses said that the Silverado was driving recklessly, and the vehicle fled the accident scene before officers arrived.&nbsp; EMS transported the man to St. Catherine Hospital for treatment. Officers are attempting to identify the driver of the vehicle. Anyone with information is asked to contact police.&nbsp; The victim's name has not been released.

Police: 44-year-old man injured after SW Kan. hit-and-run

PRATT COUNTY—Two juveniles were injured after a weekend accident in rural Pratt County.

Just after 5p.m. Sunday, Pratt County EMS responded to 90294 SE 10th after report of a boy unresponsive at the scene of a UTV accident, according to Sheriff James White.

First responders found two injured boys. EMS transported them to Pratt Regional Medical Center. One victim had life threatening injuries and was later air-lifted to Wesley Medical Center.

The sheriff's office on Tuesday did not released an update on their condition. Their names have also not been released.

PRATT COUNTY—Two juveniles were injured after a weekend accident in rural Pratt County.Just after 5p.m. Sunday, Pratt County EMS responded to 90294 SE 10th after report of a boy unresponsive at the scene of a UTV accident, according to Sheriff James White.First responders found two injured boys. EMS transported them to Pratt Regional Medical Center. One victim had life threatening injuries and was later air-lifted to Wesley Medical Center.The sheriff's office on Tuesday did not released an update on their condition. Their names have also not been released.

Sheriff: 2 boys injured after rural Kansas UTV accident

By MARGARET MELLOTT <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/07/05/bob-and-elizabeth-dole-awarded-gerald-r-ford-medal-for-distinguished-public-service/">Kansas Reflector</a>

Kansas political icon Bob Dole was awarded the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=74DsZhO7N90">2022 Gerald R. Ford medal for distinguished public service</a> alongside his wife and former North Carolina Sen. Elizabeth Dole.

Elizabeth Dole accepted the award on both of their behalf July 1. Bob Dole <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/12/05/bob-dole-kansas-political-icon-dies-at-98-after-battle-with-lung-cancer/">died in December</a>&nbsp;after battling lung cancer. He was 98.

“Awarding the Gerald R. Ford medal 
for distinguished public service to two individuals is not the norm,” 
said Roger Porter, trustee of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential 
Foundation. “This year’s award of the medal to Robert and Elizabeth is, 
however, an understandable and appropriate exception.”

Born and raised in Russell, Kansas, 
Bob Dole was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1968. During his time as a 
senator, he worked to pass legislation that improved the accessibility 
of food stamps and school lunches alongside former South Dakota Sen. 
George McGovern, a Democrat.

“This effort expanded school lunch 
programs; helped establish the Special Supplemental Food Program for 
Women, Infants, and Children; and created a federal assistance program 
for low-income pregnant women, breastfeeding women, and children under 
the age of five,” the award citation notes. “With McGovern, the Kansas 
senator led the effort to simplify eligibility requirements.”

Bob Dole was known for his friendliness and ability to work with anyone regardless of political affiliation, and “the title that meant most to him was veteran,” Porter said.

Before becoming the first female 
senator to represent North Carolina, in 2002, Elizabeth Dole was the 
first woman to be appointed as the U.S. Secretary of Transportation in 
1983.

“As U.S. secretary of Transportation,
 Elizabeth Dole worked with the late Sen. Frank Lautenberg and the late 
Sen. Richard Luger to ensure enactment of the 21-year-old drinking age,”
 the award citation notes. “At virtually the same time, she issued a 
landmark regulation, which is credited with widespread enactment of the 
first state safety belt laws and airbags in cars. These three actions 
have saved nearly 500,000 lives to date with a projected 20,000 lives 
saved per year going forward.”

As a political leader for women 
across the country, Porter said, Elizabeth Dole worked hard behind the 
scenes, often choosing for concrete accomplishments rather than awards.

“She saw a place for women in the 
ranks of those who would lead our country and build a land of which we 
could be proud,” Porter said. “Her healthy ambition, without a trace of 
arrogance, focused on getting things done, rather than accumulating 
awards and recognition.”

