WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Doctors are worried about hospital capacity in the Wichita area amid the latest surge in virus cases and the ongoing staff shortages.

The high number of COVID cases along with other patients who need hospital care is leading to long waits in emergency rooms across Kansas’ largest city.

“You’ve got people waiting for days in emergency departments, sleeping on the floor or sitting in a chair for two days until a bed becomes available,” said Dr. Tom Moore, the lead physician in Wesley hospital’s COVID-19 unit.

The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Kansas has risen over the past two weeks from 1,674.14 new cases per day on Dec. 17 to 2,001.29 new cases per day on Friday.

Dr. Sam Antonios, Ascension Via Christi’s chief clinical officer,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.com/news/coronavirus/article256944712.html" target="_blank">told&nbsp;</a>the Wichita Eagle that the surge is also leading to unusually high wait times at St. Joseph and St. Francis hospitals.

“We have nearly 100 patients receiving care for COVID-19, straining our staff resources and the number of beds we have open for other types of care,” Antonios said.

Hospitals in Kansas are struggling to find enough nurses to care for critically ill patients because some intensive care nurses have been lured away by high-paying jobs in other states. Some health care workers are also leaving the profession after working long hours battling the pandemic for nearly two years.

Antonios reiterated that everyone should get vaccinated for COVID-19 and the flu to help limit the spread of those viruses and consider wearing masks when out in public.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639778741791.png" alt="Photo courtesy University of Kansas Health System" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy University of Kansas Health System</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Doctors are worried about hospital capacity in the Wichita area amid the latest surge in virus cases and the ongoing staff shortages.The high number of COVID cases along with other patients who need hospital care is leading to long waits in emergency rooms across Kansas’ largest city.“You’ve got people waiting for days in emergency departments, sleeping on the floor or sitting in a chair for two days until a bed becomes available,” said Dr. Tom Moore, the lead physician in Wesley hospital’s COVID-19 unit.The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Kansas has risen over the past two weeks from 1,674.14 new cases per day on Dec. 17 to 2,001.29 new cases per day on Friday.Dr. Sam Antonios, Ascension Via Christi’s chief clinical officer,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.com/news/coronavirus/article256944712.html" target="_blank">told&nbsp;</a>the Wichita Eagle that the surge is also leading to unusually high wait times at St. Joseph and St. Francis hospitals.“We have nearly 100 patients receiving care for COVID-19, straining our staff resources and the number of beds we have open for other types of care,” Antonios said.Hospitals in Kansas are struggling to find enough nurses to care for critically ill patients because some intensive care nurses have been lured away by high-paying jobs in other states. Some health care workers are also leaving the profession after working long hours battling the pandemic for nearly two years.Antonios reiterated that everyone should get vaccinated for COVID-19 and the flu to help limit the spread of those viruses and consider wearing masks when out in public.

Doctors in Kan. worry about hospital capacity as virus cases surge

TOPEKA —Former President Donald Trump started the new year with the 2022 elections in mind.

Early Monday, Trump announced his support for Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt in the race for governor of Kansas.

In February, Trump endorsed Kansas Sen. Jerry Moran for reelection in 2022. The announcement made it unlikely the two-term Republican would face a serious challenge in the GOP primary.

In the November 2020 election, Trump carried Kansas by nearly 14 percentage points. 

His statement Monday praised Schmidt saying, "he's doing an outstanding job, will be a very popular and wise choice. Derek is strong on crime, the borders and our always under siege Second Amendment."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641217193087.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —Former President Donald Trump started the new year with the 2022 elections in mind.Early Monday, Trump announced his support for Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt in the race for governor of Kansas.In February, Trump endorsed Kansas Sen. Jerry Moran for reelection in 2022. The announcement made it unlikely the two-term Republican would face a serious challenge in the GOP primary.In the November 2020 election, Trump carried Kansas by nearly 14 percentage points. His statement Monday praised Schmidt saying, "he's doing an outstanding job, will be a very popular and wise choice. Derek is strong on crime, the borders and our always under siege Second Amendment."

Trump announces support for Derek Schmidt in race for Kan. governor

The <a href="https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/beware-fraudulent-coronavirus-tests-vaccines-and-treatments" target="_blank">US Food and Drug Administration</a>
 is warning people of fraudulent coronavirus tests, vaccines, and 
treatments as the pandemic continues. According to Centers for Disease 
Control, since the arrival of the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/variants/omicron-variant.html" target="_blank">Omicron variant</a>,
 the increase of testing for COVID-19 has become a concern. Scarcity 
often leads to potential scams for a product that doesn't exist, the 
compromise of personal identifiable information, or the increase of 
deceptive advertising.&nbsp;

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) <a href="https://www.fbi.gov/news/pressrel/press-releases/fbi-warns-of-potential-fraud-in-antibody-testing-for-covid-19" target="_blank">issued a warning</a>
 earlier this year about potential fraud related to the antibody tests. 
Scammers are selling unapproved COVID-19 antibody tests, which can give 
inaccurate results. In doing so, they are also collecting personal 
information, such as Social Security numbers and dates of birth. They 
may also be stealing heath insurance or Medicare information that can be
 used in future schemes.

Robocalls are sent out to consumers directing them to a website that 
looks like a clinic or medical supply company offering COVID-19 tests. 
These tests allegedly identify if a person has been infected with 
coronavirus – even if they’ve&nbsp; recovered. Some even promise results in 
10 minutes. However, to receive a test, a credit card or a form needs to
 be completed with personal information.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In some cases, the test involves an easy at-home testing kit. Other 
times, the tests are allegedly offered through a clinic. But in all 
versions, the person or website selling the test is short on details. 
They aren’t willing or able to provide any information about how the 
test works, where it is sourced, and what laboratory processes it.

Don’t fall for it! These tests are not <a href="https://www.fda.gov/emergency-preparedness-and-response/counterterrorism-and-emerging-threats/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19" target="_blank">US Food and Drug Administration approved</a>
 and will not give accurate results. In fact, requestors may never even 
receive an actual test kit. Either way, scammers will have made off with
 the money and personal information.

BBB has additional tips for avoiding scams on <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/spot-a-scam" target="_blank">BBB.org/spotascam</a> and the <a href="https://www.bbb.org/news" target="_blank">BBB news feed</a>.

