Sturgis, Mich. (AP) —Severe weather has forced Abbott Nutrition to pause production at a Michigan baby formula factory that had just restarted after being closed for several months.

The facility is closely tied to the recent&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/storms-health-thunderstorms-weather-f7d8a9df5ac176a6ac7e97802e05673b" target="_blank">baby formula shortage</a>.

Production for its EleCare specialty formula has been suspended, but there is enough supply to meet demand until production is restarted, the company said. The company put a priority on ramping up production of the specialty formula for infants with severe food allergies and digestive problems who have few other options for nutrition.

Abbott says it needs to assess damage and re-sanitize the factory after severe thunderstorms and heavy rains swept through southwestern Michigan late Monday. The company didn’t indicate how much damage the factory sustained.

Abbott had restarted the Sturgis, Michigan, factory on June 4 after it had been closed since February due to contamination.

The factory was closed after the Food and Drug Administration began investigating four bacterial infections among infants who consumed powdered formula from the plant. Two of the babies died. The company continues to state that its products have not been directly linked to the infections, which involved different bacterial strains.

FDA inspectors eventually uncovered a host of violations at the plant, including bacterial contamination, a leaky roof and lax safety protocols.

Abbott recalled several leading brands of formula in February, including Similac. That squeezed squeezed supplies that had already been strained by supply chain disruptions and stockpiling during COVID-19 shutdowns.

The company offered no time frame in its statement for when production will resume.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648164055231.png" alt="In February Abbott, one of the country’s largest infant formula makers announced a recall of Similac made at the plant in Sturgis, Michigan-FDA image" />
 <figcaption>In February Abbott, one of the country’s largest infant formula makers announced a recall of Similac made at the plant in Sturgis, Michigan-FDA image</figcaption>
 </figure>Sturgis, Mich. (AP) —Severe weather has forced Abbott Nutrition to pause production at a Michigan baby formula factory that had just restarted after being closed for several months.The facility is closely tied to the recent&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/storms-health-thunderstorms-weather-f7d8a9df5ac176a6ac7e97802e05673b" target="_blank">baby formula shortage</a>.Production for its EleCare specialty formula has been suspended, but there is enough supply to meet demand until production is restarted, the company said. The company put a priority on ramping up production of the specialty formula for infants with severe food allergies and digestive problems who have few other options for nutrition.Abbott says it needs to assess damage and re-sanitize the factory after severe thunderstorms and heavy rains swept through southwestern Michigan late Monday. The company didn’t indicate how much damage the factory sustained.Abbott had restarted the Sturgis, Michigan, factory on June 4 after it had been closed since February due to contamination.The factory was closed after the Food and Drug Administration began investigating four bacterial infections among infants who consumed powdered formula from the plant. Two of the babies died. The company continues to state that its products have not been directly linked to the infections, which involved different bacterial strains.FDA inspectors eventually uncovered a host of violations at the plant, including bacterial contamination, a leaky roof and lax safety protocols.Abbott recalled several leading brands of formula in February, including Similac. That squeezed squeezed supplies that had already been strained by supply chain disruptions and stockpiling during COVID-19 shutdowns.The company offered no time frame in its statement for when production will resume.

Production at recently opened baby formula factory stopped again

KANSAS CITY—Charges have been filed against a 19-year-old suspect in connection with a threat that closed ten Kansas City-area schools on Wednesday.

Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker thanked Blue Springs police department, Chief Bob Muenz and the FBI for their quick action regarding a threat of a mass shooting on Wednesday. "Their handling of this case was thoughtful and professional and I appreciate their partnership," Baker said.

"Their work however only came from an anonymous reporter of the threat. This brave individual deserves everyone’s praise and gratitude for reporting this social media post to law enforcement. &nbsp;This case shows that citizens can make a difference. Taking someone’s threat seriously is the best way to mitigate potential harm."

"My ask today is pretty simple – if you see a credible threat, please report it to law enforcement. School districts are working through stressful times knowing that their main priority is to keep kids safe and they did so."

Baker made the public announcement of charges but she said, "I intentionally am not going to use the suspect’s name or likeness in the statement. We will carry this case affording him with proper due process but he does not deserve to be made famous for his threat. Likewise I would ask that you consider not using his name or likeness in your reporting of this charge."

We charged him with the single count of making a terroristic threat and asked for a bond to hold him in custody. Further, we have been assured that mental health services will be offered to him while incarcerated.

KANSAS CITY—Charges have been filed against a 19-year-old suspect in connection with a threat that closed ten Kansas City-area schools on Wednesday.Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker thanked Blue Springs police department, Chief Bob Muenz and the FBI for their quick action regarding a threat of a mass shooting on Wednesday. "Their handling of this case was thoughtful and professional and I appreciate their partnership," Baker said.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">FBI Kansas City was made aware of a threat received by the Blue Springs Police Department yesterday. We take all threats of violence seriously and work with our local partners to provide resources as needed. <a href="https://twitter.com/BlueSpringsPD?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BlueSpringsPD</a> is the lead investigative agency regarding this matter.&mdash; FBI Kansas City (@FBIKansasCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/FBIKansasCity/status/1537060955837804545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>"Their work however only came from an anonymous reporter of the threat. This brave individual deserves everyone’s praise and gratitude for reporting this social media post to law enforcement. &nbsp;This case shows that citizens can make a difference. Taking someone’s threat seriously is the best way to mitigate potential harm.""My ask today is pretty simple – if you see a credible threat, please report it to law enforcement. School districts are working through stressful times knowing that their main priority is to keep kids safe and they did so."Baker made the public announcement of charges but she said, "I intentionally am not going to use the suspect’s name or likeness in the statement. We will carry this case affording him with proper due process but he does not deserve to be made famous for his threat. Likewise I would ask that you consider not using his name or likeness in your reporting of this charge."We charged him with the single count of making a terroristic threat and asked for a bond to hold him in custody. Further, we have been assured that mental health services will be offered to him while incarcerated.

Felony charges filed for threats that closed KC-area schools

WASHINGTON (AP) The first COVID-19 shots for U.S. infants, toddlers and preschoolers moved a step closer Wednesday.

The Food and Drug Administration’s vaccine advisers gave a thumbs-up to vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer for the littlest kids.

The outside experts voted unanimously that the benefits of the shots outweigh any risks for children under 5 — that’s roughly 18 million youngsters. They are the last age group in the U.S. without access to COVID-19 vaccines and many parents have been anxious to protect their little children.

If all the regulatory steps are cleared,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-science-health-government-and-politics-152ad81fe8b76025772f0659e521acee">shots should be available next week.</a>

“This is a long-awaited vaccine,” said one panel member, Dr. Jay Portnoy of Children’s Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri. “There are so many parents who are absolutely desperate to get this vaccine and I think we owe it to them to give them a choice to have the vaccine if they want to.”

Dr. Peter Marks, FDA’s vaccine chief, opened the meeting with data showing a “quite troubling surge” in young children’s hospitalizations during the omicron wave, and noted 442 children under 4 have died during the pandemic. That’s far fewer than adult deaths, but should not be dismissed in considering the need for vaccinating the youngest kids, he said.

“Each child that’s lost essentially fractures a family,” Marks said.

While endorsing the vaccines, some panel members said they believe chances are minimal for severe illness and death in young children.

“Risks from vaccination are very low, but so are risks from COVID-19 for the youngest kids,” said Dr. Cody Meissner of Tufts University.

FDA reviewers said both brands appear to be safe and effective for children as young as 6 months old in&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/search/text?all=false&amp;sourceType=allSources&amp;dateRangeType=live&amp;mediaSortType=newest&amp;pagesize=100&amp;viewType=conversation&amp;keyword=tags:sam&amp;storyType=all&amp;mediatype=text&amp;pagenumber=0" target="_blank">analyses posted</a>&nbsp;ahead of the all-day meeting. Side effects, including fever and fatigue, were generally minor in both, and less common than seen in adults.

The two vaccines use the same technology but there are differences. In a call with reporters earlier this week, vaccine experts noted that the shots haven’t been tested against each other, so there’s no way to tell parents if one is superior.

“You can’t compare the vaccines directly,” said Dr. Jesse Goodman of Georgetown University, a former FDA vaccine chief.

If the FDA agrees with its advisers and authorizes the shots, there’s one more step. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will decide on a formal recommendation after its own advisers vote on Saturday. If the CDC signs off, shots could be available as soon as Monday or Tuesday at doctor’s offices, hospitals and pharmacies.

Pfizer’s vaccine is for children 6 months through 4 years; Moderna’s vaccine is for 6 months through 5 years.

Moderna’s shots are one-quarter the dose of the company’s adult shots. Two doses appeared strong enough to prevent severe illness but only about 40% to 50% effective at preventing milder infections. Moderna added a booster to its tests and expects to eventually offer one.

Pfizer’s shots are just one-tenth its adult dose. Pfizer and partner BioNTech found that two shots didn’t provide enough protection in testing, so a third was added during the omicron wave.

Pfizer’s submitted data found no safety concerns and suggested that three shots were 80% effective in preventing symptomatic coronavirus infections. But that was based on just 10 COVID-19 cases; the calculation could change as more cases occur in the company’s ongoing studies.

Several advisers, noting that protection is low after two Pfizer doses, worried that some parents might end up skipping the third shot, or mistakenly thinking their kids are better protected between shots, leaving them vulnerable.

Educating parents must be done “very very carefully so that they are not misled about what the vaccines actually provide,” said Dr. Archana Chatterjee of Rosalind Franklin University.

The same&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-science-health-316714ee5cc37b87def488c41877ce38">FDA panel on Tuesday backed Moderna’s half-sized shots for ages 6 to 11 and full-sized doses for teens.</a>&nbsp;If authorized by the FDA, it would be the second option for those age groups. Currently Pfizer vaccine is their only choice.

The nation’s vaccination campaign started in December 2020 with the rollout of adult vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna, with health care workers and nursing home residents first in line. Teens and school-age children were added last year.