During her acceptance speech, 
Elizabeth Dole talked fondly of her late husband, saying the award is 
“especially meaningful because I share it with Bob Dole, the man who was
 my soulmate and my own personal Rock of Gibraltar for 46 years.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657031358637.png" alt="Former U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Dole accepts the 2022 Gerald R. Ford medal for distinguished public service on Friday, July 1. Both her and her late husband, former Sen. Bob Dole, were recipients of the award. (Kansas Reflector screen capture from Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation video)" />
 <figcaption>Former U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Dole accepts the 2022 Gerald R. Ford medal for distinguished public service on Friday, July 1. Both her and her late husband, former Sen. Bob Dole, were recipients of the award. (Kansas Reflector screen capture from Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation video)</figcaption>
 </figure>By MARGARET MELLOTT <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/07/05/bob-and-elizabeth-dole-awarded-gerald-r-ford-medal-for-distinguished-public-service/">Kansas Reflector</a>Kansas political icon Bob Dole was awarded the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=74DsZhO7N90">2022 Gerald R. Ford medal for distinguished public service</a> alongside his wife and former North Carolina Sen. Elizabeth Dole.Elizabeth Dole accepted the award on both of their behalf July 1. Bob Dole <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/12/05/bob-dole-kansas-political-icon-dies-at-98-after-battle-with-lung-cancer/">died in December</a>&nbsp;after battling lung cancer. He was 98.“Awarding the Gerald R. Ford medal 
for distinguished public service to two individuals is not the norm,” 
said Roger Porter, trustee of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential 
Foundation. “This year’s award of the medal to Robert and Elizabeth is, 
however, an understandable and appropriate exception.”<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/74DsZhO7N90"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Born and raised in Russell, Kansas, 
Bob Dole was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1968. During his time as a 
senator, he worked to pass legislation that improved the accessibility 
of food stamps and school lunches alongside former South Dakota Sen. 
George McGovern, a Democrat.“This effort expanded school lunch 
programs; helped establish the Special Supplemental Food Program for 
Women, Infants, and Children; and created a federal assistance program 
for low-income pregnant women, breastfeeding women, and children under 
the age of five,” the award citation notes. “With McGovern, the Kansas 
senator led the effort to simplify eligibility requirements.”Bob Dole was known for his friendliness and ability to work with anyone regardless of political affiliation, and “the title that meant most to him was veteran,” Porter said.Before becoming the first female 
senator to represent North Carolina, in 2002, Elizabeth Dole was the 
first woman to be appointed as the U.S. Secretary of Transportation in 
1983.“As U.S. secretary of Transportation,
 Elizabeth Dole worked with the late Sen. Frank Lautenberg and the late 
Sen. Richard Luger to ensure enactment of the 21-year-old drinking age,”
 the award citation notes. “At virtually the same time, she issued a 
landmark regulation, which is credited with widespread enactment of the 
first state safety belt laws and airbags in cars. These three actions 
have saved nearly 500,000 lives to date with a projected 20,000 lives 
saved per year going forward.”As a political leader for women 
across the country, Porter said, Elizabeth Dole worked hard behind the 
scenes, often choosing for concrete accomplishments rather than awards.“She saw a place for women in the 
ranks of those who would lead our country and build a land of which we 
could be proud,” Porter said. “Her healthy ambition, without a trace of 
arrogance, focused on getting things done, rather than accumulating 
awards and recognition.”During her acceptance speech, 
Elizabeth Dole talked fondly of her late husband, saying the award is 
“especially meaningful because I share it with Bob Dole, the man who was
 my soulmate and my own personal Rock of Gibraltar for 46 years.”

Doles awarded Gerald R. Ford medal for distinguished public service

EMPORIA, Kan. (AP) — Brexten Green, a wide receiver on the Emporia State football team, died over the weekend in a cliff-diving accident at Grand Lake in Oklahoma, the university announced Tuesday.

The Grand River Dam Authority received an emergency around 6:30 p.m. Saturday about a man who jumped into Grand Lake around Dripping Springs and didn’t resurface, KFOR-TV reported. Rescue crews found his body in 31 feet of water.

Green came to Emporia State from Cashion High School in Cashion, Oklahoma. He was set to start his second year after redshirting last season and was seeking a business administration degree, University President Ken Hush wrote in a campus-wide email.

