By CELIA LLOPIS-JEPSEN <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-03-01/opioids-are-killing-more-people-than-ever-and-kansas-lags-other-states-on-these-steps-to-help">Kansas News Service</a>

In September 2020, Seth Dewey got a phone call at home from someone using drugs.

“They said, ‘Seth, we need Narcan over here right now,’” Dewey said.

The call for <a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment/medications-counseling-related-conditions/naloxone" target="_blank">Narcan</a> suggested a life-and-death emergency requiring medicine that can reverse an opioid overdose.

Dewey,
 whose work for the Reno County Health Department in Hutchinson focuses 
on combating drug addiction and overdoses, promised to rush over with 
doses of what’s also known as naloxone to the site where two people 
panicked as they watched life slipping away from a third.

He urged them to call 911, too, but they feared getting arrested.

“So
 I said, ‘Well, listen, then I’m going to call 911,’” he said. “When I 
got there, I ended up having to use three doses of naloxone on this 
individual. … It brought back very slow, labored breathing.”

By 
the time law enforcement officers reached the scene — without any 
naloxone on hand — Dewey had stabilized the man. Medical responders 
arrived later.

For Dewey, that day illustrates the need for policy changes to help more people survive a national surge in opioid overdoses.

Kansas is one of just a few states without <a href="https://www.pdaps.org/datasets/good-samaritan-overdose-laws-1501695153" target="_blank">a good Samaritan law</a> that encourages people to call 911 when witnessing an overdose, by shielding them from prosecution.

Additionally,
 Kansans can’t count on law enforcement officers — who may beat 
ambulances to the scene of an ongoing overdose when every minute counts —
 to carry naloxone.

Across the country, fatal overdoses <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-01-10/dealers-are-spiking-drugs-with-fentanyl-and-killing-even-more-kansans-during-the-pandemic" target="_blank">rocketed in 2020</a>
 to more than 90,000. That record number was driven largely by dealers 
selling drugs laced with potent synthetic opioids such as fentanyl.

Tallies
 aren’t complete yet for 2021, but provisional counts for the first half
 of the year suggest people died at even greater rates. And <a href="https://www.commonwealthfund.org/blog/2022/overdose-deaths-surged-first-half-2021-underscoring-urgent-need-action?utm_source=alert&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=Improving+Health+Care+Quality" target="_blank">Kansas is among a handful of states showing the steepest increases</a>.

Studies show <a href="https://health.wusf.usf.edu/npr-health/2022-01-15/there-is-life-after-addiction-most-people-recover" target="_blank">most people recover</a>
 from drug use disorders, but the process often takes years and involves
 multiple relapses. The widespread practice of mixing fentanyl and <a href="https://news.wosu.org/wksu-stories/2017-05-26/as-fentanyl-spreads-dealers-now-targeting-african-americans" target="_blank">carfentanil</a> into so many drugs today means many people never get that far.

“We’re
 losing too many people due to this old idea that people have to hit 
rock bottom” before becoming sober, Dewey said. “People aren’t getting a
 chance to hit rock bottom, because they’re dying.”

Someone dies of overdose almost every month in <a href="https://reno.maps.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/6e5f01c85f524c08b9aea458926f8fdb" target="_blank">Reno County</a> — often more than one person.

Yet
 Dewey sees signs of change. The Reno County Sheriff’s Office and 
Hutchinson Police Department now train their officers on administering 
naloxone, and make sure they have it available.

A state good Samaritan law could also help, research suggests. The U.S. Government Accountability Office <a href="https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-21-248" target="_blank">published a report</a> last year documenting evidence that the rate of fatal opioid overdoses improves when states pass such laws.

The
 vast bulk of synthetic opioids such as fentanyl and carfentanil are 
smuggled from abroad, and increasingly blended with other substances.

That
 means people sometimes don’t know that the methamphetamine, oxycodone, 
cocaine or other substances they buy illegally contain synthetic opioids
 to make them more potent.

Overdosing is easy. Even minuscule amounts of these substances can kill. Fentanyl is up to <a href="https://www.rand.org/content/dam/rand/pubs/external_publications/EP60000/EP68838/RAND_EP68838.pdf" target="_blank">50 times</a> more potent than heroin.

This month, <a href="https://www.rand.org/content/dam/rand/pubs/external_publications/EP60000/EP68838/RAND_EP68838.pdf" target="_blank">a federal commission</a>
 released its report on synthetic opioids, calling the epidemic of 
addiction “one of our most-pressing national security, law enforcement, 
and public health challenges.”

Though most people addicted to the 
substances get them illegally, the report traces the rise in demand for 
and trafficking of synthetic opioids directly to <a href="https://www.propublica.org/article/richard-sackler-oxycontin-oxycodone-strength-conceal-from-doctors-sealed-testimony" target="_blank">wide-scale addiction to OxyContin</a> prescription opiate painkillers starting in the 1990s.

“The
 overdose crisis in the United States claims more lives each year than 
firearms, suicide, homicide, or motor vehicle crashes,” the report said.
 “We must do more as a nation and a government.”

Better access to 
medical care for opioid addiction won’t stop the drug trafficking, it 
said, but offers one route to saving lives, as the “gold standard” for 
treating opioid use disorders.

Buprenorphine and other treatments

Yet
 experts at the health care research group Commonwealth Fund say only a 
small sliver of people with opioid addiction receive such medical care.

The
 treatment usually involves prescribing one of three medications — 
buprenorphine, methadone or naltrexone — to ease cravings and even block
 the brain’s ability to experience euphoria from drugs like heroin and 
oxycodone.

Sometimes people who want this help struggle to find a 
health care provider and treatment program that they can afford. 
Sometimes they face insurance hurdles.

Meanwhile, access to drug 
treatment behind bars remains spotty at best, even though most 
incarcerated people have substance use disorders.

Despite some 
successful lawsuits, as well as federal legislation, pushing for 
widespread access to this treatment in correctional facilities, most 
people with addiction in prison or jail still don’t receive it.

In Kansas, <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-02-16/a-few-kansas-jails-are-finally-allowing-medical-care-for-opioid-addiction" target="_blank">a few jails</a>
 have begun allowing medical care with buprenorphine, methadone or 
naltrexone. Since Crawford County Jail rolled out its program in August 
2020, more than 200 people have signed up for care, and most continued 
their treatment after leaving jail.

A spokeswoman for the state prison system says it allows such treatment, too, though <a href="https://www.themarshallproject.org/2021/08/10/these-meds-prevent-overdoses-few-federal-prisoners-are-getting-them" target="_blank">the Marshall Project</a>
 — an investigative journalism newsroom focused on criminal justice — 
considers the access to care in Kansas prisons to be limited.

Fentanyl test strips and naloxone supplies

The
 federal commission urges Congress to help local governments across the 
country afford naloxone so that they can equip all first responders with
 it.

And it calls for fentanyl test strip distribution programs and the development of best practices to help guide that work.

The
 strips let people test drugs they buy on the street to see if they’re 
laced with fentanyl, so they can protect themselves against unknowingly 
consuming it.

Kansas overdose prevention programs can’t distribute the test strips because they’re illegal under state law.

Last
 year, the Kansas House passed a bill to change that. The bill is now 
stalled in a Senate committee, which began to hold a hearing on the 
topic and then postponed the matter.

If the test strips become 
legal in Kansas, community groups that help people struggling with 
addiction will be able to use federal grants to buy and distribute 
supplies.

Ngoc Vuong sees the potential to save lives. He coordinates anti-addiction efforts for the <a href="https://www.partnersforwichita.org/safe-streets" target="_blank">Safe Streets program</a> in Wichita. He says part of helping people seek recovery is keeping them safe in the meantime.

That
 could mean distributing or explaining fentanyl test strips at outreach 
events geared toward people living on the street or who use illegal 
drugs or who are trying to stop using them.

“Letting them know 
about fentanyl test strips, how to use them,” Vuong said. “Then also add
 the caveat here that, ‘Whenever you’re ready to seek treatment, we’re 
here to help.’”

Dewey, at the Reno County Health Department, has a
 similar perspective. Building relationships is key, he said. And that 
includes talking to people in crisis about how to use naloxone and 
fentanyl test strips, and making sure they have access.

“Then they’re at least honest with us,” he said. “We want people to be honest with us. ‘Hey, man, I’m struggling with this.’”

Dewey
 speaks from experience. He used illegal drugs in the past, and ended up
 in the county jail. Ultimately he achieved long-term recovery.

“When
 we open up that relationship of trust” with people who use drugs, he 
said, “that’s when we start seeing a full cycle of (approaches) that 
could be used to help people when they’re ready.”

