Grocery aisles have gaping empty
 sections, and shoppers can never predict what’s going to be 
unavailable. New car dealerships struggle to fill their empty lots. 
People building homes report long waits for critical materials like 
windows and doors. Almost every industry has shortages and delays that 
all boil down to supply chain issues.&nbsp;

Consumers and business owners are 
frustrated and confused. COVID-19 infection rates are declining, and 
restrictions have eased in most parts of America. Shouldn’t things be 
getting better by now?

BBB provides the following information on why supply chain 
disruption is still ongoing and tips on how businesses and consumers can
 combat it.&nbsp;

Everything from sandwich meat to 
household appliances seems to be in short supply, but how did it get 
this way? The disruption is so hard to fix because many of the factors 
that caused it still exist. Plus, once the global machine shuts down, it
 takes a while to get things started again, and all the pieces have to 
work together. These causes set off a chain of events.

Around the globe, production 
continues to be hampered by labor and materials shortages, so 
manufacturing happens in spurts and sputters. When one link in the 
supply chain gets broken, it affects everything that comes after.

Some economists say <a href="https://www.morganstanley.com/ideas/supply-chain-disruption-outlook" target="_blank">things should ease up later in 2022</a>, while others <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2022/02/01/business/supply-chain-disruption.html" target="_blank">expect problems to continue</a>
 into next year. There still aren’t enough workers to unload goods piled
 up at ports or enough truckers to distribute products across the United
 States. While COVID-19 restrictions have recently eased, it will take a
 while to sort out a complicated situation that was almost two years in 
the making.

Costs are up, employees are hard to find and there’s no end in sight. What can you do to keep your business running and your customers happy?&nbsp;

Consumers know there are problems, 
and while it’s normal to wish we could go back to the old normal, most 
people are understanding. Good communication goes a long way in times of
 crisis.

Supply chain disruption tips for consumers

What can you do when your car breaks 
down and the local mechanic can’t get the part you need for at least six
 weeks? How can you respond when it’s your child’s birthday and the gift
 he or she has been begging for is nowhere to be found? What do you do 
when half the items on your grocery list are out of stock? Here are a few ideas.

If you’re a consumer,
 BBB can help you make informed buying decisions. Search BBB business 
profiles, file a complaint when businesses don’t deliver on their 
promises, search ongoing scams and more using <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/consumer-resources">BBB consumer resources</a> and our <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/consumer-hq" target="_blank">Consumer HQ</a>.

If you run a business,
 we can help you with everything from marketing to sales to building 
solid customer relationships. Apply for BBB Accreditation and start 
building trust through our <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/business-resources">business resources page</a> and our <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/your-business-hq" target="_blank">Business content HQ</a>.

<a href="https://www.bbb.org/local-bbb/bbb-serving-central-east-texas">BBB Serving Central East Texas</a> contributed this article.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646151977079.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>BBBGrocery aisles have gaping empty
 sections, and shoppers can never predict what’s going to be 
unavailable. New car dealerships struggle to fill their empty lots. 
People building homes report long waits for critical materials like 
windows and doors. Almost every industry has shortages and delays that 
all boil down to supply chain issues.&nbsp;Consumers and business owners are 
frustrated and confused. COVID-19 infection rates are declining, and 
restrictions have eased in most parts of America. Shouldn’t things be 
getting better by now?BBB provides the following information on why supply chain 
disruption is still ongoing and tips on how businesses and consumers can
 combat it.&nbsp;<h2>Disruption causes</h2>Everything from sandwich meat to 
household appliances seems to be in short supply, but how did it get 
this way? The disruption is so hard to fix because many of the factors 
that caused it still exist. Plus, once the global machine shuts down, it
 takes a while to get things started again, and all the pieces have to 
work together. These causes set off a chain of events.<ul>
 <li>Governments worldwide responded to the Covid-19 pandemic with shutdowns.&nbsp;</li><li>Organizations halted production and laid off employees.</li><li>Component shortages began affecting everything from automobile production to the manufacture of medical devices.</li><li>Fewer goods were produced.&nbsp;</li><li>Demand
 surged as people stuck at home sought merchandise. The goods they 
wanted changed as lifestyles shifted. Funds previously allocated for 
things like haircuts, gym memberships and live entertainment now went 
toward products.</li><li>Government stimulus programs encouraged spending.</li><li>Protective gear needs spiked, and shipping and delivery of related goods took priority.</li><li>Shipping
 containers started to pile up in parts of the world where they weren’t 
needed and weren’t available where they were. Shipping costs skyrocketed
 and ports clogged.</li><li>Businesses
 experienced labor shortages. Trucking companies, warehouses and ports 
remained understaffed, further complicating distribution.</li><li>Because
 of staffing problems, imports were slow to get unloaded. Containers 
weren’t emptied and sent back for refilling, and loaded container ships 
sat idle outside ports.</li><li>Consumers and businesses started buying extra whenever they could find it, creating additional supply chain issues.</li>
 </ul>Around the globe, production 
continues to be hampered by labor and materials shortages, so 
manufacturing happens in spurts and sputters. When one link in the 
supply chain gets broken, it affects everything that comes after.<h2>How long will supply chain issues last?</h2>Some economists say <a href="https://www.morganstanley.com/ideas/supply-chain-disruption-outlook" target="_blank">things should ease up later in 2022</a>, while others <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2022/02/01/business/supply-chain-disruption.html" target="_blank">expect problems to continue</a>
 into next year. There still aren’t enough workers to unload goods piled
 up at ports or enough truckers to distribute products across the United
 States. While COVID-19 restrictions have recently eased, it will take a
 while to sort out a complicated situation that was almost two years in 
the making.<h2>Best practices for businesses</h2>Costs are up, employees are hard to find and there’s no end in sight. What can you do to keep your business running and your customers happy?&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Plan for more disruption
 – Nobody seems to have a working crystal ball right now, but you can 
count on more bottlenecks and shortages in the near future. Have more 
than one plan for addressing the next round of manufacturing and 
supplier delays.</li><li>Streamline what you offer
 – If you’re a restaurant, pare down your menu to include items that are
 easier to find. If you’re a retailer, order more from the manufacturers
 that have been coming through for you all along.</li><li>Create realistic expectations – Don’t overpromise. Communicate with the public what you offer and how much is available.&nbsp;</li><li>Offer incentives
 – If you run out of an item for which there’s high demand, consider 
offering a coupon or incentive that brings people back once you stock up
 again.</li><li>Invest in technology – Automate everything you can to free up overworked staff members for other things.</li><li>Improve your local network – If you can find business resources close to home, you skip import complications.</li>
 </ul>Consumers know there are problems, 
and while it’s normal to wish we could go back to the old normal, most 
people are understanding. Good communication goes a long way in times of
 crisis.<h2>Supply chain disruption tips for consumers</h2>What can you do when your car breaks 
down and the local mechanic can’t get the part you need for at least six
 weeks? How can you respond when it’s your child’s birthday and the gift
 he or she has been begging for is nowhere to be found? What do you do 
when half the items on your grocery list are out of stock? Here are a few ideas.<ul>
 <li>Shop around
 – Sometimes grocery chains and big box stores have empty shelves, but 
local mom and pop stores have found a way to procure merchandise.</li><li>Conserve – Cut back on what you use, so you don’t have to stock up as often.&nbsp;</li><li>Maintain
 – Appliances and automobiles are getting more expensive, and they can 
be hard to find. Invest in maintaining what you have so hopefully you 
won’t need to buy a replacement until today’s supply chain issues are in
 your rearview mirror.</li><li>Try new things
 – If you can’t find what’s on your list, infuse your search with a 
sense of adventure. You’ll discover flavors, brands and methods you 
might have otherwise missed.</li><li>Express gratitude
 – Thank the person stocking grocery shelves for his or her hard work. 
Buy that trucker at the gas station a cup of coffee. Show appreciation 
when you get seated at a restaurant, even if you had to wait longer than
 usual.</li>
 </ul><h2>BBB tools that can help</h2>If you’re a consumer,
 BBB can help you make informed buying decisions. Search BBB business 
profiles, file a complaint when businesses don’t deliver on their 
promises, search ongoing scams and more using <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/consumer-resources">BBB consumer resources</a> and our <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/consumer-hq" target="_blank">Consumer HQ</a>.If you run a business,
 we can help you with everything from marketing to sales to building 
solid customer relationships. Apply for BBB Accreditation and start 
building trust through our <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/business-resources">business resources page</a> and our <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/your-business-hq" target="_blank">Business content HQ</a>.<a href="https://www.bbb.org/local-bbb/bbb-serving-central-east-texas">BBB Serving Central East Texas</a> contributed this article.

How businesses, consumers can cope with supply chain disruptions

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas felon, prohibited from having a weapon, made a court appearance last week after police found numerous weapons at his residence.&nbsp;

Alejandro Morales, 19 of Wichita, is charged with three counts of criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

On February 16, the Wichita Police Violent Crimes Community Response Team Officers spotted Morales leaving in a vehicle from a home in the 1700 block of S. Elizabeth in Wichita, according to Officer Trevor Macy.