Hush said Emporia State’s counseling service was available to help anyone who needed it.

“It’s a terrible day for Emporia State football and just a devastating loss for the Green family,” football coach Garin Higgins said in a news release. “Brexten was a great teammate who cared so much about this football program. It showed in his competitive spirit, his work ethic and his willingness to be there for his teammates. He will always be a part of our Hornet football family.”

Green was an All-State selection by the Oklahoma Coaches Association for the 2020 Oklahoma Class A State Champion Wildcats. He was the District A-3 Player of the Year as a senior after gaining 1,720 receiving yards, 409 rushing yards and scoring 27 total touchdowns.

“He was committed to being the best player he could be and would have developed into a great player for us because of those characteristics," Higgins said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657042848637.png" alt="Brexten Green-photo courtesy ESU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Brexten Green-photo courtesy ESU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>EMPORIA, Kan. (AP) — Brexten Green, a wide receiver on the Emporia State football team, died over the weekend in a cliff-diving accident at Grand Lake in Oklahoma, the university announced Tuesday.The Grand River Dam Authority received an emergency around 6:30 p.m. Saturday about a man who jumped into Grand Lake around Dripping Springs and didn’t resurface, KFOR-TV reported. Rescue crews found his body in 31 feet of water.Green came to Emporia State from Cashion High School in Cashion, Oklahoma. He was set to start his second year after redshirting last season and was seeking a business administration degree, University President Ken Hush wrote in a campus-wide email.Hush said Emporia State’s counseling service was available to help anyone who needed it.“It’s a terrible day for Emporia State football and just a devastating loss for the Green family,” football coach Garin Higgins said in a news release. “Brexten was a great teammate who cared so much about this football program. It showed in his competitive spirit, his work ethic and his willingness to be there for his teammates. He will always be a part of our Hornet football family.”Green was an All-State selection by the Oklahoma Coaches Association for the 2020 Oklahoma Class A State Champion Wildcats. He was the District A-3 Player of the Year as a senior after gaining 1,720 receiving yards, 409 rushing yards and scoring 27 total touchdowns.“He was committed to being the best player he could be and would have developed into a great player for us because of those characteristics," Higgins said.Funeral arrangements are pending.

Emporia State football player dies in cliff-diving accident

A Salina woman was cited after multiple "VOTE YES!" signs were damaged on Sunday. The signs encourage people to vote in favor of the proposed Kansas constitutional amendment concerning abortion.

Between 7-8:30 p.m. Sunday, either the signs or sign stands in 1000 block of S. Ninth Street, 1800 block of Highland Avenue, 2000 block of Highland Avenue, 100 block of W. Wayne Avenue, 2000 block of Simmons Street, 500 block of W. Republic Avenue, 400 block of W. Republic Avenue and 2000 block of Starlight Drive were damaged, according to Salina Police Captain Gary Hanus.

Witnesses reported seeing a white minivan in the area of some of the damaged signs. Through the course of the investigation, police determined that Daphne M. Hass, 34, of Salina, allegedly was responsible for the damage to the signs.

Hanus said Hass was cited for a total of eight counts of damage to property.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656082391177.png" alt="Kansas voters will decide whether to remove the last barrier to abortion rights in the state constitution during the Aug. 2 primary election. photo by Dylan Lysen / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Kansas voters will decide whether to remove the last barrier to abortion rights in the state constitution during the Aug. 2 primary election. photo by Dylan Lysen / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA Salina woman was cited after multiple "VOTE YES!" signs were damaged on Sunday. The signs encourage people to vote in favor of the proposed Kansas constitutional amendment concerning abortion.Between 7-8:30 p.m. Sunday, either the signs or sign stands in 1000 block of S. Ninth Street, 1800 block of Highland Avenue, 2000 block of Highland Avenue, 100 block of W. Wayne Avenue, 2000 block of Simmons Street, 500 block of W. Republic Avenue, 400 block of W. Republic Avenue and 2000 block of Starlight Drive were damaged, according to Salina Police Captain Gary Hanus.Witnesses reported seeing a white minivan in the area of some of the damaged signs. Through the course of the investigation, police determined that Daphne M. Hass, 34, of Salina, allegedly was responsible for the damage to the signs.Hanus said Hass was cited for a total of eight counts of damage to property.