Celia 
Llopis-Jepsen reports on consumer health for the Kansas News Service. 
You can follow her on Twitter @celia_LJ or email her at celia@kcur.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646148908877.png" alt="Carlos Moreno / KCUR 89.3" />
 <figcaption>Carlos Moreno / KCUR 89.3</figcaption>
 </figure>By CELIA LLOPIS-JEPSEN <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-03-01/opioids-are-killing-more-people-than-ever-and-kansas-lags-other-states-on-these-steps-to-help">Kansas News Service</a>In September 2020, Seth Dewey got a phone call at home from someone using drugs.“They said, ‘Seth, we need Narcan over here right now,’” Dewey said.The call for <a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment/medications-counseling-related-conditions/naloxone" target="_blank">Narcan</a> suggested a life-and-death emergency requiring medicine that can reverse an opioid overdose.Dewey,
 whose work for the Reno County Health Department in Hutchinson focuses 
on combating drug addiction and overdoses, promised to rush over with 
doses of what’s also known as naloxone to the site where two people 
panicked as they watched life slipping away from a third.He urged them to call 911, too, but they feared getting arrested.“So
 I said, ‘Well, listen, then I’m going to call 911,’” he said. “When I 
got there, I ended up having to use three doses of naloxone on this 
individual. … It brought back very slow, labored breathing.”By 
the time law enforcement officers reached the scene — without any 
naloxone on hand — Dewey had stabilized the man. Medical responders 
arrived later.For Dewey, that day illustrates the need for policy changes to help more people survive a national surge in opioid overdoses.Kansas is one of just a few states without <a href="https://www.pdaps.org/datasets/good-samaritan-overdose-laws-1501695153" target="_blank">a good Samaritan law</a> that encourages people to call 911 when witnessing an overdose, by shielding them from prosecution.Additionally,
 Kansans can’t count on law enforcement officers — who may beat 
ambulances to the scene of an ongoing overdose when every minute counts —
 to carry naloxone.Across the country, fatal overdoses <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-01-10/dealers-are-spiking-drugs-with-fentanyl-and-killing-even-more-kansans-during-the-pandemic" target="_blank">rocketed in 2020</a>
 to more than 90,000. That record number was driven largely by dealers 
selling drugs laced with potent synthetic opioids such as fentanyl.Tallies
 aren’t complete yet for 2021, but provisional counts for the first half
 of the year suggest people died at even greater rates. And <a href="https://www.commonwealthfund.org/blog/2022/overdose-deaths-surged-first-half-2021-underscoring-urgent-need-action?utm_source=alert&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=Improving+Health+Care+Quality" target="_blank">Kansas is among a handful of states showing the steepest increases</a>.Studies show <a href="https://health.wusf.usf.edu/npr-health/2022-01-15/there-is-life-after-addiction-most-people-recover" target="_blank">most people recover</a>
 from drug use disorders, but the process often takes years and involves
 multiple relapses. The widespread practice of mixing fentanyl and <a href="https://news.wosu.org/wksu-stories/2017-05-26/as-fentanyl-spreads-dealers-now-targeting-african-americans" target="_blank">carfentanil</a> into so many drugs today means many people never get that far.“We’re
 losing too many people due to this old idea that people have to hit 
rock bottom” before becoming sober, Dewey said. “People aren’t getting a
 chance to hit rock bottom, because they’re dying.”Someone dies of overdose almost every month in <a href="https://reno.maps.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/6e5f01c85f524c08b9aea458926f8fdb" target="_blank">Reno County</a> — often more than one person.Yet
 Dewey sees signs of change. The Reno County Sheriff’s Office and 
Hutchinson Police Department now train their officers on administering 
naloxone, and make sure they have it available.A state good Samaritan law could also help, research suggests. The U.S. Government Accountability Office <a href="https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-21-248" target="_blank">published a report</a> last year documenting evidence that the rate of fatal opioid overdoses improves when states pass such laws.Deadly synthetic opioidsThe
 vast bulk of synthetic opioids such as fentanyl and carfentanil are 
smuggled from abroad, and increasingly blended with other substances.That
 means people sometimes don’t know that the methamphetamine, oxycodone, 
cocaine or other substances they buy illegally contain synthetic opioids
 to make them more potent.Overdosing is easy. Even minuscule amounts of these substances can kill. Fentanyl is up to <a href="https://www.rand.org/content/dam/rand/pubs/external_publications/EP60000/EP68838/RAND_EP68838.pdf" target="_blank">50 times</a> more potent than heroin.This month, <a href="https://www.rand.org/content/dam/rand/pubs/external_publications/EP60000/EP68838/RAND_EP68838.pdf" target="_blank">a federal commission</a>
 released its report on synthetic opioids, calling the epidemic of 
addiction “one of our most-pressing national security, law enforcement, 
and public health challenges.”Though most people addicted to the 
substances get them illegally, the report traces the rise in demand for 
and trafficking of synthetic opioids directly to <a href="https://www.propublica.org/article/richard-sackler-oxycontin-oxycodone-strength-conceal-from-doctors-sealed-testimony" target="_blank">wide-scale addiction to OxyContin</a> prescription opiate painkillers starting in the 1990s.“The
 overdose crisis in the United States claims more lives each year than 
firearms, suicide, homicide, or motor vehicle crashes,” the report said.
 “We must do more as a nation and a government.”Better access to 
medical care for opioid addiction won’t stop the drug trafficking, it 
said, but offers one route to saving lives, as the “gold standard” for 
treating opioid use disorders.Buprenorphine and other treatmentsYet
 experts at the health care research group Commonwealth Fund say only a 
small sliver of people with opioid addiction receive such medical care.The
 treatment usually involves prescribing one of three medications — 
buprenorphine, methadone or naltrexone — to ease cravings and even block
 the brain’s ability to experience euphoria from drugs like heroin and 
oxycodone.Sometimes people who want this help struggle to find a 
health care provider and treatment program that they can afford. 
Sometimes they face insurance hurdles.Meanwhile, access to drug 
treatment behind bars remains spotty at best, even though most 
incarcerated people have substance use disorders.Despite some 
successful lawsuits, as well as federal legislation, pushing for 
widespread access to this treatment in correctional facilities, most 
people with addiction in prison or jail still don’t receive it.In Kansas, <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-02-16/a-few-kansas-jails-are-finally-allowing-medical-care-for-opioid-addiction" target="_blank">a few jails</a>
 have begun allowing medical care with buprenorphine, methadone or 
naltrexone. Since Crawford County Jail rolled out its program in August 
2020, more than 200 people have signed up for care, and most continued 
their treatment after leaving jail.A spokeswoman for the state prison system says it allows such treatment, too, though <a href="https://www.themarshallproject.org/2021/08/10/these-meds-prevent-overdoses-few-federal-prisoners-are-getting-them" target="_blank">the Marshall Project</a>
 — an investigative journalism newsroom focused on criminal justice — 
considers the access to care in Kansas prisons to be limited.Fentanyl test strips and naloxone suppliesThe
 federal commission urges Congress to help local governments across the 
country afford naloxone so that they can equip all first responders with
 it.And it calls for fentanyl test strip distribution programs and the development of best practices to help guide that work.The
 strips let people test drugs they buy on the street to see if they’re 
laced with fentanyl, so they can protect themselves against unknowingly 
consuming it.Kansas overdose prevention programs can’t distribute the test strips because they’re illegal under state law.Last
 year, the Kansas House passed a bill to change that. The bill is now 
stalled in a Senate committee, which began to hold a hearing on the 
topic and then postponed the matter.If the test strips become 
legal in Kansas, community groups that help people struggling with 
addiction will be able to use federal grants to buy and distribute 
supplies.Ngoc Vuong sees the potential to save lives. He coordinates anti-addiction efforts for the <a href="https://www.partnersforwichita.org/safe-streets" target="_blank">Safe Streets program</a> in Wichita. He says part of helping people seek recovery is keeping them safe in the meantime.That
 could mean distributing or explaining fentanyl test strips at outreach 
events geared toward people living on the street or who use illegal 
drugs or who are trying to stop using them.“Letting them know 
about fentanyl test strips, how to use them,” Vuong said. “Then also add
 the caveat here that, ‘Whenever you’re ready to seek treatment, we’re 
here to help.’”Dewey, at the Reno County Health Department, has a
 similar perspective. Building relationships is key, he said. And that 
includes talking to people in crisis about how to use naloxone and 
fentanyl test strips, and making sure they have access.“Then they’re at least honest with us,” he said. “We want people to be honest with us. ‘Hey, man, I’m struggling with this.’”Dewey
 speaks from experience. He used illegal drugs in the past, and ended up
 in the county jail. Ultimately he achieved long-term recovery.“When
 we open up that relationship of trust” with people who use drugs, he 
said, “that’s when we start seeing a full cycle of (approaches) that 
could be used to help people when they’re ready.”Celia 
Llopis-Jepsen reports on consumer health for the Kansas News Service. 
You can follow her on Twitter @celia_LJ or email her at celia@kcur.org.