 A traffic stop was conducted, and Morales was taken into custody. 

Upon serving the warrant on the residence on Elizabeth Street, officers located four handguns, including an AK-47 pistol. Police transported him to the Sedgwick County Jail and booked him.&nbsp;

His next court date is March 7, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645749853368.png" alt="Photo Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas felon, prohibited from having a weapon, made a court appearance last week after police found numerous weapons at his residence.&nbsp;Alejandro Morales, 19 of Wichita, is charged with three counts of criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645749751085.png" alt="Morales-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Morales-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>On February 16, the Wichita Police Violent Crimes Community Response Team Officers spotted Morales leaving in a vehicle from a home in the 1700 block of S. Elizabeth in Wichita, according to Officer Trevor Macy. A traffic stop was conducted, and Morales was taken into custody. Upon serving the warrant on the residence on Elizabeth Street, officers located four handguns, including an AK-47 pistol. Police transported him to the Sedgwick County Jail and booked him.&nbsp;His next court date is March 7, according to the district attorney's office.

Kan. felon found with an AK-47 pistol formally charged

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating suspect on multiple charges including felony interference with law enforcement following a pursuit on Saturday.

&nbsp;Shortly before 12:30 a.m. Saturday, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on a silver 1997 Ford Crown Victoria near SE 37th Street and SE Colfax Place for speeding, according to Deputy Abigail Christian. 

The driver, later identified as Anthony L. Marshall III, 29, Topeka, pulled over and the deputy approached the vehicle. While the deputy was speaking to the driver, he learned the driver did not have a driver’s license and he observed a bag of illegal narcotic pills.

While the deputy was continuing the investigation, the driver fled the scene in his vehicle, initiating a pursuit. The pursuit continued and was ended in the 2300 block of SE Highland Avenue when the deputy performed a tactical vehicle intervention.

Deputies took Marshall into custody and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement, reckless driving, interference with law enforcement, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, operating a vehicle without a valid driver’s license, failure to wear a seat belt, no vehicle liability insurance and speeding.

This incident is under investigation. Additional evidence is being sent to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. Additional charges are pending. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645970631480.png" alt="Marshall-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Marshall-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating suspect on multiple charges including felony interference with law enforcement following a pursuit on Saturday.&nbsp;Shortly before 12:30 a.m. Saturday, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on a silver 1997 Ford Crown Victoria near SE 37th Street and SE Colfax Place for speeding, according to Deputy Abigail Christian. The driver, later identified as Anthony L. Marshall III, 29, Topeka, pulled over and the deputy approached the vehicle. While the deputy was speaking to the driver, he learned the driver did not have a driver’s license and he observed a bag of illegal narcotic pills.While the deputy was continuing the investigation, the driver fled the scene in his vehicle, initiating a pursuit. The pursuit continued and was ended in the 2300 block of SE Highland Avenue when the deputy performed a tactical vehicle intervention.Deputies took Marshall into custody and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement, reckless driving, interference with law enforcement, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, operating a vehicle without a valid driver’s license, failure to wear a seat belt, no vehicle liability insurance and speeding.This incident is under investigation. Additional evidence is being sent to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. Additional charges are pending.

Sheriff: Evidence going to KBI after chase, arrest

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — President Vladimir Putin dramatically escalated East-West tensions by ordering Russian nuclear forces put on high alert Sunday, while Ukraine’s embattled leader agreed to talks with Moscow as Putin’s troops and tanks drove deeper into the country, closing in around the capital.

When asked on Monday if Americans should be worried about nuclear war, President Biden didn't hesitate.

Citing “aggressive statements” by NATO and tough financial sanctions, Putin issued a directive to increase the readiness of Russia’s nuclear weapons, raising fears that the invasion of Ukraine could lead to nuclear war, whether by design or mistake.

The Russian leader is “potentially putting in play forces that, if there’s a miscalculation, could make things much, much more dangerous,” said a senior U.S. defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss rapidly unfolding military operations.

Putin’s directive came as Russian forces encountered strong resistance from Ukraine defenders. Moscow has so far failed to win full control of Ukraine’s airspace, despite advances across the country. U.S. officials say they believe the invasion has been more difficult, and slower, than the Kremlin envisioned, though that could change as Moscow adapts.

Amid the mounting tensions, Western nations said they would tighten sanctions and buy and deliver weapons for Ukraine, including Stinger missiles for shooting down helicopters and other aircraft.

Representatives of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held talks with a Russian delegation at the Belarusian border on Monday.

It wasn’t immediately clear what the Kremlin was ultimately seeking, either in those potential talks on the border or, more broadly, from its war in Ukraine. Western officials believe Putin wants to overthrow Ukraine’s government and replace it with a regime of his own, reviving Moscow’s Cold War-era influence.

The fast-moving developments came as scattered fighting was reported in Kyiv. Battles also broke out in Ukraine’s second-largest city, Kharkiv, and strategic ports in the country’s south came under assault from Russian forces.

By late Sunday, Russian forces had taken Berdyansk, a Ukrainian city of 100,000 on the Azov Sea coast, according to Oleksiy Arestovich, an adviser to Zelenskyy’s office. Russian troops also made advances toward Kherson, another city in the south of Ukraine, while Mariupol, a port city on the Sea of Azov that is considered a prime Russian target, is “hanging on,” Arestovich said.

With Russian troops closing in around Kyiv, a city of almost 3 million, the mayor of the capital expressed doubt that civilians could be evacuated. Authorities have been handing out weapons to anyone willing to defend the city. Ukraine is also releasing prisoners with military experience who want to fight, and training people to make firebombs.

In Mariupol, where Ukrainians were trying to fend off attack, a medical team at a city hospital desperately tried to revive a 6-year-old girl in unicorn pajamas who was mortally wounded in Russian shelling.

During the rescue attempt, a doctor in blue medical scrubs, pumping oxygen into the girl, looked directly into the Associated Press video camera capturing the scene.

“Show this to Putin,” he said angrily. “The eyes of this child, and crying doctors.”

Their resuscitation efforts failed, and the girl lay dead on a gurney, her jacket spattered with blood.

Nearly 900 kilometers (560 miles) away, Faina Bystritska was under threat in the city of Chernihiv.

“I wish I had never lived to see this,” said Bystritska, an 87-year-old Jewish survivor of World War II. She said sirens blare almost constantly in the city, about 150 kilometers (90 miles) from Kyiv.

Chernihiv residents have been told not to switch on any lights “so we don’t draw their attention,” said Bystritska, who has been living in a hallway, away from any windows, so she could better protect herself.

“The window glass constantly shakes, and there is this constant thundering noise,” she said.

Meanwhile, the top official in the European Union outlined plans by the 27-nation bloc to close its airspace to Russian airlines and buy weapons for Ukraine. The EU will also ban some pro-Kremlin media outlets, said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

The U.S. also stepped up the flow of weapons to Ukraine, announcing it will send Stinger missiles as part of a package approved by the White House on Friday. Germany likewise plans to send 500 Stingers and other military supplies.

Also, the 193-member U.N. General Assembly scheduled an emergency session Monday on Russia’s invasion.

Putin, in ordering the nuclear alert, cited not only statements by NATO members but the hard-hitting financial sanctions imposed by the West against Russia, including Putin himself.

“Western countries aren’t only taking unfriendly actions against our country in the economic sphere, but top officials from leading NATO members made aggressive statements regarding our country,” Putin said in televised comments.

U.S. defense officials would not disclose their current nuclear alert level except to say that the military is prepared all times to defend its homeland and allies.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki told ABC that Putin is resorting to the pattern he used in the weeks before the invasion, “which is to manufacture threats that don’t exist in order to justify further aggression.”

The practical meaning of Putin’s order was not immediately clear. Russia and the United States typically have land- and submarine-based nuclear forces that are on alert and prepared for combat at all times, but nuclear-capable bombers and other aircraft are not.

If Putin is arming or otherwise raising the nuclear combat readiness of his bombers, or if he is ordering more ballistic missile submarines to sea, then the U.S. might feel compelled to respond in kind, said Hans Kristensen, a nuclear analyst at the Federation of American Scientists.

Earlier Sunday, Kyiv was eerily quiet after explosions lit up the morning sky and authorities reported blasts at one airport. A main boulevard was practically deserted as a strict curfew kept people off the streets. Authorities warned that anyone venturing out without a pass would be considered a Russian saboteur.

Terrified residents hunkered down in homes, underground garages and subway stations in anticipation of a full-scale Russian assault. Food and medicine were running low, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said.

“Right now, the most important question is to defend our country,” Klitschko said.

In downtown Kharkiv, 86-year-old Olena Dudnik said she and her husband were nearly thrown from their bed by the pressure blast of a nearby explosion.