Moderna said in April that it is also seeking regulatory approval outside the U.S. for its little kid shots. According to the World Health Organization, 12 countries already vaccinate kids under 5, with other brands.

In the U.S., it remains uncertain how many parents want their youngest vaccinated. By some estimates, three-quarters of all children have already been infected. And only about 29% of children aged 5 to 11 have been vaccinated since Pfizer’s shots opened to them last November, a rate far lower than public health authorities consider ideal.

Dr. Nimmi Rajagopal, a family medicine physician at Cook County Health in Chicago, said she’s been preparing parents for months.

“We have some that are hesitant, and some that are just raring to go,” she said.

WASHINGTON (AP) The first COVID-19 shots for U.S. infants, toddlers and preschoolers moved a step closer Wednesday.The Food and Drug Administration’s vaccine advisers gave a thumbs-up to vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer for the littlest kids.The outside experts voted unanimously that the benefits of the shots outweigh any risks for children under 5 — that’s roughly 18 million youngsters. They are the last age group in the U.S. without access to COVID-19 vaccines and many parents have been anxious to protect their little children.If all the regulatory steps are cleared,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-science-health-government-and-politics-152ad81fe8b76025772f0659e521acee">shots should be available next week.</a>“This is a long-awaited vaccine,” said one panel member, Dr. Jay Portnoy of Children’s Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri. “There are so many parents who are absolutely desperate to get this vaccine and I think we owe it to them to give them a choice to have the vaccine if they want to.”Dr. Peter Marks, FDA’s vaccine chief, opened the meeting with data showing a “quite troubling surge” in young children’s hospitalizations during the omicron wave, and noted 442 children under 4 have died during the pandemic. That’s far fewer than adult deaths, but should not be dismissed in considering the need for vaccinating the youngest kids, he said.“Each child that’s lost essentially fractures a family,” Marks said.While endorsing the vaccines, some panel members said they believe chances are minimal for severe illness and death in young children.“Risks from vaccination are very low, but so are risks from COVID-19 for the youngest kids,” said Dr. Cody Meissner of Tufts University.FDA reviewers said both brands appear to be safe and effective for children as young as 6 months old in&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/search/text?all=false&amp;sourceType=allSources&amp;dateRangeType=live&amp;mediaSortType=newest&amp;pagesize=100&amp;viewType=conversation&amp;keyword=tags:sam&amp;storyType=all&amp;mediatype=text&amp;pagenumber=0" target="_blank">analyses posted</a>&nbsp;ahead of the all-day meeting. Side effects, including fever and fatigue, were generally minor in both, and less common than seen in adults.The two vaccines use the same technology but there are differences. In a call with reporters earlier this week, vaccine experts noted that the shots haven’t been tested against each other, so there’s no way to tell parents if one is superior.“You can’t compare the vaccines directly,” said Dr. Jesse Goodman of Georgetown University, a former FDA vaccine chief.If the FDA agrees with its advisers and authorizes the shots, there’s one more step. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will decide on a formal recommendation after its own advisers vote on Saturday. If the CDC signs off, shots could be available as soon as Monday or Tuesday at doctor’s offices, hospitals and pharmacies.Pfizer’s vaccine is for children 6 months through 4 years; Moderna’s vaccine is for 6 months through 5 years.Moderna’s shots are one-quarter the dose of the company’s adult shots. Two doses appeared strong enough to prevent severe illness but only about 40% to 50% effective at preventing milder infections. Moderna added a booster to its tests and expects to eventually offer one.Pfizer’s shots are just one-tenth its adult dose. Pfizer and partner BioNTech found that two shots didn’t provide enough protection in testing, so a third was added during the omicron wave.Pfizer’s submitted data found no safety concerns and suggested that three shots were 80% effective in preventing symptomatic coronavirus infections. But that was based on just 10 COVID-19 cases; the calculation could change as more cases occur in the company’s ongoing studies.Several advisers, noting that protection is low after two Pfizer doses, worried that some parents might end up skipping the third shot, or mistakenly thinking their kids are better protected between shots, leaving them vulnerable.Educating parents must be done “very very carefully so that they are not misled about what the vaccines actually provide,” said Dr. Archana Chatterjee of Rosalind Franklin University.The same&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-science-health-316714ee5cc37b87def488c41877ce38">FDA panel on Tuesday backed Moderna’s half-sized shots for ages 6 to 11 and full-sized doses for teens.</a>&nbsp;If authorized by the FDA, it would be the second option for those age groups. Currently Pfizer vaccine is their only choice.The nation’s vaccination campaign started in December 2020 with the rollout of adult vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna, with health care workers and nursing home residents first in line. Teens and school-age children were added last year.Moderna said in April that it is also seeking regulatory approval outside the U.S. for its little kid shots. According to the World Health Organization, 12 countries already vaccinate kids under 5, with other brands.In the U.S., it remains uncertain how many parents want their youngest vaccinated. By some estimates, three-quarters of all children have already been infected. And only about 29% of children aged 5 to 11 have been vaccinated since Pfizer’s shots opened to them last November, a rate far lower than public health authorities consider ideal.Dr. Nimmi Rajagopal, a family medicine physician at Cook County Health in Chicago, said she’s been preparing parents for months.“We have some that are hesitant, and some that are just raring to go,” she said.

1st COVID-19 shots for kids under 5 could be available next week

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) — Two U.S. veterans from Alabama who were in Ukraine assisting in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">war</a>&nbsp;against Russia haven’t been heard from in days and are missing, members of the state’s congressional delegation said Wednesday.

Relatives of Andy Tai Ngoc Huynh, 27, of Trinity and Alexander Drueke, 39, of Tuscaloosa have been in contact with both Senate and House offices seeking information about the men’s whereabouts, press aides said.

Rep. Robert Aderholt said Huynh had volunteered to go fight with the Ukrainian army against Russia, but relatives haven’t heard from him since June 8, when he was in the Kharkiv region of northeastern Ukraine, which is near the Russian border. Huynh and Drueke were together, an aide to Aderholt said.

“As you can imagine, his loved ones are very concerned about him,” Aderholt said in a statement. “My office has placed inquires with both the United States Department of State and the Federal Bureau of Investigation trying to get any information possible.”

Rep. Terri Sewell said Drueke’s mother reached out to her office earlier this week after she lost contact with her son.

The U.S. State Department said it was looking into reports that Russian or Russian-backed separatist forces in Ukraine had captured at least two American citizens. If confirmed, they would be the first Americans fighting for Ukraine known to have been captured since the war began Feb. 24.

“We are closely monitoring the situation and are in contact with Ukrainian authorities,” the department said in a statement emailed to reporters. It declined further comment, citing privacy considerations.

John Kirby, a national security spokesman at the White House, said Wednesday that the administration wasn’t able to confirm the reports about missing Americans.

“We’ll do the best we can to monitor this and see what we can learn about it,” he said.

However, he reiterated his warnings against Americans going to Ukraine.

“Ukraine is not the place for Americans to be traveling,” he said. “If you feel passionate about supporting Ukraine, there’s any number of ways to do that that that are safer and just as effective.”

A court in Donetsk, under separatist control,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-london-moscow-donetsk-9284bb1ee2c215ed8a3920941a67eb16">sentenced two Britons and a Moroccan man to death last week</a>. The Britons and Moroccan were accused of being mercenaries and seeking the violent overthrow of the separatist government in the Donetsk region. The Russian military has said it considers foreigners fighting with Ukraine to be mercenaries and claims they are not protected as combatants under the Geneva Convention.

Huynh’s fiancee, Joy Black, posted publicly on Facebook that his family was in contact with the Drueke family and government officials, and that nothing had been confirmed other than that the two were missing.

“Please keep Andy, and Alex, and all of their loved ones in prayer. We just want them to come home,” she wrote.

U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger tweeted that the Americans “have enlisted in the Ukrainian army, and thus are afforded legal combatant protections. As such, we expect members of the Legion to be treated in accordance with the Geneva convention.” It was unclear whether Kinzinger, an Illinois Republican, had any further information about the men.

He was commenting on a tweet sent earlier Wednesday by Task Force Baguette, a group of former U.S. and French servicemen, saying that two Americans fighting with them were captured a week ago. The group said Ukrainian intelligence confirmed the information.

Early in the war, Ukraine created the International Legion for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-afghanistan-europe-united-states-5757a2eb0d9774a35e63edce491a06e9">foreign citizens</a>&nbsp;who wanted to help defend against the Russian invasion.

Huynh spoke to his local newspaper,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.decaturdaily.com/news/morgan_county/hartselle/hartselle-man-leaving-friday-for-europe-to-join-ukrainian-foreign-legion/article_2f5663de-3cf8-5012-bf42-ba9ff47feb92.html" target="_blank">the Decatur Daily</a>, shortly before flying to Eastern Europe in April.

He explained that he was studying robotics at Calhoun Community College but couldn’t stop thinking about Russia’s invasion.

“I know it wasn’t my problem, but there was that gut feeling that I felt I had to do something,” Huynh told the Decatur Daily. “Two weeks after the war began, it kept eating me up inside and it just felt wrong. I was losing sleep. ... All I could think about was the situation in Ukraine.”

He said he decided to fly out once he learned that young Ukrainians were being drafted into service.

“Right when they turned 18, they were forced to enlist in the military to defend their homeland,” Huynh said. “Honestly, that broke my heart. I would say that is probably the moment where I decided that I have to do something.”

According to the newspaper, Huynh enlisted in the Marines when he was 19 and served for four years, though he did not see active combat.

He was born and raised in Orange County, California, to Vietnamese immigrants and moved to northern Alabama two years ago to be closer to his fiancee, the newspaper reported.