If you’ve been the victim of a scam, please report it on the <a href="https://www.BBB.org/ScamTracker" target="_blank">BBB.org/ScamTracker</a>. Your report can help others to stay alert and avoid similar scams.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579883951052.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BBBThe <a href="https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/beware-fraudulent-coronavirus-tests-vaccines-and-treatments" target="_blank">US Food and Drug Administration</a>
 is warning people of fraudulent coronavirus tests, vaccines, and 
treatments as the pandemic continues. According to Centers for Disease 
Control, since the arrival of the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/variants/omicron-variant.html" target="_blank">Omicron variant</a>,
 the increase of testing for COVID-19 has become a concern. Scarcity 
often leads to potential scams for a product that doesn't exist, the 
compromise of personal identifiable information, or the increase of 
deceptive advertising.&nbsp;The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) <a href="https://www.fbi.gov/news/pressrel/press-releases/fbi-warns-of-potential-fraud-in-antibody-testing-for-covid-19" target="_blank">issued a warning</a>
 earlier this year about potential fraud related to the antibody tests. 
Scammers are selling unapproved COVID-19 antibody tests, which can give 
inaccurate results. In doing so, they are also collecting personal 
information, such as Social Security numbers and dates of birth. They 
may also be stealing heath insurance or Medicare information that can be
 used in future schemes.<h2>How the Scam Works</h2>Robocalls are sent out to consumers directing them to a website that 
looks like a clinic or medical supply company offering COVID-19 tests. 
These tests allegedly identify if a person has been infected with 
coronavirus – even if they’ve&nbsp; recovered. Some even promise results in 
10 minutes. However, to receive a test, a credit card or a form needs to
 be completed with personal information.&nbsp;&nbsp;In some cases, the test involves an easy at-home testing kit. Other 
times, the tests are allegedly offered through a clinic. But in all 
versions, the person or website selling the test is short on details. 
They aren’t willing or able to provide any information about how the 
test works, where it is sourced, and what laboratory processes it.Don’t fall for it! These tests are not <a href="https://www.fda.gov/emergency-preparedness-and-response/counterterrorism-and-emerging-threats/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19" target="_blank">US Food and Drug Administration approved</a>
 and will not give accurate results. In fact, requestors may never even 
receive an actual test kit. Either way, scammers will have made off with
 the money and personal information.<h2>How to Avoid Fake Coronavirus Tests</h2><ul>
 <li>Want a test? Talk to your doctor. Reach out to your
 healthcare provider. They can help figure out if the test will be 
covered by insurance and where to find a legitimate clinic.&nbsp; If you 
don't have a primary care physician, check out the official website of 
your <a href="https://www.usa.gov/state-health" target="_blank">local health department</a> for more information on testing availability. </li><li>Research before buying. Scammers put pressure on 
people to buy or commit without giving them time to do further research.
 Before agreeing to anything, investigate first. Research any claims the
 company makes. Start with searching <a href="https://www.bbb.org/search" target="_blank">BBB.org</a> to see they are BBB Accredited, have good reviews, and if there are complaints or <a href="https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker" target="_blank">scam reports</a> associated with their business name. In addition, review the warnings on <a href="https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/beware-fraudulent-coronavirus-tests-vaccines-and-treatments" target="_blank">FBI</a>, <a href="https://www.ftc.gov" target="_blank">Federal Trade Commission</a>, <a href="https://www.usa.gov/state-attorney-general" target="_blank">Attorney General's office</a>, and <a href="https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker" target="_blank">BBB ScamTracker.</a> </li><li>Understand all options: The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has a <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/testing.html" target="_blank">detailed guide</a> to testing for COVID-19. Understand the different tests available. </li><li>Never share your personal information with strangers. Only make purchases and share your personal information with people and companies you know and trust. </li><li>Check claims of FDA approval. Per the FBI, ,"Not 
all COVID-19 antibody tests have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug
 Administration (FDA), and their efficacy has not been determined." 
Check the <a href="https://www.fda.gov/" target="_blank">FDA website</a> for a list of approved tests and testing companies.</li>
 </ul><h2>For More Information</h2>BBB has additional tips for avoiding scams on <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/spot-a-scam" target="_blank">BBB.org/spotascam</a> and the <a href="https://www.bbb.org/news" target="_blank">BBB news feed</a>.If you’ve been the victim of a scam, please report it on the <a href="https://www.BBB.org/ScamTracker" target="_blank">BBB.org/ScamTracker</a>. Your report can help others to stay alert and avoid similar scams.

Scam alert: Want a COVID test? There’s a scam for that

WASHINGTON (AP) — As the COVID-19 omicron variant surges across the United States, top federal health officials are looking to add a negative test along with its five-day isolation restrictions for asymptomatic Americans who catch the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic">coronavirus</a>, the White House’s top medical adviser said Sunday.

Dr. Anthony Fauci said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is now considering including the negative test as part of its guidance after getting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-business-health-centers-for-disease-control-and-prevention-6d74e88d73ab2443298b1f3f827a556f">significant “pushback”</a>&nbsp;on its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-science-business-health-rochelle-walensky-d7d609c9c01e200d250df7ca7282c9d6">updated recommendations last week.</a>

Under that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2021/s1227-isolation-quarantine-guidance.html" target="_blank">Dec. 27 guidance</a>, isolation restrictions for people infected with COVID-19 were shortened from 10 days to five days if they are no longer feeling symptoms or running a fever. After that period, they are asked to spend the following five days wearing a mask when around others.

The guidelines have since received criticism from many health professionals for not specifying a negative antigen test as a requirement for leaving isolation.

“There has been some concern about why we don’t ask people at that five-day period to get tested,” Fauci said. “Looking at it again, there may be an option in that, that testing could be a part of that, and I think we’re going to be hearing more about that in the next day or so from the CDC.”

Fauci, the nation’s top infectious diseases expert, said the U.S. has been seeing almost a “vertical increase” of new cases, now averaging 400,000 cases a day, with hospitalizations also up.

“We are definitely in the middle of a very severe surge and uptick in cases,” he said. “The acceleration of cases that we’ve seen is really unprecedented, gone well beyond anything we’ve seen before.”

Fauci said he’s concerned that the omicron variant is overwhelming the health care system and causing a “major disruption” on other essential services.

“When I say major disruptions, you’re certainly going to see stresses on the system and the system being people with any kind of jobs ... particularly with critical jobs to keep society functioning normally,” Fauci said. “We already know that there are reports from fire departments, from police departments in different cities that 10, 20, 25 and sometimes 30% of the people are ill. That’s something that we need to be concerned about, because we want to make sure that we don’t have such an impact on society that there really is a disruption. I hope that doesn’t happen.”

While there is “accumulating evidence” that omicron might lead to less severe illness, he cautioned that the data remains early. Fauci said he worries in particular about the tens of millions of unvaccinated Americans because “a fair number of them are going to get severe disease.”

He urged Americans who have not yet gotten vaccinated and boosted to do so and to mask up indoors to protect themselves and blunt the current surge of U.S. cases.

<a href="https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/coronavirus-disease-2019-testing-basics" target="_blank">The Food and Drug Administration</a>&nbsp;last week said preliminary research indicates&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-health-infectious-diseases-anthony-fauci-740278fd2c16925e6707d5a7a58e4ad3">at-home rapid tests</a>&nbsp;detect omicron, but may have reduced sensitivity. The agency noted it’s still studying how the tests perform with the variant, which was first detected in late November.

Fauci said Americans “should not get the impression that those tests are not valuable.”

“I think the confusion is that rapid antigen tests have never been as sensitive as the PCR test,” Fauci said. “They’re very good when they are given sequentially. So if you do them like maybe two or three times over a few-day period, at the end of the day, they are as good as the PCR. But as a single test, they are not as sensitive.”

A PCR test usually needs to be processed in a laboratory. The test looks for the virus’s genetic material and then reproduces it millions of times until it’s detectable with a computer.

Fauci said if Americans take the necessary precautions, the U.S. might see some semblance of more normal life returning soon.

“One of the things that we hope for is that this thing will peak after a period of a few weeks and turn around,” Fauci said. He expressed hope that by February or March, omicron could fall to a low enough level “that it doesn’t disrupt our society, our economy, our way of life.”

