MOSCOW (AP) — Jailed American basketball star Brittney Griner on Thursday pleaded guilty to drug possession and smuggling during her trial in Moscow but said she had no intention of committing a crime, Russian news agencies reported.

The reports quoted Griner as saying through an interpreter at the court hearing that she had acted unintentionally because she was packing in haste.

Griner was detained in February at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo Airport after vape canisters with cannabis oil allegedly were found in her luggage. She faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted of large-scale transportation of drugs.

The trial of the Phoenix Mercury star and two-time Olympic gold medalist began last week amid a growing chorus of calls for Washington to do more to secure her freedom nearly five months after her arrest.

Before Thursday’s hearing, Russian police escorted Griner, handcuffed and clad in a bright red T-shirt and sports trousers, into the courtroom past a crowd of journalists.

The athlete was detained in February at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo Airport after vape canisters with cannabis oil allegedly were found in her luggage. She faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted of large-scale transportation of drugs.

Elizabeth Rood, deputy chief of mission at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow, told reporters after the hearing that she spoke to Griner in the courtroom and shared a letter from President Joe Biden that she read.

“She’s eating well, she’s able to read books and under the circumstances she’s doing well,” Rood said of Griner.

“I would like again to emphasize the commitment of the U.S. government at the very highest level to bring home safely Ms. Griner and all U.S. citizens wrongfully detained as well as the commitment of the U.S. Embassy in Moscow to care for and protect the interests of all U.S. citizens detained or imprisoned in Russia,” Rood said.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov bristled at the U.S. description of Briner as “wrongfully detained” and warned that “attempts by the American side to make noise in public ... don’t help the practical settlement of issues.”

The White House said Biden called Griner’s wife on Wednesday to assure her that he’s doing all he can to obtain the athlete’s release, as soon as possible. They spoke after Biden read a letter from Griner in which she said she feared she’d never return home.

Washington hasn’t made public its strategy in the case and the United States may have little leverage with Moscow because of strong animosity due to Russia’s military actions in Ukraine. The State Department has designated Griner as wrongfully detained, moving her case under the supervision of its special presidential envoy for hostage affairs, effectively the government’s chief hostage negotiator.

Asked about the possibility of Griner being swapped for a Russian jailed in the U.S., Ryabkov, the senior Russian diplomat, noted that until her trial is over “there are no formal or procedural reasons to talk about any further steps.”

He warned that U.S. criticism, including a 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.”

“The persistence with which the U.S. administration ... describes those who were handed prison sentences for serious criminal articles and those who are awaiting the end of investigation and court verdicts as ‘wrongfully detained’ reflects Washington’s refusal to have a sober view of the outside world,” Ryabkov snapped.

Griner's trial was adjourned after its start last week because two scheduled witnesses did not appear. Such delays are routine in Russian courts and her detention has been authorized through Dec. 20, suggesting the proceedings could last months.

Although Griner's supporters initially kept a low profile, calls for the United States to take action spiked after the trial's first day.

The Rev. Al Sharpton, one of America's most prominent Black activists, this week called for Biden to arrange a prayer meeting with Griner, saying, "Four months is too long for this to have gone on, and I hope the President acts on her pleas to come home.”

An organization called Win With Black Women sent Biden a letter saying Secretary of State Antony Blinken “has called Cherelle Griner, Brittney’s wife, assuring her and stating publicly that Brittney’s safe return was a matter of personal priority; however, we are concerned that the rhetoric does not appear to align with the actions taken to date. We urge you to make a deal to get Brittney back home swiftly.”

Russian news media have repeatedly 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. on conviction 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 between Griner’s alleged offense and Bout’s global dealings in deadly weapons could make such a swap unpalatable to Washington.

Others have suggested that she could be traded along with Paul Whelan, a former Marine and security director serving a 16-year sentence in Russia on an espionage conviction that the U.S. has repeatedly described as a setup.

Russia has shown no signs of backing off.

“This is a serious offense, confirmed by indisputable evidence ... Attempts to present the case as if the American was detained illegally do not hold up," Foreign Ministry spokesman Alexei Zaitsev said Wednesday.

“The law has been violated, and arguments about the innocent nature of Griner’s addiction, which, by the way, is punishable in some U.S. states, are inappropriate in this case,” he said.

<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>MOSCOW (AP) — Jailed American basketball star Brittney Griner on Thursday pleaded guilty to drug possession and smuggling during her trial in Moscow but said she had no intention of committing a crime, Russian news agencies reported.The reports quoted Griner as saying through an interpreter at the court hearing that she had acted unintentionally because she was packing in haste.Griner was detained in February at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo Airport after vape canisters with cannabis oil allegedly were found in her luggage. She faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted of large-scale transportation of drugs.The trial of the Phoenix Mercury star and two-time Olympic gold medalist began last week amid a growing chorus of calls for Washington to do more to secure her freedom nearly five months after her arrest.Before Thursday’s hearing, Russian police escorted Griner, handcuffed and clad in a bright red T-shirt and sports trousers, into the courtroom past a crowd of journalists.The athlete was detained in February at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo Airport after vape canisters with cannabis oil allegedly were found in her luggage. She faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted of large-scale transportation of drugs.Elizabeth Rood, deputy chief of mission at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow, told reporters after the hearing that she spoke to Griner in the courtroom and shared a letter from President Joe Biden that she read.“She’s eating well, she’s able to read books and under the circumstances she’s doing well,” Rood said of Griner.“I would like again to emphasize the commitment of the U.S. government at the very highest level to bring home safely Ms. Griner and all U.S. citizens wrongfully detained as well as the commitment of the U.S. Embassy in Moscow to care for and protect the interests of all U.S. citizens detained or imprisoned in Russia,” Rood said.Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov bristled at the U.S. description of Briner as “wrongfully detained” and warned that “attempts by the American side to make noise in public ... don’t help the practical settlement of issues.”The White House said Biden called Griner’s wife on Wednesday to assure her that he’s doing all he can to obtain the athlete’s release, as soon as possible. They spoke after Biden read a letter from Griner in which she said she feared she’d never return home.Washington hasn’t made public its strategy in the case and the United States may have little leverage with Moscow because of strong animosity due to Russia’s military actions in Ukraine. The State Department has designated Griner as wrongfully detained, moving her case under the supervision of its special presidential envoy for hostage affairs, effectively the government’s chief hostage negotiator.Asked about the possibility of Griner being swapped for a Russian jailed in the U.S., Ryabkov, the senior Russian diplomat, noted that until her trial is over “there are no formal or procedural reasons to talk about any further steps.”He warned that U.S. criticism, including a 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.”“The persistence with which the U.S. administration ... describes those who were handed prison sentences for serious criminal articles and those who are awaiting the end of investigation and court verdicts as ‘wrongfully detained’ reflects Washington’s refusal to have a sober view of the outside world,” Ryabkov snapped.Griner's trial was adjourned after its start last week because two scheduled witnesses did not appear. Such delays are routine in Russian courts and her detention has been authorized through Dec. 20, suggesting the proceedings could last months.Although Griner's supporters initially kept a low profile, calls for the United States to take action spiked after the trial's first day.The Rev. Al Sharpton, one of America's most prominent Black activists, this week called for Biden to arrange a prayer meeting with Griner, saying, "Four months is too long for this to have gone on, and I hope the President acts on her pleas to come home.”An organization called Win With Black Women sent Biden a letter saying Secretary of State Antony Blinken “has called Cherelle Griner, Brittney’s wife, assuring her and stating publicly that Brittney’s safe return was a matter of personal priority; however, we are concerned that the rhetoric does not appear to align with the actions taken to date. We urge you to make a deal to get Brittney back home swiftly.”Russian news media have repeatedly 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. on conviction 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 between Griner’s alleged offense and Bout’s global dealings in deadly weapons could make such a swap unpalatable to Washington.Others have suggested that she could be traded along with Paul Whelan, a former Marine and security director serving a 16-year sentence in Russia on an espionage conviction that the U.S. has repeatedly described as a setup.Russia has shown no signs of backing off.“This is a serious offense, confirmed by indisputable evidence ... Attempts to present the case as if the American was detained illegally do not hold up," Foreign Ministry spokesman Alexei Zaitsev said Wednesday.“The law has been violated, and arguments about the innocent nature of Griner’s addiction, which, by the way, is punishable in some U.S. states, are inappropriate in this case,” he said.