Kansas lags other states on steps to help fight opioid deaths

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A 75-year-old Kansas City-area man faces charges for allegedly pretending to be a police officer and pulling over a driver.

<a href="https://www.kctv5.com/2022/03/04/man-charged-with-false-impersonation-law-enforcement-officer-accused-pulling-driver-over/">KCTV-TV</a>&nbsp;reports that the Missouri State Highway Patrol launched an investigation in January after a driver became suspicious after being pulled over. The driver told the patrol that after he passed another vehicle, that driver began following him closely, flashed his headlights and activated emergency lights.

The alleged victim said the man took his driver's license and pretended to run a computer check. The alleged victim noted the license plate identifiers of the vehicle that pulled him over, which led to the arrest.

Investigators say the suspect vehicle had what appeared to be emergency lights mounted in the front grill and a siren speaker. The suspect is not a police officer but worked decades ago for Kansas City police and the highway patrol.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A 75-year-old Kansas City-area man faces charges for allegedly pretending to be a police officer and pulling over a driver.<a href="https://www.kctv5.com/2022/03/04/man-charged-with-false-impersonation-law-enforcement-officer-accused-pulling-driver-over/">KCTV-TV</a>&nbsp;reports that the Missouri State Highway Patrol launched an investigation in January after a driver became suspicious after being pulled over. The driver told the patrol that after he passed another vehicle, that driver began following him closely, flashed his headlights and activated emergency lights.The alleged victim said the man took his driver's license and pretended to run a computer check. The alleged victim noted the license plate identifiers of the vehicle that pulled him over, which led to the arrest.Investigators say the suspect vehicle had what appeared to be emergency lights mounted in the front grill and a siren speaker. The suspect is not a police officer but worked decades ago for Kansas City police and the highway patrol.

75-year-old KC-area man accused of being fake police officer

A group of theologically conservative United Methodists plans to launch a new worldwide denomination on May 1, impatient to get started after yet another pandemic-related delay to a formalized divorce agreement with their denomination.

The creation of the Global Methodist Church, announced Thursday, was long in the making, organized by conservatives who were fed up with liberal churches’ continued defiance of the United Methodist Church’s bans on same-sex marriage and the ordination of openly gay clergy.

Global Methodist Church organizers had originally expected to launch the denomination only after the next General Conference of the UMC. That legislative body is the only one that could approve a tentative agreement — unveiled in 2020 after negotiations between conservatives, liberals and centrists — to allow churches and regional groups to leave the denomination and keep their property.

But the General Conference, originally scheduled for 2020, was already delayed for two straight years by the pandemic. On Thursday, the United Methodist Church announced it was pushing off the next gathering yet again — to 2024 — due to long delays in the U.S. processing of visa applications. A little more than half of the denomination’s members are overseas, notably in Africa and the Philippines.

UMC officials said the visa process has been delayed as long as 800 days in some cases.

“The visa issue is a reality that is simply outside our control as we seek to achieve a reasonable threshold of delegate presence and participation,” said a statement by Kim Simpson, who chairs the denomination’s Commission on the General Conference.

But the delay is hastening the breakup of one of the largest religious bodies in the United States.

Already some conservative churches have left the denomination, and more are eager to do so, said a statement from the Global Methodist Church organizers.

“Many United Methodists have grown impatient with a denomination clearly struggling to function effectively at the general church level,” said the Rev. Keith Boyette, chairman of the Transitional Leadership Council, which is organizing the Global Methodist Church.

“Theologically conservative local churches and annual conferences want to be free of divisive and destructive debates, and to have the freedom to move forward together,” he said. “We are confident many existing congregations will join the new Global Methodist Church in waves over the next few years, and new church plants will sprout up.”

Boyette, a Virginia-based Methodist elder, said he didn’t know how many churches would initially join the new denomination and “does not want to make any speculations.”

Under United Methodist law, church properties are held in trust for the larger denomination. “However there have always been avenues for churches to separate from the denomination,” said a statement from Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey of Louisiana, president of the UMC’s Council of Bishops. Churches can negotiate separation agreements with their bishops.

The organizers of the Global Methodist Church predicted some of its prospective members will reach amicable agreements to separate from their local conferences and that others would face more opposition.

The United Methodist Church claims 6.3 million members in the U.S. and 6.5 million overseas.

Differences over same-sex marriage and the ordination of LGBTQ clergy have simmered for years in the UMC, and came to a head in 2019 at a conference in St. Louis where delegates voted 438-384 to strengthen bans on LGBTQ-inclusive practices. Most U.S.-based delegates opposed that plan and favored LGBTQ-friendly options; they were outvoted by U.S. conservatives teamed with most of the delegates from Methodist strongholds in Africa and the Philippines.

In the aftermath of that meeting, many moderate and liberal clergy made clear they would not abide by the bans, and various groups worked on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/global-methodist-church-breakaway-lgbt-f599979835addfd354856ff5b2024989">proposals to let the UMC split</a>&nbsp;along theological lines.

The most prominent plan, the Protocol of Reconciliation &amp; Grace Through Separation, was endorsed by a wide spectrum of bishops and activists after it was reached through famed mediation lawyer Kenneth Feinberg, whose law firm has overseen the distribution of other massive legal settlements such as the 9/11 victims fund.

Under the protocol, conservative congregations and regional bodies would be allowed to separate from the UMC and form a new denomination. They would receive $25 million in UMC funds and be able to keep their properties.

Assuming a large exodus of conservatives, the remaining United Methodist Church would be poised to reverse its longstanding bans on gay ordination and marriage.

Reconciling Ministries — a pro-LGBTQ advocacy caucus within the United Methodist Church — said that while the pandemic-related delay was necessary, “we also lament this lengthening test of our patience.”

But it pledged to “continue to work for the fullness of life for God’s LGBTQ+ children no matter when the next General Conference is held.”

By PETER SMITH, Associated PressA group of theologically conservative United Methodists plans to launch a new worldwide denomination on May 1, impatient to get started after yet another pandemic-related delay to a formalized divorce agreement with their denomination.The creation of the Global Methodist Church, announced Thursday, was long in the making, organized by conservatives who were fed up with liberal churches’ continued defiance of the United Methodist Church’s bans on same-sex marriage and the ordination of openly gay clergy.Global Methodist Church organizers had originally expected to launch the denomination only after the next General Conference of the UMC. That legislative body is the only one that could approve a tentative agreement — unveiled in 2020 after negotiations between conservatives, liberals and centrists — to allow churches and regional groups to leave the denomination and keep their property.But the General Conference, originally scheduled for 2020, was already delayed for two straight years by the pandemic. On Thursday, the United Methodist Church announced it was pushing off the next gathering yet again — to 2024 — due to long delays in the U.S. processing of visa applications. A little more than half of the denomination’s members are overseas, notably in Africa and the Philippines.UMC officials said the visa process has been delayed as long as 800 days in some cases.“The visa issue is a reality that is simply outside our control as we seek to achieve a reasonable threshold of delegate presence and participation,” said a statement by Kim Simpson, who chairs the denomination’s Commission on the General Conference.But the delay is hastening the breakup of one of the largest religious bodies in the United States.Already some conservative churches have left the denomination, and more are eager to do so, said a statement from the Global Methodist Church organizers.“Many United Methodists have grown impatient with a denomination clearly struggling to function effectively at the general church level,” said the Rev. Keith Boyette, chairman of the Transitional Leadership Council, which is organizing the Global Methodist Church.“Theologically conservative local churches and annual conferences want to be free of divisive and destructive debates, and to have the freedom to move forward together,” he said. “We are confident many existing congregations will join the new Global Methodist Church in waves over the next few years, and new church plants will sprout up.”Boyette, a Virginia-based Methodist elder, said he didn’t know how many churches would initially join the new denomination and “does not want to make any speculations.”Under United Methodist law, church properties are held in trust for the larger denomination. “However there have always been avenues for churches to separate from the denomination,” said a statement from Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey of Louisiana, president of the UMC’s Council of Bishops. Churches can negotiate separation agreements with their bishops.The organizers of the Global Methodist Church predicted some of its prospective members will reach amicable agreements to separate from their local conferences and that others would face more opposition.The United Methodist Church claims 6.3 million members in the U.S. and 6.5 million overseas.Differences over same-sex marriage and the ordination of LGBTQ clergy have simmered for years in the UMC, and came to a head in 2019 at a conference in St. Louis where delegates voted 438-384 to strengthen bans on LGBTQ-inclusive practices. Most U.S.-based delegates opposed that plan and favored LGBTQ-friendly options; they were outvoted by U.S. conservatives teamed with most of the delegates from Methodist strongholds in Africa and the Philippines.In the aftermath of that meeting, many moderate and liberal clergy made clear they would not abide by the bans, and various groups worked on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/global-methodist-church-breakaway-lgbt-f599979835addfd354856ff5b2024989">proposals to let the UMC split</a>&nbsp;along theological lines.The most prominent plan, the Protocol of Reconciliation &amp; Grace Through Separation, was endorsed by a wide spectrum of bishops and activists after it was reached through famed mediation lawyer Kenneth Feinberg, whose law firm has overseen the distribution of other massive legal settlements such as the 9/11 victims fund.Under the protocol, conservative congregations and regional bodies would be allowed to separate from the UMC and form a new denomination. They would receive $25 million in UMC funds and be able to keep their properties.Assuming a large exodus of conservatives, the remaining United Methodist Church would be poised to reverse its longstanding bans on gay ordination and marriage.Reconciling Ministries — a pro-LGBTQ advocacy caucus within the United Methodist Church — said that while the pandemic-related delay was necessary, “we also lament this lengthening test of our patience.”But it pledged to “continue to work for the fullness of life for God’s LGBTQ+ children no matter when the next General Conference is held.”___