Fauci spoke on ABC’s “This Week” and CNN’s “State of the Union.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612486273418.png" alt="Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious diseases expert, said the U.S. has been seeing almost a “vertical increase” of new cases, now averaging 400,000 cases a day, with hospitalizations also up-photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious diseases expert, said the U.S. has been seeing almost a “vertical increase” of new cases, now averaging 400,000 cases a day, with hospitalizations also up-photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — As the COVID-19 omicron variant surges across the United States, top federal health officials are looking to add a negative test along with its five-day isolation restrictions for asymptomatic Americans who catch the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic">coronavirus</a>, the White House’s top medical adviser said Sunday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638148803210.png" alt="3D structure of spike with amino acid changes in Omicron-image GISAID" />
 <figcaption>3D structure of spike with amino acid changes in Omicron-image GISAID</figcaption>
 </figure>Dr. Anthony Fauci said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is now considering including the negative test as part of its guidance after getting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-business-health-centers-for-disease-control-and-prevention-6d74e88d73ab2443298b1f3f827a556f">significant “pushback”</a>&nbsp;on its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-science-business-health-rochelle-walensky-d7d609c9c01e200d250df7ca7282c9d6">updated recommendations last week.</a>Under that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2021/s1227-isolation-quarantine-guidance.html" target="_blank">Dec. 27 guidance</a>, isolation restrictions for people infected with COVID-19 were shortened from 10 days to five days if they are no longer feeling symptoms or running a fever. After that period, they are asked to spend the following five days wearing a mask when around others.The guidelines have since received criticism from many health professionals for not specifying a negative antigen test as a requirement for leaving isolation.“There has been some concern about why we don’t ask people at that five-day period to get tested,” Fauci said. “Looking at it again, there may be an option in that, that testing could be a part of that, and I think we’re going to be hearing more about that in the next day or so from the CDC.”Fauci, the nation’s top infectious diseases expert, said the U.S. has been seeing almost a “vertical increase” of new cases, now averaging 400,000 cases a day, with hospitalizations also up.“We are definitely in the middle of a very severe surge and uptick in cases,” he said. “The acceleration of cases that we’ve seen is really unprecedented, gone well beyond anything we’ve seen before.”Fauci said he’s concerned that the omicron variant is overwhelming the health care system and causing a “major disruption” on other essential services.“When I say major disruptions, you’re certainly going to see stresses on the system and the system being people with any kind of jobs ... particularly with critical jobs to keep society functioning normally,” Fauci said. “We already know that there are reports from fire departments, from police departments in different cities that 10, 20, 25 and sometimes 30% of the people are ill. That’s something that we need to be concerned about, because we want to make sure that we don’t have such an impact on society that there really is a disruption. I hope that doesn’t happen.”While there is “accumulating evidence” that omicron might lead to less severe illness, he cautioned that the data remains early. Fauci said he worries in particular about the tens of millions of unvaccinated Americans because “a fair number of them are going to get severe disease.”He urged Americans who have not yet gotten vaccinated and boosted to do so and to mask up indoors to protect themselves and blunt the current surge of U.S. cases.<a href="https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/coronavirus-disease-2019-testing-basics" target="_blank">The Food and Drug Administration</a>&nbsp;last week said preliminary research indicates&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-health-infectious-diseases-anthony-fauci-740278fd2c16925e6707d5a7a58e4ad3">at-home rapid tests</a>&nbsp;detect omicron, but may have reduced sensitivity. The agency noted it’s still studying how the tests perform with the variant, which was first detected in late November.Fauci said Americans “should not get the impression that those tests are not valuable.”“I think the confusion is that rapid antigen tests have never been as sensitive as the PCR test,” Fauci said. “They’re very good when they are given sequentially. So if you do them like maybe two or three times over a few-day period, at the end of the day, they are as good as the PCR. But as a single test, they are not as sensitive.”A PCR test usually needs to be processed in a laboratory. The test looks for the virus’s genetic material and then reproduces it millions of times until it’s detectable with a computer.Fauci said if Americans take the necessary precautions, the U.S. might see some semblance of more normal life returning soon.“One of the things that we hope for is that this thing will peak after a period of a few weeks and turn around,” Fauci said. He expressed hope that by February or March, omicron could fall to a low enough level “that it doesn’t disrupt our society, our economy, our way of life.”Fauci spoke on ABC’s “This Week” and CNN’s “State of the Union.”

CDC considers another change in COVID test, isolation requirement

KANSAS CITY—The Mayor of Kansas City, Missouri and his family have been dealing with COVID during the New Year's holiday weekend.

Mayor Quinton Lucas reported on New Year's Eve he had tested positive for the virus despite being vaccinated and receiving a booster dose.&nbsp;

Late Sunday, Lucas reported on his social media that his wife and their 8-month old son also had come down with the virus.

KANSAS CITY—The Mayor of Kansas City, Missouri and his family have been dealing with COVID during the New Year's holiday weekend.Mayor Quinton Lucas reported on New Year's Eve he had tested positive for the virus despite being vaccinated and receiving a booster dose.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Unfortunately, the illness did catch up to my wife and baby. I know everyone will be fine, but, as many parents have experienced, it hurts to see the little one affected.&mdash; Mayor Q (@QuintonLucasKC) <a href="https://twitter.com/QuintonLucasKC/status/1477833735244496898?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Late Sunday, Lucas reported on his social media that his wife and their 8-month old son also had come down with the virus.

Kansas City Mayor and family test positive for COVID

WASHINGTON — As part of ongoing efforts to improve service for the tax-exempt community, the IRS has revised <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-1024">Form 1024, Application for Recognition of Exemption Under Section 501(a) or Section 521 of the Internal Revenue Code</a>, to allow electronic filing.

Beginning January 3, 2022, applications for recognition of exemption on Form 1024 must be submitted electronically online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pay.gov/public/form/start/964636103">Pay.gov</a>.
 The IRS will provide a 90-day grace period during which it will 
continue to accept paper versions of Form 1024 (Rev. 01-2018) and letter
 applications.

"Electronic filing makes it easier to complete an application for 
tax-exempt status while reducing errors," said Sunita Lough, 
Commissioner of the IRS Tax Exempt and Government Entities division. 
"Electronic filing also shortens IRS processing time so applicants won't
 wait as long for a response."

Organizations requesting determinations under Section 521 are now 
also able to use the electronic Form 1024 instead of Form 1028, 
Application for Recognition of Exemption Under Section 521 of the 
Internal Revenue Code.

The required user fee for Form 1024 will remain $600 for 2022. Applicants must pay the fee through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pay.gov/public/form/start/964636103">Pay.gov</a>&nbsp;when submitting the form. Payment can be made directly from a bank account or by credit or debit card.

Organizations are encouraged to subscribe to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/current-edition-of-exempt-organizations-update">Exempt Organizations Update</a>, a free IRS e-Newsletter, for form updates and other exempt organization news.

As part of the revision, applications for recognition of exemption 
under Sections 501(c)(11), (14), (16), (18), (21), (22), (23), (26), 
(27), (28), (29) and 501(d) can no longer be submitted as letter 
applications. Instead, these requests must be made on the electronic 
Form 1024. Accordingly, organizations that are described in Section 
501(c) (other than 501(c)(3) and (c)(4)) and 501(d) applying for 
tax-exempt status must now use the electronic Form 1024. Section 
501(c)(3) organizations must continue to use <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-1023">Form 1023</a> or <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-1023-ez">Form 1023-EZ</a>, and Section 501(c)(4) organizations must continue to use <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-1024-a">Form 1024-A</a>. Those forms also must be filed electronically.

Additional information on how to apply for IRS recognition of tax-exempt status:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — As part of ongoing efforts to improve service for the tax-exempt community, the IRS has revised <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-1024">Form 1024, Application for Recognition of Exemption Under Section 501(a) or Section 521 of the Internal Revenue Code</a>, to allow electronic filing.Beginning January 3, 2022, applications for recognition of exemption on Form 1024 must be submitted electronically online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pay.gov/public/form/start/964636103">Pay.gov</a>.
 The IRS will provide a 90-day grace period during which it will 
continue to accept paper versions of Form 1024 (Rev. 01-2018) and letter
 applications."Electronic filing makes it easier to complete an application for 
tax-exempt status while reducing errors," said Sunita Lough, 
Commissioner of the IRS Tax Exempt and Government Entities division. 
"Electronic filing also shortens IRS processing time so applicants won't
 wait as long for a response."Organizations requesting determinations under Section 521 are now 
also able to use the electronic Form 1024 instead of Form 1028, 
Application for Recognition of Exemption Under Section 521 of the 
Internal Revenue Code.The required user fee for Form 1024 will remain $600 for 2022. Applicants must pay the fee through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pay.gov/public/form/start/964636103">Pay.gov</a>&nbsp;when submitting the form. Payment can be made directly from a bank account or by credit or debit card.Organizations are encouraged to subscribe to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/current-edition-of-exempt-organizations-update">Exempt Organizations Update</a>, a free IRS e-Newsletter, for form updates and other exempt organization news.As part of the revision, applications for recognition of exemption 
under Sections 501(c)(11), (14), (16), (18), (21), (22), (23), (26), 
(27), (28), (29) and 501(d) can no longer be submitted as letter 
applications. Instead, these requests must be made on the electronic 
Form 1024. Accordingly, organizations that are described in Section 
501(c) (other than 501(c)(3) and (c)(4)) and 501(d) applying for 
tax-exempt status must now use the electronic Form 1024. Section 
501(c)(3) organizations must continue to use <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-1023">Form 1023</a> or <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-1023-ez">Form 1023-EZ</a>, and Section 501(c)(4) organizations must continue to use <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-1024-a">Form 1024-A</a>. Those forms also must be filed electronically.<h2>Additional information on how to apply for IRS recognition of tax-exempt status:</h2><ul>
 <li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/applying-for-tax-exempt-status">Applying for Tax-Exempt Status</a>&nbsp;on IRS.gov</li><li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/rp-22-08.pdf">Revenue Procedure 2022-8</a>&nbsp;PDF&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>

IRS: Organizations can now file for tax-exempt status online

KINGMAN COUNTY— A Kansas man convicted of killing his wife 10 years ago will have a hearing before the Kansas Court of Appeals January 12.

