WASHINGTON (AP) — In the case of the cursing cheerleader, the Supreme Court notched a victory for the free speech rights of students Wednesday, siding with a high school student whose vulgar social media post got her kicked off the junior varsity squad.

The court voted 8-1 in favor of Brandi Levy, who was a 14-year-old freshman when she expressed her disappointment over not making the varsity cheerleading team with a string of curse words and a raised middle finger on Snapchat.

Levy, of Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania, was not at school when she made her post, but she was suspended from cheerleading activities for a year anyway. In&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/20971151-mahanoy-area-school-district-v-b-l" target="_blank">an opinion by Justice Stephen Breyer</a>, the high court ruled that the suspension violated Levy’s First Amendment freedom of speech rights. Justice Clarence Thomas dissented, noting he would have upheld the suspension.

The justices did not foreclose schools from disciplining students for what they say off campus, though they did not spell out when schools could act. An earlier federal appeals court ruling in this case would have barred public schools from punishing off-campus speech.

Despite ruling in Levy’s favor, Breyer wrote that “we do not believe the special characteristics that give schools additional license to regulate student speech always disappear when a school regulates speech that takes place off campus. The school’s regulatory interests remain significant in some off-campus circumstances.”

The case drew extra interest at a time of remote learning — because of the coronavirus pandemic — and a rising awareness of the harmful effects of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/f52ab056e47a4025ac8b10d67cca2949">online bullying</a>.

The decision was a strong endorsement of students’ right to speak freely, which the court first expressed more than a half century ago in defending armbands worn by high school students in protest of the Vietnam War, said Abner Greene, a constitutional law professor at the Fordham University School of Law in Manhattan.

“Students can engage in all kinds of critical or dissenting commentary, whether about the Vietnam War or the student cheerleading team, without losing their free speech rights. And it doesn’t matter where they say it,” Greene said.

The case arose from Levy’s posts, one of which pictured her and a friend with raised middle fingers and included the repeated use of a vulgarity to complain that she had been left off the varsity cheerleading squad.

“F——— school f——— softball f——— cheer f——— everything,” she wrote near the end of her freshman year, from a local convenience store, on a Saturday. Now 18, Levy recently finished her first year of college.

Levy’s parents filed a federal lawsuit after the cheerleading coach learned of the posts and suspended her from the junior varsity team for a year. Lower courts ruled in Levy’s favor, and she was reinstated.

The school district&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-of-the-united-states-brett-kavanaugh-elena-kagan-religion-courts-a4cbdf8ef08ea427ef94ba8f426cb9ac">appealed to the Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;after the broad appellate ruling that said off-campus student speech was beyond schools’ authority to punish.

The dispute is the latest in a line of a cases that began with Tinker v. Des Moines, the Vietnam-era case of a high school in Des Moines, Iowa, that suspended armband-wearing students. In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court sided with the students, declaring they don’t “shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate.”

The court also held then that schools retained the authority to restrict speech that would disrupt the school environment.

Wednesday’s ruling basically adopted the reasoning of Judge Thomas Ambro of the 3rd U.S. Circuit of Appeals in Philadelphia. Ambro agreed with the other two judges who decided Levy’s case that the suspension was unwarranted, but only because what she did was not disruptive either to the cheerleading team or school.

Breyer wrote that Levy’s case seemed less serious than its Vietnam-era predecessor.