“We are suffering immensely,” she said by phone. “We don’t have much food in the pantry, and I worry the stores aren’t going to have anything either, if they reopen.” She added: “I just want the shooting to stop, people to stop being killed.”

Russia’s failure thus far to win full control of Ukraine’s airspace is a surprising lapse that has given outgunned Ukrainian forces a chance to slow the advance of Russian ground forces. Normally, gaining what the military calls air superiority is one of the first priorities for an invading force.

But even though Russian troops are being slowed by Ukrainian resistance, fuel shortages and other logistical problems, a senior U.S. defense official said that will probably change. “We are in day four. The Russians will learn and adapt,” the official said.

The number of casualties from Europe’s largest land conflict since World War II remained unclear amid the confusion.

Ukraine’s Interior Ministry said Sunday that 352 Ukrainian civilians have been killed, including 14 children. It said an additional 1,684 people, including 116 children, have been wounded.

Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov gave no figures on Russia’s dead and wounded but said Sunday his country’s losses were “many times” lower than Ukraine’s.

About 368,000 Ukrainians have arrived in neighboring countries since the invasion started Thursday, according to the U.N. refugee agency.

Along with military assistance, the U.S., European Union and Britain also agreed to block&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-business-europe-european-union-704b3b6678c5d23bd05482c89a0384d2">selected Russian banks</a>&nbsp;from the SWIFT system, which moves money around thousands of banks and other financial institutions worldwide. They also moved to slap restrictions on Russia’s central bank.

Russia’s economy has taken a pounding since the invasion, with the ruble plunging and the central bank calling for calm to avoid bank runs.

Russia, which massed almost 200,000 troops along Ukraine’s borders, claims&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-conflict-updates-today-c489b6f56d84f9483802dc3f142cbc8e">its assault&nbsp;</a>is aimed only at military targets, but bridges, schools and residential neighborhoods have also been hit.

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — President Vladimir Putin dramatically escalated East-West tensions by ordering Russian nuclear forces put on high alert Sunday, while Ukraine’s embattled leader agreed to talks with Moscow as Putin’s troops and tanks drove deeper into the country, closing in around the capital.When asked on Monday if Americans should be worried about nuclear war, President Biden didn't hesitate.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Q: &quot;Should Americans be worried about nuclear war?&quot; President Biden: &quot;No.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/ZRg15av1l3">pic.twitter.com/ZRg15av1l3</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1498390465602797571?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Citing “aggressive statements” by NATO and tough financial sanctions, Putin issued a directive to increase the readiness of Russia’s nuclear weapons, raising fears that the invasion of Ukraine could lead to nuclear war, whether by design or mistake.The Russian leader is “potentially putting in play forces that, if there’s a miscalculation, could make things much, much more dangerous,” said a senior U.S. defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss rapidly unfolding military operations.Putin’s directive came as Russian forces encountered strong resistance from Ukraine defenders. Moscow has so far failed to win full control of Ukraine’s airspace, despite advances across the country. U.S. officials say they believe the invasion has been more difficult, and slower, than the Kremlin envisioned, though that could change as Moscow adapts.Amid the mounting tensions, Western nations said they would tighten sanctions and buy and deliver weapons for Ukraine, including Stinger missiles for shooting down helicopters and other aircraft.Representatives of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held talks with a Russian delegation at the Belarusian border on Monday.It wasn’t immediately clear what the Kremlin was ultimately seeking, either in those potential talks on the border or, more broadly, from its war in Ukraine. Western officials believe Putin wants to overthrow Ukraine’s government and replace it with a regime of his own, reviving Moscow’s Cold War-era influence.The fast-moving developments came as scattered fighting was reported in Kyiv. Battles also broke out in Ukraine’s second-largest city, Kharkiv, and strategic ports in the country’s south came under assault from Russian forces.By late Sunday, Russian forces had taken Berdyansk, a Ukrainian city of 100,000 on the Azov Sea coast, according to Oleksiy Arestovich, an adviser to Zelenskyy’s office. Russian troops also made advances toward Kherson, another city in the south of Ukraine, while Mariupol, a port city on the Sea of Azov that is considered a prime Russian target, is “hanging on,” Arestovich said.With Russian troops closing in around Kyiv, a city of almost 3 million, the mayor of the capital expressed doubt that civilians could be evacuated. Authorities have been handing out weapons to anyone willing to defend the city. Ukraine is also releasing prisoners with military experience who want to fight, and training people to make firebombs.In Mariupol, where Ukrainians were trying to fend off attack, a medical team at a city hospital desperately tried to revive a 6-year-old girl in unicorn pajamas who was mortally wounded in Russian shelling.During the rescue attempt, a doctor in blue medical scrubs, pumping oxygen into the girl, looked directly into the Associated Press video camera capturing the scene.“Show this to Putin,” he said angrily. “The eyes of this child, and crying doctors.”Their resuscitation efforts failed, and the girl lay dead on a gurney, her jacket spattered with blood.Nearly 900 kilometers (560 miles) away, Faina Bystritska was under threat in the city of Chernihiv.“I wish I had never lived to see this,” said Bystritska, an 87-year-old Jewish survivor of World War II. She said sirens blare almost constantly in the city, about 150 kilometers (90 miles) from Kyiv.Chernihiv residents have been told not to switch on any lights “so we don’t draw their attention,” said Bystritska, who has been living in a hallway, away from any windows, so she could better protect herself.“The window glass constantly shakes, and there is this constant thundering noise,” she said.Meanwhile, the top official in the European Union outlined plans by the 27-nation bloc to close its airspace to Russian airlines and buy weapons for Ukraine. The EU will also ban some pro-Kremlin media outlets, said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.The U.S. also stepped up the flow of weapons to Ukraine, announcing it will send Stinger missiles as part of a package approved by the White House on Friday. Germany likewise plans to send 500 Stingers and other military supplies.Also, the 193-member U.N. General Assembly scheduled an emergency session Monday on Russia’s invasion.Putin, in ordering the nuclear alert, cited not only statements by NATO members but the hard-hitting financial sanctions imposed by the West against Russia, including Putin himself.“Western countries aren’t only taking unfriendly actions against our country in the economic sphere, but top officials from leading NATO members made aggressive statements regarding our country,” Putin said in televised comments.U.S. defense officials would not disclose their current nuclear alert level except to say that the military is prepared all times to defend its homeland and allies.White House press secretary Jen Psaki told ABC that Putin is resorting to the pattern he used in the weeks before the invasion, “which is to manufacture threats that don’t exist in order to justify further aggression.”The practical meaning of Putin’s order was not immediately clear. Russia and the United States typically have land- and submarine-based nuclear forces that are on alert and prepared for combat at all times, but nuclear-capable bombers and other aircraft are not.If Putin is arming or otherwise raising the nuclear combat readiness of his bombers, or if he is ordering more ballistic missile submarines to sea, then the U.S. might feel compelled to respond in kind, said Hans Kristensen, a nuclear analyst at the Federation of American Scientists.Earlier Sunday, Kyiv was eerily quiet after explosions lit up the morning sky and authorities reported blasts at one airport. A main boulevard was practically deserted as a strict curfew kept people off the streets. Authorities warned that anyone venturing out without a pass would be considered a Russian saboteur.Terrified residents hunkered down in homes, underground garages and subway stations in anticipation of a full-scale Russian assault. Food and medicine were running low, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said.“Right now, the most important question is to defend our country,” Klitschko said.In downtown Kharkiv, 86-year-old Olena Dudnik said she and her husband were nearly thrown from their bed by the pressure blast of a nearby explosion.“We are suffering immensely,” she said by phone. “We don’t have much food in the pantry, and I worry the stores aren’t going to have anything either, if they reopen.” She added: “I just want the shooting to stop, people to stop being killed.”Russia’s failure thus far to win full control of Ukraine’s airspace is a surprising lapse that has given outgunned Ukrainian forces a chance to slow the advance of Russian ground forces. Normally, gaining what the military calls air superiority is one of the first priorities for an invading force.But even though Russian troops are being slowed by Ukrainian resistance, fuel shortages and other logistical problems, a senior U.S. defense official said that will probably change. “We are in day four. The Russians will learn and adapt,” the official said.The number of casualties from Europe’s largest land conflict since World War II remained unclear amid the confusion.Ukraine’s Interior Ministry said Sunday that 352 Ukrainian civilians have been killed, including 14 children. It said an additional 1,684 people, including 116 children, have been wounded.Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov gave no figures on Russia’s dead and wounded but said Sunday his country’s losses were “many times” lower than Ukraine’s.About 368,000 Ukrainians have arrived in neighboring countries since the invasion started Thursday, according to the U.N. refugee agency.Along with military assistance, the U.S., European Union and Britain also agreed to block&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-business-europe-european-union-704b3b6678c5d23bd05482c89a0384d2">selected Russian banks</a>&nbsp;from the SWIFT system, which moves money around thousands of banks and other financial institutions worldwide. They also moved to slap restrictions on Russia’s central bank.Russia’s economy has taken a pounding since the invasion, with the ruble plunging and the central bank calling for calm to avoid bank runs.Russia, which massed almost 200,000 troops along Ukraine’s borders, claims&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-conflict-updates-today-c489b6f56d84f9483802dc3f142cbc8e">its assault&nbsp;</a>is aimed only at military targets, but bridges, schools and residential neighborhoods have also been hit.___

President Biden: Americans should not worry about nuclear war

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a Sunday morning shooting at a home in Lenexa have identified the three who died.