Report: Former Big 12 star pleads guilty in Russia drugs trial

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal shooting that left&nbsp;39-year-old Louis Cantrell of Topeka dead have made an arrest.

Late Wednesday, police arrested 20-year-old Jahiem Brown and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of First Degree Murder, Aggravated assault; Use of a deadly weapon and&nbsp;Criminal possession of a firearm by a felon, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith.

Just before 1a.m. July 5, 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.

<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 that left&nbsp;39-year-old Louis Cantrell of Topeka dead have made an arrest.Late Wednesday, police arrested 20-year-old Jahiem Brown and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of First Degree Murder, Aggravated assault; Use of a deadly weapon and&nbsp;Criminal possession of a firearm by a felon, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657191443740.png" alt="Brown -photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Brown -photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 1a.m. July 5, 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.

Police arrest 20-year-old Kansas man for alleged murder

JOHNSON COUNTY— The Eastern Kansas Multi-County Taskforce has completed their investigation of the fire that sent four firefighters to the hospital and has ruled it as an accidental fire caused from an electrical component in the basement, according to the Shawnee Fire Department.

Just after 9p.m. Tuesday, fire crews responded to a house fire at 4610 Silverheel Street in Shawnee, according to a media release.

While firefighters were in the home, a stairway collapsed and injured four fighters.&nbsp;The fire had progressed into a storage area underneath the stairwell that firefighters used to access the basement. The fire had weakened the stairwell and caused it to collapse under the weight of fire crews.

The Rapid Intervention crews responded immediately and rescued the four fighters from the home. EMS transported them to local hospitals where they were treated and released.

A fifth firefighter received medical attention at the scene due to the intense heat. Three residents of the home were able to escape without injury.

Mayor Michelle Distler said "Most importantly, I am so relieved that all of our firefighters are recovering. I want to extend any help I can possibly provide to the firefighters and their families. I think we all understand this could have had a different ending as it did for one of our own back in 2010. The bravery, courage and selflessness these men and women show every day when they show up on the job is unmatched. They make a promise to our community to protect and serve and that was on full display Tuesday night."&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657133850368.png" alt="The State Fire Marshal and Eastern Kansas Multi-County Task Force&nbsp; investigated the fire.-photo Shawnee Fire" />
 <figcaption>The State Fire Marshal and Eastern Kansas Multi-County Task Force&nbsp; investigated the fire.-photo Shawnee Fire</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY— The Eastern Kansas Multi-County Taskforce has completed their investigation of the fire that sent four firefighters to the hospital and has ruled it as an accidental fire caused from an electrical component in the basement, according to the Shawnee Fire Department.Just after 9p.m. Tuesday, fire crews responded to a house fire at 4610 Silverheel Street in Shawnee, according to a media release.While firefighters were in the home, a stairway collapsed and injured four fighters.&nbsp;The fire had progressed into a storage area underneath the stairwell that firefighters used to access the basement. The fire had weakened the stairwell and caused it to collapse under the weight of fire crews.The Rapid Intervention crews responded immediately and rescued the four fighters from the home. EMS transported them to local hospitals where they were treated and released.A fifth firefighter received medical attention at the scene due to the intense heat. Three residents of the home were able to escape without injury.Mayor Michelle Distler said "Most importantly, I am so relieved that all of our firefighters are recovering. I want to extend any help I can possibly provide to the firefighters and their families. I think we all understand this could have had a different ending as it did for one of our own back in 2010. The bravery, courage and selflessness these men and women show every day when they show up on the job is unmatched. They make a promise to our community to protect and serve and that was on full display Tuesday night."&nbsp;Damages are estimated at $300,000.---------

Officials learn cause of Kan. house fire that injured 4 firefighters

LONDON (AP) — Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced his resignation Thursday amid a mass revolt by top members of his government, marking an end to three tumultuous years in power in which he brazenly bent and sometimes broke the rules of British politics.

Months of defiance ended almost with a shrug as Johnson stood in 10 Downing Street and conceded that his party wanted him gone.

The brash, 58-year-old politician who took Britain out of the European Union and steered it through COVID-19 and the war in Ukraine was brought down by one scandal too many — this one involving his appointment of a politician who had been accused of sexual misconduct.

The messiest of prime ministers did not leave cleanly. Johnson stepped down immediately as Conservative Party leader but said he would remain as prime minister until the party chooses his successor. The timetable for that process will be announced next week, he said.

But many in the party want him gone before then, and his government has been shredded by scores of resignations.