Brett Seacat, now 45, was found guilty of shooting Vashti Seacat in the couple's bedroom then setting their home in Kingman ablaze in April of 2011. 

He was sentenced to life in prison without parole for 25 years. Seacat has filed a civil motion claiming ineffective counsel, saying that there was evidence the defense failed to present that would clear him of the crime. The motion was filed in May of 2020.

The Kansas Supreme Court upheld the conviction of the former Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center instructor in 2016.

Seacat maintained that his wife killed herself and that evidence proving so was not presented in his trial. In his original appeal, Seacat challenged the trial court’s exclusion of evidence relating to his wife's depression, which he contends would have bolstered his theory that she took her own life.

The case is part of the summary docket before the court of appeals, which means there will be no oral arguments.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640963669399.jpeg" alt="Brett Seacat -From his original arrest in Kingman County&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Brett Seacat -From his original arrest in Kingman County&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>KINGMAN COUNTY— A Kansas man convicted of killing his wife 10 years ago will have a hearing before the Kansas Court of Appeals January 12.Brett Seacat, now 45, was found guilty of shooting Vashti Seacat in the couple's bedroom then setting their home in Kingman ablaze in April of 2011. He was sentenced to life in prison without parole for 25 years. Seacat has filed a civil motion claiming ineffective counsel, saying that there was evidence the defense failed to present that would clear him of the crime. The motion was filed in May of 2020.The Kansas Supreme Court upheld the conviction of the former Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center instructor in 2016.Seacat maintained that his wife killed herself and that evidence proving so was not presented in his trial. In his original appeal, Seacat challenged the trial court’s exclusion of evidence relating to his wife's depression, which he contends would have bolstered his theory that she took her own life.The case is part of the summary docket before the court of appeals, which means there will be no oral arguments.

Kan. man convicted of wife's killing still fighting to overturn verdict

WASHINGTON — In accordance with Congressional directives in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the Federal Communications Commission has officially launched the Affordable Connectivity Program, the $14.2 billion successor program to the Emergency Broadband Benefit which helped almost 9 million afford internet access during the pandemic.  As of today, eligible households are encouraged to apply to receive up to $30 per month discount toward internet service and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands.  Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers if they contribute more than $10 and less than $50 toward the purchase price.

“The response to the Emergency Broadband Benefit proved what many knew to be true: the cost of high-speed internet is out of reach for too many of us,” said FCC Chairwoman Rosenworcel.  “Now with the long-term Affordable Connectivity Program, we have the opportunity to enroll even more households and help ensure they can afford the internet connections they need for work, school, health care and more for years.”

A household is eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program if a member of the household meets&nbsp;at least&nbsp;one&nbsp;of the criteria below:

§ Has an income that is at or below 200% of the&nbsp;federal poverty guidelines;

§ Participates in certain assistance programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance, SSI, WIC, or&nbsp;Lifeline;

§ Participates in Tribal specific programs, such as Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribal TANF, or Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations;

§ Is approved to receive benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program, including through the USDA Community Eligibility Provision in the 2019-2020,&nbsp;2020-2021, or 2021-2022 school year;

§ Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year; or

§ Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating provider's existing low-income program.

Final program rules will be adopted by the Commission in January.  For more information about the Affordable Connectivity Program, please visit: https://www.fcc.gov/ACP. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1569445831519.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FCCWASHINGTON — In accordance with Congressional directives in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the Federal Communications Commission has officially launched the Affordable Connectivity Program, the $14.2 billion successor program to the Emergency Broadband Benefit which helped almost 9 million afford internet access during the pandemic. As of today, eligible households are encouraged to apply to receive up to $30 per month discount toward internet service and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers if they contribute more than $10 and less than $50 toward the purchase price.“The response to the Emergency Broadband Benefit proved what many knew to be true: the cost of high-speed internet is out of reach for too many of us,” said FCC Chairwoman Rosenworcel. “Now with the long-term Affordable Connectivity Program, we have the opportunity to enroll even more households and help ensure they can afford the internet connections they need for work, school, health care and more for years.”A household is eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program if a member of the household meets&nbsp;at least&nbsp;one&nbsp;of the criteria below:§ Has an income that is at or below 200% of the&nbsp;federal poverty guidelines;§ Participates in certain assistance programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance, SSI, WIC, or&nbsp;Lifeline;§ Participates in Tribal specific programs, such as Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribal TANF, or Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations;§ Is approved to receive benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program, including through the USDA Community Eligibility Provision in the 2019-2020,&nbsp;2020-2021, or 2021-2022 school year;§ Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year; or§ Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating provider's existing low-income program.Final program rules will be adopted by the Commission in January. For more information about the Affordable Connectivity Program, please visit: https://www.fcc.gov/ACP.

FCC launches $14B program to help Americans connect to internet

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Kansas City police are investigating a New Year's Eve shooting that left one woman dead.

Police said the shooting was reported just after 9:45 p.m. Friday in the 7600 block of East 50th Street. When officers arrived, they found the woman with gunshot wounds. Paramedics rushed her to a hospital where she later died.

The victim's name wasn't immediately released and police did not announce any arrests.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Kansas City police are investigating a New Year's Eve shooting that left one woman dead.Police said the shooting was reported just after 9:45 p.m. Friday in the 7600 block of East 50th Street. When officers arrived, they found the woman with gunshot wounds. Paramedics rushed her to a hospital where she later died.The victim's name wasn't immediately released and police did not announce any arrests.

Police investigate fatal New Year's Eve shooting in Kansas City

WASHINGTON (AP) — Verizon and AT&amp;T have rejected a request by the U.S. government to delay the rollout of next-generation wireless technology.

A joint letter Sunday from the telecommunications giants to U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Steve Dickson, the head of the Federal Aviation Administration, sought to dismiss concerns brought by U.S. airlines that a new 5G wireless service could harm aviation.

But Hans Vestberg, CEO of Verizon Communications, and John Stankey, CEO of AT&amp;T, also wrote that they were willing to accept some temporary measures over the next six months to limit the service around certain airport runways.

Airlines had asked the Federal Communications Commission to delay this week’s scheduled 5G rollout, saying the service, set to launch Wednesday, could interfere with electronics that pilots rely on.

Airlines for America, a trade group for large U.S. passenger and cargo carriers, said in an emergency filing that the FCC has failed to adequately consider the harm that 5G service could do to the industry. The group wants more time for the FCC and the FAA, which regulates airlines, to resolve issues around aviation safety. Those are related to a type of 5G service that relies on chunks of radio spectrum called C-Band, which wireless carriers spent billions of dollars to buy up last year.

Siding in part with airlines, Buttigieg and Dickson wrote late Friday to the CEOs of AT&amp;T and Verizon to propose a delay in activating 5G C-band service near an undetermined number of “priority airports” while the FAA studies the potential for interference with aircraft operations.

AT&amp;T and Verizon previously agreed to a one-month delay in 5G, which provides faster speeds when mobile devices connect to their networks and allows users to connect many devices to the internet without slowing it down. But the telecommunications executives said Sunday that further delays requested by the government would harm their customers.