According to Lenexa Police Department spokesman Officer Danny Chavez, the victims are 20-year-old John M. Williamson of Lenexa 22-year-old Sara M. Beck and 37-year-old Dustin J. Johnson both of Belton, Missouri.

Just before 1:30 a.m. Sunday police responded to a reported shooting at a&nbsp; home in the 8400 Block of Laurelwood Street.

Officers found three who had been shot. One victim was dead. EMS transported two other victims to the hospital where they died, according to Chavez.

Police have not reported what led to the shooting.

LENEXA, Kan. (AP) — Three people died after a shooting in a Kansas City suburb on Sunday. Lenexa Police Department spokesman Officer Danny Chavez said the shooting was reported around 1:20 a.m. Sunday inside a home in the 8400 block of Laurelwood Street in Lenexa. 

The Kansas City Star reports that three people with gunshot wounds were found inside the house. Chavez said one person died at the house. The other two victims were taken to a hospital where they later died. The victims’ names and ages were not immediately released. This is the first homicide reported in Lenexa since last May.

LENEXA, Kan. (AP) — Two people died and a third person was injured after a shooting in a Kansas City suburb on Sunday. 

Lenexa Police Department spokesman Officer Danny Chavez said the shooting was reported around 1:20 a.m. Sunday inside a home in the 8400 block of Laurelwood Street in Lenexa. 

The Kansas City Star reports that three people with gunshot wounds were found inside the house. Chavez said one person died at the house. The other two victims were taken to a hospital where one later died. The victims’ names and ages were not immediately released. And the condition of the victim that survived the shooting also wasn’t released Sunday morning.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1646085402627.png" alt="Police at a home in the 8400 block of Laurelwood Street in Lenexa -photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Police at a home in the 8400 block of Laurelwood Street in Lenexa -photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a Sunday morning shooting at a home in Lenexa have identified the three who died.According to Lenexa Police Department spokesman Officer Danny Chavez, the victims are 20-year-old John M. Williamson of Lenexa 22-year-old Sara M. Beck and 37-year-old Dustin J. Johnson both of Belton, Missouri.Just before 1:30 a.m. Sunday police responded to a reported shooting at a&nbsp; home in the 8400 Block of Laurelwood Street.Officers found three who had been shot. One victim was dead. EMS transported two other victims to the hospital where they died, according to Chavez. Police have not reported what led to the shooting.-------------LENEXA, Kan. (AP) — Three people died after a shooting in a Kansas City suburb on Sunday. Lenexa Police Department spokesman Officer Danny Chavez said the shooting was reported around 1:20 a.m. Sunday inside a home in the 8400 block of Laurelwood Street in Lenexa. The Kansas City Star reports that three people with gunshot wounds were found inside the house. Chavez said one person died at the house. The other two victims were taken to a hospital where they later died. The victims’ names and ages were not immediately released. This is the first homicide reported in Lenexa since last May.--------LENEXA, Kan. (AP) — Two people died and a third person was injured after a shooting in a Kansas City suburb on Sunday. Lenexa Police Department spokesman Officer Danny Chavez said the shooting was reported around 1:20 a.m. Sunday inside a home in the 8400 block of Laurelwood Street in Lenexa. The Kansas City Star reports that three people with gunshot wounds were found inside the house. Chavez said one person died at the house. The other two victims were taken to a hospital where one later died. The victims’ names and ages were not immediately released. And the condition of the victim that survived the shooting also wasn’t released Sunday morning.

Police ID three who died after shooting at Kansas home

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/commerce-agency-seeks-public-scrutiny-of-36-broadband-infrastructure-projects/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of
 Commerce received 36 applications for a share of $5 million in matching
 funds for improvement of broadband access.

Commerce secretary David Toland, who also serves as the lieutenant 
governor, said a public comment period would be open until March 8 for 
consideration of specific grant proposals for upgrading communication 
services in more than 30 counties. Grant applicants will have an 
opportunity in mid-March to respond to public input.

The Broadband Acceleration Grant Program provides 50% of total cost 
of infrastructure projects planned for completion by October 2023. The 
program aims to support projects that wouldn’t likely be completed 
without state or federal financial assistance.

“The intense demand for this program across Kansas reflects the 
widespread need for more robust broadband access in unserved areas of 
Kansas,” Toland said. “We are committed to being transparent and making 
the best possible investment decisions for Kansas broadband 
infrastructure.”

To review applications and provide commentary,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjAyMjguNTQxMjI2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5rYW5zYXNjb21tZXJjZS5nb3YvcHJvZ3JhbS9jb21tdW5pdHktcHJvZ3JhbXMvYnJvYWRiYW5kLWFjY2VsZXJhdGlvbi1ncmFudC9rb2JkLWJhZy1wdWJsaWMtY29tbWVudC15ZWFyLTIvIn0.F1kkjgdSZ75B8_GHgp7L6pb9w3nBJuXJzWGVQKwue_0/s/1303160910/br/127270036104-l">click here</a>.

Money for the grant program will be drawn from the Eisenhower Legacy 
Transportation Program adopted with bipartisan legislative support in 
2020 and signed into law by Gov. Laura Kelly.

Stanley Adams, director of the commerce department’s office of 
broadband development, said the comment period was a tool for evaluating
 complex proposals to guarantee the state made solid investment 
decisions.

“Receiving public comment before projects are awarded furthers the 
value and impact these grant projects make and we look forward to 
leveraging public input again for this year’s program,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1646067073620.png" alt="The Kansas Department of Commerce is seeking public comment on 36 broadband infrastructure proposals for upgrading services om more than 30 counties with $5 million in matching funds from the state’s highway program. (Submitted/Courtesy Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas Department of Commerce is seeking public comment on 36 broadband infrastructure proposals for upgrading services om more than 30 counties with $5 million in matching funds from the state’s highway program. (Submitted/Courtesy Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/commerce-agency-seeks-public-scrutiny-of-36-broadband-infrastructure-projects/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of
 Commerce received 36 applications for a share of $5 million in matching
 funds for improvement of broadband access.Commerce secretary David Toland, who also serves as the lieutenant 
governor, said a public comment period would be open until March 8 for 
consideration of specific grant proposals for upgrading communication 
services in more than 30 counties. Grant applicants will have an 
opportunity in mid-March to respond to public input.The Broadband Acceleration Grant Program provides 50% of total cost 
of infrastructure projects planned for completion by October 2023. The 
program aims to support projects that wouldn’t likely be completed 
without state or federal financial assistance.“The intense demand for this program across Kansas reflects the 
widespread need for more robust broadband access in unserved areas of 
Kansas,” Toland said. “We are committed to being transparent and making 
the best possible investment decisions for Kansas broadband 
infrastructure.”To review applications and provide commentary,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjAyMjguNTQxMjI2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5rYW5zYXNjb21tZXJjZS5nb3YvcHJvZ3JhbS9jb21tdW5pdHktcHJvZ3JhbXMvYnJvYWRiYW5kLWFjY2VsZXJhdGlvbi1ncmFudC9rb2JkLWJhZy1wdWJsaWMtY29tbWVudC15ZWFyLTIvIn0.F1kkjgdSZ75B8_GHgp7L6pb9w3nBJuXJzWGVQKwue_0/s/1303160910/br/127270036104-l">click here</a>.Money for the grant program will be drawn from the Eisenhower Legacy 
Transportation Program adopted with bipartisan legislative support in 
2020 and signed into law by Gov. Laura Kelly.Stanley Adams, director of the commerce department’s office of 
broadband development, said the comment period was a tool for evaluating
 complex proposals to guarantee the state made solid investment 
decisions.“Receiving public comment before projects are awarded furthers the 
value and impact these grant projects make and we look forward to 
leveraging public input again for this year’s program,” he said.

Kan. seeks public scrutiny of 36 broadband infrastructure projects

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — A federal judge has permanently blocked a Kansas law prohibiting out-of-state groups from mailing advance ballot applications to voters who request them, ordering the state to pay the attorney fees of two national nonprofit groups who sued contending it disenfranchises voters.

U.S. District Judge Kathrn Vratil declared those provisions in the law violate the First and Fourteenth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution and permanently enjoined the state from enforcing them.

The stipulated order — which the state agreed not to appeal — partially resolves the lawsuit brought by VoteAmerica and the Voter Participation Center. The court sided with the voting rights groups on claims related to freedom of speech, freedom of association and overbreadth of the law.