Among the possible candidates to succeed him: former Health Secretary Sajid Javid, former Treasury chief Rishi Sunak, Foreign Secretary Liz Truss and Defense Secretary Ben Wallace.

Johnson had clung to power for two days, defiantly telling lawmakers on Wednesday that he had a “colossal mandate” from voters and intended to get on with the business of government.

But he was forced to concede defeat Thursday morning after one of his closest allies, newly appointed Treasury chief Nadhim Zahawi, publicly told him to resign for the good of the country.

“In the last few days, I tried to persuade my colleagues that it would be eccentric to change governments when we’re delivering so much and when we have such a vast mandate," Johnson said outside his office. “I regret not to have been successful in those arguments, and of course it’s painful not to be able to see through so many ideas and projects myself.’’

About 50 Cabinet secretaries, ministers and lower-level officials had quit the government over the past few days, often castigating the prime minister for his lack of integrity.

The mass resignations had left numerous positions unfilled, and the crisis had stalled the business of some parliamentary committees because there were no ministers available to speak on the government’s behalf.

“It is clearly now the will of the parliamentary Conservative Party that there should be a new leader of that party and therefore a new prime minister,” Johnson said.

Zahawi, who was promoted earlier this week as Johnson tried to shore up his Cabinet, said he and a group of colleagues had privately expressed their concerns to the prime minister on Wednesday and he decided to go public after Johnson ignored the advice to resign.

“I am heartbroken that he hasn’t listened and that he is now undermining the incredible achievements of this government,” Zahawi said in a letter posted on Twitter. “But the country deserves a government that is not only stable but which acts with integrity.”

It is a humiliating defeat for Johnson, who not only pulled off Brexit but was credited with rolling out one of the world’s most successful mass vaccination campaigns to combat COVID-19.

But the perpetually rumpled, shaggy-haired leader known for greeting critics with bombast and bluster was also dogged by criticism that he acted as if the rules did not apply to him.

Johnson became prime minister in July 2019, succeeding Theresa May, who resigned after Parliament rejected the Brexit agreement she negotiated with the EU. Johnson pushed his own Brexit deal through in an often messy and turbulent debate.

He managed to remain in power despite allegations that he was too close to party donors, that he protected supporters from bullying and corruption allegations, and that he misled Parliament about government office parties that broke COVID-19 lockdown rules. He was fined by police over the parties and survived a no-confidence vote last month in Parliament in which 41% of Conservative lawmakers voted to oust him.

Recent disclosures that Johnson knew about sexual misconduct allegations against a Conservative lawmaker before he promoted him to a senior position in government proved to be one scandal too many.

The crisis began when Chris Pincher resigned as deputy chief whip amid allegations that he had groped two men at a private club. That triggered a series of reports about past allegations leveled against Pincher.

Johnson tried to deflect criticism with shifting explanations about what he knew and when he knew it, but that just highlighted concerns that the prime minister couldn’t be trusted.

Javid and Sunak resigned within minutes of each other Tuesday night, triggering the wave of departures among their Cabinet colleagues and lower-level officials.

Javid captured the mood of many lawmakers when he said Johnson’s actions threatened to undermine the integrity of the Conservative Party and the British government.

“At some point we have to conclude that enough is enough,” he said Wednesday in the House of Commons. “I believe that point is now.”

Bernard Jenkin, a senior Conservative Party lawmaker, told the BBC he met with Johnson later in the day and advised him to step down.

“I just said to him, ‘Look, it’s just when you go now, and it’s how you go. You can go with some dignity or you can be forced out like Donald Trump clinging to power and pretending he’s won the election when he’s lost,'" Jenkin said.

LONDON (AP) — British Prime Minister Boris Johnson resigned Thursday, acknowledging that it was “clearly the will” of his party that he should go.

He stepped down immediately as leader of his Conservative Party but plans to remain as prime minister while the leadership contest is held. He said he has appointed a new Cabinet following a multitude of resignations, but many are calling for him to go now.

It is a humiliating defeat for Johnson, who succeeded in leading Britain out of the European Union and was credited with rolling out one of the world’s most successful mass vaccination campaigns to combat COVID-19.

The announcement came after the latest ethics scandal around Johnson's leadership led some 50 senior lawmakers to quit the government and left him unable to govern.

Speaking outside No. 10 Downing St., Johnson said he was “immensely proud of the achievements of this government," from Brexit to steering the country through the pandemic, and leading the West in standing up to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

But he acknowledged that “in politics, no one is remotely indispensable.”

But he was forced to concede defeat Thursday morning after two more members of his Cabinet quit and one of his closest allies, Treasury Chief Nadhim Zahawi, publicly told him to resign for the good of the country.

The internal election to pick a new leader of the Conservative Party, who will also be the next prime minister, is likely to take place over the summer.

“I am heartbroken that he hasn’t listened and that he is now undermining the incredible achievements of this government,” Zahawi said in a letter posted on Twitter. “But the country deserves a government that is not only stable, but which acts with integrity.”

Thursday morning’s resignations meant that 50 Cabinet secretaries, ministers and lower-level officials had quit the government over two days, often castigating the prime minister for his lack of integrity. With more than 20 positions unfilled, the crisis had stalled the business of some parliamentary committees because there were no ministers available to speak on the government’s behalf.

Johnson led Britain through Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic, and won a large election victory in 2019. But the perpetually rumpled leader known for greeting critics with bombast and bluster was also dogged by criticism that he was willing to bend, and sometimes break, the rules to achieve his goals.

Johnson, 58, managed to remain in power for almost three years, despite allegations that he was too close to party donors, that he protected supporters from bullying and corruption allegations, and that he misled Parliament about government office parties that broke pandemic lockdown rules.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid and Treasury chief Rishi Sunak resigned within minutes of each other Tuesday night, triggering a wave of departures among their Cabinet colleagues and lower level officials.

LONDON (AP) — British Prime Minister Boris Johnson finally succumbed to political reality Thursday and agreed to resign after the latest ethics scandal around his leadership led some 50 senior lawmakers to quit the government.

It wasn’t immediately clear when Johnson would leave office, however.

His resignation will trigger an internal election to pick a new leader of the Conservative Party, who will also be the next prime minister. That process is likely to take place over the summer.

Johnson signaled that he intends to stay in office until that concludes. Such a move would be controversial, and critics say he should not be allowed to remain even as caretaker prime minister.