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) — Two U.S. veterans from Alabama who were in Ukraine assisting in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">war</a>&nbsp;against Russia haven’t been heard from in days and are missing, members of the state’s congressional delegation said Wednesday.Relatives of Andy Tai Ngoc Huynh, 27, of Trinity and Alexander Drueke, 39, of Tuscaloosa have been in contact with both Senate and House offices seeking information about the men’s whereabouts, press aides said.Rep. Robert Aderholt said Huynh had volunteered to go fight with the Ukrainian army against Russia, but relatives haven’t heard from him since June 8, when he was in the Kharkiv region of northeastern Ukraine, which is near the Russian border. Huynh and Drueke were together, an aide to Aderholt said.“As you can imagine, his loved ones are very concerned about him,” Aderholt said in a statement. “My office has placed inquires with both the United States Department of State and the Federal Bureau of Investigation trying to get any information possible.”Rep. Terri Sewell said Drueke’s mother reached out to her office earlier this week after she lost contact with her son.The U.S. State Department said it was looking into reports that Russian or Russian-backed separatist forces in Ukraine had captured at least two American citizens. If confirmed, they would be the first Americans fighting for Ukraine known to have been captured since the war began Feb. 24.“We are closely monitoring the situation and are in contact with Ukrainian authorities,” the department said in a statement emailed to reporters. It declined further comment, citing privacy considerations.John Kirby, a national security spokesman at the White House, said Wednesday that the administration wasn’t able to confirm the reports about missing Americans.“We’ll do the best we can to monitor this and see what we can learn about it,” he said.However, he reiterated his warnings against Americans going to Ukraine.“Ukraine is not the place for Americans to be traveling,” he said. “If you feel passionate about supporting Ukraine, there’s any number of ways to do that that that are safer and just as effective.”A court in Donetsk, under separatist control,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-london-moscow-donetsk-9284bb1ee2c215ed8a3920941a67eb16">sentenced two Britons and a Moroccan man to death last week</a>. The Britons and Moroccan were accused of being mercenaries and seeking the violent overthrow of the separatist government in the Donetsk region. The Russian military has said it considers foreigners fighting with Ukraine to be mercenaries and claims they are not protected as combatants under the Geneva Convention.Huynh’s fiancee, Joy Black, posted publicly on Facebook that his family was in contact with the Drueke family and government officials, and that nothing had been confirmed other than that the two were missing.“Please keep Andy, and Alex, and all of their loved ones in prayer. We just want them to come home,” she wrote.U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger tweeted that the Americans “have enlisted in the Ukrainian army, and thus are afforded legal combatant protections. As such, we expect members of the Legion to be treated in accordance with the Geneva convention.” It was unclear whether Kinzinger, an Illinois Republican, had any further information about the men.He was commenting on a tweet sent earlier Wednesday by Task Force Baguette, a group of former U.S. and French servicemen, saying that two Americans fighting with them were captured a week ago. The group said Ukrainian intelligence confirmed the information.Early in the war, Ukraine created the International Legion for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-afghanistan-europe-united-states-5757a2eb0d9774a35e63edce491a06e9">foreign citizens</a>&nbsp;who wanted to help defend against the Russian invasion.Huynh spoke to his local newspaper,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.decaturdaily.com/news/morgan_county/hartselle/hartselle-man-leaving-friday-for-europe-to-join-ukrainian-foreign-legion/article_2f5663de-3cf8-5012-bf42-ba9ff47feb92.html" target="_blank">the Decatur Daily</a>, shortly before flying to Eastern Europe in April.He explained that he was studying robotics at Calhoun Community College but couldn’t stop thinking about Russia’s invasion.“I know it wasn’t my problem, but there was that gut feeling that I felt I had to do something,” Huynh told the Decatur Daily. “Two weeks after the war began, it kept eating me up inside and it just felt wrong. I was losing sleep. ... All I could think about was the situation in Ukraine.”He said he decided to fly out once he learned that young Ukrainians were being drafted into service.“Right when they turned 18, they were forced to enlist in the military to defend their homeland,” Huynh said. “Honestly, that broke my heart. I would say that is probably the moment where I decided that I have to do something.”According to the newspaper, Huynh enlisted in the Marines when he was 19 and served for four years, though he did not see active combat.He was born and raised in Orange County, California, to Vietnamese immigrants and moved to northern Alabama two years ago to be closer to his fiancee, the newspaper reported.___

Congressman: 2 US veterans reported missing in Ukraine

OSAGE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on child sex allegations.

On Monday, the Osage County Sheriff’s Office was contacted by the Shawnee County Sheriff’s office regarding a 911 call about a missing 11-year-old girl that was received by the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center, according to Osage Co. Sheriff Chris Wells.

The reporting party advised that the girl was last seen at her home in Shawnee County at approximately 10:30pm on Sunday/

During Shawnee County’s investigation, it was discovered that an 18-year-old suspect later identified as Dominic J. Knapp of Lawrence, had arranged through social media to pick up the child and transport her to Osage County. 

Knapp was contacted while with the girl in Osage County and agreed to bring the child back to her home in Shawnee County around 4a.m. Monday.

After being interviewed by Osage County Investigators, Knapp was taken into custody without incident and booked into the Osage County Jail on requested charges of rape of a child under the age of 14 and aggravated criminal sodomy.

Osage County Sheriff Chris Wells, along with Shawnee County Sheriff Brian Hill, encourage parents to openly speak to their children about internet safety, and the dangers of sharing information online and through social media platforms.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655288513621.png" alt="Knapp-photo Osage Co." />
 <figcaption>Knapp-photo Osage Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>OSAGE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on child sex allegations.On Monday, the Osage County Sheriff’s Office was contacted by the Shawnee County Sheriff’s office regarding a 911 call about a missing 11-year-old girl that was received by the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center, according to Osage Co. Sheriff Chris Wells.The reporting party advised that the girl was last seen at her home in Shawnee County at approximately 10:30pm on Sunday/During Shawnee County’s investigation, it was discovered that an 18-year-old suspect later identified as Dominic J. Knapp of Lawrence, had arranged through social media to pick up the child and transport her to Osage County. Knapp was contacted while with the girl in Osage County and agreed to bring the child back to her home in Shawnee County around 4a.m. Monday.After being interviewed by Osage County Investigators, Knapp was taken into custody without incident and booked into the Osage County Jail on requested charges of rape of a child under the age of 14 and aggravated criminal sodomy.Osage County Sheriff Chris Wells, along with Shawnee County Sheriff Brian Hill, encourage parents to openly speak to their children about internet safety, and the dangers of sharing information online and through social media platforms.

Rape: Sheriff says Kan. man used social media to contact 11-year-old

Wichita State University President Rick Muma is excited to announce the hiring of Kevin Saal as WSU's new Director of Athletics, according to a media release from the university. Saal, who has been athletic director at Murray State University since March 2019, will take the reins of the Shocker Athletics program from WSU's interim athletic director,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/staff.aspx?staff=1425">Sarah Adams</a>, effective mid-July.&nbsp; "This is a new day for Shocker Athletics. As we look to the future of our program, I am incredibly pleased to welcome Kevin to Shocker Nation. Kevin returns to his home state of Kansas with a strong, forward-thinking vision for our men's and women's intercollegiate athletics programs," says Wichita State President Rick Muma. "Kevin is just the person to move WSU's athletics program forward and push it to even greater heights."&nbsp; In his role as Director of Athletics, Saal will report to Muma and be responsible for managing, planning and directing the operations of the university's intercollegiate athletics programs. He will also be responsible for managing oversight of sponsorships, fundraising, partnerships, marketing, public relations, strategic planning, compliance, academics, student-athlete development and performance, Name Image and Likeness (NIL), and hiring and mentoring coaches. &nbsp; "My wife Jennifer and I are incredibly humbled and blessed to accept this special opportunity to represent Wichita State University, Wichita State Athletics and Shocker Nation. With great enthusiasm, gratitude and appreciation, we are thankful to President Muma and the Search Advisory Group for their trust, confidence and support," Saal says. &nbsp; Saal led Murray State through two athletic conference realignment / transition processes and has grown the department to new heights with increases in student-athlete APR, league championships, and appearances in NCAA tournament and post-season play. &nbsp; Before coming to Murray State, Saal spent 12 years at the University of Kentucky, where he held various roles before being named executive associate director of athletics, working under the leadership of Kentucky Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart.&nbsp; His experience at Kentucky included leadership in sports administration, capital projects and facilities construction, as well as budget and human resources management and championships administration. Known for an exceptional work ethic, Saal has excelled in developing relationships with donors and has extensive experience in facilities growth under his leadership.&nbsp; "With an incredible focus on education and a competitive spirit, Kevin brings an integrity and discipline that is the foundation for moving teams to a championship culture," says University of Kentucky Director of Athletics Mitch Barnhart. "His passion and capacity for college athletics is balanced by a love and care for people at the highest, most genuine level. His experience at every level in athletics provides WSU and the community with a proven leader going forward."&nbsp;

Saal, 44, is from Kansas. He worked at Kansas State University from 2000-05, where he was event coordinator and had administrative responsibilities supporting men's and women's golf and rowing. From 2005-07, Saal was director of operations at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.&nbsp; In 2000, Saal received his master's degree in athletics administration from the University of Kansas, after spending time at the University of Arkansas — where he was a swimming and diving student-athlete — and Texas Christian University, where he earned his bachelor's in psychology. Saal is also nearing completion of his Doctorate in Education with a focus on P-20 and Community Leadership. &nbsp; Saal and his wife Jennifer — also a native of Kansas— have two college-age sons: Jacob and Alex. Kevin and Jennifer are looking forward to their return to Kansas.&nbsp; "Jennifer and I are eager to return to our home state to engage and partner with Shocker student-athletes, coaches, administration, alumni, supporters and the greater Wichita community," Saal says. "With much work to be done, I look forward to continuing to develop WSU's championship culture through our strategic vision, core values, a first-class student-athlete experience and, ultimately, competitive excellence. Go Shockers!"&nbsp;