“It might be tempting to dismiss B. L.’s words as unworthy of the robust First Amendment protections discussed herein. But sometimes it is necessary to protect the superfluous in order to preserve the necessary,” he wrote, using Levy’s initials because that was how she was identified in the original lawsuit. Levy has granted numerous interviews allowing her name to be used.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578090484280.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — In the case of the cursing cheerleader, the Supreme Court notched a victory for the free speech rights of students Wednesday, siding with a high school student whose vulgar social media post got her kicked off the junior varsity squad.The court voted 8-1 in favor of Brandi Levy, who was a 14-year-old freshman when she expressed her disappointment over not making the varsity cheerleading team with a string of curse words and a raised middle finger on Snapchat.Levy, of Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania, was not at school when she made her post, but she was suspended from cheerleading activities for a year anyway. In&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/20971151-mahanoy-area-school-district-v-b-l" target="_blank">an opinion by Justice Stephen Breyer</a>, the high court ruled that the suspension violated Levy’s First Amendment freedom of speech rights. Justice Clarence Thomas dissented, noting he would have upheld the suspension.The justices did not foreclose schools from disciplining students for what they say off campus, though they did not spell out when schools could act. An earlier federal appeals court ruling in this case would have barred public schools from punishing off-campus speech.Despite ruling in Levy’s favor, Breyer wrote that “we do not believe the special characteristics that give schools additional license to regulate student speech always disappear when a school regulates speech that takes place off campus. The school’s regulatory interests remain significant in some off-campus circumstances.”The case drew extra interest at a time of remote learning — because of the coronavirus pandemic — and a rising awareness of the harmful effects of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/f52ab056e47a4025ac8b10d67cca2949">online bullying</a>.The decision was a strong endorsement of students’ right to speak freely, which the court first expressed more than a half century ago in defending armbands worn by high school students in protest of the Vietnam War, said Abner Greene, a constitutional law professor at the Fordham University School of Law in Manhattan.“Students can engage in all kinds of critical or dissenting commentary, whether about the Vietnam War or the student cheerleading team, without losing their free speech rights. And it doesn’t matter where they say it,” Greene said.The case arose from Levy’s posts, one of which pictured her and a friend with raised middle fingers and included the repeated use of a vulgarity to complain that she had been left off the varsity cheerleading squad.“F——— school f——— softball f——— cheer f——— everything,” she wrote near the end of her freshman year, from a local convenience store, on a Saturday. Now 18, Levy recently finished her first year of college.Levy’s parents filed a federal lawsuit after the cheerleading coach learned of the posts and suspended her from the junior varsity team for a year. Lower courts ruled in Levy’s favor, and she was reinstated.The school district&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-of-the-united-states-brett-kavanaugh-elena-kagan-religion-courts-a4cbdf8ef08ea427ef94ba8f426cb9ac">appealed to the Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;after the broad appellate ruling that said off-campus student speech was beyond schools’ authority to punish.The dispute is the latest in a line of a cases that began with Tinker v. Des Moines, the Vietnam-era case of a high school in Des Moines, Iowa, that suspended armband-wearing students. In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court sided with the students, declaring they don’t “shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate.”The court also held then that schools retained the authority to restrict speech that would disrupt the school environment.Wednesday’s ruling basically adopted the reasoning of Judge Thomas Ambro of the 3rd U.S. Circuit of Appeals in Philadelphia. Ambro agreed with the other two judges who decided Levy’s case that the suspension was unwarranted, but only because what she did was not disruptive either to the cheerleading team or school.Breyer wrote that Levy’s case seemed less serious than its Vietnam-era predecessor.“It might be tempting to dismiss B. L.’s words as unworthy of the robust First Amendment protections discussed herein. But sometimes it is necessary to protect the superfluous in order to preserve the necessary,” he wrote, using Levy’s initials because that was how she was identified in the original lawsuit. Levy has granted numerous interviews allowing her name to be used.

Justices rule for foul-mouthed cheerleader in free speech case

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide and have taken a man into custody&nbsp; who may have information in the case&nbsp;

Overland Park Police reported Tuesday they located 24-year-old Kyle Anthony Guiterres.

On May 24, police responded to the 8500 Block of West 85th Street in Overland Park in reference to a homicide, according to Public Information Officer John Lacy.

Several witnesses heard a single gunshot two or three individuals running through a parking lot. The suspects entered a black sedan and a white sedan and left southbound through the parking lot onto west 85th Street.&nbsp; 

Police released no additional details or possible charges in the case.

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide and asking for help to locate a man who may have information in the case.

Kyle Anthony Guiterres, 24, is described as 5-foot-10, 170 pounds with brown hair and eyes, according to Overland Park Police.

Several witnesses heard a single gunshot two or three individuals running through a parking lot. The suspects entered a black sedan and a white sedan and left southbound through the parking lot onto west 85th Street.