Methodist conservatives set to launch breakaway group 

Moran: Russia’s attack on nuclear facility in Ukraine sends disturbing message

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/03/05/u-s-senators-from-kansas-seek-ban-on-russian-oil-imports-expansion-of-domestic-production/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The U.S. senators from 
Kansas endorsed an embargo on importation of Russian oil and the 
adoption of federal policy expanding domestic production of oil and 
natural gas to moderate the rising cost of energy for American 
consumers.

Sens. Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall, both Republicans, said the 
action was warranted amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Moran voiced 
concern Russia’s brazen assault on a nuclear power facility in Ukraine 
suggested international sanctions might be insufficient to deter 
President Vladimir Putin from widening the conflict.

Moran said it made no sense to continue purchasing oil or oil 
products from Russia — 700,000 barrels a day, or less than 10% of U.S. 
petroleum imports — when additional U.S. troops were being assigned to 
Europe in defense of NATO countries.

“It doesn’t come free. Increasing costs associated with the price of a
 gallon of gasoline, those things are going to occur,” Moran said Friday
 of an oil embargo. “It’s a reasonable request to ask the American 
consumer when we’re already asking American military men and women to 
potentially sacrifice their lives in support of democracy and freedom.”

President Joe Biden has to set aside his policy objective of reducing
 or eliminating use of fossil fuels by allowing greater production of 
natural gas and oil, Moran said.

Marshall said it was wrong Biden hadn’t escalated sanctioning of Russia by cutting off oil imports to the United States.

“Instead, he continues to use Russia as 
America’s gas station,” Marshall said. “President Biden can turn things 
around by immediately showing strength on the world stage, putting a 
stop to reckless spending, unleashing America’s energy independence and 
immediately banning the U.S. purchase of Russian oil.”

Marshall said it was an opportune moment for the U.S. Department of 
Interior to issue new oil and gas leases on public land, restart the 
Keystone XL Pipeline and expand natural gas exports to Europe.

In terms of Russia’s bombing of a nuclear facility in Ukraine, Moran 
said Putin’s previous decision to place his nuclear forces on alert 
should be viewed as more than an idle threat. The senator said Russia’s 
reckless assault of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear facility, which has six 
reactors, raised fear of a nuclear catastrophe.

“Initially, we could have thought that the suggestion that nuclear 
forces were going to be utilized maybe was saber-rattling,” Moran said. 
“I don’t think you can say that at all with any certainty.”

He said the conduct of Putin, despite international sanctions, added 
to vigor of questions about whether Russian military forces would 
eventually move beyond Ukraine.

“There is growing suggestion that Putin is not only evil, which we 
know, but is also irrational. My concern for this expanding beyond 
Ukraine has grown,” Moran said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646512033393.png" alt="U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, left, speaking Friday about Russia invasion of Ukraine during a news conference with KBI Director Kirk Thompson and Attorney General Derek Schmidt. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, left, speaking Friday about Russia invasion of Ukraine during a news conference with KBI Director Kirk Thompson and Attorney General Derek Schmidt. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Moran: Russia’s attack on nuclear facility in Ukraine sends disturbing message</h2>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/03/05/u-s-senators-from-kansas-seek-ban-on-russian-oil-imports-expansion-of-domestic-production/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The U.S. senators from 
Kansas endorsed an embargo on importation of Russian oil and the 
adoption of federal policy expanding domestic production of oil and 
natural gas to moderate the rising cost of energy for American 
consumers.Sens. Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall, both Republicans, said the 
action was warranted amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Moran voiced 
concern Russia’s brazen assault on a nuclear power facility in Ukraine 
suggested international sanctions might be insufficient to deter 
President Vladimir Putin from widening the conflict.Moran said it made no sense to continue purchasing oil or oil 
products from Russia — 700,000 barrels a day, or less than 10% of U.S. 
petroleum imports — when additional U.S. troops were being assigned to 
Europe in defense of NATO countries.“It doesn’t come free. Increasing costs associated with the price of a
 gallon of gasoline, those things are going to occur,” Moran said Friday
 of an oil embargo. “It’s a reasonable request to ask the American 
consumer when we’re already asking American military men and women to 
potentially sacrifice their lives in support of democracy and freedom.”President Joe Biden has to set aside his policy objective of reducing
 or eliminating use of fossil fuels by allowing greater production of 
natural gas and oil, Moran said.Marshall said it was wrong Biden hadn’t escalated sanctioning of Russia by cutting off oil imports to the United States.“Instead, he continues to use Russia as 
America’s gas station,” Marshall said. “President Biden can turn things 
around by immediately showing strength on the world stage, putting a 
stop to reckless spending, unleashing America’s energy independence and 
immediately banning the U.S. purchase of Russian oil.”Marshall said it was an opportune moment for the U.S. Department of 
Interior to issue new oil and gas leases on public land, restart the 
Keystone XL Pipeline and expand natural gas exports to Europe.In terms of Russia’s bombing of a nuclear facility in Ukraine, Moran 
said Putin’s previous decision to place his nuclear forces on alert 
should be viewed as more than an idle threat. The senator said Russia’s 
reckless assault of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear facility, which has six 
reactors, raised fear of a nuclear catastrophe.“Initially, we could have thought that the suggestion that nuclear 
forces were going to be utilized maybe was saber-rattling,” Moran said. 
“I don’t think you can say that at all with any certainty.”He said the conduct of Putin, despite international sanctions, added 
to vigor of questions about whether Russian military forces would 
eventually move beyond Ukraine.“There is growing suggestion that Putin is not only evil, which we 
know, but is also irrational. My concern for this expanding beyond 
Ukraine has grown,” Moran said.

Moran, Marshall seek ban on Russian oil imports

MISSION, Kan. (AP) — An 18-year-old student has been charged in a shooting that wounded an administrator and a school resource officer at a suburban Kansas City high school. 

The Johnson County prosecutor’s office announced Saturday that Jaylon Desean Elmore is charged with attempted capital murder in the shooting Friday at Olathe East High School. 

His bond is set at $1 million and no first appearance has been set. The prosecutor’s office didn’t immediately respond to questions about whether he has an attorney and none is listed for him in online court records. Online records show he has a previous conviction for aggravated robbery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646530374745.png" alt="Elmore photo courtesy Olathe East Varsity Football&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Elmore photo courtesy Olathe East Varsity Football&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>MISSION, Kan. (AP) — An 18-year-old student has been charged in a shooting that wounded an administrator and a school resource officer at a suburban Kansas City high school. The Johnson County prosecutor’s office announced Saturday that Jaylon Desean Elmore is charged with attempted capital murder in the shooting Friday at Olathe East High School. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646417385414.png" alt="Outside Olathe East during Friday's school shooting investigation-photo courtesy KMBC TV" />
 <figcaption>Outside Olathe East during Friday's school shooting investigation-photo courtesy KMBC TV</figcaption>
 </figure>His bond is set at $1 million and no first appearance has been set. The prosecutor’s office didn’t immediately respond to questions about whether he has an attorney and none is listed for him in online court records. Online records show he has a previous conviction for aggravated robbery.