 Police: Kansas woman cited after 'VOTE YES!' signs damaged

The Centers for Disease Control and public health and regulatory officials in several other states, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are collecting&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/foodsafety/outbreaks/investigating-outbreaks/index.html">different types of data</a>&nbsp;to investigate a multi-state outbreak of&nbsp;Listeria monocytogenes&nbsp;infections, according to a statement from the agency.

<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/listeria/outbreaks/monocytogenes-06-22/index.html">Click here for additional details</a> on the food safety alert

Officials report 1 death, 22 hospitalizations in ten states including Kansas.&nbsp;Consumers who have Big Olaf Creamery brand ice cream at home should throw away any remaining product. Big Olaf Creamery brand ice cream is only sold in Florida.

As a result of this investigation, Big Olaf Creamery in Sarasota, FL, is voluntarily contacting retail locations to recommend against selling their ice cream products. Consumers who have Big Olaf Creamery brand ice cream at home should throw away any remaining product.

Public health officials continue to interview people about the foods they ate in the month before they got sick. Of the 17 people interviewed, 14 (82%) reported eating ice cream. Among 13 people who remembered details about the type of ice cream they ate, six reported eating Big Olaf Creamery brand ice cream or eating ice cream at locations that might have been supplied by Big Olaf Creamery.

Products identified in this alert are part of an ongoing investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657030766255.png" alt="CDC map shows where people in this Listeria outbreak live.&nbsp;This outbreak may not be limited to the states listed" />
 <figcaption>CDC map shows where people in this Listeria outbreak live.&nbsp;This outbreak may not be limited to the states listed</figcaption>
 </figure>The Centers for Disease Control and public health and regulatory officials in several other states, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are collecting&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/foodsafety/outbreaks/investigating-outbreaks/index.html">different types of data</a>&nbsp;to investigate a multi-state outbreak of&nbsp;Listeria monocytogenes&nbsp;infections, according to a statement from the agency.<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/listeria/outbreaks/monocytogenes-06-22/index.html">Click here for additional details</a> on the food safety alertOfficials report 1 death, 22 hospitalizations in ten states including Kansas.&nbsp;Consumers who have Big Olaf Creamery brand ice cream at home should throw away any remaining product. Big Olaf Creamery brand ice cream is only sold in Florida.As a result of this investigation, Big Olaf Creamery in Sarasota, FL, is voluntarily contacting retail locations to recommend against selling their ice cream products. Consumers who have Big Olaf Creamery brand ice cream at home should throw away any remaining product.<h2>Epidemiologic Data</h2>Public health officials continue to interview people about the foods they ate in the month before they got sick. Of the 17 people interviewed, 14 (82%) reported eating ice cream. Among 13 people who remembered details about the type of ice cream they ate, six reported eating Big Olaf Creamery brand ice cream or eating ice cream at locations that might have been supplied by Big Olaf Creamery.Products identified in this alert are part of an ongoing investigation.

CDC: Kansas included in Listeria outbreak linked to ice cream 

FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an auto theft and have a suspect in custody.

Just before 3:30p.m. July 1, police responded to the Fulton Convenience store, 601 East Fulton Street in Garden City, where a Dodge Grand Caravan had just been taken from the property, according to a media release.

A Finney County sheriff's deputy located the van near U.S. 83 and East Schulman Avenue and attempted a traffic stop. The driver identified as 39-year-old Richard Johnston, refused to stop.

A police officer located near U.S. 83 and East Spruce Street and the Kansas Highway Patrol assisted in the pursuit and it continued south into Haskell County.&nbsp; Ultimately the chase ended along Haskell County Road 140 where Johnston was arrested without further incident.