Anyone with information on Guiterres is asked to contact police.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624369220060.png" alt="Guiterres-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Guiterres-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide and have taken a man into custody&nbsp; who may have information in the case&nbsp;Overland Park Police reported Tuesday they located 24-year-old Kyle Anthony Guiterres.On May 24, police responded to the 8500 Block of West 85th Street in Overland Park in reference to a homicide, according to Public Information Officer John Lacy.Several witnesses heard a single gunshot two or three individuals running through a parking lot. The suspects entered a black sedan and a white sedan and left southbound through the parking lot onto west 85th Street.&nbsp; Police released no additional details or possible charges in the case.--------JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide and asking for help to locate a man who may have information in the case.Kyle Anthony Guiterres, 24, is described as 5-foot-10, 170 pounds with brown hair and eyes, according to Overland Park Police.On May 24, police responded to the 8500 Block of West 85th Street in Overland Park in reference to a homicide, according to Public Information Officer John Lacy.Several witnesses heard a single gunshot two or three individuals running through a parking lot. The suspects entered a black sedan and a white sedan and left southbound through the parking lot onto west 85th Street.Anyone with information on Guiterres is asked to contact police.

Police: Person of interest in Kan. homicide in custody

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — A Missouri judge on Wednesday ruled that a voter-approved ballot measure to expand Medicaid is unconstitutional.

Cole County Circuit Court Judge Jon Beetem said the amendment unconstitutionally sought to force lawmakers to set aside money for the expansion.

Under the Constitution, lawmakers can’t be forced to make appropriations unless the ballot measure includes a funding mechanism.

Voters passed the constitutional amendment last year. But Republican Gov. Mike Parson refused to implement it because lawmakers didn’t set aside any money for it.

Three low-income women sued to try to force the state to enact the program.

Attorneys for the plaintiffs said they will appeal Beetem’s decision.

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — A Missouri judge on Wednesday ruled that a voter-approved ballot measure to expand Medicaid is unconstitutional.Cole County Circuit Court Judge Jon Beetem said the amendment unconstitutionally sought to force lawmakers to set aside money for the expansion.Under the Constitution, lawmakers can’t be forced to make appropriations unless the ballot measure includes a funding mechanism.Voters passed the constitutional amendment last year. But Republican Gov. Mike Parson refused to implement it because lawmakers didn’t set aside any money for it.Three low-income women sued to try to force the state to enact the program.Attorneys for the plaintiffs said they will appeal Beetem’s decision.

Missouri judge: Medicaid expansion unconstitutional

JOHNSON COUNTY —Detectives with the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department are currently investigating human remains discovered Tuesday afternoon.

Just after 1p.m., police were dispatched to the 400 Block of South Bayard just north of Kansas Avenue and west of the 18th Street Expressway on a report of possible skeletal human remains found by a Kansas Department of Transportation employee.

The initial investigation indicates the remains were from a man who had been dead for several months and possibly much longer. The KCK Police Major Case Unit is in charge of the investigation.

JOHNSON COUNTY —Detectives with the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department are currently investigating human remains discovered Tuesday afternoon.Just after 1p.m., police were dispatched to the 400 Block of South Bayard just north of Kansas Avenue and west of the 18th Street Expressway on a report of possible skeletal human remains found by a Kansas Department of Transportation employee.The initial investigation indicates the remains were from a man who had been dead for several months and possibly much longer. The KCK Police Major Case Unit is in charge of the investigation.

 Police: Human remains discovered in northeast Kansas

WASHINGTON
 — The Internal Revenue Service is partnering with non-profit 
organizations, churches, community groups and others in 12 cities to 
help eligible families, particularly those who normally do not file a 
federal tax return, file a 2020 income tax return or register for the 
monthly Advance Child Tax Credit (AdvCTC) payments using the new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-non-filer-sign-up-tool">Non-filer Sign-up Tool</a>.

This tool, an update of last year's IRS Non-Filers tool, is also 
designed to help eligible individuals who don't normally file tax 
returns register for the $1,400 third round of Economic Impact Payments 
(also known as stimulus checks) and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit for
 any amount of the first two rounds of Economic Impact Payments they may
 have missed. Individuals do not need to have children in order to 
attend these events and sign up for Economic Impact Payments.

The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p5532.pdf">special events&nbsp;PDF</a>
 by IRS and partner groups to help people quickly file income tax 
returns and register for the advance payments will take place over two 
weekends, June 25-26 and July 9-10, 2021. Events will be held in 
Atlanta; New York; Detroit; Houston; Los Angeles; Las Vegas; Miami; 
Milwaukee; Philadelphia; Phoenix; St. Louis; and Washington, DC.