In January, Vratil granted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/elections-voting-voting-rights-kansas-a710c84d95b7c2273e216596eab846bc">a preliminary injunction against the new law</a>&nbsp;before it took effect.

The law that is the focus of the litigation was one of two voting laws that were passed last year over the veto of Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603417995976.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — A federal judge has permanently blocked a Kansas law prohibiting out-of-state groups from mailing advance ballot applications to voters who request them, ordering the state to pay the attorney fees of two national nonprofit groups who sued contending it disenfranchises voters.U.S. District Judge Kathrn Vratil declared those provisions in the law violate the First and Fourteenth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution and permanently enjoined the state from enforcing them.The stipulated order — which the state agreed not to appeal — partially resolves the lawsuit brought by VoteAmerica and the Voter Participation Center. The court sided with the voting rights groups on claims related to freedom of speech, freedom of association and overbreadth of the law.In January, Vratil granted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/elections-voting-voting-rights-kansas-a710c84d95b7c2273e216596eab846bc">a preliminary injunction against the new law</a>&nbsp;before it took effect.The law that is the focus of the litigation was one of two voting laws that were passed last year over the veto of Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly.

Judge blocks Kansas law on mailed ballot applications

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/02/27/johnson-county-teachers-push-back-against-avalanche-of-k-12-education-reform-bills/">Kansas Reflector</a>

OLATHE — Prairie Trail Middle 
School teacher Kelly Ruiz despairs about the bundle of bills under 
consideration by the Kansas Legislature based on the premise of 
educational malfeasance in K-12 public schools.

Republican House and Senate members have demonstrated interest in 
shifting more public tax dollars to private schools, highlighting 
struggles of public school students during the COVID-19 pandemic, 
denouncing teachers for allegedly advancing critical race theory, 
raising the possibility to labeling as offensive or removing library 
materials, weakening student vaccination programs, imposing broad 
mandates on publication of curriculum materials to an online database 
and imposing a parental bill of rights.

“We have to stop the legislation,” Ruiz said during a forum Saturday 
in Olathe. “It undermines what we do in the classroom. It disrespects 
and disregards us as professionals. Trust us. We know what saves kids. 
We know what inspires kids.”

Rep. Kristey Williams, a Republican who chairs the House K-12 
Education Budget Committee, and Sen. Molly Baumgardner, the Republican 
chairwoman of the Senate Education Committee, have been working on the 
bulk of bills some educators find objectionable. Much of that 
legislative agenda is expected to be considered by lawmakers during the 
second half of the annual session that starts Tuesday.

“There is one central question that I try to circle back to when 
considering importing policy as chair of the House’s K-12 Education 
Budget Committee: What is best for kids?” Williams said. “With that 
central theme of kids first, or kids before systems, our committee has 
heard four bills providing more school choice, both public and private 
choices.”

In the November school board elections in Johnson County, issues of 
critical race theory, mask mandates during the pandemic and transparency
 of school district officials were prominent themes raised by candidates
 and disgruntled parents.

Annie Goodson, a Blue Valley West High School teacher, said during 
the forum she was concerned about willingness of young teachers to stick
 with education careers given challenges posed by COVID-19 and eagerness
 of politicians to leave a heavy footprint on an education system in 
Kansas serving about 500,000 students.

“They’re entering a pretty hostile atmosphere right now,” Goodson said.

Olathe third-grade teacher Jeremie Tharp, who is in her 18th year as 
an educator, said assertions public school teachers were lazy, biased or
 in the profession to indoctrinate children were wrong.

She said she’d sacrificed parts of her own young family — a 
third-grade son and sixth-grade daughter — to place her in a better 
position to impact the lives of students at Pleasant Ridge Elementary. 
At times, she said, it’s not clear she has the stamina to push through 
to the next year.

Tharp keeps a “smile file” of notes from parents and students that 
document how she made a difference even when things didn’t go as 
planned.

“It is where Hudson told me I am his most favorite teacher of all, 
and Everly said that every day when she walks into class, the thing she 
likes most is me. It’s where Maggie wrote that in my classroom is the 
only place she feels like she is home and can rest, and Avery told me I 
was her best friend.”

Matthew Shulman, a social studies teacher at Blue Valley Northwest 
High School, said the quest of some politicians to be confrontational 
with public school educators would result in quality people turning away
 from the profession or prompting experienced teachers to resign.

“Instead of pushing people away,” he said, “we need to somehow find a way to support our teachers.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1646059763448.png" alt="Rep. Kristey Williams, a Republican from Augusta and chairwoman of the House K-12 Education Budget Committee, is a proponent of substantive reform of the state’s public education system serving about 500,000 students. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Kristey Williams, a Republican from Augusta and chairwoman of the House K-12 Education Budget Committee, is a proponent of substantive reform of the state’s public education system serving about 500,000 students. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/02/27/johnson-county-teachers-push-back-against-avalanche-of-k-12-education-reform-bills/">Kansas Reflector</a>OLATHE — Prairie Trail Middle 
School teacher Kelly Ruiz despairs about the bundle of bills under 
consideration by the Kansas Legislature based on the premise of 
educational malfeasance in K-12 public schools.Republican House and Senate members have demonstrated interest in 
shifting more public tax dollars to private schools, highlighting 
struggles of public school students during the COVID-19 pandemic, 
denouncing teachers for allegedly advancing critical race theory, 
raising the possibility to labeling as offensive or removing library 
materials, weakening student vaccination programs, imposing broad 
mandates on publication of curriculum materials to an online database 
and imposing a parental bill of rights.“We have to stop the legislation,” Ruiz said during a forum Saturday 
in Olathe. “It undermines what we do in the classroom. It disrespects 
and disregards us as professionals. Trust us. We know what saves kids. 
We know what inspires kids.”Rep. Kristey Williams, a Republican who chairs the House K-12 
Education Budget Committee, and Sen. Molly Baumgardner, the Republican 
chairwoman of the Senate Education Committee, have been working on the 
bulk of bills some educators find objectionable. Much of that 
legislative agenda is expected to be considered by lawmakers during the 
second half of the annual session that starts Tuesday.“There is one central question that I try to circle back to when 
considering importing policy as chair of the House’s K-12 Education 
Budget Committee: What is best for kids?” Williams said. “With that 
central theme of kids first, or kids before systems, our committee has 
heard four bills providing more school choice, both public and private 
choices.”In the November school board elections in Johnson County, issues of 
critical race theory, mask mandates during the pandemic and transparency
 of school district officials were prominent themes raised by candidates
 and disgruntled parents.Annie Goodson, a Blue Valley West High School teacher, said during 
the forum she was concerned about willingness of young teachers to stick
 with education careers given challenges posed by COVID-19 and eagerness
 of politicians to leave a heavy footprint on an education system in 
Kansas serving about 500,000 students.“They’re entering a pretty hostile atmosphere right now,” Goodson said.Olathe third-grade teacher Jeremie Tharp, who is in her 18th year as 
an educator, said assertions public school teachers were lazy, biased or
 in the profession to indoctrinate children were wrong.She said she’d sacrificed parts of her own young family — a 
third-grade son and sixth-grade daughter — to place her in a better 
position to impact the lives of students at Pleasant Ridge Elementary. 
At times, she said, it’s not clear she has the stamina to push through 
to the next year.Tharp keeps a “smile file” of notes from parents and students that 
document how she made a difference even when things didn’t go as 
planned.“It is where Hudson told me I am his most favorite teacher of all, 
and Everly said that every day when she walks into class, the thing she 
likes most is me. It’s where Maggie wrote that in my classroom is the 
only place she feels like she is home and can rest, and Avery told me I 
was her best friend.”Matthew Shulman, a social studies teacher at Blue Valley Northwest 
High School, said the quest of some politicians to be confrontational 
with public school educators would result in quality people turning away
 from the profession or prompting experienced teachers to resign.“Instead of pushing people away,” he said, “we need to somehow find a way to support our teachers.”

Kan. teachers push back against avalanche of school reform bills

TOPEKA — The number of confirmed coronavirus cases* (see below) in Kansas increased by 479 to a total of 766,045, the state health department reported Monday afternoon.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The state reported nine additional COVID-19 deaths for a total of 7,946.

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> 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.

As of August 1, 2021, in accordance with an&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">updated CDC/CSTE surveillance case definition</a>, a confirmed case is defined as a person who tested positive by molecular detection (e.g., PCR, NAA) or identification of SARS-CoV-2 through genetic sequencing. A probable case is defined as a person with: a) presumptive lab evidence (antigen) or b) no lab testing but meeting clinical case criteria and is epi-linked. A person will be counted as a new surveillance case (e.g. reinfection) if they test positive for SARS-CoV-2 by a diagnostic test (i.e., molecular, antigen) and it has been greater than 90 days since the previous positive diagnostic test. In addition, a person with sequencing results identifying different SARS-CoV-2 lineages regardless of the time since the previous specimen sequenced will be counted as a new surveillance case.&nbsp;

Cases occurring between&nbsp;September 1, 2020&nbsp;and July 29, 2021 were classified by&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">previous CDC/CSTE case definition,&nbsp;</a>and cases prior to September 1, 2020 were classified by the&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/case-definitions/coronavirus-disease-2019-2020/" target="_blank">original case definition</a>.