Student charged with attempted murder for Kan. school shooting 

OSAGE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug charges.

Just before noon Friday,&nbsp;&nbsp;deputies served an Osage County arrest warrant in the 300 block of North 3rd Street in Quenemo, according to sheriff Chris Wells.

Deputies arrested 57-year-old Chris W. Fine of Quenemo and transported him to the Osage County Jail Facility for the warrant.

After arriving at the jail facility, suspected methamphetamine was in Fine’s possession. Fine was booked into jail on the warrant. He also faced requested charges of possession of methamphetamine and trafficking contraband into a correctional facility.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646451957138.png" alt="Fine-photo Osage Co." />
 <figcaption>Fine-photo Osage Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>OSAGE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug charges.Just before noon Friday,&nbsp;&nbsp;deputies served an Osage County arrest warrant in the 300 block of North 3rd Street in Quenemo, according to sheriff Chris Wells.Deputies arrested 57-year-old Chris W. Fine of Quenemo and transported him to the Osage County Jail Facility for the warrant.After arriving at the jail facility, suspected methamphetamine was in Fine’s possession. Fine was booked into jail on the warrant. He also faced requested charges of possession of methamphetamine and trafficking contraband into a correctional facility.

Kansas deputies found meth while booking suspect into jail

HILLSBORO, Kan. (AP) — Officials at a private Christian college in Kansas are vowing not to forget two football players from California who were killed in a crash that also left a third player badly injured. 

Tabor College’s head football coach, Mike Gardner, described 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 as “two of the most unselfish players that I’ve had ever.”

He spoke Friday, five days after the two were found dead at the scene of an early-morning crash on a rural road south of Hillsboro, where Tabor is located. College president David Janzen says a third Tabor football player,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.taborbluejays.com/roster/19/2/10030.php">Jonathan Medina</a>, remains hospitalized with a serious back injury.

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.

<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>HILLSBORO, Kan. (AP) — Officials at a private Christian college in Kansas are vowing not to forget two football players from California who were killed in a crash that also left a third player badly injured. Tabor College’s head football coach, Mike Gardner, described 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 as “two of the most unselfish players that I’ve had ever.” He spoke Friday, five days after the two were found dead at the scene of an early-morning crash on a rural road south of Hillsboro, where Tabor is located. College president David Janzen says a third Tabor football player,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.taborbluejays.com/roster/19/2/10030.php">Jonathan Medina</a>, remains hospitalized with a serious back injury.--------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.

Kansas college remembers 2 football players killed in crash

WNBA All-Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wnba.com/player/brittney-griner/">Brittney Griner</a> was arrested last month at a Moscow airport after Russian authorities said a search of her luggage revealed vape cartridges. Griner was a three time Big 12 player of the year 2011, 2012, and 2013 at Baylor.

The Russian Customs Service said Saturday that the cartridges were identified as containing oil derived from cannabis, which could carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. The customs service identified the person arrested as a player for the U.S. women’s team and did not specify the date of her arrest. Russian media reported the player was Griner, and her agent, Lindsay Kagawa Colas, did not dispute those reports.

“We are aware of the situation with Brittney Griner in Russia and are in close contact with her, her legal representation in Russia, her family, her teams, and the WNBA and NBA,” Kagawa Colas said Saturday. “As this is an ongoing legal matter, we are not able to comment further on the specifics of her case but can confirm that as we work to get her home, her mental and physical health remain our primary concern.”

On Saturday, the State Department issued a “do not travel” advisory for Russia because of its invasion of Ukraine and urged all U.S. citizens to depart immediately, citing factors including “the potential for harassment against U.S. citizens by Russian government security officials” and “the Embassy’s limited ability to assist” Americans in Russia.

Griner, who plays for the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury, has played in Russia for the last seven years in the winter, earning over $1 million per season — more than quadruple her WNBA salary. She last played for her Russian team UMMC Ekaterinburg on Jan. 29 before the league took a two-week break in early February for the FIBA World Cup qualifying tournaments.

More than a dozen WNBA players were playing in Russia and Ukraine this winter, including league MVP Jonquel Jones and Courtney Vandersloot and Allie Quigley of the champion Chicago Sky. The WNBA confirmed Saturday that all players besides Griner had left both countries.

The 31-year-old Griner has won two Olympic gold medals with the U.S., a WNBA championship with the Mercury and a national championship at Baylor. She is a seven-time All-Star.

“Brittney Griner has the WNBA’s full support and our main priority is her swift and safe return to the United States,” the league said in a statement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646510097872.png" alt="Griner photo courtesy Phoenix Mercury" />
 <figcaption>Griner photo courtesy Phoenix Mercury</figcaption>
 </figure>By DOUG FEINBERG, Associated PressWNBA All-Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wnba.com/player/brittney-griner/">Brittney Griner</a> was arrested last month at a Moscow airport after Russian authorities said a search of her luggage revealed vape cartridges. Griner was a three time Big 12 player of the year 2011, 2012, and 2013 at Baylor.The Russian Customs Service said Saturday that the cartridges were identified as containing oil derived from cannabis, which could carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. The customs service identified the person arrested as a player for the U.S. women’s team and did not specify the date of her arrest. Russian media reported the player was Griner, and her agent, Lindsay Kagawa Colas, did not dispute those reports.“We are aware of the situation with Brittney Griner in Russia and are in close contact with her, her legal representation in Russia, her family, her teams, and the WNBA and NBA,” Kagawa Colas said Saturday. “As this is an ongoing legal matter, we are not able to comment further on the specifics of her case but can confirm that as we work to get her home, her mental and physical health remain our primary concern.”On Saturday, the State Department issued a “do not travel” advisory for Russia because of its invasion of Ukraine and urged all U.S. citizens to depart immediately, citing factors including “the potential for harassment against U.S. citizens by Russian government security officials” and “the Embassy’s limited ability to assist” Americans in Russia.Griner, who plays for the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury, has played in Russia for the last seven years in the winter, earning over $1 million per season — more than quadruple her WNBA salary. She last played for her Russian team UMMC Ekaterinburg on Jan. 29 before the league took a two-week break in early February for the FIBA World Cup qualifying tournaments.More than a dozen WNBA players were playing in Russia and Ukraine this winter, including league MVP Jonquel Jones and Courtney Vandersloot and Allie Quigley of the champion Chicago Sky. The WNBA confirmed Saturday that all players besides Griner had left both countries.The 31-year-old Griner has won two Olympic gold medals with the U.S., a WNBA championship with the Mercury and a national championship at Baylor. She is a seven-time All-Star.“Brittney Griner has the WNBA’s full support and our main priority is her swift and safe return to the United States,” the league said in a statement.

Russia jails 3-time Big 12 player of the year Griner on drug charges

By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/03/03/kansas-acting-health-director-too-willing-to-listen-to-cdc-says-senate-committee/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The Kansas Senate will 
need to decide whether to confirm Janet Stanek, the acting director of 
the state health department, without a committee recommendation after 
some Republicans on the panel voiced concerns over her adherence to 
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines.

It is unclear how Stanek will fare in the full Senate, but the 
decision Thursday by the Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee to 
make no recommendation — either for or against her — indicates some 
conservative displeasure with the Kelly administration’s handling of the
 pandemic.

The committee’s decision comes after a confirmation hearing Wednesday
 where conservative Republicans pressed Stanek about the CDC rules and 
the performance of the previous Kansas Department of Health and 
Environment Secretary Lee Norman.

Sen. Mike Thompson, a conservative Shawnee Republican, initially made
 an unsuccessful motion to refer the appointment to the Senate with a 
recommendation to reject. He said he could not let go of concerns that 
Stanek’s adherence to the CDC would lead to the same issues they had 
with Norman.

“Is she qualified to run an agency? Sure, but I have serious concerns
 about her ability to look outside institutional health and to make the 
decisions necessary to save lives in Kansas if she were facing a similar
 situation,” Thompson said. “To her own admission in testimony 
yesterday, the pandemic’s not over, so what kind of things are we going 
to see going forward if there’s a spike in cases?”

The same panel grilled Stanek over COVID-19 conspiracy theories in 
January during her first formal appearance before the Legislature. If 
the Senate votes to reject Stanek’s appointment, she would have to step 
down from the position.