"This important new tax change affects millions of families across 
the nation, and the IRS wants to do everything it can to help people get
 the payments," said IRS Wage &amp; Investment Commissioner Ken Corbin, 
who also serves as the agency's Chief Taxpayer Experience Officer. "Many
 people miss out on tax benefits simply because they don't file a tax 
return. Our work in these cities is designed to help people receive 
monthly Advance Child Tax Credit payments and Economic Impact Payments."

People can check their eligibility for the AdvCTC payments by using the new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-eligibility-assistant">Advance Child Tax Credit Eligibility Assistant</a>.

To make the sign-up process go quickly and smoothly, people are 
encouraged to have the following information when they come to one of 
these events:

As part of a wider effort to raise awareness of the expanded 
Child Tax Credit, the IRS also encourages its partners to use available <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">online tools and toolkits</a> to help non-filers, low-income families and other underserved groups sign up to receive the AdvCTC.

Some tax credits, such as the Child Tax Credit (CTC), are 
"refundable," meaning that even if taxpayers don't owe income tax, the 
IRS will issue them a refund if they're eligible; but they must file a 
tax return or register with the new Non-filer Sign-up Tool to receive 
it. Some people who haven't filed a 2020 tax return yet are also 
eligible for the $1,400 per person Economic Impact Payments and the 
Recovery Rebate Credit.

The first monthly payments of the expanded and newly-advanceable CTC 
from the American Rescue Plan will be made in July. Most families will 
begin receiving monthly payments without any additional action. Eligible
 families will receive a payment of up to $300 per month for each child 
under age 6, and up to $250 per month for each child ages 6 to 17.

People who need to file a 2020 federal income tax return, but are 
unable to attend one of these events, may be able to prepare and file 
their own federal income tax online using IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a> if their income is $72,000 or less.

People who don't need to file a 2020 federal tax return can use the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-non-filer-sign-up-tool">Non-filer Sign-up Tool</a> to register to receive the advance CTC payments, the Third Round Economic Impact Payment, and the Recovery Rebate Credit.

The IRS encourages people to request payments via direct deposit, 
which is faster and more secure than other payment methods. People who 
don't have a bank account should visit the <a href="https://www.fdic.gov/about/initiatives/getbanked/index.html">Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation</a> website for details on opening an account online. They can also use the FDIC's <a href="https://banks.data.fdic.gov/bankfind-suite/bankfind">BankFind</a> tool to locate an FDIC-insured bank.

Finally, <a href="https://covidbanking.joinbankon.org/">BankOn</a>, <a href="https://www.aba.com/advocacy/community-programs/consumer-resources/manage-your-money/choosing-safe-affordable-account">American Bankers Association</a>, <a href="https://www.icba.org/about/find-a-community-bank/open-a-bank-account-remotely">Independent Community Bankers of America</a> and <a href="https://www.mycreditunion.gov/about-credit-unions/credit-union-locator">National Credit Union Administration</a> have lists of banks and credit unions that can open an account online. Veterans can see the <a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/benefits/banking.asp">Veterans Benefits Banking Program</a> for financial services at participating banks.

The expanded and newly-advanceable Child Tax Credit was authorized by
 the American Rescue Plan Act, enacted in March. Normally, the IRS will 
calculate the payment based on a family's 2020 tax return, including 
those who use the Non-filer Sign-up Tool. If that return is not 
available because it has not yet been filed or is still being processed,
 the IRS will instead determine the initial payment amounts using the 
2019 return or the information entered using the Non-filers tool that 
was available in 2020.

The payment will be up to $300 per month for each child under age 6 and up to $250 per month for each child age 6 through 17.

To make sure families have easy access to their money, the IRS will 
issue these payments by direct deposit, as long as correct banking 
information has previously been provided to the IRS. Otherwise, people 
should watch their mail around July 15 for their mailed payment. The 
dates for the Advance Child Tax Credit payments are July 15, August&nbsp;13, 
September&nbsp;15, October&nbsp;15, November&nbsp;15, and December&nbsp;15.