TOPEKA — The number of confirmed coronavirus cases* (see below) in Kansas increased by 479 to a total of 766,045, the state health department reported Monday afternoon.&nbsp; &nbsp;The state reported nine additional COVID-19 deaths for a total of 7,946.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1646071427970.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> 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.As of August 1, 2021, in accordance with an&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">updated CDC/CSTE surveillance case definition</a>, a confirmed case is defined as a person who tested positive by molecular detection (e.g., PCR, NAA) or identification of SARS-CoV-2 through genetic sequencing. A probable case is defined as a person with: a) presumptive lab evidence (antigen) or b) no lab testing but meeting clinical case criteria and is epi-linked. A person will be counted as a new surveillance case (e.g. reinfection) if they test positive for SARS-CoV-2 by a diagnostic test (i.e., molecular, antigen) and it has been greater than 90 days since the previous positive diagnostic test. In addition, a person with sequencing results identifying different SARS-CoV-2 lineages regardless of the time since the previous specimen sequenced will be counted as a new surveillance case.&nbsp;Cases occurring between&nbsp;September 1, 2020&nbsp;and July 29, 2021 were classified by&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">previous CDC/CSTE case definition,&nbsp;</a>and cases prior to September 1, 2020 were classified by the&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/case-definitions/coronavirus-disease-2019-2020/" target="_blank">original case definition</a>.

KDHE: The latest COVID-19 numbers in Kansas

JOHNSON COUNTY —Three homes under construction were destroyed in a Monday morning fire in Johnson County.

Just before 4:30a.m., crews responded to a&nbsp;house fire in the 11100 Block of West 172nd Terrace, according to the Overland Park Fire Department.

First arriving units found heavy fire coming from a 2-story, single family home under construction. The fire spread to other homes under construction on both sides, according to Overland Park Fire Deparatment.

A second alarm was called which brought fire crews from Overland Park and Olathe.

The homes were in the framing stage and had no fire protection measures in place. Tremendous thermal columns and a south wind spread flaming embers to the adjoining house to the north.&nbsp; Radiant heat likely ignited the house to the south, according to Overland Park Fire officials.

Firefighters attacked the blaze from all sides and flowed water onto a fourth occupied home to the north to protect it from falling embers. The occupants were evacuated. The fire destroyed three homes under construction. There were no injuries. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1646055509100.png" alt="Photos courtesy Overland Park Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photos courtesy Overland Park Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —Three homes under construction were destroyed in a Monday morning fire in Johnson County.Just before 4:30a.m., crews responded to a&nbsp;house fire in the 11100 Block of West 172nd Terrace, according to the Overland Park Fire Department.First arriving units found heavy fire coming from a 2-story, single family home under construction. The fire spread to other homes under construction on both sides, according to Overland Park Fire Deparatment.A second alarm was called which brought fire crews from Overland Park and Olathe.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1646056463658.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The homes were in the framing stage and had no fire protection measures in place. Tremendous thermal columns and a south wind spread flaming embers to the adjoining house to the north.&nbsp; Radiant heat likely ignited the house to the south, according to Overland Park Fire officials.Firefighters attacked the blaze from all sides and flowed water onto a fourth occupied home to the north to protect it from falling embers. The occupants were evacuated. The fire destroyed three homes under construction. There were no injuries. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Homes under construction destroyed in Kansas fire

MARION COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating an accident that occurred just before 4a.m. Sunday in Marion County released additional details Monday.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Toyota 4-Runner driven by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.taborbluejays.com/roster/19/2/10030.php">Jonathan Medina</a>, 19, Lyons, was northbound on Indigo Road at 130th.

At the county correction line, the Toyota traveled off the embankment and rolled.

Two passengers, also member of of the Tabor College Football team identified as 22-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://www.taborbluejays.com/roster/19/2/9496.php">Christopher Castillo,</a>&nbsp;a senior from San Juan Capistrano, Califoria and 23-year-old<a href="https://www.taborbluejays.com/roster/19/2/10023.php">&nbsp;Johnethon Aviles,&nbsp;</a>a junior from Paso Robles, California were pronounced dead at the scene. They were tranported to&nbsp;Yazel-Megli Funeral Home.

EMS transported Medina to Wesley Medical Center. All three were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

MARION COUNTY—The Tabor College college community is mouring the death of students <a href="https://www.taborbluejays.com/roster/19/2/9496.php">Christopher Castillo,</a> a senior from San Juan Capistrano, Califoria and<a href="https://www.taborbluejays.com/roster/19/2/10023.php"> Johnethon Aviles, </a>a junior from Paso Robles, Califorina.

The students were involved in a Sunday car accident south of Hillsboro and near Indigo Road and 130th, according to the school's web site.

A third passenger,<a href="https://www.taborbluejays.com/roster/19/2/10030.php"> Jonathan Medina</a>, a freshman from Riverside, California, was transported to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita for treatment of injuries from the accident.

“The Tabor College community is devastated by the tragic loss of Christopher Castillo, Johnethon Aviles, and of the significant injuries sustained by Jonathan Medina,” President David Janzen said. “We extend our prayers to the Castillo, Aviles and Medina families, asking for comfort, peace, and God’s presence during this unimaginable time.”

The Kansas Highway Patrol and local law enforcement have not released details on what caused the crash.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1646046476459.png" alt="Christopher Castillo and Johnethon Aviles -photo courtesy Tabor College" />
 <figcaption>Christopher Castillo and Johnethon Aviles -photo courtesy Tabor College</figcaption>
 </figure>MARION COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating an accident that occurred just before 4a.m. Sunday in Marion County released additional details Monday.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eFfBQszUWVc?start=1378" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Toyota 4-Runner driven by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.taborbluejays.com/roster/19/2/10030.php">Jonathan Medina</a>, 19, Lyons, was northbound on Indigo Road at 130th.At the county correction line, the Toyota traveled off the embankment and rolled.Two passengers, also member of of the Tabor College Football team identified as 22-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://www.taborbluejays.com/roster/19/2/9496.php">Christopher Castillo,</a>&nbsp;a senior from San Juan Capistrano, Califoria and 23-year-old<a href="https://www.taborbluejays.com/roster/19/2/10023.php">&nbsp;Johnethon Aviles,&nbsp;</a>a junior from Paso Robles, California were pronounced dead at the scene. They were tranported to&nbsp;Yazel-Megli Funeral Home.EMS transported Medina to Wesley Medical Center. All three were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.--------MARION COUNTY—The Tabor College college community is mouring the death of students <a href="https://www.taborbluejays.com/roster/19/2/9496.php">Christopher Castillo,</a> a senior from San Juan Capistrano, Califoria and<a href="https://www.taborbluejays.com/roster/19/2/10023.php"> Johnethon Aviles, </a>a junior from Paso Robles, Califorina. The students were involved in a Sunday car accident south of Hillsboro and near Indigo Road and 130th, according to the school's web site.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1646046613824.png" alt="Jonathan Medina-photo courtesy Tabor College" />
 <figcaption>Jonathan Medina-photo courtesy Tabor College</figcaption>
 </figure>A third passenger,<a href="https://www.taborbluejays.com/roster/19/2/10030.php"> Jonathan Medina</a>, a freshman from Riverside, California, was transported to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita for treatment of injuries from the accident.“The Tabor College community is devastated by the tragic loss of Christopher Castillo, Johnethon Aviles, and of the significant injuries sustained by Jonathan Medina,” President David Janzen said. “We extend our prayers to the Castillo, Aviles and Medina families, asking for comfort, peace, and God’s presence during this unimaginable time.”The Kansas Highway Patrol and local law enforcement have not released details on what caused the crash.

KHP updates details of crash that killed 2 Tabor College football players

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A preliminary hearing is set for April 7th for the man arrested in connection with the abduction and shooting in Reno and Sedgwick County July 19.

Kamden Campos is facing 12 counts including six counts of attempted first degree murder one count of kidnapping, three counts of aggravated battery and two counts of criminal threat.&nbsp;

The six counts of attempted murder and the single kidnapping carry sentences of up to 55 years in prison if Campos is convicted.&nbsp;

Campos was arrested after allegedly abducting a woman and her family in Wichita. They drove out to Cheney Lake. When the woman tried to escape in a vehicle Campos allegedly shot at the vehicle hitting a 2-year-old girl.&nbsp;

The woman drove into Sedgwick County where she called 911. The child was taken to Wesley Medical Center where she underwent surgery and has recovered.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1646063022103.jpeg" alt="Campos-photo Hutchison Police" />
 <figcaption>Campos-photo Hutchison Police</figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOK Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — A preliminary hearing is set for April 7th for the man arrested in connection with the abduction and shooting in Reno and Sedgwick County July 19.Kamden Campos is facing 12 counts including six counts of attempted first degree murder one count of kidnapping, three counts of aggravated battery and two counts of criminal threat.&nbsp;The six counts of attempted murder and the single kidnapping carry sentences of up to 55 years in prison if Campos is convicted.&nbsp;Campos was arrested after allegedly abducting a woman and her family in Wichita. They drove out to Cheney Lake. When the woman tried to escape in a vehicle Campos allegedly shot at the vehicle hitting a 2-year-old girl.&nbsp;The woman drove into Sedgwick County where she called 911. The child was taken to Wesley Medical Center where she underwent surgery and has recovered.