He is being held on requested charges of theft, flee and elude and interference with law enforcement. There were no injuries reported during or after the chase.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656793583763.png" alt="Johnston-photo Finne County" />
 <figcaption>Johnston-photo Finne County</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an auto theft and have a suspect in custody.Just before 3:30p.m. July 1, police responded to the Fulton Convenience store, 601 East Fulton Street in Garden City, where a Dodge Grand Caravan had just been taken from the property, according to a media release.A Finney County sheriff's deputy located the van near U.S. 83 and East Schulman Avenue and attempted a traffic stop. The driver identified as 39-year-old Richard Johnston, refused to stop.A police officer located near U.S. 83 and East Spruce Street and the Kansas Highway Patrol assisted in the pursuit and it continued south into Haskell County.&nbsp; Ultimately the chase ended along Haskell County Road 140 where Johnston was arrested without further incident.He is being held on requested charges of theft, flee and elude and interference with law enforcement. There were no injuries reported during or after the chase.

SW Kan. man arrested after high-speed chase in stolen van

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Two people are dead and four others were injured in separate overnight shootings in Kansas City, police said Monday.

One of the shootings left four people wounded shortly after midnight at 13th Street and Grand Boulevard near the Power &amp; Light District after a concert at the T-Mobile Center, according to Sgt. Jake Becchina, a Kansas City Police Department spokesman. The two who were killed were shot hours later elsewhere in the city, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article263157078.html">the Kansas City Star</a>.

None of the injuries from the post-concert shooting were considered life threatening, police said. It wasn't immediately clear what led to the shootings. Police said they had detained one person but were still investigating. Few other details were available.

The first fatal shooting was reported at 3:30 a.m. Monday, involving a man who was dropped off at the hospital. The man was declared dead a short time later.

The other fatal shooting happened about 15 minutes later. Police responded to sounds of gunfire and found a man at a home who had been shot. He was declared dead at the scene.

Beccina said there's no indication that the separate shootings were related.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657018355117.png" alt="None of the injuries from the post-concert shooting were considered life threatening, according to police -photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>None of the injuries from the post-concert shooting were considered life threatening, according to police -photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Two people are dead and four others were injured in separate overnight shootings in Kansas City, police said Monday.One of the shootings left four people wounded shortly after midnight at 13th Street and Grand Boulevard near the Power &amp; Light District after a concert at the T-Mobile Center, according to Sgt. Jake Becchina, a Kansas City Police Department spokesman. The two who were killed were shot hours later elsewhere in the city, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article263157078.html">the Kansas City Star</a>.None of the injuries from the post-concert shooting were considered life threatening, police said. It wasn't immediately clear what led to the shootings. Police said they had detained one person but were still investigating. Few other details were available.The first fatal shooting was reported at 3:30 a.m. Monday, involving a man who was dropped off at the hospital. The man was declared dead a short time later.The other fatal shooting happened about 15 minutes later. Police responded to sounds of gunfire and found a man at a home who had been shot. He was declared dead at the scene.Beccina said there's no indication that the separate shootings were related.

Six people shot, including two killed, in overnight gun violence in KC

SALINE COUNTY—A Kansas woman died in an accident just before 5:30p.m. Monday in Saline County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Chevy Trailblazer driven by Robyn L. Schremmer, 51, Salina, was&nbsp; westbound on Kansas 140 one mile west of Interstate 135.

The SUV left the roadway, entered the north ditch and overturned.

Schremmer was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Ryan Mortuary. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

SALINE COUNTY—A Kansas woman died in an accident just before 5:30p.m. Monday in Saline County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Chevy Trailblazer driven by Robyn L. Schremmer, 51, Salina, was&nbsp; westbound on Kansas 140 one mile west of Interstate 135.The SUV left the roadway, entered the north ditch and overturned.Schremmer was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Ryan Mortuary. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman dies after SUV overturns

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Authorities are working to determine the cause of a Fourth of July fire in Topeka and another early Tuesday on Military Trail Road near St. George.

Just before 9a.m. Monday, crews&nbsp;responded to the report of a structure fire located at 715 SE Woodland Avenue, according to Fire Marshal Alan Stahl.

Upon arrival, crews found a 2 story home fully involved with fire. Fire crews began an offensive fire attack. A search of the structures revealed no one in the house at the time of the fire. Estimated dollar loss – $9470; all of which is associated with structural loss. No working smoke detectors were located within the home. There were no injuries, according to Stahl.