To learn more about advance CTC payments, visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">IRS.gov/childtaxcredit2021</a> or see <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/2021-child-tax-credit-and-advance-child-tax-credit-payments-frequently-asked-questions">FAQs on the 2021 Child Tax Credit and Advance Child Tax Credit Payments</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON
 — The Internal Revenue Service is partnering with non-profit 
organizations, churches, community groups and others in 12 cities to 
help eligible families, particularly those who normally do not file a 
federal tax return, file a 2020 income tax return or register for the 
monthly Advance Child Tax Credit (AdvCTC) payments using the new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-non-filer-sign-up-tool">Non-filer Sign-up Tool</a>.This tool, an update of last year's IRS Non-Filers tool, is also 
designed to help eligible individuals who don't normally file tax 
returns register for the $1,400 third round of Economic Impact Payments 
(also known as stimulus checks) and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit for
 any amount of the first two rounds of Economic Impact Payments they may
 have missed. Individuals do not need to have children in order to 
attend these events and sign up for Economic Impact Payments.The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p5532.pdf">special events&nbsp;PDF</a>
 by IRS and partner groups to help people quickly file income tax 
returns and register for the advance payments will take place over two 
weekends, June 25-26 and July 9-10, 2021. Events will be held in 
Atlanta; New York; Detroit; Houston; Los Angeles; Las Vegas; Miami; 
Milwaukee; Philadelphia; Phoenix; St. Louis; and Washington, DC."This important new tax change affects millions of families across 
the nation, and the IRS wants to do everything it can to help people get
 the payments," said IRS Wage &amp; Investment Commissioner Ken Corbin, 
who also serves as the agency's Chief Taxpayer Experience Officer. "Many
 people miss out on tax benefits simply because they don't file a tax 
return. Our work in these cities is designed to help people receive 
monthly Advance Child Tax Credit payments and Economic Impact Payments."People can check their eligibility for the AdvCTC payments by using the new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-eligibility-assistant">Advance Child Tax Credit Eligibility Assistant</a>.To make the sign-up process go quickly and smoothly, people are 
encouraged to have the following information when they come to one of 
these events:<ol>
 <li>Social Security numbers for their children,</li><li>Social Security numbers or Tax Identification Numbers for themselves and their spouse,</li><li>a reliable mailing address,</li><li>an email address, and</li><li>their bank account information if they want to receive their payment by direct deposit.</li>
 </ol>As part of a wider effort to raise awareness of the expanded 
Child Tax Credit, the IRS also encourages its partners to use available <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">online tools and toolkits</a> to help non-filers, low-income families and other underserved groups sign up to receive the AdvCTC.Some tax credits, such as the Child Tax Credit (CTC), are 
"refundable," meaning that even if taxpayers don't owe income tax, the 
IRS will issue them a refund if they're eligible; but they must file a 
tax return or register with the new Non-filer Sign-up Tool to receive 
it. Some people who haven't filed a 2020 tax return yet are also 
eligible for the $1,400 per person Economic Impact Payments and the 
Recovery Rebate Credit.The first monthly payments of the expanded and newly-advanceable CTC 
from the American Rescue Plan will be made in July. Most families will 
begin receiving monthly payments without any additional action. Eligible
 families will receive a payment of up to $300 per month for each child 
under age 6, and up to $250 per month for each child ages 6 to 17.People who need to file a 2020 federal income tax return, but are 
unable to attend one of these events, may be able to prepare and file 
their own federal income tax online using IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a> if their income is $72,000 or less.People who don't need to file a 2020 federal tax return can use the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-non-filer-sign-up-tool">Non-filer Sign-up Tool</a> to register to receive the advance CTC payments, the Third Round Economic Impact Payment, and the Recovery Rebate Credit.The IRS encourages people to request payments via direct deposit, 
which is faster and more secure than other payment methods. People who 
don't have a bank account should visit the <a href="https://www.fdic.gov/about/initiatives/getbanked/index.html">Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation</a> website for details on opening an account online. They can also use the FDIC's <a href="https://banks.data.fdic.gov/bankfind-suite/bankfind">BankFind</a> tool to locate an FDIC-insured bank.Finally, <a href="https://covidbanking.joinbankon.org/">BankOn</a>, <a href="https://www.aba.com/advocacy/community-programs/consumer-resources/manage-your-money/choosing-safe-affordable-account">American Bankers Association</a>, <a href="https://www.icba.org/about/find-a-community-bank/open-a-bank-account-remotely">Independent Community Bankers of America</a> and <a href="https://www.mycreditunion.gov/about-credit-unions/credit-union-locator">National Credit Union Administration</a> have lists of banks and credit unions that can open an account online. Veterans can see the <a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/benefits/banking.asp">Veterans Benefits Banking Program</a> for financial services at participating banks.<h2>About the advance Child Tax Credit</h2>The expanded and newly-advanceable Child Tax Credit was authorized by
 the American Rescue Plan Act, enacted in March. Normally, the IRS will 
calculate the payment based on a family's 2020 tax return, including 
those who use the Non-filer Sign-up Tool. If that return is not 
available because it has not yet been filed or is still being processed,
 the IRS will instead determine the initial payment amounts using the 
2019 return or the information entered using the Non-filers tool that 
was available in 2020.The payment will be up to $300 per month for each child under age 6 and up to $250 per month for each child age 6 through 17.To make sure families have easy access to their money, the IRS will 
issue these payments by direct deposit, as long as correct banking 
information has previously been provided to the IRS. Otherwise, people 
should watch their mail around July 15 for their mailed payment. The 
dates for the Advance Child Tax Credit payments are July 15, August&nbsp;13, 
September&nbsp;15, October&nbsp;15, November&nbsp;15, and December&nbsp;15.To learn more about advance CTC payments, visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">IRS.gov/childtaxcredit2021</a> or see <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/2021-child-tax-credit-and-advance-child-tax-credit-payments-frequently-asked-questions">FAQs on the 2021 Child Tax Credit and Advance Child Tax Credit Payments</a>.