Stanek is a former senior vice president and chief operating officer 
for the Topeka-based Stormont Vail Health. She was appointed to her 
current role shortly after Norman’s resignation in November, for what he
 said was&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/12/13/former-kansas-health-secretary-caught-off-guard-by-firing-plans-to-keep-fighting-pandemic/">a lack of adherence to a tight, scripted message</a>&nbsp;the governor’s office wanted to send.

Sen. Pat Pettey, who recommended advancing Stanek favorably, said the
 committee’s decision to not make a recommendation, was a disservice to 
Kansans. Being an armchair quarterback two and a half years later is 
easy, but the role requires someone who can see the whole picture and 
make decisions in the moment, the Kansas City Democrat said.

“We should not make our decisions based totally on what we think 
about certain beliefs concerning COVID because I would disagree with 
many of the statements that have been made,” Pettey said.

It is not yet clear when the Senate will vote on her confirmation.

Throughout the hearing Wednesday, Stanek was repeatedly asked how she
 would approach recommendations from the CDC regarding masks, vaccines 
and COVID-19 treatments.

Sen. Mark Steffen said KDHE ought to be more careful about labeling 
the vaccine safe and effective and worried Stanek would do so if 
directed by the CDC. The Hutchinson Republican and anesthesiologist is <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/01/26/kansas-senator-under-investigation-after-prescribing-ivermectin-for-covid-19-seeks-legal-cover/">currently under investigation</a> for prescribing ivermectin&nbsp;to patients as a treatment for COVID-19.

“When it comes to COVID shot, yeah, we talked about how KDHE was 
basically saying safe and effective, safe and effective, safe and 
effective when we have a CDC VAERS reporting system that ties 
20,000-plus deaths and more complications to the shots than all the 
other vaccines combined,” Steffen said.

Stanek said she would follow primarily what the CDC recommends as is 
standard for most public health officers for local and state governments
 across the county. However, she did express a willingness to listen and
 make changes where appropriate.

For example, KDHE is currently in the process of revisiting television advertisements promoting the COVID-19 vaccine.

“We have removed the TV ads and we are making sure that in reviewing 
all of our ads that if we do have a an advertisement or something that 
might mention getting a vaccine that there is a link and we are 
encouraging people to follow up with their doctor,” Stanek said, 
reiterating that the CDC will remain the point of reference.

The CDC reports that COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective, beyond
 common side effects like muscle pain. The four serious side effects 
linked to the vaccine — anaphylaxis, thrombosis with thrombocytopenia 
syndrome, myocarditis and pericarditis and Guillain-Barré Syndrome — are
 rare. Reports to VAERS comes from <a target="_blank" href="https://www.minnpost.com/health/2022/02/what-the-cdcs-vaers-system-is-and-isnt-good-for/">doctors, hospitals and members of the public</a>, and the CDC notes that not all&nbsp;reactions are caused by the vaccination.

If confirmed as the new secretary, Stanek said chief priorities would
 include rebuilding trust in the department by increasing transparency, 
increased communication with state legislators and engaging with 
stakeholders to address current and future issues.

As a testament to her willingness to engage with legislators, Stanek 
pointed out that she had sat down with each legislator on the panel in 
the weeks leading up to the confirmation hearing. She said 
intergovernmental collaboration would go a long way to improving the 
future of public health in Kansas.

“I’ve dedicated my life to my profession and improving the health and
 safety of my community,” Stanek said. “Because of my experiences and as
 an accomplished executive and nonprofit volunteer, I believe I am 
uniquely qualified to lead the state’s third largest agency … and the 
millions of people it serves every day.”

Other priorities she noted include managing the department’s fiscal 
situation, improving staffing and resource infrastructure and making 
strides in workforce retention and development.

In addition to working at Stormont Vail, Stanek served as director of
 the State Employee Health Benefits Program and as chairwoman of the 
Kansas Health Institute board of directors. She has held a health care 
leadership position for the past 35 years in Kansas, Pennsylvania and 
New York.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646407803859.png" alt="Acting KDHE secretary Janet Stanek path to confirmation was muddied Thursday as a Senate panel chose to advance her candidacy to the senate without recommendation. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Acting KDHE secretary Janet Stanek path to confirmation was muddied Thursday as a Senate panel chose to advance her candidacy to the senate without recommendation. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/03/03/kansas-acting-health-director-too-willing-to-listen-to-cdc-says-senate-committee/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The Kansas Senate will 
need to decide whether to confirm Janet Stanek, the acting director of 
the state health department, without a committee recommendation after 
some Republicans on the panel voiced concerns over her adherence to 
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines.It is unclear how Stanek will fare in the full Senate, but the 
decision Thursday by the Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee to 
make no recommendation — either for or against her — indicates some 
conservative displeasure with the Kelly administration’s handling of the
 pandemic.The committee’s decision comes after a confirmation hearing Wednesday
 where conservative Republicans pressed Stanek about the CDC rules and 
the performance of the previous Kansas Department of Health and 
Environment Secretary Lee Norman.Sen. Mike Thompson, a conservative Shawnee Republican, initially made
 an unsuccessful motion to refer the appointment to the Senate with a 
recommendation to reject. He said he could not let go of concerns that 
Stanek’s adherence to the CDC would lead to the same issues they had 
with Norman.“Is she qualified to run an agency? Sure, but I have serious concerns
 about her ability to look outside institutional health and to make the 
decisions necessary to save lives in Kansas if she were facing a similar
 situation,” Thompson said. “To her own admission in testimony 
yesterday, the pandemic’s not over, so what kind of things are we going 
to see going forward if there’s a spike in cases?”The same panel grilled Stanek over COVID-19 conspiracy theories in 
January during her first formal appearance before the Legislature. If 
the Senate votes to reject Stanek’s appointment, she would have to step 
down from the position.Stanek is a former senior vice president and chief operating officer 
for the Topeka-based Stormont Vail Health. She was appointed to her 
current role shortly after Norman’s resignation in November, for what he
 said was&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/12/13/former-kansas-health-secretary-caught-off-guard-by-firing-plans-to-keep-fighting-pandemic/">a lack of adherence to a tight, scripted message</a>&nbsp;the governor’s office wanted to send.Sen. Pat Pettey, who recommended advancing Stanek favorably, said the
 committee’s decision to not make a recommendation, was a disservice to 
Kansans. Being an armchair quarterback two and a half years later is 
easy, but the role requires someone who can see the whole picture and 
make decisions in the moment, the Kansas City Democrat said.“We should not make our decisions based totally on what we think 
about certain beliefs concerning COVID because I would disagree with 
many of the statements that have been made,” Pettey said.It is not yet clear when the Senate will vote on her confirmation.<h2>CDC concerns</h2>Throughout the hearing Wednesday, Stanek was repeatedly asked how she
 would approach recommendations from the CDC regarding masks, vaccines 
and COVID-19 treatments.Sen. Mark Steffen said KDHE ought to be more careful about labeling 
the vaccine safe and effective and worried Stanek would do so if 
directed by the CDC. The Hutchinson Republican and anesthesiologist is <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/01/26/kansas-senator-under-investigation-after-prescribing-ivermectin-for-covid-19-seeks-legal-cover/">currently under investigation</a> for prescribing ivermectin&nbsp;to patients as a treatment for COVID-19.“When it comes to COVID shot, yeah, we talked about how KDHE was 
basically saying safe and effective, safe and effective, safe and 
effective when we have a CDC VAERS reporting system that ties 
20,000-plus deaths and more complications to the shots than all the 
other vaccines combined,” Steffen said.Stanek said she would follow primarily what the CDC recommends as is 
standard for most public health officers for local and state governments
 across the county. However, she did express a willingness to listen and
 make changes where appropriate.For example, KDHE is currently in the process of revisiting television advertisements promoting the COVID-19 vaccine.“We have removed the TV ads and we are making sure that in reviewing 
all of our ads that if we do have a an advertisement or something that 
might mention getting a vaccine that there is a link and we are 
encouraging people to follow up with their doctor,” Stanek said, 
reiterating that the CDC will remain the point of reference.The CDC reports that COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective, beyond
 common side effects like muscle pain. The four serious side effects 
linked to the vaccine — anaphylaxis, thrombosis with thrombocytopenia 
syndrome, myocarditis and pericarditis and Guillain-Barré Syndrome — are
 rare. Reports to VAERS comes from <a target="_blank" href="https://www.minnpost.com/health/2022/02/what-the-cdcs-vaers-system-is-and-isnt-good-for/">doctors, hospitals and members of the public</a>, and the CDC notes that not all&nbsp;reactions are caused by the vaccination.<h2>New department priorities</h2>If confirmed as the new secretary, Stanek said chief priorities would
 include rebuilding trust in the department by increasing transparency, 
increased communication with state legislators and engaging with 
stakeholders to address current and future issues.As a testament to her willingness to engage with legislators, Stanek 
pointed out that she had sat down with each legislator on the panel in 
the weeks leading up to the confirmation hearing. She said 
intergovernmental collaboration would go a long way to improving the 
future of public health in Kansas.“I’ve dedicated my life to my profession and improving the health and
 safety of my community,” Stanek said. “Because of my experiences and as
 an accomplished executive and nonprofit volunteer, I believe I am 
uniquely qualified to lead the state’s third largest agency … and the 
millions of people it serves every day.”Other priorities she noted include managing the department’s fiscal 
situation, improving staffing and resource infrastructure and making 
strides in workforce retention and development.In addition to working at Stormont Vail, Stanek served as director of
 the State Employee Health Benefits Program and as chairwoman of the 
Kansas Health Institute board of directors. She has held a health care 
leadership position for the past 35 years in Kansas, Pennsylvania and 
New York.