Just after midnight on Tuesday, crews from Pottawatomie County and Wamego worked to control a fire in a detached garage that had spread to the residence.&nbsp; The garage was destroyed. There were no injuries.&nbsp; Authorities released no additional details early Tuesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656969626642.png" alt="Crews on the scene of the Monday morning house fire photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Crews on the scene of the Monday morning house fire photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Authorities are working to determine the cause of a Fourth of July fire in Topeka and another early Tuesday on Military Trail Road near St. George.Just before 9a.m. Monday, crews&nbsp;responded to the report of a structure fire located at 715 SE Woodland Avenue, according to Fire Marshal Alan Stahl.Upon arrival, crews found a 2 story home fully involved with fire. Fire crews began an offensive fire attack. A search of the structures revealed no one in the house at the time of the fire. Estimated dollar loss – $9470; all of which is associated with structural loss. No working smoke detectors were located within the home. There were no injuries, according to Stahl.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657002826557.jpeg" alt="Fire crews respond to structure fire near St. George-photo Becky Goff, Little Apple Post" />
 <figcaption>Fire crews respond to structure fire near St. George-photo Becky Goff, Little Apple Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Just after midnight on Tuesday, crews from Pottawatomie County and Wamego worked to control a fire in a detached garage that had spread to the residence.&nbsp; The garage was destroyed. There were no injuries.&nbsp; Authorities released no additional details early Tuesday.

Crews busy with house fires in Kansas on the 4th and early Tuesday

DOUGLAS COUNTY —A Kansas man drown while swimming Monday at a lake in Douglas County.

Just after 6:30a.m., a boater notified deputies that they found a man unresponsive in the water at Lone Star Lake, according to a media release from the Douglas County Sheriff's office.

Investigators learned that an 81-year-old Lawrence man was part of a group that regularly swims at the lake. He had broken off from the group to return to shore and was found a short time later was located unresponsive in the water.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656969310843.png" alt="Lone Star Lake-photo Douglas County" />
 <figcaption>Lone Star Lake-photo Douglas County</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY —A Kansas man drown while swimming Monday at a lake in Douglas County.Just after 6:30a.m., a boater notified deputies that they found a man unresponsive in the water at Lone Star Lake, according to a media release from the Douglas County Sheriff's office.Investigators learned that an 81-year-old Lawrence man was part of a group that regularly swims at the lake. He had broken off from the group to return to shore and was found a short time later was located unresponsive in the water.

Sheriff: Kansas man dies while swimming on 4th of July

SEDGWICK COUNTY — A registered sex offender entered a guilty plea to&nbsp; murder and sex crimes in connection with his wife's death in 2020.

&nbsp;Just before his trial was to begin, Craig Johnston, 44,&nbsp; pleaded guilty last week to reckless second-degree murder, attempted rape, attempted aggravated criminal sodomy and aggravated sexual battery, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney.&nbsp;

On October 23, 2020, deputies responded to the report of an injured woman at a home in the 7900 block of West 109th in Sedgwick, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.

When they arrived they found 40-year-old Amber Dawn Slankard with critical injuries.&nbsp;&nbsp;EMS transported her to Via Christi St. Francis and she later died of her injuries.

Deputies transported her husband Craig Johnston to Sheriff Investigations and later booked him on requested charges of Second Degree Murder and violations of the Offender Registration Act, according to Blick.&nbsp;

Johnston has a previous conviction from Illinois in 1997 for aggravated criminal sexual abuse of a victim between the age of 13-16, according to the Offender Registry. Johnston is scheduled to be sentenced on August 12, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656773771864.png" alt="Johnston-photo KBI offender registry" />
 <figcaption>Johnston-photo KBI offender registry</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — A registered sex offender entered a guilty plea to&nbsp; murder and sex crimes in connection with his wife's death in 2020.&nbsp;Just before his trial was to begin, Craig Johnston, 44,&nbsp; pleaded guilty last week to reckless second-degree murder, attempted rape, attempted aggravated criminal sodomy and aggravated sexual battery, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney.&nbsp;On October 23, 2020, deputies responded to the report of an injured woman at a home in the 7900 block of West 109th in Sedgwick, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.When they arrived they found 40-year-old Amber Dawn Slankard with critical injuries.&nbsp;&nbsp;EMS transported her to Via Christi St. Francis and she later died of her injuries.Deputies transported her husband Craig Johnston to Sheriff Investigations and later booked him on requested charges of Second Degree Murder and violations of the Offender Registration Act, according to Blick.&nbsp;Johnston has a previous conviction from Illinois in 1997 for aggravated criminal sexual abuse of a victim between the age of 13-16, according to the Offender Registry. Johnston is scheduled to be sentenced on August 12, according to the district attorney's office.