What others have to say about Kevin Saal&nbsp;

"Wichita State has made a great hire in Kevin Saal. There is no doubt he will guide the Shockers with great success through these unique times in collegiate athletics. His commitment to students and their experience academically, athletically and socially will have an immediate impact on the department." &nbsp; — Mark Coyle, director of athletics, University of Minnesota &nbsp; "Wichita State has made an excellent choice in Kevin Saal to lead Athletics. Kevin brings a strong set of experiences along with the values and vision to lead WSU to the next level." &nbsp; — Rob Mullens, director of athletics, University of Oregon&nbsp; "Wichita State has landed a strong leader during an important time of transition in college athletics. I am excited for both Kevin and Jennifer for this next step but even more elated for what this means for Shocker Nation. Kevin has made a mark on every school he has worked at, and I have no doubt that Wichita State made the right choice to take them to the next level." &nbsp; — DeWayne Peevy, director of Athletics, DePaul University&nbsp;

The search for WSU's Director of Athletics was led by Muma with guidance from Parker Executive Search and a Search Advisory Group that included the following:&nbsp;

"I truly appreciate the help provided by the Search Advisory Group and Parker Executive Search, all of whom brought great value to the process of filling such an important role," Muma says. "And a special thank you goes to&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/staff.aspx?staff=1425">Sarah Adams</a>, who graciously stepped in as interim athletic director during this period of transition. I am incredibly grateful for her efforts."&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655337126379.png" alt="Kevin Saal-photo WSU" />
 <figcaption>Kevin Saal-photo WSU</figcaption>
 </figure>Wichita State University President Rick Muma is excited to announce the hiring of Kevin Saal as WSU's new Director of Athletics, according to a media release from the university. Saal, who has been athletic director at Murray State University since March 2019, will take the reins of the Shocker Athletics program from WSU's interim athletic director,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/staff.aspx?staff=1425">Sarah Adams</a>, effective mid-July.&nbsp; "This is a new day for Shocker Athletics. As we look to the future of our program, I am incredibly pleased to welcome Kevin to Shocker Nation. Kevin returns to his home state of Kansas with a strong, forward-thinking vision for our men's and women's intercollegiate athletics programs," says Wichita State President Rick Muma. "Kevin is just the person to move WSU's athletics program forward and push it to even greater heights."&nbsp; In his role as Director of Athletics, Saal will report to Muma and be responsible for managing, planning and directing the operations of the university's intercollegiate athletics programs. He will also be responsible for managing oversight of sponsorships, fundraising, partnerships, marketing, public relations, strategic planning, compliance, academics, student-athlete development and performance, Name Image and Likeness (NIL), and hiring and mentoring coaches. &nbsp; "My wife Jennifer and I are incredibly humbled and blessed to accept this special opportunity to represent Wichita State University, Wichita State Athletics and Shocker Nation. With great enthusiasm, gratitude and appreciation, we are thankful to President Muma and the Search Advisory Group for their trust, confidence and support," Saal says. &nbsp; Saal led Murray State through two athletic conference realignment / transition processes and has grown the department to new heights with increases in student-athlete APR, league championships, and appearances in NCAA tournament and post-season play. &nbsp; Before coming to Murray State, Saal spent 12 years at the University of Kentucky, where he held various roles before being named executive associate director of athletics, working under the leadership of Kentucky Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart.&nbsp; His experience at Kentucky included leadership in sports administration, capital projects and facilities construction, as well as budget and human resources management and championships administration. Known for an exceptional work ethic, Saal has excelled in developing relationships with donors and has extensive experience in facilities growth under his leadership.&nbsp; "With an incredible focus on education and a competitive spirit, Kevin brings an integrity and discipline that is the foundation for moving teams to a championship culture," says University of Kentucky Director of Athletics Mitch Barnhart. "His passion and capacity for college athletics is balanced by a love and care for people at the highest, most genuine level. His experience at every level in athletics provides WSU and the community with a proven leader going forward."&nbsp; <h2>Returning home to Kansas</h2>Saal, 44, is from Kansas. He worked at Kansas State University from 2000-05, where he was event coordinator and had administrative responsibilities supporting men's and women's golf and rowing. From 2005-07, Saal was director of operations at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.&nbsp; In 2000, Saal received his master's degree in athletics administration from the University of Kansas, after spending time at the University of Arkansas — where he was a swimming and diving student-athlete — and Texas Christian University, where he earned his bachelor's in psychology. Saal is also nearing completion of his Doctorate in Education with a focus on P-20 and Community Leadership. &nbsp; Saal and his wife Jennifer — also a native of Kansas— have two college-age sons: Jacob and Alex. Kevin and Jennifer are looking forward to their return to Kansas.&nbsp; "Jennifer and I are eager to return to our home state to engage and partner with Shocker student-athletes, coaches, administration, alumni, supporters and the greater Wichita community," Saal says. "With much work to be done, I look forward to continuing to develop WSU's championship culture through our strategic vision, core values, a first-class student-athlete experience and, ultimately, competitive excellence. Go Shockers!"&nbsp; <h2>What others have to say about Kevin Saal&nbsp;</h2>"Wichita State has made a great hire in Kevin Saal. There is no doubt he will guide the Shockers with great success through these unique times in collegiate athletics. His commitment to students and their experience academically, athletically and socially will have an immediate impact on the department." &nbsp; — Mark Coyle, director of athletics, University of Minnesota &nbsp; "Wichita State has made an excellent choice in Kevin Saal to lead Athletics. Kevin brings a strong set of experiences along with the values and vision to lead WSU to the next level." &nbsp; — Rob Mullens, director of athletics, University of Oregon&nbsp; "Wichita State has landed a strong leader during an important time of transition in college athletics. I am excited for both Kevin and Jennifer for this next step but even more elated for what this means for Shocker Nation. Kevin has made a mark on every school he has worked at, and I have no doubt that Wichita State made the right choice to take them to the next level." &nbsp; — DeWayne Peevy, director of Athletics, DePaul University&nbsp; <h2>The national search process&nbsp;</h2>The search for WSU's Director of Athletics was led by Muma with guidance from Parker Executive Search and a Search Advisory Group that included the following:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Angela Buckner, former WSU Women's Basketball student-athlete and recreation director for Woodard Recreation Center, Fairmount Community Center and Atwater Neighborhood Resource Center&nbsp;</li><li>Lynn Nichols, chair-elect, WSU Foundation Board and CEO of Yingling Aviation   &nbsp;</li><li>Nate Robertson, former WSU Men's Baseball student-athlete, retired professional baseball player, Maize High School assistant baseball coach, and partner at the Candle Club and LaVela&nbsp;</li><li>John Rolfe, WSU alumnus and president and CEO, Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce &nbsp;</li><li>Dr. Clay Stoldt, faculty athletic representative and interim dean of the College of Applied Studies &nbsp;</li><li>Evan Wessel, former WSU Men's Basketball student-athlete and financial advisor, Stoutheart Financial Group    &nbsp; &nbsp;</li>
 </ul>"I truly appreciate the help provided by the Search Advisory Group and Parker Executive Search, all of whom brought great value to the process of filling such an important role," Muma says. "And a special thank you goes to&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/staff.aspx?staff=1425">Sarah Adams</a>, who graciously stepped in as interim athletic director during this period of transition. I am incredibly grateful for her efforts."&nbsp;Wichita State Athletics

Wichita State hires Kansas native Saal as new athletic director 

WASHINGTON (AP) —Dr. Anthony Fauci, the face of America’s pandemic response through two White House administrations, has tested positive for the coronavirus.

The 81-year-old Fauci, who is fully vaccinated and has received two booster shots, was experiencing mild COVID-19 symptoms, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/niaid-director-fauci-tests-positive-covid-19" target="_blank">statement</a>&nbsp;Wednesday from the National Institutes of Health.

Fauci has not recently been in close contact with President Joe Biden or other senior government officials. He tested positive on a rapid antigen test. He is following public health guidelines and his doctor’s advice, and will return to work at the NIH when he tests negative, according to the statement.

Fauci is Biden’s chief medical adviser and director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. He was a leading member of the White House coronavirus task force under former President Donald Trump.

Earlier this week, U.S. Health Secretary Xavier Becerra&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-covid-health-germany-xavier-becerra-bf13e1eeddc3eb5a5f6b422e277edb28">tested positive</a>&nbsp;for the virus. It was the second time Becerra had come down with symptoms and tested positive.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600888542522.png" alt="The 81-year-old Fauci, who is fully vaccinated and has received two booster shots, was experiencing mild COVID-19 symptoms,&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The 81-year-old Fauci, who is fully vaccinated and has received two booster shots, was experiencing mild COVID-19 symptoms,&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —Dr. Anthony Fauci, the face of America’s pandemic response through two White House administrations, has tested positive for the coronavirus.The 81-year-old Fauci, who is fully vaccinated and has received two booster shots, was experiencing mild COVID-19 symptoms, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/niaid-director-fauci-tests-positive-covid-19" target="_blank">statement</a>&nbsp;Wednesday from the National Institutes of Health.Fauci has not recently been in close contact with President Joe Biden or other senior government officials. He tested positive on a rapid antigen test. He is following public health guidelines and his doctor’s advice, and will return to work at the NIH when he tests negative, according to the statement.Fauci is Biden’s chief medical adviser and director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. He was a leading member of the White House coronavirus task force under former President Donald Trump.Earlier this week, U.S. Health Secretary Xavier Becerra&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-covid-health-germany-xavier-becerra-bf13e1eeddc3eb5a5f6b422e277edb28">tested positive</a>&nbsp;for the virus. It was the second time Becerra had come down with symptoms and tested positive.

Vaxxed, double-boosted Fauci tests positive for COVID

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. announced it will send an additional $1 billion in military aid to Ukraine, as America and its allies provide longer-range weapons they say can make a difference in a fight where Ukrainian forces are outnumbered and outgunned by their Russian invaders.