“Agreeing to your proposal would not only be an unprecedented and unwarranted circumvention of the due process and checks and balances carefully crafted in the structure of our democracy, but an irresponsible abdication of the operating control required to deploy world-class and globally competitive communications networks that are every bit as essential to our country’s economic vitality, public safety and national interests as the airline industry," the executives wrote.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586544759960.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Verizon and AT&amp;T have rejected a request by the U.S. government to delay the rollout of next-generation wireless technology.A joint letter Sunday from the telecommunications giants to U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Steve Dickson, the head of the Federal Aviation Administration, sought to dismiss concerns brought by U.S. airlines that a new 5G wireless service could harm aviation.But Hans Vestberg, CEO of Verizon Communications, and John Stankey, CEO of AT&amp;T, also wrote that they were willing to accept some temporary measures over the next six months to limit the service around certain airport runways.Airlines had asked the Federal Communications Commission to delay this week’s scheduled 5G rollout, saying the service, set to launch Wednesday, could interfere with electronics that pilots rely on.Airlines for America, a trade group for large U.S. passenger and cargo carriers, said in an emergency filing that the FCC has failed to adequately consider the harm that 5G service could do to the industry. The group wants more time for the FCC and the FAA, which regulates airlines, to resolve issues around aviation safety. Those are related to a type of 5G service that relies on chunks of radio spectrum called C-Band, which wireless carriers spent billions of dollars to buy up last year.Siding in part with airlines, Buttigieg and Dickson wrote late Friday to the CEOs of AT&amp;T and Verizon to propose a delay in activating 5G C-band service near an undetermined number of “priority airports” while the FAA studies the potential for interference with aircraft operations.AT&amp;T and Verizon previously agreed to a one-month delay in 5G, which provides faster speeds when mobile devices connect to their networks and allows users to connect many devices to the internet without slowing it down. But the telecommunications executives said Sunday that further delays requested by the government would harm their customers.“Agreeing to your proposal would not only be an unprecedented and unwarranted circumvention of the due process and checks and balances carefully crafted in the structure of our democracy, but an irresponsible abdication of the operating control required to deploy world-class and globally competitive communications networks that are every bit as essential to our country’s economic vitality, public safety and national interests as the airline industry," the executives wrote.—-

Verizon, AT&T, reject U.S. request to delay their 5G wireless plans

OSAGE COUNTY –Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; are investigating two suspects on drug charges after a traffic stop.

Just after 1:30 p.m. Thursday, a sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on K-268 Highway just before the  Quenemo exit for a traffic violation, according to Sheriff Chris Wells. During the stop, deputies located drugs.

The driver of the vehicle, Jackalynn N. Kirk, 19, of Ottawa, was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, marijuana, and illegal registration.

A passenger in the vehicle, Joshua W. Fine, 32, of Quenemo, was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640960571506.png" alt="Fine-photo Osage Co." />
 <figcaption>Fine-photo Osage Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>OSAGE COUNTY –Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; are investigating two suspects on drug charges after a traffic stop.Just after 1:30 p.m. Thursday, a sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on K-268 Highway just before the Quenemo exit for a traffic violation, according to Sheriff Chris Wells. During the stop, deputies located drugs.The driver of the vehicle, Jackalynn N. Kirk, 19, of Ottawa, was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, marijuana, and illegal registration.A passenger in the vehicle, Joshua W. Fine, 32, of Quenemo, was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

Sheriff: Kansas couple were traveling with meth, marijuana

BRANSON, Mo. (AP) — A man is now charged with two counts of second-degree murder in the deaths of two people in Branson in May.

&nbsp;34-year-old Miguel Angel Melendez-Torres of Branson also is charged with attempted robbery and armed criminal action.

The shooting happened May 29 outside of Famous Dave's restaurant in the popular tourist town. The victims were 38-year-old Krystle Buhl of Forsyth and 39-year-old Richard A. McMahan of Merriam Woods.

A probable cause statement said Melendez-Torres allegedly approached a vehicle occupied by the victims after they had gotten off work at the restaurant. The statement said Melendez-Torres demanded money, argued with the victims, then shot both of them in the head.

It wasn't immediately clear on Friday if Melendez-Torres had an attorney.

BRANSON, Mo. (AP) — Police have identified two people shot and killed outside a Branson restaurant over the weekend.

Krystle Buhl, 38, of Forsyth, and Richard McMahan, 39, of Merriam Woods, died in the Saturday night shooting outside of Famous Dave’s in Branson, police there said.

Officers found the pair with gunshot wounds in the restaurant’s parking lot, television station KYTV&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ky3.com/2021/05/30/branson-police-investigate-late-night-fatal-shooting/">reported</a>. Police said one victim died at the scene and the other died at a hospital.

Police have said they have no suspects and no motive for the shootings. Investigators have found no indication that the shooting resulted from a robbery, Branson Police Chief Eric Schmitt said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622563430710.png" alt="A sign on the front door of the restaurant following the shooting in May -photo courtesy KYTV" />
 <figcaption>A sign on the front door of the restaurant following the shooting in May -photo courtesy KYTV</figcaption>
 </figure>BRANSON, Mo. (AP) — A man is now charged with two counts of second-degree murder in the deaths of two people in Branson in May.&nbsp;34-year-old Miguel Angel Melendez-Torres of Branson also is charged with attempted robbery and armed criminal action.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640989698205.png" alt="Melendez-Torres is being held without bond in Taney County, according to online jail records" />
 <figcaption>Melendez-Torres is being held without bond in Taney County, according to online jail records</figcaption>
 </figure>The shooting happened May 29 outside of Famous Dave's restaurant in the popular tourist town. The victims were 38-year-old Krystle Buhl of Forsyth and 39-year-old Richard A. McMahan of Merriam Woods.A probable cause statement said Melendez-Torres allegedly approached a vehicle occupied by the victims after they had gotten off work at the restaurant. The statement said Melendez-Torres demanded money, argued with the victims, then shot both of them in the head.It wasn't immediately clear on Friday if Melendez-Torres had an attorney.--------------BRANSON, Mo. (AP) — Police have identified two people shot and killed outside a Branson restaurant over the weekend.Krystle Buhl, 38, of Forsyth, and Richard McMahan, 39, of Merriam Woods, died in the Saturday night shooting outside of Famous Dave’s in Branson, police there said.Officers found the pair with gunshot wounds in the restaurant’s parking lot, television station KYTV&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ky3.com/2021/05/30/branson-police-investigate-late-night-fatal-shooting/">reported</a>. Police said one victim died at the scene and the other died at a hospital.Police have said they have no suspects and no motive for the shootings. Investigators have found no indication that the shooting resulted from a robbery, Branson Police Chief Eric Schmitt said.

Man charged in deaths of 2 outside Branson restaurant

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with a car theft.

Just before 4:30 p.m. Thursday, police initiated a traffic stop of a stolen car in the 700 block of SE 26th Street in Topeka, according to Lt. Ron Ekis.

The two occupants fled from the car and entered into a home in the 700 block of SE 26th Street. Officers took an adult female and adult male into custody without incident. 

They later booked Michael Benson, 47, of Topeka, into the Shawnee County Department of on requested charges of Aggravated Burglary, Felon in Possession of a Firearm and&nbsp;&nbsp;Felony Interference with Law Enforcement. Police released no additional details on a second arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640972835911.png" alt="Benson-photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Benson-photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with a car theft.Just before 4:30 p.m. Thursday, police initiated a traffic stop of a stolen car in the 700 block of SE 26th Street in Topeka, according to Lt. Ron Ekis.The two occupants fled from the car and entered into a home in the 700 block of SE 26th Street. Officers took an adult female and adult male into custody without incident. They later booked Michael Benson, 47, of Topeka, into the Shawnee County Department of on requested charges of Aggravated Burglary, Felon in Possession of a Firearm and&nbsp;&nbsp;Felony Interference with Law Enforcement. Police released no additional details on a second arrest.

Police: Car theft suspects captured after hiding in Kan. home

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Police have released the name of a pedestrian who was killed in a hit-and-run crash in Kansas City, Missouri, on Wednesday.

Kansas City police said Saturday that 60-year-old Jeffrey Moore of Kansas City died after he was struck by a car around 6:30 p.m. Wednesday in the 10500 block of East 42nd Street in eastern Kansas City.

&nbsp;Police continue searching for a Nissan Sentra that may have damage to the front driver’s side, based on evidence left at the scene.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Police have released the name of a pedestrian who was killed in a hit-and-run crash in Kansas City, Missouri, on Wednesday.Kansas City police said Saturday that 60-year-old Jeffrey Moore of Kansas City died after he was struck by a car around 6:30 p.m. Wednesday in the 10500 block of East 42nd Street in eastern Kansas City.&nbsp;Police continue searching for a Nissan Sentra that may have damage to the front driver’s side, based on evidence left at the scene.

Police ID Kansas City man killed in hit-and-run crash

WASHINGTON (AP) — Federal health officials on Thursday pressed nursing home workers to get their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-boosters-adults-cdc-fda-pfizer-moderna-34aabde2c1c5a88c7763fa1dac77df5f">booster shots</a>&nbsp;amid a spike in COVID-19 cases among staffers and a concerning lag in booster vaccination for residents and staff.