“Now PM has finally done the decent thing he needs to hand in the seals of office, apologise to Her Majesty (Queen Elizabeth II), allow her to appoint a Caretaker under whom Ministers can serve, so the Conservative Party can choose a new leader properly,” George Freeman, who quit as science minister on Thursday, said in a tweet.

But the perpetually rumpled leader known for greeting critics with bombast and bluster was also dogged by criticism that he was willing to bend, and sometimes break, the rules to achieve his goals.

“I just said to him, ‘Look, it’s just when you go now, and it’s how you go. You can go with some dignity or you can be forced out like Donald Trump clinging to power and pretending he’s won the election when he’s lost.’’’

LONDON (AP) — British Prime Minister Boris Johnson agreed to resign Thursday after days of defections crippled the controversial leader and left him unable to govern.

Johnson finally agreed to step down after one of his closest allies, Treasury Chief Nadhim Zahawi, told the prime minister to resign for the good of the country. It was not immediately clear whether Johnson will stay in office while the Conservative Party chooses a new leader, who will automatically become prime minister as well. A formal announcement is expected later Thursday.

“Prime Minister: this is not sustainable and it will only get worse: for you, for the Conservative Party and most importantly of all the country," Zahawi said in a letter to Johnson. “You must do the right thing and go now.”

Zahawi’s intervention came after two more members of Johnson’s Cabinet resigned, along with three junior officials, pushing the number of those who have left the government this week past 50.

Johnson on Wednesday rejected calls to resign, arguing that he had a mandate from the voters to remain in office. But by Thursday morning the man who has built a reputation for wriggling out of political controversies was forced to admit the reality of his situation.

Bernard Jenkin, a senior Conservative Party lawmaker, said he met with Johnson on Wednesday and advised him to stand down.

“I just said to him, ‘Look, it’s just when you go now, and it’s how you go. You can go with some dignity or you can be forced out like Donald Trump, clinging to power and pretending he’s won the election when he’s lost,’’ Jenkin told the BBC before Johnson agreed to resign.

Johnson, 58, managed to remain in power for almost three years, despite allegations that he was too close to party donors, that he protected supporters from bullying and corruption allegations, and that he misled Parliament and was dishonest to the public about government office parties that broke pandemic lockdown rules.

But recent disclosures that Johnson knew about sexual misconduct allegations against Chris Pincher, a Conservative lawmaker, before he promoted Pincher to a senior position turned out to be the last straw.

Last week, Pincher resigned as deputy chief whip after complaints he groped two men at a private club. That triggered a series of reports about past allegations leveled against Pincher — and shifting explanations from the government about what Johnson knew when he tapped him for a senior job enforcing party discipline.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid and Treasury chief Rishi Sunak resigned within minutes of each other Wednesday over the scandal. The two Cabinet heavyweights were responsible for tackling two of the biggest issues facing Britain — the cost-of-living crisis and COVID-19.

“At some point we have to conclude that enough is enough,” he told fellow lawmakers Wednesday. “I believe that point is now.”

Welsh Secretary Simon Hart resigned on Wednesday, and Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis followed suite early Thursday, telling Johnson in his resignation letter that “we are ... past the point of no return. I cannot sacrifice my personal integrity to defend things as they stand now.” He was later followed by Education Secretary Michelle Donelan, who was only appointed to her post on Tuesday to replace Zahawi.

Johnson had attempted to defy the mathematics of parliamentary government and the traditions of British politics. It is rare for a prime minister to cling to power in the face of this much pressure from his Cabinet colleagues.

The closest parallel may be Margaret Thatcher, the long-time Conservative prime minister who in 1990 sought to remain in office after her authority was undermined by disagreements over Britain’s relationship with what is now known as the European Union. But even she decided to resign after a number of Cabinet ministers told her it would be better for the party if she stepped aside.

Johnson may try to remain in office until the Conservative Party chooses a new leader, a process likely to take place over the summer. But some Conservatives said he should leave 10 Downing St. immediately to end the chaos engulfing the government.

George Freeman, who quit as science minister on Thursday, tweeted that “Boris Johnson needs to hand in the seals of office, apologise to Her Majesty (Queen Elizabeth II) and advise her to call for a caretaker prime minister. To take over today so that ministers can get back to work and we can choose a new Conservative leader to try and repair the damage and rebuild trust.”

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson resigns amid scandal

By JENNIFER SHUTT <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/07/06/medicare-prescription-drug-negotiation-plan-advanced-by-u-s-senate-democrats/">States Newsroom</a>

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senate Democrats 
have reached a tentative agreement to negotiate the cost of prescription
 drugs in the Medicare program, the first step in passing a long-stalled
 package that’s expected to include tax and climate change provisions as
 well.

The deal, brokered between Senate 
Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and West Virginia Democrat Joe Manchin 
III, would allow Medicare to begin negotiating some prescription drug 
prices in 2023, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.kff.org/health-costs/poll-finding/public-weighs-in-on-medicare-drug-negotiations/">a wildly popular proposal </a>among
 members of the public. It would also cap Medicare recipients’ yearly 
out-of-pocket costs at $2,000, according to a summary reviewed by States
 Newsroom.

Democrats hope to move the 
legislation without Republican support by using the somewhat complicated
 budget reconciliation process that they used to <a target="_blank" href="https://coloradonewsline.com/2021/03/10/congress-clears-giant-1-9t-emergency-relief-package-for-bidens-signature/">pass the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 aid bill in 2021.&nbsp;</a>

The GOP used the same fast-track 
process to get around the U.S. Senate’s legislative filibuster when it 
passed the 2017 tax cuts package and attempted to use the process to 
repeal and replace Obamacare.

The budget reconciliation process, 
which avoids the Senate’s 60-vote threshold to advance major 
legislation, is complicated and requires sign-off from the Senate 
parliamentarian that none of the language breaks a lengthy list of 
rules.&nbsp;

Medicare is the health care program 
for people 65 and older, some younger Americans with disabilities and 
people with end-stage renal disease.