Preliminary hearing set for abduction, shooting of Kan. toddler 

WASHINGTON (AP) — Nearly half of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-government-at-home-covid-tests-e98c4a7a4ee340345a5786c4c407c5fb">the 500 million free COVID-19 tests</a>&nbsp;the Biden administration&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/01/14/fact-sheet-the-biden-administration-to-begin-distributing-at-home-rapid-covid-19-tests-to-americans-for-free/" target="_blank">recently made available to the public&nbsp;</a>still have not been claimed as virus cases plummet and people feel less urgency to test.

Wild demand swings have been a subplot in the pandemic, from vaccines to hand sanitizer, along with tests. On the first day of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/how-to-get-usps-government-covid-tests-64a4e2cc86c501187a5bb401c1552188">White House test giveaway</a>&nbsp;in January,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.covidtests.gov/" target="_blank">COVIDtests.gov</a>&nbsp;received over 45 million orders. Now officials say fewer than 100,000 orders a day are coming in for the packages of four free rapid tests per household, delivered by the U.S. Postal Service.

Still, the White House sees the program as a step toward a deeper, yet more elastic, testing infrastructure that will accommodate demand surges and remain on standby when cases wane. “We totally intend to sustain this market,” Dr. Tom Inglesby, testing adviser to the COVID-19 response team, told The Associated Press. “We know the market is volatile and will come up and down with surges in variants.”

The White House says Americans have placed 68 million orders for packages of tests, which leaves about 46% of the stock of tests still available to be ordered.

Testing will become more important with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-science-health-centers-for-disease-control-and-prevention-87d7bdc811ba6521e32017072d5ea180">mask requirements now easing</a>, say some independent experts. “If infection control is still our priority, testing is central,” said Dr. Leana Wen, a former Baltimore health commissioner and commentator on the pandemic. “Four tests per household for one family will only last you one time. There should be enough tests for families to test twice a week.”

Inglesby maintains that the pieces are falling into place to accommodate that.

Private insurers are now required to cover eight free rapid tests per person, per month. Medicare coverage will start in the spring. The administration has also been making free at-home tests available through libraries, clinics and other community venues. Capacity for the more accurate PCR tests performed by labs has been built up. The White House recently put out a request to industry for ideas on how to sustain and expand domestic testing for the rest of this year.

Wen says people still need a guide for when to test and how often. “Right now it is still unclear,” she said.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-joe-biden-health-jen-psaki-08ee41d8e7c0af1ad8b4dfb7b434ea61">President Joe Biden’s pivot to testing came under duress</a>&nbsp;as the omicron variant gained force just before Christmas. Tests were frustratingly hard to come by, and expensive. The White House is sensitive to criticism that help may have come too late.

“There is no question some people found out they were positive from taking one of these tests and were able to keep other people from getting infected,” said Tim Manning, supply coordinator for the COVID-19 response team.

Around mid-December, with omicron projections grimmer by the day, White House officials began discussing how to make free tests available for anyone who wanted one. But if the government started siphoning up tests on the market, that would just make the shortage worse.

“A critical thing to us was that anything we did had to be done in a way did not create a shortage at retail to the general public,” Manning said.

The White House enlisted the Pentagon and parts of the Health and Human Services Department that had worked on the Trump administration’s vaccine development effort to distribute vaccines. Logistics experts scoured the globe for available tests. The Postal Service was designated to take the orders and deliver them.

That part proved to be a good call, said Hana Schank, an expert on government technology projects with the New America think-tank. The Postal Service already had a database of every address in the land, and the means to deliver.

“At the federal level the only people who have a database connected to a fulfillment engine would be the Post Office,” she said.

The project took less than a month to get ready, Manning said. “We said this is not online retail,” he said. “This is emergency response, so we have go to as fast as possible.”

To make sure it wasn’t just the tech savvy who would end up getting free tests, the administration targeted a share of deliveries to people in low-income areas. The White House worked with service organizations to get the word out.

“We prioritized the processing of orders to the highest social vulnerability zip codes in the country,” testing adviser Inglesby said.

One of the service groups was the National Association of Community Health Workers, whose members help people navigate the health care system. Executive director Denise Smith said the group was able to use its website to link more than 630,000 people to COVIDtests.gov.

Overall about 20% to 25% of the tests have gone to people in distressed areas, officials said.

Now that demand is way down, it’s unclear what will happen to the White House giveaway program. Allowing repeat orders is one possibility.

Smith says groups like hers should get any surplus. “We know where the people are,” she said.

Although the program is still in its infancy, analyst Lindsey Dawson of the Kaiser Family Foundation believes its legacy may lie in familiarizing more people with testing. “It may get someone comfortable with utilizing the tests, thinking about how they might use testing in their lives,” she said.

Savita Sharaf, a retiree from the Maryland suburbs outside the nation’s capital, said she ordered her free tests around the middle of January and got them in early February. She’s tried to conserve them, for added peace of mind. In the stores, she couldn’t find tests for less than $25.

“I’m so relieved because I can immediately test myself,” Sharaf said. “If we had a high vaccination rate, it would be a little easier to say let up on this program. But I feel we have to watch for the next month or two, to see what happens.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642104330616.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Nearly half of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-government-at-home-covid-tests-e98c4a7a4ee340345a5786c4c407c5fb">the 500 million free COVID-19 tests</a>&nbsp;the Biden administration&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/01/14/fact-sheet-the-biden-administration-to-begin-distributing-at-home-rapid-covid-19-tests-to-americans-for-free/" target="_blank">recently made available to the public&nbsp;</a>still have not been claimed as virus cases plummet and people feel less urgency to test.Wild demand swings have been a subplot in the pandemic, from vaccines to hand sanitizer, along with tests. On the first day of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/how-to-get-usps-government-covid-tests-64a4e2cc86c501187a5bb401c1552188">White House test giveaway</a>&nbsp;in January,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.covidtests.gov/" target="_blank">COVIDtests.gov</a>&nbsp;received over 45 million orders. Now officials say fewer than 100,000 orders a day are coming in for the packages of four free rapid tests per household, delivered by the U.S. Postal Service.Still, the White House sees the program as a step toward a deeper, yet more elastic, testing infrastructure that will accommodate demand surges and remain on standby when cases wane. “We totally intend to sustain this market,” Dr. Tom Inglesby, testing adviser to the COVID-19 response team, told The Associated Press. “We know the market is volatile and will come up and down with surges in variants.”The White House says Americans have placed 68 million orders for packages of tests, which leaves about 46% of the stock of tests still available to be ordered.Testing will become more important with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-science-health-centers-for-disease-control-and-prevention-87d7bdc811ba6521e32017072d5ea180">mask requirements now easing</a>, say some independent experts. “If infection control is still our priority, testing is central,” said Dr. Leana Wen, a former Baltimore health commissioner and commentator on the pandemic. “Four tests per household for one family will only last you one time. There should be enough tests for families to test twice a week.”Inglesby maintains that the pieces are falling into place to accommodate that.Private insurers are now required to cover eight free rapid tests per person, per month. Medicare coverage will start in the spring. The administration has also been making free at-home tests available through libraries, clinics and other community venues. Capacity for the more accurate PCR tests performed by labs has been built up. The White House recently put out a request to industry for ideas on how to sustain and expand domestic testing for the rest of this year.Wen says people still need a guide for when to test and how often. “Right now it is still unclear,” she said.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-joe-biden-health-jen-psaki-08ee41d8e7c0af1ad8b4dfb7b434ea61">President Joe Biden’s pivot to testing came under duress</a>&nbsp;as the omicron variant gained force just before Christmas. Tests were frustratingly hard to come by, and expensive. The White House is sensitive to criticism that help may have come too late.“There is no question some people found out they were positive from taking one of these tests and were able to keep other people from getting infected,” said Tim Manning, supply coordinator for the COVID-19 response team.Around mid-December, with omicron projections grimmer by the day, White House officials began discussing how to make free tests available for anyone who wanted one. But if the government started siphoning up tests on the market, that would just make the shortage worse.“A critical thing to us was that anything we did had to be done in a way did not create a shortage at retail to the general public,” Manning said.The White House enlisted the Pentagon and parts of the Health and Human Services Department that had worked on the Trump administration’s vaccine development effort to distribute vaccines. Logistics experts scoured the globe for available tests. The Postal Service was designated to take the orders and deliver them.That part proved to be a good call, said Hana Schank, an expert on government technology projects with the New America think-tank. The Postal Service already had a database of every address in the land, and the means to deliver.“At the federal level the only people who have a database connected to a fulfillment engine would be the Post Office,” she said.The project took less than a month to get ready, Manning said. “We said this is not online retail,” he said. “This is emergency response, so we have go to as fast as possible.”To make sure it wasn’t just the tech savvy who would end up getting free tests, the administration targeted a share of deliveries to people in low-income areas. The White House worked with service organizations to get the word out.“We prioritized the processing of orders to the highest social vulnerability zip codes in the country,” testing adviser Inglesby said.One of the service groups was the National Association of Community Health Workers, whose members help people navigate the health care system. Executive director Denise Smith said the group was able to use its website to link more than 630,000 people to COVIDtests.gov.Overall about 20% to 25% of the tests have gone to people in distressed areas, officials said.Now that demand is way down, it’s unclear what will happen to the White House giveaway program. Allowing repeat orders is one possibility.Smith says groups like hers should get any surplus. “We know where the people are,” she said.Although the program is still in its infancy, analyst Lindsey Dawson of the Kaiser Family Foundation believes its legacy may lie in familiarizing more people with testing. “It may get someone comfortable with utilizing the tests, thinking about how they might use testing in their lives,” she said.Savita Sharaf, a retiree from the Maryland suburbs outside the nation’s capital, said she ordered her free tests around the middle of January and got them in early February. She’s tried to conserve them, for added peace of mind. In the stores, she couldn’t find tests for less than $25.“I’m so relieved because I can immediately test myself,” Sharaf said. “If we had a high vaccination rate, it would be a little easier to say let up on this program. But I feel we have to watch for the next month or two, to see what happens.”