President Joe Biden and his top national security leaders said Wednesday the U.S. is moving as fast as possible to get critical weapons to the fight, even as Ukrainian officials protest that they need more, faster, in order to survive.

The latest package, the U.S. said, includes anti-ship missile launchers, howitzers and more rounds for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) that U.S. forces are training Ukrainian troops on now. All are key weapons systems that Ukrainian leaders have urgently requested as they battle to stall Russia’s slow but steady march to conquer the eastern Donbas region.

“Gen. Milley and I have been in a number of fights. And when you’re in a fight, you can never get enough,” Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said at a press conference in Brussels, referring to Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

“I certainly understand where the Ukrainians are coming from, and we’re gonna fight hard to give them everything they need.”

The HIMARS and anti-ship systems are the kinds of longer range capabilities that over time can make a difference in the fight, Milley said. He said Ukraine will have trained HIMARS crews in the fight in a few weeks.

“If they use the weapon properly and it’s employed properly, they ought to be able to take out a significant amount of targets and that will make a difference,” he said. But he also noted that the numbers clearly favor the Russians.

“In terms of artillery, they do outnumber, they out-gun and out-range” the Ukrainian forces.

The aid is the largest single tranche of weapons and equipment since the war began. Biden, who spoke by phone with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for about 40 minutes Wednesday, also said the U.S. will send $225 million more in humanitarian assistance to provide safe drinking water, medical supplies, food, health care, shelter and money for families to buy essential items.

The U.S. remains committed, Biden said in a statement, “to supporting the Ukrainian people whose lives have been ripped apart by this war.”

The aid comes as Austin convened a meeting in Brussels of more than 45 nations to discuss support for Ukraine. At the start of the meeting, he warned that the West must step up weapons deliveries to Ukraine and prove its commitment to helping the country’s military fight along a 1,000-kilometer (620-mile) front line in a grinding&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-kyiv-united-nations-business-374b9aab6f67f78839b2cbb630bd6a45">war of attrition</a>&nbsp;with Russia.

He told the participating nations, “We can’t afford to let up and we can’t lose steam. The stakes are too high.”

Overall, since the war began in late February, the U.S. has committed about $5.6 billion in security assistance to Ukraine, including this latest package. Officials said that about one-third of the latest $1 billion will be from presidential drawdown authority, which means the Pentagon will take weapons and equipment from it’s own stock and ship them to Ukraine. The remaining two-thirds would be equipment and weapons purchased from industry by the U.S. and then transferred to Ukraine.

Austin’s meeting, also attended by Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov, came on the opening day of a two-day gathering of NATO defense ministers at the alliance headquarters.

Increased arms supplies can’t come too soon for the Ukrainian forces battling to keep Russia from taking control of their country’s industrial east after more than 3½ months of war. In his nightly address to the nation, President Zelenskyy pleaded Tuesday for more and faster deliveries of Western arms, specifically asking for anti-missile defense systems.

“Allies are committed to continue providing the military equipment that Ukraine needs to prevail, including heavy weapons and long-range systems,” said Jens Stoltenberg, NATO secretary-general.

Ukrainian Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Malyar said Tuesday that without help from the West, “we will not be able to win this war.” She said Ukraine uses 5,000 to 6,000 artillery rounds a day, while Russia uses 10 times that many.

The defense ministers also planned to discuss moves to beef up forces along NATO’s own eastern flank and elsewhere, which have gathered strength since Russia invaded Ukraine.

“This will mean more presence, more capabilities and higher readiness, with more NATO forward deployed combat formations to strengthen our battlegroups in the East, more air, sea and cyber defenses, pre-positioned equipment and weapon stockpiles,” Stoltenberg said.

On a separate but related subject, he wouldn’t commit to a timeframe for Sweden and Finland joining NATO. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is blocking the membership bids, accusing the Nordic nations of supporting Kurdish militants deemed by Turkey to be terrorists.

“My aim is to solve this issue as soon as possible, but since we are several nations involved in this process, there is no way to tell you exactly when we will solve it,” Stoltenberg said.

Because of Turkey’s concerns, “this will take some more time than we originally expected,” he said.

Erdogan signaled Wednesday he won’t back down.

“We will most definitely not change our stance until Sweden and Finland take clear, concrete and determined steps in the fight against terrorism,” Erdogan said in an address to his ruling party’s legislators.

All 30 NATO members must agree to admit new members.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. announced it will send an additional $1 billion in military aid to Ukraine, as America and its allies provide longer-range weapons they say can make a difference in a fight where Ukrainian forces are outnumbered and outgunned by their Russian invaders.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Right now, <a href="https://twitter.com/SecDef?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecDef</a> is in Brussels hosting the next iteration of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group. More than 50 countries gathered today to coordinate bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities against Russia’s invasion. <a href="https://t.co/mSuRzQeYl4">pic.twitter.com/mSuRzQeYl4</a>&mdash; Department of Defense 🇺🇸 (@DeptofDefense) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeptofDefense/status/1537144797244313600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>President Joe Biden and his top national security leaders said Wednesday the U.S. is moving as fast as possible to get critical weapons to the fight, even as Ukrainian officials protest that they need more, faster, in order to survive.The latest package, the U.S. said, includes anti-ship missile launchers, howitzers and more rounds for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) that U.S. forces are training Ukrainian troops on now. All are key weapons systems that Ukrainian leaders have urgently requested as they battle to stall Russia’s slow but steady march to conquer the eastern Donbas region.“Gen. Milley and I have been in a number of fights. And when you’re in a fight, you can never get enough,” Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said at a press conference in Brussels, referring to Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.“I certainly understand where the Ukrainians are coming from, and we’re gonna fight hard to give them everything they need.”The HIMARS and anti-ship systems are the kinds of longer range capabilities that over time can make a difference in the fight, Milley said. He said Ukraine will have trained HIMARS crews in the fight in a few weeks.“If they use the weapon properly and it’s employed properly, they ought to be able to take out a significant amount of targets and that will make a difference,” he said. But he also noted that the numbers clearly favor the Russians.“In terms of artillery, they do outnumber, they out-gun and out-range” the Ukrainian forces.The aid is the largest single tranche of weapons and equipment since the war began. Biden, who spoke by phone with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for about 40 minutes Wednesday, also said the U.S. will send $225 million more in humanitarian assistance to provide safe drinking water, medical supplies, food, health care, shelter and money for families to buy essential items.The U.S. remains committed, Biden said in a statement, “to supporting the Ukrainian people whose lives have been ripped apart by this war.”The aid comes as Austin convened a meeting in Brussels of more than 45 nations to discuss support for Ukraine. At the start of the meeting, he warned that the West must step up weapons deliveries to Ukraine and prove its commitment to helping the country’s military fight along a 1,000-kilometer (620-mile) front line in a grinding&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-kyiv-united-nations-business-374b9aab6f67f78839b2cbb630bd6a45">war of attrition</a>&nbsp;with Russia.He told the participating nations, “We can’t afford to let up and we can’t lose steam. The stakes are too high.”Overall, since the war began in late February, the U.S. has committed about $5.6 billion in security assistance to Ukraine, including this latest package. Officials said that about one-third of the latest $1 billion will be from presidential drawdown authority, which means the Pentagon will take weapons and equipment from it’s own stock and ship them to Ukraine. The remaining two-thirds would be equipment and weapons purchased from industry by the U.S. and then transferred to Ukraine.Austin’s meeting, also attended by Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov, came on the opening day of a two-day gathering of NATO defense ministers at the alliance headquarters.Increased arms supplies can’t come too soon for the Ukrainian forces battling to keep Russia from taking control of their country’s industrial east after more than 3½ months of war. In his nightly address to the nation, President Zelenskyy pleaded Tuesday for more and faster deliveries of Western arms, specifically asking for anti-missile defense systems.“Allies are committed to continue providing the military equipment that Ukraine needs to prevail, including heavy weapons and long-range systems,” said Jens Stoltenberg, NATO secretary-general.Ukrainian Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Malyar said Tuesday that without help from the West, “we will not be able to win this war.” She said Ukraine uses 5,000 to 6,000 artillery rounds a day, while Russia uses 10 times that many.The defense ministers also planned to discuss moves to beef up forces along NATO’s own eastern flank and elsewhere, which have gathered strength since Russia invaded Ukraine.“This will mean more presence, more capabilities and higher readiness, with more NATO forward deployed combat formations to strengthen our battlegroups in the East, more air, sea and cyber defenses, pre-positioned equipment and weapon stockpiles,” Stoltenberg said.On a separate but related subject, he wouldn’t commit to a timeframe for Sweden and Finland joining NATO. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is blocking the membership bids, accusing the Nordic nations of supporting Kurdish militants deemed by Turkey to be terrorists.“My aim is to solve this issue as soon as possible, but since we are several nations involved in this process, there is no way to tell you exactly when we will solve it,” Stoltenberg said.Because of Turkey’s concerns, “this will take some more time than we originally expected,” he said.Erdogan signaled Wednesday he won’t back down.“We will most definitely not change our stance until Sweden and Finland take clear, concrete and determined steps in the fight against terrorism,” Erdogan said in an address to his ruling party’s legislators.All 30 NATO members must agree to admit new members.

Biden: US will send another $1 billion in aid to Ukraine

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Health reported&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;3,949 new coronavirus cases in Kansas from Wednesday June 8, to Wednesday June 15, for a total of 797,782 cases.

Th<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1529/June-15-Case-Summary-PDF?bidId=">e state reported&nbsp;</a>no additional COVID-19 deaths in the past week for a total of 8,943.&nbsp;

<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;3,949 new coronavirus cases in Kansas from Wednesday June 8, to Wednesday June 15, for a total of 797,782 cases.Th<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1529/June-15-Case-Summary-PDF?bidId=">e state reported&nbsp;</a>no additional COVID-19 deaths in the past week for a total of 8,943.&nbsp;<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: Latest COVID-19 numbers in Kansas

SHAWNEE COUNTY—A firefighter was injured while fighting a house fire overnight in Shawnee County.