Schumer sent Parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough the 190-page Medicare prescription drug pricing <a target="_blank" href="https://www.finance.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/070622%20Prescription%20Drug%20Pricing%20Reform%20Leg%20Text.pdf">bill</a> on Wednesday, starting the detailed and sometimes tedious <a target="_blank" href="https://www.brookings.edu/blog/up-front/2021/02/05/what-is-reconciliation-in-congress/">process</a> of ensuring it meets reconciliation requirements.&nbsp;

If Senate Democrats, primarily 
Schumer and Manchin, can reach agreement on provisions to overhaul parts
 of the U.S. tax code as well as address energy production and climate 
change, those bills would then be sent to the parliamentarian for 
similar review.&nbsp;

Manchin, a centrist who frustrated 
left-leaning members of his party after killing off the much more 
expansive reconciliation package known as Build Back Better, has said he
 won’t accept a bill that goes beyond those three broad categories.&nbsp;

If Democrats can broker a final deal 
and get the stamp of approval from the parliamentarian, the entire 
package would go to the Senate floor for debate, amendments and a final 
vote.&nbsp;

That process would be especially 
challenging for Democrats in the 50-50 Senate, where Republicans would 
likely put forward amendments meant to force centrist Democrats to alter
 the package, or take votes that could be used against them in 
reelection campaigns this fall in purple states.&nbsp;

The amendment voting process for budget reconciliation is different from what’s used for regular bills.

The minority party is allowed to put 
forward as many amendments as members want, and floor votes are required
 on those provisions. The process, known as <a target="_blank" href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/Votearama1977present.htm">vote-a-rama</a>, often lasts throughout the night and can go into the next morning as well.

The U.S. Senate is on its July 4 
break this week, but is scheduled to return to Washington, D.C., on 
Monday for a four-week session that could include votes on the full 
reconciliation package, according to an individual familiar with the 
planning.&nbsp;

Schumer, that individual said, has 
privately told Senate Democrats that if a full agreement is reached, his
 goal is to debate and vote on that legislation as early as this month.&nbsp;

Sending the section of the bill that 
would allow Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices to the 
parliamentarian this week would place Senate Democrats in a “better 
position to act,” according to that person close to the process.&nbsp;

In addition to allowing Medicare to 
directly negotiate drug prices and capping out-of-pocket costs at $2,000
 a year, the proposal would provide free vaccines to Medicare seniors 
and expand co-pay assistance for some low-income individuals.&nbsp;

The legislation would also require 
the secretary of the U.S. Health and Human Services Department to 
negotiate drug prices for the maximum number of prescriptions per year, 
closing a loophole in a prior bill that some Democrats worried would 
have allowed a GOP HHS secretary to potentially not negotiate lower 
prices.

By JENNIFER SHUTT <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/07/06/medicare-prescription-drug-negotiation-plan-advanced-by-u-s-senate-democrats/">States Newsroom</a>WASHINGTON — U.S. Senate Democrats 
have reached a tentative agreement to negotiate the cost of prescription
 drugs in the Medicare program, the first step in passing a long-stalled
 package that’s expected to include tax and climate change provisions as
 well.The deal, brokered between Senate 
Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and West Virginia Democrat Joe Manchin 
III, would allow Medicare to begin negotiating some prescription drug 
prices in 2023, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.kff.org/health-costs/poll-finding/public-weighs-in-on-medicare-drug-negotiations/">a wildly popular proposal </a>among
 members of the public. It would also cap Medicare recipients’ yearly 
out-of-pocket costs at $2,000, according to a summary reviewed by States
 Newsroom.Democrats hope to move the 
legislation without Republican support by using the somewhat complicated
 budget reconciliation process that they used to <a target="_blank" href="https://coloradonewsline.com/2021/03/10/congress-clears-giant-1-9t-emergency-relief-package-for-bidens-signature/">pass the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 aid bill in 2021.&nbsp;</a>The GOP used the same fast-track 
process to get around the U.S. Senate’s legislative filibuster when it 
passed the 2017 tax cuts package and attempted to use the process to 
repeal and replace Obamacare.The budget reconciliation process, 
which avoids the Senate’s 60-vote threshold to advance major 
legislation, is complicated and requires sign-off from the Senate 
parliamentarian that none of the language breaks a lengthy list of 
rules.&nbsp;Medicare is the health care program 
for people 65 and older, some younger Americans with disabilities and 
people with end-stage renal disease.<h2>Plan sent to parliamentarian</h2>Schumer sent Parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough the 190-page Medicare prescription drug pricing <a target="_blank" href="https://www.finance.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/070622%20Prescription%20Drug%20Pricing%20Reform%20Leg%20Text.pdf">bill</a> on Wednesday, starting the detailed and sometimes tedious <a target="_blank" href="https://www.brookings.edu/blog/up-front/2021/02/05/what-is-reconciliation-in-congress/">process</a> of ensuring it meets reconciliation requirements.&nbsp;If Senate Democrats, primarily 
Schumer and Manchin, can reach agreement on provisions to overhaul parts
 of the U.S. tax code as well as address energy production and climate 
change, those bills would then be sent to the parliamentarian for 
similar review.&nbsp;Manchin, a centrist who frustrated 
left-leaning members of his party after killing off the much more 
expansive reconciliation package known as Build Back Better, has said he
 won’t accept a bill that goes beyond those three broad categories.&nbsp;If Democrats can broker a final deal 
and get the stamp of approval from the parliamentarian, the entire 
package would go to the Senate floor for debate, amendments and a final 
vote.&nbsp;That process would be especially 
challenging for Democrats in the 50-50 Senate, where Republicans would 
likely put forward amendments meant to force centrist Democrats to alter
 the package, or take votes that could be used against them in 
reelection campaigns this fall in purple states.&nbsp;The amendment voting process for budget reconciliation is different from what’s used for regular bills.The minority party is allowed to put 
forward as many amendments as members want, and floor votes are required
 on those provisions. The process, known as <a target="_blank" href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/Votearama1977present.htm">vote-a-rama</a>, often lasts throughout the night and can go into the next morning as well.<h2>Four-week session ahead</h2>The U.S. Senate is on its July 4 
break this week, but is scheduled to return to Washington, D.C., on 
Monday for a four-week session that could include votes on the full 
reconciliation package, according to an individual familiar with the 
planning.&nbsp;Schumer, that individual said, has 
privately told Senate Democrats that if a full agreement is reached, his
 goal is to debate and vote on that legislation as early as this month.&nbsp;Sending the section of the bill that 
would allow Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices to the 
parliamentarian this week would place Senate Democrats in a “better 
position to act,” according to that person close to the process.&nbsp;In addition to allowing Medicare to 
directly negotiate drug prices and capping out-of-pocket costs at $2,000
 a year, the proposal would provide free vaccines to Medicare seniors 
and expand co-pay assistance for some low-income individuals.&nbsp;The legislation would also require 
the secretary of the U.S. Health and Human Services Department to 
negotiate drug prices for the maximum number of prescriptions per year, 
closing a loophole in a prior bill that some Democrats worried would 
have allowed a GOP HHS secretary to potentially not negotiate lower 
prices.