IRS: Free tax help for families to get Child Tax Credit, COVID relief payments

By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/06/22/kansas-officials-boost-food-assistance-through-pandemic-relief-program/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansas officials 
are extending and expanding access to a federal relief program for 
vulnerable families whose children were without school meals because of 
the pandemic.

Pandemic EBT program funds
 for the 2020-21 school year will be issued later this month to families
 of children that reported missed lunches because of school closures. 
The child must qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, and the school 
must have been closed or operated at reduced attendance for at least 
five consecutive days due to the pandemic.

The program also will be 
extended to those who attended child care facilities last year. 
Previously, children younger than 6 did not qualify for this assistance.

“Expanding the P-EBT 
program to child care facilities will address food insecurity and make 
sure all Kansas children have reliable access to healthy foods as we 
overcome COVID-19,” said Gov. Laura Kelly. “Keeping young Kansans safe 
and healthy is critical, and I’m glad to see this program reaching the 
families who need it most.”

The P-EBT program was a 
part of the first pandemic relief package passed by Congress in March 
2020 to aid families with food insecurity. After legislative leaders 
earlier this month cut off millions of dollars in food assistance by 
refusing to extend the COVID-19 emergency declaration, advocates hoped 
to see this program offer continued stability.

The program works 
similarly to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Families 
receive an electronic benefit transfer card — just like a debit card — 
preloaded with money they can use to buy groceries for their children 
who missed out on school meals.

Families already receiving
 public assistance through the Kansas Department for Children and 
Families will receive these benefits automatically, while all others 
must <a href="https://cssp.kees.ks.gov/apspssp/sspNonMed.portal">apply on the department website</a>.

Last year, 170,760 Kansas 
children received an average of $291 in P-EBT benefits for a total of 
$49.7 million provided to families in four months, according to data 
provided by Kansas Appleseed.

Benefit amounts vary based
 on each child’s learning situation. Families are notified of the 
specific amount when approved for the program.

“This program is essential
 to families who are experiencing food insecurity and don’t always know 
where their next meal will come from,” said DCF secretary Laura Howard.

P-EBT for this summer will be issued in the fall.

Haley Kottler, a campaign 
director for Kansas Appleseed, said it is instrumental that these 
programs receive support as families lose access to other sources of 
food assistance.

Under the now-expired 
emergency declaration, average monthly payments through the SNAP program
 increased from $106 to $193 for 63,000 Kansas households. That boost 
was taken away when Republican leaders rejected the governor’s request 
to extend the emergency declaration through August.

Kottler said the loss of those funds makes the extension of the P-EBT program more important.