Just before midnight Tuesday, fire crews were dispatched to a house fire at 1520 SW Randolph Avenue in Topeka, according to Fire Marshal Alan Stahl.

Crews reported light smoke coming from the front door of the home.&nbsp; The fire was extinguished, keeping it contained to the room where it started.

A preliminary investigation indicates the cause of the fire as Accidental; more likely than not associated with an unattended candle, according to Stahl.&nbsp;One firefighter sustained a non-life-threatening injury while fighting the fire.&nbsp; American Medical Response treated the firefighter at the scene and then transported to Stormont Vail for additional treatment. The occupants of home escaped unharmed.

The estimated total damage is $60,000; $45,000 loss to the structure and $15,000 contents loss.Working smoke detectors were present within the home, according to Stahl.

SHAWNEE COUNTY—A firefighter was injured while fighting a house fire overnight in Shawnee County.Just before midnight Tuesday, fire crews were dispatched to a house fire at 1520 SW Randolph Avenue in Topeka, according to Fire Marshal Alan Stahl. Crews reported light smoke coming from the front door of the home.&nbsp; The fire was extinguished, keeping it contained to the room where it started.A preliminary investigation indicates the cause of the fire as Accidental; more likely than not associated with an unattended candle, according to Stahl.&nbsp;One firefighter sustained a non-life-threatening injury while fighting the fire.&nbsp; American Medical Response treated the firefighter at the scene and then transported to Stormont Vail for additional treatment. The occupants of home escaped unharmed.The estimated total damage is $60,000; $45,000 loss to the structure and $15,000 contents loss.Working smoke detectors were present within the home, according to Stahl.

Firefighter hospitalized after battling Kansas house fire

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Federal Reserve on Wednesday intensified its drive to tame high inflation by raising its key interest rate by three-quarters of a point — its largest hike in nearly three decades — and signaling more large rate increases to come that would raise the risk of another recession.

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?521042-1/fed-chair-powell-briefs-reporters-announcing-75-percent-interest-rate-hike&amp;live">Click here to watch</a> Fed Chairman Powell's news confrerence

The move the Fed announced after its latest policy meeting will raise its benchmark short-term rate, which affects many consumer and business loans, to a range of 1.5% to 1.75%. With the additional rate hikes they foresee, the policymakers expect their key rate to reach a range of 3.25% to 3.5% by year’s end — the highest level since 2008 — meaning that most forms of borrowing will become sharply more expensive.

The central bank is ramping up its drive to tighten credit and slow growth with inflation&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/key-inflation-report-highest-level-in-four-decades-c0248c5b5705cd1523d3dab3771983b4">having reached a four-decade high of 8.6%</a>, spreading to more areas of the economy and showing no sign of slowing. Americans are also starting to expect high inflation to last longer than they had before. This sentiment could embed an inflationary psychology in the economy that would make it harder to bring inflation back to the Fed’s 2% target.

The Fed’s three-quarter-point rate increase exceeds the half-point hike that Chair Jerome Powell had previously suggested was likely to be announced this week. The Fed’s decision to impose a rate hike as large as it did Wednesday was an acknowledgment that it’s struggling to curb the pace and persistence of inflation, which has been worsened by Russia’s war against Ukraine and its effects on energy prices.

Borrowing costs have already risen sharply across much of the U.S. economy in response to the Fed’s moves, with the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate topping 6%, its highest level since before the 2008 financial crisis, up from just 3% at the start of the year. The yield on the 2-year Treasury note, a benchmark for corporate borrowing, has jumped to 3.3%, its highest level since 2007.

Even if a recession can be avoided, economists say it’s almost inevitable that the Fed will have to inflict some pain — most likely in the form of higher unemployment — as the price of defeating chronically high inflation.

Inflation has shot to the top of voter concerns in the months before Congress’ midterm elections, souring the public’s view of the economy, weakening President Joe Biden’s approval ratings and raising the likelihood of Democratic losses in November. Biden has sought to show he recognizes the pain that inflation is causing American households but has struggled to find policy actions that might make a real difference. The president has stressed his belief that the power to curb inflation rests mainly with the Fed.

Yet the Fed’s rate hikes are blunt tools for trying to lower inflation while also sustaining growth. Shortages of oil, gasoline and food are propelling inflation. The Fed isn’t ideally suited to address many of the roots of inflation, which involve Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, still-clogged global supply chains, labor shortages and surging demand for services from airline tickets to restaurant meals.

In their updated forecasts Wednesday, the Fed’s policymakers indicated that after this year’s rate increases, they foresee two more rate hikes by the end of 2023, at which point they expect inflation to finally fall below 3%, close to their 2% target. But they expect inflation to still be 5.2% at the end of this year, much higher than they’d estimated in March.

Over the next two years, the officials are forecasting a much weaker economy than was envisioned in March. They expect the unemployment rate to reach 3.7% by year’s end and 3.9% by the end of 2023. Those are only slight increases from the current 3.6% jobless rate. But they mark the first time since it began raising rates that the Fed has acknowledged that its actions will weaken the economy.

The central bank has also sharply lowered its projections for economic growth, to 1.7% this year and next. That’s below its outlook in March but better than some economists’ expectation for a recession next year.

Expectations for larger Fed hikes have sent a range of interest rates to their highest points in years. The yield on the 2-year Treasury note, a benchmark for corporate bonds, has reached 3.3%, its highest level since 2007. The 10-year Treasury yield, which directly affects mortgage rates, has hit 3.4%, up nearly a half-point since last week and the highest level since 2011.

Investments around the world, from bonds to bitcoin, have tumbled on fears surrounding high inflation and the prospect that the Fed’s aggressive drive to control it will cause a recession. Even if the Fed manages the delicate trick of curbing inflation without causing a recession, higher rates will nevertheless inflict pressure on stock prices. The S&amp;P 500 has already sunk more than 20% this year, meeting the definition of a bear market.

Other central banks are also acting swiftly to try to quell surging inflation, even with their nations at greater risk of recession than the U.S. The European Central Bank is expected to raise rates by a quarter-point in July, its first increase in 11 years. It could announce a larger hike in September if record-high levels of inflation persist. On Wednesday, the ECB vowed to create a market backstop that could buffer member countries against financial turmoil of the kind that erupted during a debt crisis more than a decade ago.

The Bank of England has raised rates four times since December to a 13-year high, despite predictions that economic growth will be unchanged in the second quarter. The BOE will hold an interest rate meeting on Thursday.

Last week, the World Bank warned of the threat of “stagflation” — slow growth accompanied by high inflation — around the world.

A key reason why a recession is now likelier is that economists increasingly believe that for the Fed to slow inflation to its 2% target, it will need to sharply reduce consumer spending, wage gains and economic growth. Ultimately, the unemployment rate will almost certainly have to rise — something the Fed hasn’t yet forecast but could in updated economic projections it will issue Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655318695067.png" alt="Borrowing costs have already risen sharply across much of the U.S. economy in response to the Fed’s moves, with the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate topping 6%, its highest level since before the 2008 financial crisis.-Fed Chairman Jerome Powell during Wednesday's news conference- courtesy CSPAN&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Borrowing costs have already risen sharply across much of the U.S. economy in response to the Fed’s moves, with the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate topping 6%, its highest level since before the 2008 financial crisis.-Fed Chairman Jerome Powell during Wednesday's news conference- courtesy CSPAN&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Federal Reserve on Wednesday intensified its drive to tame high inflation by raising its key interest rate by three-quarters of a point — its largest hike in nearly three decades — and signaling more large rate increases to come that would raise the risk of another recession.<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?521042-1/fed-chair-powell-briefs-reporters-announcing-75-percent-interest-rate-hike&amp;live">Click here to watch</a> Fed Chairman Powell's news confrerenceThe move the Fed announced after its latest policy meeting will raise its benchmark short-term rate, which affects many consumer and business loans, to a range of 1.5% to 1.75%. With the additional rate hikes they foresee, the policymakers expect their key rate to reach a range of 3.25% to 3.5% by year’s end — the highest level since 2008 — meaning that most forms of borrowing will become sharply more expensive.The central bank is ramping up its drive to tighten credit and slow growth with inflation&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/key-inflation-report-highest-level-in-four-decades-c0248c5b5705cd1523d3dab3771983b4">having reached a four-decade high of 8.6%</a>, spreading to more areas of the economy and showing no sign of slowing. Americans are also starting to expect high inflation to last longer than they had before. This sentiment could embed an inflationary psychology in the economy that would make it harder to bring inflation back to the Fed’s 2% target.The Fed’s three-quarter-point rate increase exceeds the half-point hike that Chair Jerome Powell had previously suggested was likely to be announced this week. The Fed’s decision to impose a rate hike as large as it did Wednesday was an acknowledgment that it’s struggling to curb the pace and persistence of inflation, which has been worsened by Russia’s war against Ukraine and its effects on energy prices.Borrowing costs have already risen sharply across much of the U.S. economy in response to the Fed’s moves, with the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate topping 6%, its highest level since before the 2008 financial crisis, up from just 3% at the start of the year. The yield on the 2-year Treasury note, a benchmark for corporate borrowing, has jumped to 3.3%, its highest level since 2007.Even if a recession can be avoided, economists say it’s almost inevitable that the Fed will have to inflict some pain — most likely in the form of higher unemployment — as the price of defeating chronically high inflation.Inflation has shot to the top of voter concerns in the months before Congress’ midterm elections, souring the public’s view of the economy, weakening President Joe Biden’s approval ratings and raising the likelihood of Democratic losses in November. Biden has sought to show he recognizes the pain that inflation is causing American households but has struggled to find policy actions that might make a real difference. The president has stressed his belief that the power to curb inflation rests mainly with the Fed.Yet the Fed’s rate hikes are blunt tools for trying to lower inflation while also sustaining growth. Shortages of oil, gasoline and food are propelling inflation. The Fed isn’t ideally suited to address many of the roots of inflation, which involve Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, still-clogged global supply chains, labor shortages and surging demand for services from airline tickets to restaurant meals.In their updated forecasts Wednesday, the Fed’s policymakers indicated that after this year’s rate increases, they foresee two more rate hikes by the end of 2023, at which point they expect inflation to finally fall below 3%, close to their 2% target. But they expect inflation to still be 5.2% at the end of this year, much higher than they’d estimated in March.Over the next two years, the officials are forecasting a much weaker economy than was envisioned in March. They expect the unemployment rate to reach 3.7% by year’s end and 3.9% by the end of 2023. Those are only slight increases from the current 3.6% jobless rate. But they mark the first time since it began raising rates that the Fed has acknowledged that its actions will weaken the economy.The central bank has also sharply lowered its projections for economic growth, to 1.7% this year and next. That’s below its outlook in March but better than some economists’ expectation for a recession next year.Expectations for larger Fed hikes have sent a range of interest rates to their highest points in years. The yield on the 2-year Treasury note, a benchmark for corporate bonds, has reached 3.3%, its highest level since 2007. The 10-year Treasury yield, which directly affects mortgage rates, has hit 3.4%, up nearly a half-point since last week and the highest level since 2011.Investments around the world, from bonds to bitcoin, have tumbled on fears surrounding high inflation and the prospect that the Fed’s aggressive drive to control it will cause a recession. Even if the Fed manages the delicate trick of curbing inflation without causing a recession, higher rates will nevertheless inflict pressure on stock prices. The S&amp;P 500 has already sunk more than 20% this year, meeting the definition of a bear market.Other central banks are also acting swiftly to try to quell surging inflation, even with their nations at greater risk of recession than the U.S. The European Central Bank is expected to raise rates by a quarter-point in July, its first increase in 11 years. It could announce a larger hike in September if record-high levels of inflation persist. On Wednesday, the ECB vowed to create a market backstop that could buffer member countries against financial turmoil of the kind that erupted during a debt crisis more than a decade ago.The Bank of England has raised rates four times since December to a 13-year high, despite predictions that economic growth will be unchanged in the second quarter. The BOE will hold an interest rate meeting on Thursday.Last week, the World Bank warned of the threat of “stagflation” — slow growth accompanied by high inflation — around the world.A key reason why a recession is now likelier is that economists increasingly believe that for the Fed to slow inflation to its 2% target, it will need to sharply reduce consumer spending, wage gains and economic growth. Ultimately, the unemployment rate will almost certainly have to rise — something the Fed hasn’t yet forecast but could in updated economic projections it will issue Wednesday.