Medicare prescription drug negotiation plan advances in Senate

SHAWNEE COUNTY —A Kansas man died in an accident just after 10:30a.m. Wednesday in Shawnee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Freightliner semi driven by Fredy O. Zelaya-Bustamante, 48, Bustamante, Topeka, was southbound on Interstate 470 near Indiana Avenue.

A pedestrian identified as Brandon Lummus, 24, Topeka, darted out in front of the semi. The semi struck him.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lummus was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to First Call.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Zelaya-Bustamante was properly restrained and not injured, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657188198398.png" alt="View of the Wednesday morning accident scene-photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>View of the Wednesday morning accident scene-photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —A Kansas man died in an accident just after 10:30a.m. Wednesday in Shawnee County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Freightliner semi driven by Fredy O. Zelaya-Bustamante, 48, Bustamante, Topeka, was southbound on Interstate 470 near Indiana Avenue.A pedestrian identified as Brandon Lummus, 24, Topeka, darted out in front of the semi. The semi struck him.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lummus was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to First Call.&nbsp; &nbsp;Zelaya-Bustamante was properly restrained and not injured, according to the KHP.

Man dies after darting in front of semi on Kansas Turnpike

KANSAS CITY — A judge sentenced Felipe Reyna Jr, 32, the second defendant convicted in the murder of Charles Williams in July 2017 at a residence on the Eastside of Kansas City, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

In April, Reyna pleaded guilty to Murder 2nd Degree and Armed Criminal Action. A second defendant has already been sentenced to 25 years in prison for his role in the death of&nbsp; Williams.

According to court records, on July 21, 2017, police found the body of 31-year-old Charles Williams in a residence in the 2500 block of Van Brunt Boulevard in Kansas City. 

He had been shot with a shotgun and another weapon. Spent 9 mm shells casings were recovered at the scene. The Medical Examiner ruled it a homicide. 

A witness stated several individuals had walked up the residence where the shooting occurred. One of those individuals was identified as the defendant. He was carrying a shotgun, the witness stated. Arguments also were heard before several gunshots. Then individuals ran out of the residence to their vehicles. 

Another witness, who was at the scene when the homicide occurred, stated that the defendant shot the victim after they spoke in the front yard. The victim was animated but not threatening toward anyone.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656692279058.png" alt="Reyna-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Reyna-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY — A judge sentenced Felipe Reyna Jr, 32, the second defendant convicted in the murder of Charles Williams in July 2017 at a residence on the Eastside of Kansas City, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.In April, Reyna pleaded guilty to Murder 2nd Degree and Armed Criminal Action. A second defendant has already been sentenced to 25 years in prison for his role in the death of&nbsp; Williams.According to court records, on July 21, 2017, police found the body of 31-year-old Charles Williams in a residence in the 2500 block of Van Brunt Boulevard in Kansas City. He had been shot with a shotgun and another weapon. Spent 9 mm shells casings were recovered at the scene. The Medical Examiner ruled it a homicide. A witness stated several individuals had walked up the residence where the shooting occurred. One of those individuals was identified as the defendant. He was carrying a shotgun, the witness stated. Arguments also were heard before several gunshots. Then individuals ran out of the residence to their vehicles. Another witness, who was at the scene when the homicide occurred, stated that the defendant shot the victim after they spoke in the front yard. The victim was animated but not threatening toward anyone.

Kansas City man sentenced in shotgun killing

MORRIS COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man wanted on a felony warrant.

Just after 5p.m. July 3, police saw 32-year-old Jonathan Heller in the 10 Block of Main Street in Council Grove, according to a media release.

Officers responded quickly to arrest him on requested charges of battery of a law enforcement officer, criminal damage to property, felony interference with law enforcement and disorderly conduct.

After Heller’s arrest, investigators collected new information and obtained a search warrant for his home.&nbsp; Heller faces additional drug charges, according to police.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657124150331.png" alt="Heller is being held in Dickinson Co." />
 <figcaption>Heller is being held in Dickinson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>MORRIS COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man wanted on a felony warrant.Just after 5p.m. July 3, police saw 32-year-old Jonathan Heller in the 10 Block of Main Street in Council Grove, according to a media release.Officers responded quickly to arrest him on requested charges of battery of a law enforcement officer, criminal damage to property, felony interference with law enforcement and disorderly conduct.After Heller’s arrest, investigators collected new information and obtained a search warrant for his home.&nbsp; Heller faces additional drug charges, according to police.

Police capture Kansas man wanted on federal arrest warrant

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a random sword attack and asking the public to help identify a suspect.

Just before 1:30p.m. Tuesday, a suspect observed by security camera attacked an individual in the 700 block of W 2nd Street in Wichita, according to police. 

The victim in this random attack had non-life-threatening injuries. Anyone who can help ID the suspect is asked to call police.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657131373053.png" alt="Photos Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Photos Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a random sword attack and asking the public to help identify a suspect.Just before 1:30p.m. Tuesday, a suspect observed by security camera attacked an individual in the 700 block of W 2nd Street in Wichita, according to police. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657131408103.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The victim in this random attack had non-life-threatening injuries. Anyone who can help ID the suspect is asked to call police.

Police ask for help to ID Kansas sword attack suspect

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — In a reversal for President Joe Biden, a federal appeals court in New Orleans last week agreed to reconsider its own April ruling that allowed the administration to require federal employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

The new order from the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans vacates&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-covid-health-donald-trump-new-orleans-5dfec69e95363b4bc4e94228c2de5729">an earlier ruling</a>&nbsp;by a three-judge panel that upheld the mandate. The new order means a block on the mandate imposed in January by a Texas-based federal judge remains in effect, while the full court’s 17 judges take up the appeal.

Biden had issued an order Sept. 9 requiring that more than 3.5 million federal executive branch workers undergo vaccination, with no option to get regularly tested instead, unless they secured approved medical or religious exemptions.

U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Brown, who was appointed to the District Court for the Southern District of Texas by then-President Donald Trump, issued a nationwide injunction against the requirement in January. At the time, the White House said 98% of federal workers were already vaccinated.

Brown’s ruling was followed by back-and-forth rulings at the 5th Circuit.

In February, a 5th Circuit panel refused to block Brown’s ruling pending appeal.