The omicron variant “is lightning fast, and we cannot afford another COVID-19 surge in nursing homes,” Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra said in a livestreamed appeal to the industry. “You know that. I know that. Higher numbers of COVID cases would likely once again have a devastating impact on our loved ones.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/nursing-homes">Nursing homes</a>&nbsp;are a testing ground for President Joe Biden’s assertion that the U.S. is much better prepared to handle a surging virus than it was last winter. Although residents are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nursing-homes-coronavirus-pandemic-pandemics-business-health-f1a44187198ccca1e4311ac72f4f42aa">a tiny proportion of the population</a>, they represent a disproportionate share of Americans who have died in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic">the coronavirus pandemic</a>. Earlier this year&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-vaccine-pfizer-approval-1361ff61d06b815652a08a7cc0683a72">the advent of vaccines</a>&nbsp;brought the virus under control in nursing homes and allowed them to reopen to visitors. But that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-lifestyle-business-medicaid-medicare-a255b8b93fe023f77fca2b56257e3b7c">return to normalcy</a>&nbsp;could be in jeopardy as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-health-europe-london-england-eddf1657a9462547826881562b71f3b7">the omicron variant</a>&nbsp;pushes COVID-19 cases to new highs.

Cases among nursing home staffers jumped to 10,353 the week ending Dec. 27, a rise of nearly 80% from the previous week, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Staff deaths increased to 58, tripling from the previous week. Among residents, who are more heavily vaccinated, cases went up slightly and the data showed no increase in deaths.

With medical experts advising that a booster shot is critical to defend against omicron, Becerra said only 57% of nursing home residents and 25% of staff and have gotten boosters. That’s clearly behind a booster rate of nearly 66% among people age 65 or older and about 45% for the adult population, according to statistics from the White House.

“We’ve got to change that,” Becerra said.

The administration is urging some 1,400 federally funded community health centers across the land to partner with local nursing homes in a renewed vaccination campaign.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641141095739.png" alt="The omicron variant “is lightning fast, and we cannot afford another COVID-19 surge in nursing homes,” Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra said. -photo courtesy HHS" />
 <figcaption>The omicron variant “is lightning fast, and we cannot afford another COVID-19 surge in nursing homes,” Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra said. -photo courtesy HHS</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Federal health officials on Thursday pressed nursing home workers to get their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-boosters-adults-cdc-fda-pfizer-moderna-34aabde2c1c5a88c7763fa1dac77df5f">booster shots</a>&nbsp;amid a spike in COVID-19 cases among staffers and a concerning lag in booster vaccination for residents and staff.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Omicron?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Omicron</a> variant spreads more easily than the original virus that causes <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>. Help stop Omicron by using all the tools to protect yourself and others. Learn more: <a href="https://t.co/LkeBxGqVsm">https://t.co/LkeBxGqVsm</a>. <a href="https://t.co/35QnrmhyA8">pic.twitter.com/35QnrmhyA8</a>&mdash; HHS.gov (@HHSGov) <a href="https://twitter.com/HHSGov/status/1477640854810599428?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The omicron variant “is lightning fast, and we cannot afford another COVID-19 surge in nursing homes,” Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra said in a livestreamed appeal to the industry. “You know that. I know that. Higher numbers of COVID cases would likely once again have a devastating impact on our loved ones.”<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/nursing-homes">Nursing homes</a>&nbsp;are a testing ground for President Joe Biden’s assertion that the U.S. is much better prepared to handle a surging virus than it was last winter. Although residents are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nursing-homes-coronavirus-pandemic-pandemics-business-health-f1a44187198ccca1e4311ac72f4f42aa">a tiny proportion of the population</a>, they represent a disproportionate share of Americans who have died in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic">the coronavirus pandemic</a>. Earlier this year&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-vaccine-pfizer-approval-1361ff61d06b815652a08a7cc0683a72">the advent of vaccines</a>&nbsp;brought the virus under control in nursing homes and allowed them to reopen to visitors. But that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-lifestyle-business-medicaid-medicare-a255b8b93fe023f77fca2b56257e3b7c">return to normalcy</a>&nbsp;could be in jeopardy as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-health-europe-london-england-eddf1657a9462547826881562b71f3b7">the omicron variant</a>&nbsp;pushes COVID-19 cases to new highs.Cases among nursing home staffers jumped to 10,353 the week ending Dec. 27, a rise of nearly 80% from the previous week, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Staff deaths increased to 58, tripling from the previous week. Among residents, who are more heavily vaccinated, cases went up slightly and the data showed no increase in deaths.With medical experts advising that a booster shot is critical to defend against omicron, Becerra said only 57% of nursing home residents and 25% of staff and have gotten boosters. That’s clearly behind a booster rate of nearly 66% among people age 65 or older and about 45% for the adult population, according to statistics from the White House.“We’ve got to change that,” Becerra said.The administration is urging some 1,400 federally funded community health centers across the land to partner with local nursing homes in a renewed vaccination campaign.

Feds press nursing home COVID boosters as staff cases spike

JACKSON COUNTY —A Kansas City 17-year-old, certified by Family Court to stand trial as an adult, has been charged in the fatal shootings in March of two 15-year-olds near 73rd and Norton in Kansas City, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

Edward T. Shelton faces two counts of Murder 2nd Degree and two counts of Armed Criminal Action.

According to court records, Kansas City police were dispatched on March 20, 2021, to the scene of a double homicide in the area of 73rd and Norton in Kansas City. 

Both victims were 15 years old. They were identified as Dominque Nelson and Dominik Simmons. One was found at the scene, shot multiple times. The other was found the next morning, shot once in the back, nearby.&nbsp;

Prosecutors requested the Shelton be held on a $200,000 bond.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640364892094.png" alt="Shelton-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Shelton-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY —A Kansas City 17-year-old, certified by Family Court to stand trial as an adult, has been charged in the fatal shootings in March of two 15-year-olds near 73rd and Norton in Kansas City, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.Edward T. Shelton faces two counts of Murder 2nd Degree and two counts of Armed Criminal Action.According to court records, Kansas City police were dispatched on March 20, 2021, to the scene of a double homicide in the area of 73rd and Norton in Kansas City. Both victims were 15 years old. They were identified as Dominque Nelson and Dominik Simmons. One was found at the scene, shot multiple times. The other was found the next morning, shot once in the back, nearby.&nbsp;Prosecutors requested the Shelton be held on a $200,000 bond.&nbsp;

Teen will be tried as an adult in killing of 2 Kansas City boys

MONROE, La. (AP) — President Joe Biden cannot require teachers in the Head Start early education program to be vaccinated against COVID-19, a Louisiana federal judge ruled Saturday, handing a victory to 24 states that had sued the federal government.

U.S. District Judge Terry Doughty&nbsp;<a href="https://www.alabamaag.gov/Documents/news/Head%20Start%20Mandate%20Stay%20Order.pdf" target="_blank">wrote that the Biden administration unlawfully bypassed Congress</a>&nbsp;when ordering that workers in Head Start programs be vaccinated by Jan. 31 and that students 2 years or older be masked when indoors or when in close contact outdoors.

Head Start is a federally funded program that promotes education for children under the age of 6 who are from low-income families.

Doughty, an appointee of then-President Donald Trump, wrote that the separation of powers is crucial to the country’s founding and quoted former President Ronald Reagan, who said “the nine most terrifying words in the English language are, ‘I’m from the government and I’m here to help.’”

“If the Executive branch is allowed to usurp the power of the Legislative branch to make laws, then this country is no longer a democracy — it is a monarchy,” Doughty wrote.

Republican attorneys general who were among the 24 states involved in the lawsuit praised Doughty’s decision.

“This victory will help ensure that numerous Head Start programs will continue to operate rather than have to fire teachers and cut back services to children,” Alabama Attorney General Marshall said in a news release. “And this win will forestall the nonsensical and damaging practice of forcing masks on two-year-olds.”

It was not immediately clear whether the federal government would appeal the decision to the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans.

Doughty’s ruling is similar to a Friday ruling in which a federal judge also blocked the Head Start mandate in Texas.