🎥 Largest interest rate hike since 1994 to attack inflation

Washington —&nbsp;U.S. Senator Roger Marshall took to the Senate floor on Tuesday to demand passage of his&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sens-marshall-daines-braun-legislation-addresses-surging-gas-prices/" target="_blank">Gas Prices Relief Act</a>, legislation to block the Biden Administration from continuing to stifle the American energy industry.

Specifically, his bill prohibits the introduction of any new regulations that decrease U.S. energy production or increase gasoline prices. By getting government out of the way, domestic oil and gas production will increase and prices will drop. Despite the national average cost of a gallon of gasoline exceeding $5, Senate Democrats objected to Senator Marshall’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sens-marshall-daines-braun-legislation-addresses-surging-gas-prices/" target="_blank">Gas Prices Relief Act</a>&nbsp;and in turn, refused to act to alleviate record prices at the pump for Americans.

During his speech, Senator Marshall said, in part,

“Rising energy prices add inflationary pressure to everything. It’s like a game of dominoes. When the diesel fuel powering our 18-wheelers are costing truckers 80% more than it did last year, they are going to have to raise their rates to compensate. When businesses are paying 30% more for their gas utilities, they are going to have to raise their prices to make up the difference. And Kansans – already paying more just to get to the store – are continually finding that what money they have left is getting them less and less every week.

I am here to ask for unanimous consent to pass the Gas Prices Relief Act which would bar any Federal agency from finalizing any rule or regulation that would make it harder to produce American fuels. Our legislation would set us on course to bring down prices at the pump by getting out of the way of American production and allowing them to power the world without more needlessly restrictive rules and regulations. Good energy policy will fix the current crisis, not more reckless spending or regulations...”

Washington —&nbsp;U.S. Senator Roger Marshall took to the Senate floor on Tuesday to demand passage of his&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sens-marshall-daines-braun-legislation-addresses-surging-gas-prices/" target="_blank">Gas Prices Relief Act</a>, legislation to block the Biden Administration from continuing to stifle the American energy industry. <div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1UHwPkdVnxo?start=7" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Specifically, his bill prohibits the introduction of any new regulations that decrease U.S. energy production or increase gasoline prices. By getting government out of the way, domestic oil and gas production will increase and prices will drop. Despite the national average cost of a gallon of gasoline exceeding $5, Senate Democrats objected to Senator Marshall’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sens-marshall-daines-braun-legislation-addresses-surging-gas-prices/" target="_blank">Gas Prices Relief Act</a>&nbsp;and in turn, refused to act to alleviate record prices at the pump for Americans.During his speech, Senator Marshall said, in part,“Rising energy prices add inflationary pressure to everything. It’s like a game of dominoes. When the diesel fuel powering our 18-wheelers are costing truckers 80% more than it did last year, they are going to have to raise their rates to compensate. When businesses are paying 30% more for their gas utilities, they are going to have to raise their prices to make up the difference. And Kansans – already paying more just to get to the store – are continually finding that what money they have left is getting them less and less every week.I am here to ask for unanimous consent to pass the Gas Prices Relief Act which would bar any Federal agency from finalizing any rule or regulation that would make it harder to produce American fuels. Our legislation would set us on course to bring down prices at the pump by getting out of the way of American production and allowing them to power the world without more needlessly restrictive rules and regulations. Good energy policy will fix the current crisis, not more reckless spending or regulations...”

🎥 Senator Marshall offers legislation to lower gas prices

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A man accused in the May 1, hit and run death of a man in Wichita made his first court appearance in the case June 10 and <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20022648">remains in custody, </a>according to online jail records.

Latrell Thompson, 31 of Wichita, is charged with leaving the scene of an accident, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney.&nbsp;

Just after 2a.m. on May 1, police&nbsp; responded to a report of a man down in the roadway in the 7900 block of West Cottontail in Wichita. Officers located 49-year-old Kurt Krueger unconscious and not breathing. He was pronounced deceased on scene.

Investigators learned that Krueger was walking in the neighborhood where he lives, approximately 20-30 minutes before his body was found. They believe he was struck by a vehicle, which then fled the scene.

Investigators were able to identify Thompson as a suspect and began working to locate him. On June 7, investigators were following up on the case when they observed Thompson enter a residence in the 7700 block of W. Quail in Wichita. Officers attempted to contact Thompson at the home, but the occupants were uncooperative and would not allow officers to enter.

Officers and detectives surrounded the residence and began preparing a search warrant. While preparing the warrant, three occupants exited the home, but Thompson remained inside. After several announcements from officers to exit the house, Thompson eventually did so and was taken into custody.&nbsp;

Thompson's next court appearance is scheduled for June 27. He is being held on a bond of $100,000, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651519978529.png" alt="Security camera image of the suspect vehicle -Wichita PD" />
 <figcaption>Security camera image of the suspect vehicle -Wichita PD</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A man accused in the May 1, hit and run death of a man in Wichita made his first court appearance in the case June 10 and <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20022648">remains in custody, </a>according to online jail records.Latrell Thompson, 31 of Wichita, is charged with leaving the scene of an accident, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney.&nbsp;Just after 2a.m. on May 1, police&nbsp; responded to a report of a man down in the roadway in the 7900 block of West Cottontail in Wichita. Officers located 49-year-old Kurt Krueger unconscious and not breathing. He was pronounced deceased on scene.Investigators learned that Krueger was walking in the neighborhood where he lives, approximately 20-30 minutes before his body was found. They believe he was struck by a vehicle, which then fled the scene.Investigators were able to identify Thompson as a suspect and began working to locate him. On June 7, investigators were following up on the case when they observed Thompson enter a residence in the 7700 block of W. Quail in Wichita. Officers attempted to contact Thompson at the home, but the occupants were uncooperative and would not allow officers to enter.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654799395462.png" alt="Thompson-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Thompson-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Officers and detectives surrounded the residence and began preparing a search warrant. While preparing the warrant, three occupants exited the home, but Thompson remained inside. After several announcements from officers to exit the house, Thompson eventually did so and was taken into custody.&nbsp;Thompson's next court appearance is scheduled for June 27. He is being held on a bond of $100,000, according to the district attorney's office.

Kansas suspect remains jailed for fatal hit-and-run

JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a school threat that prompted several Kansas City-area schools to close have a suspect in custody, according to the FBI and a media release from Blue Springs Police.

Just after 10:30a.m. Tuesday, police in Blue Springs took a report of a suspicious Snap Chat post. In the post, the individual used the social media and threatened 'killing people, mass murdering." The post did not identify a location for the threatened crime.

The Jackson County prosecutor's office is expected to announce charges in the case. The FBI and school district said there is no threat to the public.

JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a school threat that prompted several Kansas City-area schools to close have a suspect in custody, according to the FBI and a media release from Blue Springs Police.Just after 10:30a.m. Tuesday, police in Blue Springs took a report of a suspicious Snap Chat post. In the post, the individual used the social media and threatened 'killing people, mass murdering." The post did not identify a location for the threatened crime.The Jackson County prosecutor's office is expected to announce charges in the case. The FBI and school district said there is no threat to the public.

Suspect in custody after 'mass murder' threat that closed KC-area schools

WASHINGTON —On Monday, Representative Sharice Davids was recommended to serve on the House Agriculture Committee by the House Democratic Steering &amp; Policy Committee, according to a statement from her office.