But after hearing arguments in March, a different panel ruled 2-1 that Brown did not have jurisdiction in the case. The panel said those challenging the requirement could have pursued administrative remedies under Civil Service law. Although the ruling was issued in April, it was not to officially take effect until May 31.

Judges Carl Stewart and James Dennis, who were nominated to the 5th Circuit by Democratic President Bill Clinton, were in the majority. Judge Rhesa Barksdale, a senior judge nominated by Republican President George H.W. Bush, dissented, saying the relief the challengers sought does not fall under the Civil Service Reform Act cited by the administration.

Barksdale is a senior judge, meaning he has a reduced case load and is no longer on active status at the court. Because he was part of the ruling panel he can participate in the reconsideration with the active judges. Of the 17 judges currently listed as active judges at the 5th Circuit, 12 are appointees of Republican presidents, including six nominated to the court by Trump.

When the case was argued before the three-judge 5th Circuit panel in March, administration lawyers had noted that district judges in a dozen jurisdictions had rejected a challenge to the vaccine requirement for federal workers before Brown ruled.

The administration argued the Constitution gives the president, as the head of the federal workforce, the same authority as the CEO of a private corporation to require that employees be vaccinated.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653439600561.png" alt="President Biden had issued an order Sept. 9 requiring that more than 3.5 million federal executive branch workers undergo vaccination, with no option to get regularly tested instead, unless they secured approved medical or religious exemptions." />
 <figcaption>President Biden had issued an order Sept. 9 requiring that more than 3.5 million federal executive branch workers undergo vaccination, with no option to get regularly tested instead, unless they secured approved medical or religious exemptions.</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW ORLEANS (AP) — In a reversal for President Joe Biden, a federal appeals court in New Orleans last week agreed to reconsider its own April ruling that allowed the administration to require federal employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19.The new order from the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans vacates&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-covid-health-donald-trump-new-orleans-5dfec69e95363b4bc4e94228c2de5729">an earlier ruling</a>&nbsp;by a three-judge panel that upheld the mandate. The new order means a block on the mandate imposed in January by a Texas-based federal judge remains in effect, while the full court’s 17 judges take up the appeal.Biden had issued an order Sept. 9 requiring that more than 3.5 million federal executive branch workers undergo vaccination, with no option to get regularly tested instead, unless they secured approved medical or religious exemptions.U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Brown, who was appointed to the District Court for the Southern District of Texas by then-President Donald Trump, issued a nationwide injunction against the requirement in January. At the time, the White House said 98% of federal workers were already vaccinated.Brown’s ruling was followed by back-and-forth rulings at the 5th Circuit.In February, a 5th Circuit panel refused to block Brown’s ruling pending appeal.But after hearing arguments in March, a different panel ruled 2-1 that Brown did not have jurisdiction in the case. The panel said those challenging the requirement could have pursued administrative remedies under Civil Service law. Although the ruling was issued in April, it was not to officially take effect until May 31.Judges Carl Stewart and James Dennis, who were nominated to the 5th Circuit by Democratic President Bill Clinton, were in the majority. Judge Rhesa Barksdale, a senior judge nominated by Republican President George H.W. Bush, dissented, saying the relief the challengers sought does not fall under the Civil Service Reform Act cited by the administration.Barksdale is a senior judge, meaning he has a reduced case load and is no longer on active status at the court. Because he was part of the ruling panel he can participate in the reconsideration with the active judges. Of the 17 judges currently listed as active judges at the 5th Circuit, 12 are appointees of Republican presidents, including six nominated to the court by Trump.When the case was argued before the three-judge 5th Circuit panel in March, administration lawyers had noted that district judges in a dozen jurisdictions had rejected a challenge to the vaccine requirement for federal workers before Brown ruled.The administration argued the Constitution gives the president, as the head of the federal workforce, the same authority as the CEO of a private corporation to require that employees be vaccinated.

Court fight continues over Biden vaccine mandate for federal workers

RAWLINS COUNTY —Authorities are working to determine the cause of rural northwest Kansas fire.

Just before 9p.m. Tuesday, Rawlins County Rural Fire District #2 was paged to a large fire at a private gun range at Blakeman, an unincorporated community five miles west of Atwood, according to the fire district.

Volunteer firefighters from the fire district responded.

Crews battled the raging flames, heavy smoke and fought the wind for approximately 3 hours to bring the fire under control.&nbsp; Law enforcement helped direct traffic on U.S. 36 as high winds were causing near zero visibility.&nbsp;  Rawlins County EMS kept a watchful eye on the firefighters who were working in the extreme heat and heavy smoke.

Crews continued to put out hot spots for another 2 hours. Farmers showed up with discs and water. There were no structures, lives or livestock lost or damaged in the fire that burned approximately 265 acres of pasture, cropland and fence post.

&nbsp;Fire Chief Chris Neirmeier requested and received assistance from McDonald, Herndon, Bird City and Decatur County to battle the fire. The cause of this fire is still under investigation.

RAWLINS COUNTY —Authorities are working to determine the cause of rural northwest Kansas fire.Just before 9p.m. Tuesday, Rawlins County Rural Fire District #2 was paged to a large fire at a private gun range at Blakeman, an unincorporated community five miles west of Atwood, according to the fire district.Volunteer firefighters from the fire district responded.Crews battled the raging flames, heavy smoke and fought the wind for approximately 3 hours to bring the fire under control.&nbsp; Law enforcement helped direct traffic on U.S. 36 as high winds were causing near zero visibility.&nbsp; Rawlins County EMS kept a watchful eye on the firefighters who were working in the extreme heat and heavy smoke.Crews continued to put out hot spots for another 2 hours. Farmers showed up with discs and water. There were no structures, lives or livestock lost or damaged in the fire that burned approximately 265 acres of pasture, cropland and fence post.&nbsp;Fire Chief Chris Neirmeier requested and received assistance from McDonald, Herndon, Bird City and Decatur County to battle the fire. The cause of this fire is still under investigation.

265 acres burn in rural NW Kansas fire

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Health reported&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;5,395 new coronavirus cases in Kansas from Wednesday June 29, to Wednesday July 6, for a total of 812,329 cases.

Th<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1529/June-15-Case-Summary-PDF?bidId=">e state reported&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;9 additional COVID-19 deaths in the past week for a total of 8,861

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a>&nbsp;about the COVID-19 vaccine.

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

Kansas is providing fewer updates of its data about COVID-19 now that Gov. Laura Kelly formally declared that the state is moving toward treating COVID-19 as a disease like the flu that spreads regularly and isn't considered a pandemic.&nbsp;The health department plans to update data about cases and vaccinations each Wednesday.