Kan. Senate panel: Acting health director too willing to listen to CDC

LAWRENCE —FBI Director Christopher Wray addressed the evolving cyber threat, the importance of partnerships, the Bureau’s push to recruit tech talent, and the value of information sharing amongst law enforcement, academia, and the private sector during an event at the University of Kansas Friday, according to a social media statement from the agency.

Later in the day, Wray also met with law-enforcement partners in Kansas to discuss some of the agency's top priorities—such as fighting violent crime, preventing domestic terrorism, and combating the cyber threat—and how teamwork can help us tackle these shared challenges.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646494516625.png" alt="KU Chancellor Dr. Doug Girod and FBI Director Christopher Wray-photo courtesy FBI" />
 <figcaption>KU Chancellor Dr. Doug Girod and FBI Director Christopher Wray-photo courtesy FBI</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE —FBI Director Christopher Wray addressed the evolving cyber threat, the importance of partnerships, the Bureau’s push to recruit tech talent, and the value of information sharing amongst law enforcement, academia, and the private sector during an event at the University of Kansas Friday, according to a social media statement from the agency.Later in the day, Wray also met with law-enforcement partners in Kansas to discuss some of the agency's top priorities—such as fighting violent crime, preventing domestic terrorism, and combating the cyber threat—and how teamwork can help us tackle these shared challenges.

FBI Director met with law enforcement during event at KU

HARVEY COUNTY—The Harvey County Sheriff's Office has terminated the employment of two Detention Center deputies following an internal investigation into harassment claims, according to a media release.

On February 18, sheriff's office administration opened an internal investigation following notification of allegations of harassment involving two detention deputies. They were placed on administrative leave.

The actions of the individuals were direct violations of sheriff's office employment policies. No criminal charges were involved. The incident is a personnel matter, and the Sheriff's Office will not release additional information about the individuals or the incident.

HARVEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged harassment involving deputies in Harvey County.

According to a social media report, the sheriff's office administration was made aware of alleged harassment claims against two Harvey County deputies. 

The sheriff's office begun an internal investigation to gather more information. While the investigation is being conducted, the two deputies have been placed on administrative leave. 

"We take these allegations with the utmost seriousness, and will respond appropriately once the investigation is completed."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582804602109.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HARVEY COUNTY—The Harvey County Sheriff's Office has terminated the employment of two Detention Center deputies following an internal investigation into harassment claims, according to a media release.On February 18, sheriff's office administration opened an internal investigation following notification of allegations of harassment involving two detention deputies. They were placed on administrative leave.The actions of the individuals were direct violations of sheriff's office employment policies. No criminal charges were involved. The incident is a personnel matter, and the Sheriff's Office will not release additional information about the individuals or the incident.----------HARVEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged harassment involving deputies in Harvey County.According to a social media report, the sheriff's office administration was made aware of alleged harassment claims against two Harvey County deputies. The sheriff's office begun an internal investigation to gather more information. While the investigation is being conducted, the two deputies have been placed on administrative leave. "We take these allegations with the utmost seriousness, and will respond appropriately once the investigation is completed."

Two Harvey Co. deputies fired for reported harassment

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Kansas Supreme Court on Friday refused to dismiss three lawsuits that challenge new Republican-drawn congressional redistricting maps. 

Attorney General Derek Schmidt made the request, arguing that the state court system does not have jurisdiction to decide disputes over redistricting for federal offices. 

All three of the suits allege that the new maps impermissibly gerrymandered in violation of the Kansas Constitution. Republican lawmakers dismissed allegations of gerrymandering.

“We had hoped to resolve the unsettled constitutional questions in these unprecedented cases more quickly and efficiently by presenting them directly to the Kansas Supreme Court, Schmidt said in a statement from his office. "But today’s decision requires we resolve them the slower and potentially far more expensive way by starting in the trial courts, so that is what we will do.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643147273216.png" alt="Redistricting" />
 <figcaption>Redistricting</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Kansas Supreme Court on Friday refused to dismiss three lawsuits that challenge new Republican-drawn congressional redistricting maps. Attorney General Derek Schmidt made the request, arguing that the state court system does not have jurisdiction to decide disputes over redistricting for federal offices. All three of the suits allege that the new maps impermissibly gerrymandered in violation of the Kansas Constitution. Republican lawmakers dismissed allegations of gerrymandering.“We had hoped to resolve the unsettled constitutional questions in these unprecedented cases more quickly and efficiently by presenting them directly to the Kansas Supreme Court, Schmidt said in a statement from his office. "But today’s decision requires we resolve them the slower and potentially far more expensive way by starting in the trial courts, so that is what we will do.”

Kan. court refuses to dismiss suits over redistricting maps

RUSH COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) Special Agents made multiple arrests connected to the January 2022 murder of 61-year-old Leslie Randa, according to a media release from the KBI.

Just before 8:30p.m. Friday, Jennifer Page Stipe, 48, and Darin Lee McBee, 58, both of 325 Marla Street in Great Bend, Kan. were arrested. 

Stipe was arrested on a requested charge of first degree murder. McBee was arrested on requested charges that include multiple felonies related to the murder. 

The arrest took place at&nbsp;Lowe’s Home Improvement parking lot at 1930 East 17th&nbsp;Ave. in Hutchinson. Authorities also located the missing 2006 GMC Envoy.&nbsp;On Jan. 21, a family member found Leslie Randa deceased in his home, located at 205 E 5th Street in LaCrosse.

The Kansas Attorney General&nbsp;is expected to prosecute the case.

RUSH COUNTY– The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and Rush County Sheriff’s Office continue their search for a Black 2006 GMC Envoy in connection with the January 21 homicide of 61-year-old Leslie Randa of La Crosse.

 The vehicle has Kansas tag 463HAE&nbsp; and front grill guard is chrome. 

 The SUV was observed in Wichita after Randa was killed, and may still be in the Wichita area. 

If anyone saw this SUV on January 11, or after, please contact the KBI at 1-800-KSCRIME, or the Rush County Sheriff’s Office at 785-222-2578.

A family member found Leslie Randa in his home, located at 205 E 5th Street in LaCrosse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646497053839.png" alt="Stipe is being held in Ford Co." />
 <figcaption>Stipe is being held in Ford Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>RUSH COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) Special Agents made multiple arrests connected to the January 2022 murder of 61-year-old Leslie Randa, according to a media release from the KBI.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646497116590.png" alt="McBee photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>McBee photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 8:30p.m. Friday, Jennifer Page Stipe, 48, and Darin Lee McBee, 58, both of 325 Marla Street in Great Bend, Kan. were arrested. Stipe was arrested on a requested charge of first degree murder. McBee was arrested on requested charges that include multiple felonies related to the murder. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643198011225.png" alt="Photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>Photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>The arrest took place at&nbsp;Lowe’s Home Improvement parking lot at 1930 East 17th&nbsp;Ave. in Hutchinson. Authorities also located the missing 2006 GMC Envoy.&nbsp;On Jan. 21, a family member found Leslie Randa deceased in his home, located at 205 E 5th Street in LaCrosse.The Kansas Attorney General&nbsp;is expected to prosecute the case.------------RUSH COUNTY– The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and Rush County Sheriff’s Office continue their search for a Black 2006 GMC Envoy in connection with the January 21 homicide of 61-year-old Leslie Randa of La Crosse. The vehicle has Kansas tag 463HAE&nbsp; and front grill guard is chrome. The SUV was observed in Wichita after Randa was killed, and may still be in the Wichita area. If anyone saw this SUV on January 11, or after, please contact the KBI at 1-800-KSCRIME, or the Rush County Sheriff’s Office at 785-222-2578.A family member found Leslie Randa in his home, located at 205 E 5th Street in LaCrosse.