Saturday’s ruling affects Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Wyoming and West Virginia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636124369655.png" alt="It was not immediately clear whether the federal government would appeal the decision to the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans-photo White House" />
 <figcaption>It was not immediately clear whether the federal government would appeal the decision to the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans-photo White House</figcaption>
 </figure>MONROE, La. (AP) — President Joe Biden cannot require teachers in the Head Start early education program to be vaccinated against COVID-19, a Louisiana federal judge ruled Saturday, handing a victory to 24 states that had sued the federal government.U.S. District Judge Terry Doughty&nbsp;<a href="https://www.alabamaag.gov/Documents/news/Head%20Start%20Mandate%20Stay%20Order.pdf" target="_blank">wrote that the Biden administration unlawfully bypassed Congress</a>&nbsp;when ordering that workers in Head Start programs be vaccinated by Jan. 31 and that students 2 years or older be masked when indoors or when in close contact outdoors.Head Start is a federally funded program that promotes education for children under the age of 6 who are from low-income families.Doughty, an appointee of then-President Donald Trump, wrote that the separation of powers is crucial to the country’s founding and quoted former President Ronald Reagan, who said “the nine most terrifying words in the English language are, ‘I’m from the government and I’m here to help.’”“If the Executive branch is allowed to usurp the power of the Legislative branch to make laws, then this country is no longer a democracy — it is a monarchy,” Doughty wrote.Republican attorneys general who were among the 24 states involved in the lawsuit praised Doughty’s decision.“This victory will help ensure that numerous Head Start programs will continue to operate rather than have to fire teachers and cut back services to children,” Alabama Attorney General Marshall said in a news release. “And this win will forestall the nonsensical and damaging practice of forcing masks on two-year-olds.”It was not immediately clear whether the federal government would appeal the decision to the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans.Doughty’s ruling is similar to a Friday ruling in which a federal judge also blocked the Head Start mandate in Texas.Saturday’s ruling affects Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Wyoming and West Virginia.

Federal judge blocks Biden vaccine mandate for Head Start program

SUPERIOR, Colo. (AP) — A Colorado official says nearly 1,000 homes were destroyed, hundreds more were damaged, and that three people are missing after a wildfire charred numerous neighborhoods in a suburban area at the base of the Rocky Mountains northwest of Denver.

Boulder County Sheriff Joe Pelle also said Saturday that investigators are still trying to find the cause of the blaze that erupted Thursday.

Officials had previously estimated that at least 500 homes — and possibly 1,000 — were destroyed. They also announced earlier Saturday that two people were missing.

The wind-whipped wildfire blackened entire neighborhoods in the area between Denver and Boulder.

Authorities had said earlier no one was missing. But Boulder County spokeswoman Jennifer Churchill said Saturday that was due to confusion inherent when agencies are scrambling to manage an emergency.

Pelle said officials were organizing cadaver teams to search for the missing in the Superior area and in unincorporated Boulder County. The task is complicated by debris from destroyed structures, covered by 8 inches (20 centimeters) of snow dumped by a storm overnight, he said.

At least 991 homes were destroyed, Pelle said: 553 in Louisville, 332 in Superior and 106 in unincorporated parts of the county. Hundreds more were damaged. Pelle cautioned that the tally is not final.

The cause of the blaze was under investigation. Pelle said utility officials found no downed power lines around where the fire broke out. He said authorities were pursuing a number of tips and had executed a search warrant at “one particular location.” He declined to give details.

At least seven people were injured in the wildfire that erupted in and around Louisville and Superior, neighboring towns about 20 miles (32 kilometers) northwest of Denver with a combined population of 34,000. More than 500 homes were feared destroyed.

The blaze, which burned at least 9.4 square miles (24 square kilometers), was no longer considered an immediate threat — especially after an overnight dumping of snow and frigid temperatures Saturday. The bitter cold compounded the misery of Colorado residents who started off the new year trying to salvage what remains of their homes.

At least 6 inches (0.15 meters) of snow and temperatures in the single digits cast an eerie scene amid still-smoldering remains of homes. Despite the shocking change in weather, the smell of smoke still permeated empty streets blocked off by National Guard troops in Humvees.

Utility crews struggled to restore electricity and gas service to homes that survived, and dozens of people lined up to get donated space heaters, bottled water and blankets at Red Cross shelters. Xcel Energy urged other residents to use fireplaces and wood stoves to stay warm and keep their pipes at home from freezing.

Families filled a long line of cars waiting to pick up space heaters and bottled water at a Salvation Army distribution center at the YMCA in Lafayette, just north of Superior.

Monarch High School seniors Noah Sarasin and his twin brother Gavin had been volunteering at that location for two days, directing traffic and distributing donations.

“We have a house, no heat but we still have a house,” Noah Sarasin said. “I just want to make sure that everyone else has heat on this very cold day.”

Hilary and Patrick Wallace picked up two heaters, then ordered 2 hot chocolate mochas at a nearby cafe. The Superior couple couldn’t find a hotel and were contemplating hiking 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) back to their home; their neighborhood was still blocked off to traffic. The family slept in one room on New Year’s Eve.

Both teared up when a man entered the shop and joked aloud that he’d lost his coffee mugs — and everything else — in the fire. The man was in good spirits, laughing at the irony of the situation.

“I have a space heater and a house to put it in. I don’t even know what to say to them,” Hilary said, wiping away a tear.

Superior resident Jeff Markley arrived in his truck to pick up a heater. He said he felt lucky to be “just displaced” since his home is intact.

“We’re making do, staying with friends, and upbeat for the new year. Gotta be better than this last one,” Markley said.

“It’s bittersweet because we have our house, but our friends don’t. And our neighbors don’t,” said Louisville resident Judy Givens as she picked up a heater with her husband, Rusty. “We thought 2022 might be better. And then we had omicron. And now we have this, and it’s not starting out very well.”

Dozens trudged through the snow to determine the condition of their homes and take belongings.

Brian Williams, a resident of Superior, used a sled to evacuate his son from their home as the fire raged. It survived the blaze but was filled with ash and lacked utilities.

“We had to get our badges for work and medicine and stuff,” Williams said.

Donna O’Brien bundled up with her son Robert to make the 1.5-mile (2.4-kilometer) trek to check on their home. “I think we’re still in kind of shock,” she said. “This is our neighborhood and it happens everywhere else, but it’s not supposed to happen where you live.”

The wildfire broke out unusually late in the year, following an extremely dry fall and amid a winter nearly devoid of snow until the overnight snowfall. Scientists say climate change is making weather more extreme and wildfires more frequent and destructive.