She continues to serve Kansans as Vice Chair of the Transportation &amp; Infrastructure Committee and on the Small Business Committee, chairing the Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Tax, and Capital Access.

“I’m honored to have the opportunity to serve Kansans on the Agriculture Committee, especially as we gear up to consider the next Farm Bill. Kansas farms are often small businesses who play a vital role in our state’s economy, history, and future,” said&nbsp;Davids.&nbsp;“I look forward to the chance to work on the major issues facing farmers and ranchers in our state, including reducing costs and expanding into new markets for our world-class agricultural products.”

“I’m pleased to see Rep. Sharice Davids has been assigned to the House Agriculture Committee for the remainder of this session. Kansas City and the surrounding region has a long and storied history in production agriculture and agribusiness, and I know Rep. Davids will be a strong voice on the committee for her constituents and Kansas agriculture,” said&nbsp;Rich Felts, President of Kansas Farm Bureau.

The Agriculture Committee oversees USDA and has jurisdiction over all aspects of agriculture, forestry, nutrition, water conservation, and other agriculture-related fields. If approved, Davids will join Rep. Tracey Mann (KS-01) on the Committee as members prepare to consider the 2023 Farm Bill, a package of legislation passed about every five years that includes several critically important agriculture, conservation, nutrition, and trade programs.&nbsp; The recommendation now goes to the full Democratic Caucus for approval. If approved, Davids will join Kansas Republican Representative Tracey Mann on the Committee.

On Monday, Davids voted to pass the Ocean Shipping Reform Act, a major legislative priority of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fb.org/newsroom/afbf-appreciates-bipartisan-effort-on-ocean-shipping-reform-act">American Farm Bureau Federation</a>&nbsp;that addresses the backlog at our ports that is hurting Kansas farmers and ranchers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655305155124.png" alt="The recommendation now goes to the full Democratic Caucus for approval. If approved, Representative Davids will join Kansas Republican Representative Tracey Mann on the Committee-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The recommendation now goes to the full Democratic Caucus for approval. If approved, Representative Davids will join Kansas Republican Representative Tracey Mann on the Committee-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON —On Monday, Representative Sharice Davids was recommended to serve on the House Agriculture Committee by the House Democratic Steering &amp; Policy Committee, according to a statement from her office.She continues to serve Kansans as Vice Chair of the Transportation &amp; Infrastructure Committee and on the Small Business Committee, chairing the Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Tax, and Capital Access.“I’m honored to have the opportunity to serve Kansans on the Agriculture Committee, especially as we gear up to consider the next Farm Bill. Kansas farms are often small businesses who play a vital role in our state’s economy, history, and future,” said&nbsp;Davids.&nbsp;“I look forward to the chance to work on the major issues facing farmers and ranchers in our state, including reducing costs and expanding into new markets for our world-class agricultural products.” “I’m pleased to see Rep. Sharice Davids has been assigned to the House Agriculture Committee for the remainder of this session. Kansas City and the surrounding region has a long and storied history in production agriculture and agribusiness, and I know Rep. Davids will be a strong voice on the committee for her constituents and Kansas agriculture,” said&nbsp;Rich Felts, President of Kansas Farm Bureau.The Agriculture Committee oversees USDA and has jurisdiction over all aspects of agriculture, forestry, nutrition, water conservation, and other agriculture-related fields. If approved, Davids will join Rep. Tracey Mann (KS-01) on the Committee as members prepare to consider the 2023 Farm Bill, a package of legislation passed about every five years that includes several critically important agriculture, conservation, nutrition, and trade programs.&nbsp; The recommendation now goes to the full Democratic Caucus for approval. If approved, Davids will join Kansas Republican Representative Tracey Mann on the Committee.On Monday, Davids voted to pass the Ocean Shipping Reform Act, a major legislative priority of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fb.org/newsroom/afbf-appreciates-bipartisan-effort-on-ocean-shipping-reform-act">American Farm Bureau Federation</a>&nbsp;that addresses the backlog at our ports that is hurting Kansas farmers and ranchers.

Kansas to get second representative on House Ag committee

NEW YORK (AP) — A government advisory panel Tuesday endorsed a second brand of COVID-19 vaccine for school-age children and teens.

The Food and Drug Administration’s outside experts voted unanimously that Moderna’s vaccine is safe and effective enough to give kids ages 6 to 17. If the FDA agrees, it would become the second option for those children, joining Pfizer’s vaccine.

The same FDA expert panel will meet Wednesday to consider&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-science-health-centers-for-disease-control-and-prevention-business-688e324a3e42ed8149887be533738ca7">tot-sized shots from Moderna and Pfizer for the littlest kids</a>, those under 5.

Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine has long been available for adults in the U.S. and elsewhere and more than three dozen countries offer it to older children, too. If the FDA authorizes Moderna’s vaccine for teens and younger children, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will next decide whether to formally recommend the shots.

The Massachusetts company is seeking clearance for two doses, and plans to later offer a booster. Tuesday’s vote was only for two doses — full-strength for 12-17 and half-sized doses for those 6-11.

“The data do support that the benefits outweigh the risks for both of these doses, in both of these age groups,” said the CDC’s Dr. Melinda Wharton, a member of the panel.

“I believe that this will provide families an important option” and may be particularly important for families who live in areas where coronavirus spread is increasing, said another panel member, Dr. Ofer Levy of Boston Children’s Hospital.

The FDA held up Moderna’s teen vaccine for months while it investigated a rare side effect, heart inflammation. That’s mostly a risk for teen boys and young men, and also can occur with the Pfizer vaccine. Moderna got extra scrutiny because its shots are a far higher dose.

In their review, FDA scientists said there were no confirmed cases of the heart inflammation in Moderna’s kid studies. But experts say the studies may have had too few participants for a rare side effect like that to appear.

“That clearly needs to be watched closely going forward as we expand the use of the vaccine,” said Dr. Mark Sawyer, a panel member from the University of California, San Diego’s medical school.

As for other side effects, FDA officials said nothing worrisome was reported — mainly sore arms, headache and fatigue.

The FDA analysis concluded that two doses of Moderna are effective in preventing symptomatic COVID-19 illness in teens and younger kids, with the levels of virus-fighting antibodies comparable to those developed in young adults.

Vaccine effectiveness was estimated at 93% for the teens, and 77% for the younger children, according to the FDA analysis. However, the research was done when earlier versions of the coronavirus were causing most U.S. infections, before more contagious versions emerged. It’s also based on a limited number of COVID-19 cases, making the estimates a bit rough.

NEW YORK (AP) — A government advisory panel Tuesday endorsed a second brand of COVID-19 vaccine for school-age children and teens.The Food and Drug Administration’s outside experts voted unanimously that Moderna’s vaccine is safe and effective enough to give kids ages 6 to 17. If the FDA agrees, it would become the second option for those children, joining Pfizer’s vaccine.The same FDA expert panel will meet Wednesday to consider&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-science-health-centers-for-disease-control-and-prevention-business-688e324a3e42ed8149887be533738ca7">tot-sized shots from Moderna and Pfizer for the littlest kids</a>, those under 5.Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine has long been available for adults in the U.S. and elsewhere and more than three dozen countries offer it to older children, too. If the FDA authorizes Moderna’s vaccine for teens and younger children, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will next decide whether to formally recommend the shots.The Massachusetts company is seeking clearance for two doses, and plans to later offer a booster. Tuesday’s vote was only for two doses — full-strength for 12-17 and half-sized doses for those 6-11.“The data do support that the benefits outweigh the risks for both of these doses, in both of these age groups,” said the CDC’s Dr. Melinda Wharton, a member of the panel.“I believe that this will provide families an important option” and may be particularly important for families who live in areas where coronavirus spread is increasing, said another panel member, Dr. Ofer Levy of Boston Children’s Hospital.The FDA held up Moderna’s teen vaccine for months while it investigated a rare side effect, heart inflammation. That’s mostly a risk for teen boys and young men, and also can occur with the Pfizer vaccine. Moderna got extra scrutiny because its shots are a far higher dose.In their review, FDA scientists said there were no confirmed cases of the heart inflammation in Moderna’s kid studies. But experts say the studies may have had too few participants for a rare side effect like that to appear.“That clearly needs to be watched closely going forward as we expand the use of the vaccine,” said Dr. Mark Sawyer, a panel member from the University of California, San Diego’s medical school.As for other side effects, FDA officials said nothing worrisome was reported — mainly sore arms, headache and fatigue.The FDA analysis concluded that two doses of Moderna are effective in preventing symptomatic COVID-19 illness in teens and younger kids, with the levels of virus-fighting antibodies comparable to those developed in young adults.Vaccine effectiveness was estimated at 93% for the teens, and 77% for the younger children, according to the FDA analysis. However, the research was done when earlier versions of the coronavirus were causing most U.S. infections, before more contagious versions emerged. It’s also based on a limited number of COVID-19 cases, making the estimates a bit rough.A booster shot was added to the studies, and data is expected in about the next month, Moderna officials said. Booster shots are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-science-health-centers-for-disease-control-and-prevention-260b31d4232472e68540cca834f0f57e">now recommended for children vaccinated with Pfizer’s shots</a>, as well as for all adults.One panel member, Dr. Paul Offit, noted that vaccine effectiveness has declined against newer variants of the coronavirus. Offit, of Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, said he supported Moderna’s proposals only because he expects a third dose will be offered, which he says is needed before someone should be considered fully vaccinated.How much demand there will be for even two Moderna shots isn’t clear. Teens became eligible a year ago for Pfizer’s vaccine, which uses the same technology, and only 60% have gotten two doses. Shots for younger kids started in November; about 29% have been fully vaccinated, according to the CDC.If the FDA authorizes Moderna shots for teens and schoolchildren, a CDC spokesperson said the agency is not expected to review the vaccine until later this month.___