Nearly half of President Biden's free COVID tests still unclaimed

SHAWNEE, Kan. (AP) — A Johnson County woman faces charges related to a house fire that killed a baby in suburban&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;City, Kansas.

&nbsp;Karlie Phelps, 28, is scheduled to appear in court Monday after her arrest Friday on requested charges of involuntary manslaughter and endangering a child. The child was born on 2020, court records show.

The case involves the death of an baby who died in a deadly house fire Feb. 13 in Shawnee, Kansas, television station FOX4 reported. Firefighters battling the flames found the child's body inside the home.

Police later arrested 28-year-old Nicholas Adam Ecker, the father of the child, on charges of with first-degree murder, aggravated arson and other crimes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645917595368.png" alt="Phelps-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Phelps-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE, Kan. (AP) — A Johnson County woman faces charges related to a house fire that killed a baby in suburban&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;City, Kansas.&nbsp;Karlie Phelps, 28, is scheduled to appear in court Monday after her arrest Friday on requested charges of involuntary manslaughter and endangering a child. The child was born on 2020, court records show.The case involves the death of an baby who died in a deadly house fire Feb. 13 in Shawnee, Kansas, television station FOX4 reported. Firefighters battling the flames found the child's body inside the home.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644924205485.png" alt="Ecker-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Ecker-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Police later arrested 28-year-old Nicholas Adam Ecker, the father of the child, on charges of with first-degree murder, aggravated arson and other crimes.

Kansas woman due in court for fire that killed baby

WASHINGTON (AP)— The U.S. for the first time has approved the direct delivery of Stinger missiles to Ukraine as part of a package approved by the White House on Friday.

The exact timing of delivery is not known, but officials say the U.S. is currently working on the logistics of the shipment. The officials agreed to discuss the development only if not quoted by name.

The decision comes on the heels of Germany’s announcement that it will send 500 Stinger missiles and other weapons and supplies to Ukraine.

The high-speed Stingers are very accurate and are used to shoot down helicopters and other aircraft. Ukrainian officials have been asking for more of the powerful weapons.

Estonia has also been providing Ukraine with Stingers since January, and in order to do that had to get U.S. permission.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1646012413412.png" alt="&nbsp;U.S. Paratroopers train alongside Polish Allies last week-photos courtesy 82nd Airborne Division" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;U.S. Paratroopers train alongside Polish Allies last week-photos courtesy 82nd Airborne Division</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP)— The U.S. for the first time has approved the direct delivery of Stinger missiles to Ukraine as part of a package approved by the White House on Friday.The exact timing of delivery is not known, but officials say the U.S. is currently working on the logistics of the shipment. The officials agreed to discuss the development only if not quoted by name.The decision comes on the heels of Germany’s announcement that it will send 500 Stinger missiles and other weapons and supplies to Ukraine.The high-speed Stingers are very accurate and are used to shoot down helicopters and other aircraft. Ukrainian officials have been asking for more of the powerful weapons.Estonia has also been providing Ukraine with Stingers since January, and in order to do that had to get U.S. permission.___

US to send anti-aircraft Stinger missiles to Ukraine

WASHINGTON —&nbsp;The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers today 
that the fastest and easiest way to check on tax refunds is by using the
 <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a>&nbsp; tool on IRS.gov or through the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go</a> mobile app.

This year, more than ever before, those who don't normally have to 
file a tax return may wish to do so to get child-related tax credits 
that were expanded by the American Rescue Plan. These include the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p5585.pdf">Child Tax Credit and the Child and Dependent Care Credit</a>&nbsp;PDF.

Filing <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/e-file-options">electronically</a> and using <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/get-your-refund-faster-tell-irs-to-direct-deposit-your-refund-to-one-two-or-three-accounts">direct deposit</a> is the safest and fastest way to file an accurate return and receive a tax refund. Taxpayers can use <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a>&nbsp;to
 start checking their refund status within 24 hours after an e-filed 
return is received or four weeks after the taxpayer mails a paper 
return.

The tool's tracker displays progress through three phases:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON —&nbsp;The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers today 
that the fastest and easiest way to check on tax refunds is by using the
 <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a>&nbsp; tool on IRS.gov or through the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go</a> mobile app.This year, more than ever before, those who don't normally have to 
file a tax return may wish to do so to get child-related tax credits 
that were expanded by the American Rescue Plan. These include the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p5585.pdf">Child Tax Credit and the Child and Dependent Care Credit</a>&nbsp;PDF.<h2>Refund updates</h2>Filing <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/e-file-options">electronically</a> and using <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/get-your-refund-faster-tell-irs-to-direct-deposit-your-refund-to-one-two-or-three-accounts">direct deposit</a> is the safest and fastest way to file an accurate return and receive a tax refund. Taxpayers can use <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a>&nbsp;to
 start checking their refund status within 24 hours after an e-filed 
return is received or four weeks after the taxpayer mails a paper 
return.The tool's tracker displays progress through three phases:<ol>
 <li>Return Received,</li><li>Refund Approved and</li><li>Refund Sent.</li>
 </ol><h2>Refund timing</h2>Most tax refunds are issued within 21 days, however, some may take longer. There are several reasons this can happen:<ul>
 <li>The return includes a claim for the Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit.</li><li>The time between the IRS issuing the refund and the bank posting it
 to an account may vary since many banks do not process payments on 
weekends or holidays.</li><li>The return may require additional review.</li><li>The return may include errors or be incomplete.</li><li>The return could be affected by identity theft or fraud.</li>
 </ul>The IRS will contact taxpayers by mail if more information is needed to process a return.<h2>Earned Income Tax Credit and the Additional Child Tax Credit</h2>Due to changes to the tax law made by the <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/2029/text">Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act (PATH Act)</a>, the IRS can't issue <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit/how-to-work-with-a-tax-professional-to-claim-the-earned-income-tax-credit-eitc">Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)</a> or <a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/ita/does-my-childdependent-qualify-for-the-child-tax-credit-or-the-credit-for-other-dependents">Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)</a>
 refunds before mid-February. This includes the entire refund, not just 
the part that's related to the credit claimed on a tax return.<a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go</a> are updated for most early EITC/ACTC filers with an estimated deposit date by February 19, if they file their taxes early.If a filer claimed the EITC or the ACTC, they can expect to get their refund March 1 if:<ul>
 <li>They <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/e-file-options">file their return online</a>,</li><li>They choose to get their refund by <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/get-your-refund-faster-tell-irs-to-direct-deposit-your-refund-to-one-two-or-three-accounts">direct deposit</a> and</li><li>No issues were found with their return.</li>
 </ul><h2>Ignore refund myths</h2>Some taxpayers mistakenly believe they can expedite their refund by 
ordering a tax transcript, calling the IRS or calling their tax 
preparer. Ordering a tax transcript will not help a taxpayer get their 
refund faster or find out when they'll get their refund. The information
 available on Where's My Refund? is the same information available to 
IRS telephone assistors.Taxpayers can find answers to questions, forms and instructions and 
easy-to-use tools at IRS.gov. This news release is part of a series 
called the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-time-guide">Tax Time Guide</a>, a resource to help taxpayers file an accurate tax return. Additional help is available in <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p17.pdf">Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax (For Individuals)</a>&nbsp;PDF.