The state continues to support access to free COVID-19 testing, works to ensure that vulnerable populations can get vaccinated, see that providers serve a broad population and give “comprehensive guidance” about the virus. She called the new phase “endemic normalcy.”

The health department plans to update data about cases and vaccinations each Wednesday.

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Health reported&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;5,395 new coronavirus cases in Kansas from Wednesday June 29, to Wednesday July 6, for a total of 812,329 cases.Th<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1529/June-15-Case-Summary-PDF?bidId=">e state reported&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;9 additional COVID-19 deaths in the past week for a total of 8,861<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657129102087.png" alt="Wednesday July 6, 2022 -KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday July 6, 2022 -KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a>&nbsp;about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.Kansas is providing fewer updates of its data about COVID-19 now that Gov. Laura Kelly formally declared that the state is moving toward treating COVID-19 as a disease like the flu that spreads regularly and isn't considered a pandemic.&nbsp;The health department plans to update data about cases and vaccinations each Wednesday.The state continues to support access to free COVID-19 testing, works to ensure that vulnerable populations can get vaccinated, see that providers serve a broad population and give “comprehensive guidance” about the virus. She called the new phase “endemic normalcy.”The health department plans to update data about cases and vaccinations each Wednesday.

KDHE: 9 additional COVID deaths and 5,395 new cases

KANSAS CITY —A young girl was hospitalized after she was pulled from a pool at Oceans of Fun on Tuesday.

Just before 7p.m. a lifeguard responded to a young female guest in distress in the Coconut Cove pool, according to a statement from the park.

The lifeguard pulled her from the water and the park’s EMS began administering CPR.

The Kansas City Fire Department arrived and continued caring for her and transported her to Children's Mercy. Authorities did not release additional details including her age.

KANSAS CITY —A young girl was hospitalized after she was pulled from a pool at Oceans of Fun on Tuesday.Just before 7p.m. a lifeguard responded to a young female guest in distress in the Coconut Cove pool, according to a statement from the park.The lifeguard pulled her from the water and the park’s EMS began administering CPR.The Kansas City Fire Department arrived and continued caring for her and transported her to Children's Mercy. Authorities did not release additional details including her age.

Girl hospitalized after pulled from pool at Oceans of Fun

JOHNSON COUNTY—Four firefighters were hospitalized after they were injured while fighting a fire at a Kansas home.

While firefighters were in the home, a stairway collapsed and injured four fighters. The Rapid Intervention crews responded immediately and rescued the four fighters from the home. EMS transported them to local hospitals where they were treated and released.

The State Fire Marshal and Eastern Kansas Multi-County Task Force are investigating the fire.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657133850368.png" alt="The State Fire Marshal and Eastern Kansas Multi-County Task Force are investigating the fire.-photo Shawnee Fire" />
 <figcaption>The State Fire Marshal and Eastern Kansas Multi-County Task Force are investigating the fire.-photo Shawnee Fire</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY—Four firefighters were hospitalized after they were injured while fighting a fire at a Kansas home.Just after 9p.m. Tuesday, fire crews responded to a house fire at 4610 Silverheel Street in Shawnee, according to a media release.While firefighters were in the home, a stairway collapsed and injured four fighters. The Rapid Intervention crews responded immediately and rescued the four fighters from the home. EMS transported them to local hospitals where they were treated and released.A fifth firefighter received medical attention at the scene due to the intense heat. Three residents of the home were able to escape without injury.Mayor Michelle Distler said "Most importantly, I am so relieved that all of our firefighters are recovering. I want to extend any help I can possibly provide to the firefighters and their families. I think we all understand this could have had a different ending as it did for one of our own back in 2010. The bravery, courage and selflessness these men and women show every day when they show up on the job is unmatched. They make a promise to our community to protect and serve and that was on full display Tuesday night."&nbsp;The State Fire Marshal and Eastern Kansas Multi-County Task Force are investigating the fire.

4 firefighters injured after structure collapse in Kan. house fire


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Louisville, Kentucky Metro police are investigating after a family from Reno County was struck by a vehicle in Downtown Louisville on Tuesday night. 

Nickerson High basketball player Ava Jones, her parents Amy and Trey and another juvenile were struck. Ava is in serious but stable condition, the parents are in critical condition and the other family member was treated for minor injuries.

According to information from the Louisville Police Department, just before 8 p.m. in the area of 2nd Street &amp; East Market Street a motorist, later identified as 33-year-old Michael Hurley of Lexington, Ind. struck the Jones family, who were pedestrians.

Jones and her family were in Louisville for an AAU basketball tournament with Wheat State Elite. Jones just signed with the University of Iowa basketball program over the weekend.

At the time of the accident, Hurley was heading east on Market and attempted to make a left turn onto 2nd Street when his car is said to have crossed on to the sidewalk and hit the family.

Hurley is accused of assault connected with the accident and the arrest report says drugs were involved. 

According to the complaint, he told officers at the scene he had taken Hydrocodone and "was so tired that he could not make the turn".&nbsp; The complaint also said his eyes were "pinpoint and droopy".

Blood was drawn for testing and Hurley did not have his driver's license.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657124106997.jpeg" alt="Michael Hurley-photo Louisville Police" />
 <figcaption>Michael Hurley-photo Louisville Police</figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Louisville, Kentucky Metro police are investigating after a family from Reno County was struck by a vehicle in Downtown Louisville on Tuesday night. Nickerson High basketball player Ava Jones, her parents Amy and Trey and another juvenile were struck. Ava is in serious but stable condition, the parents are in critical condition and the other family member was treated for minor injuries.According to information from the Louisville Police Department, just before 8 p.m. in the area of 2nd Street &amp; East Market Street a motorist, later identified as 33-year-old Michael Hurley of Lexington, Ind. struck the Jones family, who were pedestrians.Jones and her family were in Louisville for an AAU basketball tournament with Wheat State Elite. Jones just signed with the University of Iowa basketball program over the weekend.At the time of the accident, Hurley was heading east on Market and attempted to make a left turn onto 2nd Street when his car is said to have crossed on to the sidewalk and hit the family.Hurley is accused of assault connected with the accident and the arrest report says drugs were involved. According to the complaint, he told officers at the scene he had taken Hydrocodone and "was so tired that he could not make the turn".&nbsp; The complaint also said his eyes were "pinpoint and droopy".Blood was drawn for testing and Hurley did not have his driver's license.