Sex offender enters plea in wife's murder at their Kan. home

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man has been sentenced to a total of 295 months in prison for drug trafficking crimes, according to the United State's Attorney.

According to court documents, in March 2022, a federal jury convicted Travis Vontress, 45, of Wichita on one count each for conspiracy to distribute heroin, cocaine and methamphetamine; one count of maintaining a drug involved premises;&nbsp;two counts of use of a communication facility to facilitate a drug trafficking crime;&nbsp;one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine; and&nbsp;one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

He is currently being held in the Harvey County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656449113852.png" alt="Vontress is being held in Harvey County" />
 <figcaption>Vontress is being held in Harvey County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man has been sentenced to a total of 295 months in prison for drug trafficking crimes, according to the United State's Attorney.According to court documents, in March 2022, a federal jury convicted Travis Vontress, 45, of Wichita on one count each for conspiracy to distribute heroin, cocaine and methamphetamine; one count of maintaining a drug involved premises;&nbsp;two counts of use of a communication facility to facilitate a drug trafficking crime;&nbsp;one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine; and&nbsp;one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.He is currently being held in the Harvey County Jail.

Kan. man sentenced for cocaine, heroin conspiracy

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/06/29/sfc-approves-state-worker-pay-raises-digs-into-bonuses-for-child-care-providers/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The Kansas Supreme Court waded into a simmering dispute Friday in the appraisal industry on valuing real property of big-box retails stores by overturning lower court decisions rejecting Johnson County’s evaluation of nine Walmart Inc. and two Sam’s Club stores.

The state’s highest court unanimously reversed a 2021 decision of the Kansas Court of Appeals and previous action by the Kansas Board of Tax Appeals that found the county overvalued the retailers’ property by tens of millions of dollars. The lower jurisdictions said the buildings should have been valued at what each would sell for if vacant or “dark” rather than at values that reflected earnings through lucrative lease agreements associated with those businesses.

Walmart took legal action to challenge methods used by Johnson County that resulted in 2016 and 2017 appraisals nearly double 2015 tax values for the properties. The case raised questions about whether standards set forth in law by the Kansas Legislature were appropriately applied.

After receiving Johnson County’s appraised value of the 11 properties, Walmart sought intervention by the state board of Tax Appeals. BOTA lowered valuations of each property and ordered Johnson County to refund overpayments for the 2016 and 2017 tax years.

Johnson County appealed to the state Court of Appeals by claiming BOTA incorrectly interpreted state law. The divided Court of Appeals, however, determined BOTA appropriately adhered to Kansas law. That took the case to the state Supreme Court, which issued an opinion instructing BOTA to reconsider the case by fully reviewing the county’s evidence on property appraisals.

Ed Eilert, chairman of the Johnson County Commission, said the state Supreme Court’s reversal of the Court of Appeals in the dark-store case would enable consideration of all evidence of market value.

“A Kansas Supreme Court decision on the valuation of big-box retailers is critical for local governments across the state of Kansas,” Eilert said. “This case has been about equity for taxpayers. Every property owner in Kansas, from the large retailer to the homeowner, should be treated equally as the Kansas Constitution requires. Equity is an important factor in property appraisal.”

Walmart spokesman Randy Hargrove said the company would again make its case to BOTA in light of the state Supreme Court’s decision.

“While we disagree with the decision,” he said, “we look forward to asking the Board of Tax Appeals to reaffirm its prior findings about the proper assessed values of Walmart’s stores.”

Alan Cobb, president of the Kansas Chamber, expressed confidence BOTA would subsequently conclude Johnson County “overstepped its authority by drastically increasing big-box valuations.”