KBI: 2 suspects arrested in Kansas homicide investigation

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement and school officials are crediting School Resource Officer Erik Clark for his actions during Friday's shooting at Olathe East High School.&nbsp; On social media, the Johnson County Sheriff's office said, "the entire Sheriff’s Office is keeping SRO Erik Clark, his family and his Olathe Police family in our prayers."

&nbsp;A male student shot and wounded&nbsp;Resource Officer Clark and Assistant Principal Kaleb Stoppel.&nbsp; The student was also shot when the officer returned fire.

Olathe police spokesman Sgt. Joe Yeldell said the shooting occurred in the office area of Olathe East High School around 10:30 a.m., but didn't provide details on what prompted the incident. Yeldell says the student is an adult. He was taken into custody and remained hospitalized late Friday.&nbsp;Clark and and Stoppel were released from Overland Park Regional Medical Center.&nbsp;

OLATHE, Kan. (AP) — Authorities say a male student shot and wounded a school administrator and a school resource officer Friday at a suburban Kansas City high school. The student was also shot when the officer returned fire. Authorities say all three are expected to survive. 

Olathe police spokesman Sgt. Joe Yeldell said the shooting occurred&nbsp; the office area of Olathe East High School around 10:30 a.m., but didn't provide details on what prompted the incident. Yeldell says the student is an adult and was taken into custody. 

No other students were injured. A statement from Overland Park Regional Medical Center says one of the three people wounded is in critical condition. The other two have been discharged.

OLATHE, Kan. (AP) — Authorities say a male student shot and wounded a school administrator and a school resource officer Friday at a suburban Kansas City high school. The student was also shot when the officer returned fire. 

Authorities say all three are expected to survive. Olathe police spokesman Sgt. Joe Yeldell said the shooting occurred in the office area of Olathe East High School around 10:30 a.m., but didn't provide details on what prompted the incident. Yeldell says the student is an adult and was taken into custody. 

OLATHE, Kan. (AP) — Authorities say a male student shot and wounded a school administrator and a school resource officer Friday at Olathe East High School in suburban Kansas City.

The student was also shot when the officer returned fire. Authorities say all three are expected to survive. Olathe police spokesman Sgt. Joe Yeldell said the shooting occurred in the office area of Olathe East High School around 10:30 a.m., but didn't provide details on what prompted the incident. 

Yeldell says the student is an adult and was taken into custody. No other students were injured. The county prosecutor’s office declined to comment Friday on potential charges.

OLATHE, Kan. (AP) — Authorities say a suspect shot and wounded a school administrator and a school resource officer Friday at a suburban Kansas City high school. The student was also shot when the officer returned fire. All three are expected to survive. 

Olathe police spokesman Sgt. Joe Yeldell said the shooting occurred in the office area of Olathe East High School. No other students were injured. 

Yeldell did not immediately have any information on the sequence of the shootings. Police didn’t immediately release any information on the identity of the suspect or a motive. Agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were on the scene.

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting at Olathe East High School,&nbsp;14545 W 127th Street in Olathe, according to a statement from Olathe Police.

The School Resource Officer and school administrator were shot and injured. The shooting occurred in the office area Friday morning.&nbsp;

Police have a suspect in custody.&nbsp; There are no reports of injured students at this time, according to police.&nbsp; Parents are asked to go to the Family Video 12708 S Black Bob to be reunited with their students.

The district said in a tweet that Olathe East High School is currently under lockdown because of the situation.&nbsp;

Agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are on the scene.

Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement and school officials are crediting School Resource Officer Erik Clark for his actions during Friday's shooting at Olathe East High School.&nbsp; On social media, the Johnson County Sheriff's office said, "the entire Sheriff’s Office is keeping SRO Erik Clark, his family and his Olathe Police family in our prayers."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The entire Sheriff’s Office is keeping SRO Clark, his family and his <a href="https://twitter.com/OlathePolice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OlathePolice</a> family in our prayers tonight 💙 <a href="https://t.co/16c59jHcVv">pic.twitter.com/16c59jHcVv</a>&mdash; Johnson Co KS Sheriff (@JOCOSHERIFF) <a href="https://twitter.com/JOCOSHERIFF/status/1499915127595937801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>&nbsp;A male student shot and wounded&nbsp;Resource Officer Clark and Assistant Principal Kaleb Stoppel.&nbsp; The student was also shot when the officer returned fire.Olathe police spokesman Sgt. Joe Yeldell said the shooting occurred in the office area of Olathe East High School around 10:30 a.m., but didn't provide details on what prompted the incident. Yeldell says the student is an adult. He was taken into custody and remained hospitalized late Friday.&nbsp;Clark and and Stoppel were released from Overland Park Regional Medical Center.&nbsp;--------OLATHE, Kan. (AP) — Authorities say a male student shot and wounded a school administrator and a school resource officer Friday at a suburban Kansas City high school. The student was also shot when the officer returned fire. Authorities say all three are expected to survive. Olathe police spokesman Sgt. Joe Yeldell said the shooting occurred&nbsp; the office area of Olathe East High School around 10:30 a.m., but didn't provide details on what prompted the incident. Yeldell says the student is an adult and was taken into custody. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646417385414.png" alt="Police on the scene of Olathe East High School Friday afternoon-photo courtesy KBMC -TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of Olathe East High School Friday afternoon-photo courtesy KBMC -TV</figcaption>
 </figure>No other students were injured. A statement from Overland Park Regional Medical Center says one of the three people wounded is in critical condition. The other two have been discharged.-----OLATHE, Kan. (AP) — Authorities say a male student shot and wounded a school administrator and a school resource officer Friday at a suburban Kansas City high school. The student was also shot when the officer returned fire. Authorities say all three are expected to survive. Olathe police spokesman Sgt. Joe Yeldell said the shooting occurred in the office area of Olathe East High School around 10:30 a.m., but didn't provide details on what prompted the incident. Yeldell says the student is an adult and was taken into custody. No other students were injured. A statement from Overland Park Regional Medical Center says one of the three people wounded is in critical condition. The other two have been discharged.-------OLATHE, Kan. (AP) — Authorities say a male student shot and wounded a school administrator and a school resource officer Friday at Olathe East High School in suburban Kansas City.The student was also shot when the officer returned fire. Authorities say all three are expected to survive. Olathe police spokesman Sgt. Joe Yeldell said the shooting occurred in the office area of Olathe East High School around 10:30 a.m., but didn't provide details on what prompted the incident. Yeldell says the student is an adult and was taken into custody. No other students were injured. The county prosecutor’s office declined to comment Friday on potential charges.----------OLATHE, Kan. (AP) — Authorities say a suspect shot and wounded a school administrator and a school resource officer Friday at a suburban Kansas City high school. The student was also shot when the officer returned fire. All three are expected to survive. Olathe police spokesman Sgt. Joe Yeldell said the shooting occurred in the office area of Olathe East High School. No other students were injured. Yeldell did not immediately have any information on the sequence of the shootings. Police didn’t immediately release any information on the identity of the suspect or a motive. Agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were on the scene.----------JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting at Olathe East High School,&nbsp;14545 W 127th Street in Olathe, according to a statement from Olathe Police.The School Resource Officer and school administrator were shot and injured. The shooting occurred in the office area Friday morning.&nbsp;Police have a suspect in custody.&nbsp; There are no reports of injured students at this time, according to police.&nbsp; Parents are asked to go to the Family Video 12708 S Black Bob to be reunited with their students.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Olathe Families: Olathe East is currently under lock down due to an active shooting situation on campus. Please know that law enforcement is on site and the building is secured. Olathe East and surrounding school buildings have been secured. We are working on reunification plans.&mdash; Olathe Public Schools (@olatheschools) <a href="https://twitter.com/olatheschools/status/1499792584159469569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The district said in a tweet that Olathe East High School is currently under lockdown because of the situation.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I am praying for those injured and want to thank the brave law enforcement officers who responded quickly today. I’m thankful all students have been reported safe at this time. For the latest updates, please follow <a href="https://twitter.com/OlathePolice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OlathePolice</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/olatheschools?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@olatheschools</a>. <a href="https://t.co/JAFcSLbF5b">https://t.co/JAFcSLbF5b</a>&mdash; Senator Jerry Moran (@JerryMoran) <a href="https://twitter.com/JerryMoran/status/1499800926906953728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are on the scene.Check the Post for additional details as they become available.