Ninety percent of Boulder County is in severe or extreme drought, and it hadn’t seen substantial rainfall since mid-summer. Denver set a record for consecutive days without snow before it got a small storm on Dec. 10, its last snowfall before the wildfires broke out.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640951000026.png" alt="Boulder County Sheriff Joe Pelle also said Saturday that investigators are still trying to find the cause of the blaze that erupted Thursday-photo courtesy KKTV" />
 <figcaption>Boulder County Sheriff Joe Pelle also said Saturday that investigators are still trying to find the cause of the blaze that erupted Thursday-photo courtesy KKTV</figcaption>
 </figure>SUPERIOR, Colo. (AP) — A Colorado official says nearly 1,000 homes were destroyed, hundreds more were damaged, and that three people are missing after a wildfire charred numerous neighborhoods in a suburban area at the base of the Rocky Mountains northwest of Denver.Boulder County Sheriff Joe Pelle also said Saturday that investigators are still trying to find the cause of the blaze that erupted Thursday.Officials had previously estimated that at least 500 homes — and possibly 1,000 — were destroyed. They also announced earlier Saturday that two people were missing.The wind-whipped wildfire blackened entire neighborhoods in the area between Denver and Boulder.Authorities had said earlier no one was missing. But Boulder County spokeswoman Jennifer Churchill said Saturday that was due to confusion inherent when agencies are scrambling to manage an emergency.Pelle said officials were organizing cadaver teams to search for the missing in the Superior area and in unincorporated Boulder County. The task is complicated by debris from destroyed structures, covered by 8 inches (20 centimeters) of snow dumped by a storm overnight, he said.At least 991 homes were destroyed, Pelle said: 553 in Louisville, 332 in Superior and 106 in unincorporated parts of the county. Hundreds more were damaged. Pelle cautioned that the tally is not final.The cause of the blaze was under investigation. Pelle said utility officials found no downed power lines around where the fire broke out. He said authorities were pursuing a number of tips and had executed a search warrant at “one particular location.” He declined to give details.At least seven people were injured in the wildfire that erupted in and around Louisville and Superior, neighboring towns about 20 miles (32 kilometers) northwest of Denver with a combined population of 34,000. More than 500 homes were feared destroyed.The blaze, which burned at least 9.4 square miles (24 square kilometers), was no longer considered an immediate threat — especially after an overnight dumping of snow and frigid temperatures Saturday. The bitter cold compounded the misery of Colorado residents who started off the new year trying to salvage what remains of their homes.At least 6 inches (0.15 meters) of snow and temperatures in the single digits cast an eerie scene amid still-smoldering remains of homes. Despite the shocking change in weather, the smell of smoke still permeated empty streets blocked off by National Guard troops in Humvees.Utility crews struggled to restore electricity and gas service to homes that survived, and dozens of people lined up to get donated space heaters, bottled water and blankets at Red Cross shelters. Xcel Energy urged other residents to use fireplaces and wood stoves to stay warm and keep their pipes at home from freezing.Families filled a long line of cars waiting to pick up space heaters and bottled water at a Salvation Army distribution center at the YMCA in Lafayette, just north of Superior.Monarch High School seniors Noah Sarasin and his twin brother Gavin had been volunteering at that location for two days, directing traffic and distributing donations.“We have a house, no heat but we still have a house,” Noah Sarasin said. “I just want to make sure that everyone else has heat on this very cold day.”Hilary and Patrick Wallace picked up two heaters, then ordered 2 hot chocolate mochas at a nearby cafe. The Superior couple couldn’t find a hotel and were contemplating hiking 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) back to their home; their neighborhood was still blocked off to traffic. The family slept in one room on New Year’s Eve.Both teared up when a man entered the shop and joked aloud that he’d lost his coffee mugs — and everything else — in the fire. The man was in good spirits, laughing at the irony of the situation.“I have a space heater and a house to put it in. I don’t even know what to say to them,” Hilary said, wiping away a tear.Superior resident Jeff Markley arrived in his truck to pick up a heater. He said he felt lucky to be “just displaced” since his home is intact.“We’re making do, staying with friends, and upbeat for the new year. Gotta be better than this last one,” Markley said.Not everyone felt as positive.“It’s bittersweet because we have our house, but our friends don’t. And our neighbors don’t,” said Louisville resident Judy Givens as she picked up a heater with her husband, Rusty. “We thought 2022 might be better. And then we had omicron. And now we have this, and it’s not starting out very well.”Dozens trudged through the snow to determine the condition of their homes and take belongings.Brian Williams, a resident of Superior, used a sled to evacuate his son from their home as the fire raged. It survived the blaze but was filled with ash and lacked utilities.“We had to get our badges for work and medicine and stuff,” Williams said.Donna O’Brien bundled up with her son Robert to make the 1.5-mile (2.4-kilometer) trek to check on their home. “I think we’re still in kind of shock,” she said. “This is our neighborhood and it happens everywhere else, but it’s not supposed to happen where you live.”The wildfire broke out unusually late in the year, following an extremely dry fall and amid a winter nearly devoid of snow until the overnight snowfall. Scientists say climate change is making weather more extreme and wildfires more frequent and destructive.Ninety percent of Boulder County is in severe or extreme drought, and it hadn’t seen substantial rainfall since mid-summer. Denver set a record for consecutive days without snow before it got a small storm on Dec. 10, its last snowfall before the wildfires broke out.____

Official: Nearly 1K homes destroyed in wildfire near Denver

OSAGE COUNTY —A Kansas woman died in an accident just before 5:30p.m. Saturday in Osage County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 GMC Yukon driven by&nbsp; Lesley Ann Berner, 43, Osage City, was eastbound&nbsp;on U.S. 56 just east of Z Road.

The driver lost control of the vehicle. It traveled into the south ditch. The driver attempted to correct back onto the highway and the SUV overturned.

Berner was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to the morgue in Shawnee County. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

OSAGE COUNTY —A Kansas woman died in an accident just before 5:30p.m. Saturday in Osage County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 GMC Yukon driven by&nbsp; Lesley Ann Berner, 43, Osage City, was eastbound&nbsp;on U.S. 56 just east of Z Road.The driver lost control of the vehicle. It traveled into the south ditch. The driver attempted to correct back onto the highway and the SUV overturned.Berner was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to the morgue in Shawnee County. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman dies after SUV overturns

LEAVENWORTH, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas woman faces sentencing in February after being convicted of second-degree murder in the hit-and-run death of a teenager from Leavenworth.

Amber N. Alexander, 28, formerly of Leavenworth, was found guilty Thursday. Prosecutors presented evidence that Alexander had several drinks before leaving a bar in Lansing and driving to Main Street in nearby Leavenworth in August.

Alexander struck a 16-year-old girl before speeding away and crossing a bridge into Missouri. Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 2.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628642854304.png" alt="Alexander-photo Leavenworth Co." />
 <figcaption>Alexander-photo Leavenworth Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>LEAVENWORTH, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas woman faces sentencing in February after being convicted of second-degree murder in the hit-and-run death of a teenager from Leavenworth.Amber N. Alexander, 28, formerly of Leavenworth, was found guilty Thursday. Prosecutors presented evidence that Alexander had several drinks before leaving a bar in Lansing and driving to Main Street in nearby Leavenworth in August.Alexander struck a 16-year-old girl before speeding away and crossing a bridge into Missouri. Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 2.

Guilty of murder: Kan. woman left bar, struck teen on a bicycle

MCPHERSON COUNTY—A Kansas woman man died in an accident just after 4p.m. Saturday in McPherson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1999 Chevy Suburban driven by Jimmie W. Hall III, 36, Wichita,&nbsp; was southbound on the inside lane of Interstate 135 just south of Arrowhead Road.

The driver lost control. The SUV traveled off the roadway to the west into the ditch, spun and overturned.

A passenger Mary E. Hall, 62, was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported a 10-year-old girl from McPherson to a Wichita hospital.&nbsp; The driver was not injured and not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

MCPHERSON COUNTY—A Kansas woman man died in an accident just after 4p.m. Saturday in McPherson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1999 Chevy Suburban driven by Jimmie W. Hall III, 36, Wichita,&nbsp; was southbound on the inside lane of Interstate 135 just south of Arrowhead Road.The driver lost control. The SUV traveled off the roadway to the west into the ditch, spun and overturned.A passenger Mary E. Hall, 62, was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported a 10-year-old girl from McPherson to a Wichita hospital.&nbsp; The driver was not injured and not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman dies, child injured after SUV overturns

BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged burglary and have a suspect in custody.

Just before 4:30p.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to the 1300 block of Odell Street in Great Bend reference to a subject breaking into a garage, according to a media release. Officers were advised the suspect, later identified as Trenton Stueder, age 21, was running from the area.&nbsp; Officers were able to locate him and began questioning him in reference to the burglary.&nbsp; After providing officers with a fake name, officers obtained evidence from the burglary on Stueder’s person and&nbsp;in the area.&nbsp; Stueder was placed under arrest&nbsp;and booked into the Barton County Jail.

On Dec. 29, officers obtained information that there was possibly additional stolen property inside a residence Stueder had been staying at in the area. Officers and detectives obtained a search warrant for the residence, located in the 2500 block of 12th&nbsp;Street. Inside the residence, officers located previously reported stolen&nbsp;property, which was subsequently returned to the owners. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640897663765.png" alt="Stueder photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Stueder photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged burglary and have a suspect in custody.Just before 4:30p.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to the 1300 block of Odell Street in Great Bend reference to a subject breaking into a garage, according to a media release. Officers were advised the suspect, later identified as Trenton Stueder, age 21, was running from the area.&nbsp; Officers were able to locate him and began questioning him in reference to the burglary.&nbsp; After providing officers with a fake name, officers obtained evidence from the burglary on Stueder’s person and&nbsp;in the area.&nbsp; Stueder was placed under arrest&nbsp;and booked into the Barton County Jail.On Dec. 29, officers obtained information that there was possibly additional stolen property inside a residence Stueder had been staying at in the area. Officers and detectives obtained a search warrant for the residence, located in the 2500 block of 12th&nbsp;Street. Inside the residence, officers located previously reported stolen&nbsp;property, which was subsequently returned to the owners. &nbsp;