He said it was clear Johnson County’s government leaders and the county appraiser’s office disregarded state law when it “concocted the imaginary fairy-tale” theory of imposing property taxes on these retailers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://kansasreflector.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Kansas-Supreme-Court-group-pic-1024x547.png" alt="-he Kansas Supreme Court issued a ruling Friday in a legal dispute about how Johnson County appraised for property tax purposes Walmart and Sam’s Club retail stores. (Kansas Reflector screen capture from Kansas Supreme Court website)" />
 <figcaption>-he Kansas Supreme Court issued a ruling Friday in a legal dispute about how Johnson County appraised for property tax purposes Walmart and Sam’s Club retail stores. (Kansas Reflector screen capture from Kansas Supreme Court website)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/06/29/sfc-approves-state-worker-pay-raises-digs-into-bonuses-for-child-care-providers/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The Kansas Supreme Court waded into a simmering dispute Friday in the appraisal industry on valuing real property of big-box retails stores by overturning lower court decisions rejecting Johnson County’s evaluation of nine Walmart Inc. and two Sam’s Club stores.The state’s highest court unanimously reversed a 2021 decision of the Kansas Court of Appeals and previous action by the Kansas Board of Tax Appeals that found the county overvalued the retailers’ property by tens of millions of dollars. The lower jurisdictions said the buildings should have been valued at what each would sell for if vacant or “dark” rather than at values that reflected earnings through lucrative lease agreements associated with those businesses.Walmart took legal action to challenge methods used by Johnson County that resulted in 2016 and 2017 appraisals nearly double 2015 tax values for the properties. The case raised questions about whether standards set forth in law by the Kansas Legislature were appropriately applied.After receiving Johnson County’s appraised value of the 11 properties, Walmart sought intervention by the state board of Tax Appeals. BOTA lowered valuations of each property and ordered Johnson County to refund overpayments for the 2016 and 2017 tax years.Johnson County appealed to the state Court of Appeals by claiming BOTA incorrectly interpreted state law. The divided Court of Appeals, however, determined BOTA appropriately adhered to Kansas law. That took the case to the state Supreme Court, which issued an opinion instructing BOTA to reconsider the case by fully reviewing the county’s evidence on property appraisals.Ed Eilert, chairman of the Johnson County Commission, said the state Supreme Court’s reversal of the Court of Appeals in the dark-store case would enable consideration of all evidence of market value.“A Kansas Supreme Court decision on the valuation of big-box retailers is critical for local governments across the state of Kansas,” Eilert said. “This case has been about equity for taxpayers. Every property owner in Kansas, from the large retailer to the homeowner, should be treated equally as the Kansas Constitution requires. Equity is an important factor in property appraisal.”Walmart spokesman Randy Hargrove said the company would again make its case to BOTA in light of the state Supreme Court’s decision.“While we disagree with the decision,” he said, “we look forward to asking the Board of Tax Appeals to reaffirm its prior findings about the proper assessed values of Walmart’s stores.”Alan Cobb, president of the Kansas Chamber, expressed confidence BOTA would subsequently conclude Johnson County “overstepped its authority by drastically increasing big-box valuations.”He said it was clear Johnson County’s government leaders and the county appraiser’s office disregarded state law when it “concocted the imaginary fairy-tale” theory of imposing property taxes on these retailers.“Their absolute dishonesty in claiming that these companies did not want to pay their fair share of property taxes is particularly appalling,” Cobb said. “To blame retail businesses for skirting the law or their tax obligations is entirely false. It’s this type of deceitful behavior that leaves the public doubting the competency of some public officials.”Justice Dan Biles, writing for the state Supreme Court, said the highly contested issue boiled down to deciding whether appraisals relying on build-to-suit lease data was admissible in Kansas. BOTA, relying on a 2012 state Court of Appeals decision in the Prieb Properties case, determined rental rates from commercial leases weren’t reflective of market conditions.“We (state Supreme Court) hold Prieb’s rationale invades BOTA’s longstanding province as the fact finder in the statutory process for appraising real property at its fair market value,” Biles wrote. “By following Prieb, BOTA imposed an exclusionary rule on the county’s evidence rather than simply considering its weight and credibility.”The state Supreme Court remanded the case to BOTA and instructed that board to evaluate the county’s evidence without Prieb’s constraints.“Though BOTA may reach the same result on remand, that decision must be based on its own determinations of the facts and witness credibility,” Biles wrote.