“We know through research 
that hunger in Kansas among all Kansans would have been so much more 
amplified if these programs didn’t exist,” Kottler said. “I can’t 
imagine if there wasn’t a pandemic EBT program how many more Kansas 
children would be going hungry throughout the pandemic.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624463058608.png" alt="Last year, 170,760 Kansas kids received $49.7 million in P-EBT benefits in four months. The program is being extended based on last year's attendance figures. (Submitted by Kansas Appleseed)" />
 <figcaption>Last year, 170,760 Kansas kids received $49.7 million in P-EBT benefits in four months. The program is being extended based on last year's attendance figures. (Submitted by Kansas Appleseed)</figcaption>
 </figure>By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/06/22/kansas-officials-boost-food-assistance-through-pandemic-relief-program/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansas officials 
are extending and expanding access to a federal relief program for 
vulnerable families whose children were without school meals because of 
the pandemic.Pandemic EBT program funds
 for the 2020-21 school year will be issued later this month to families
 of children that reported missed lunches because of school closures. 
The child must qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, and the school 
must have been closed or operated at reduced attendance for at least 
five consecutive days due to the pandemic.The program also will be 
extended to those who attended child care facilities last year. 
Previously, children younger than 6 did not qualify for this assistance.“Expanding the P-EBT 
program to child care facilities will address food insecurity and make 
sure all Kansas children have reliable access to healthy foods as we 
overcome COVID-19,” said Gov. Laura Kelly. “Keeping young Kansans safe 
and healthy is critical, and I’m glad to see this program reaching the 
families who need it most.”The P-EBT program was a 
part of the first pandemic relief package passed by Congress in March 
2020 to aid families with food insecurity. After legislative leaders 
earlier this month cut off millions of dollars in food assistance by 
refusing to extend the COVID-19 emergency declaration, advocates hoped 
to see this program offer continued stability.The program works 
similarly to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Families 
receive an electronic benefit transfer card — just like a debit card — 
preloaded with money they can use to buy groceries for their children 
who missed out on school meals.Families already receiving
 public assistance through the Kansas Department for Children and 
Families will receive these benefits automatically, while all others 
must <a href="https://cssp.kees.ks.gov/apspssp/sspNonMed.portal">apply on the department website</a>.Last year, 170,760 Kansas 
children received an average of $291 in P-EBT benefits for a total of 
$49.7 million provided to families in four months, according to data 
provided by Kansas Appleseed.Benefit amounts vary based
 on each child’s learning situation. Families are notified of the 
specific amount when approved for the program.“This program is essential
 to families who are experiencing food insecurity and don’t always know 
where their next meal will come from,” said DCF secretary Laura Howard.P-EBT for this summer will be issued in the fall.Haley Kottler, a campaign 
director for Kansas Appleseed, said it is instrumental that these 
programs receive support as families lose access to other sources of 
food assistance.Under the now-expired 
emergency declaration, average monthly payments through the SNAP program
 increased from $106 to $193 for 63,000 Kansas households. That boost 
was taken away when Republican leaders rejected the governor’s request 
to extend the emergency declaration through August.Kottler said the loss of those funds makes the extension of the P-EBT program more important.“We know through research 
that hunger in Kansas among all Kansans would have been so much more 
amplified if these programs didn’t exist,” Kottler said. “I can’t 
imagine if there wasn’t a pandemic EBT program how many more Kansas 
children would be going hungry throughout the pandemic.”

Kan. officials boost food assistance through pandemic relief program

ST. JOSEPH, MO. —After a temporary relocation to Kansas City last year due to COVID-19, the Kansas City Chiefs have announced that their Training Camp will return to Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph this July.

The camp will be open to fans again, as this marks the Chiefs' 11th year of training camp at Missouri Western.

"The energy and excitement of Training Camp will be another welcome sign that we are returning to normal. It will set the stage for an exciting and engaging fall semester," said Missouri Western president Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy in a release.

The Chiefs also announced dates and times for all practices, which start on Wednesday, July 28 and conclude on Wednesday, August 18.

Nearly all training camp practices will be free to the public. Missouri Western will charge a $5 admission fee on three practice days – July 30, July 31 and August 8. There will be a $5 parking fee each of those days, and cash will be accepted for that.

All training camp tickets must be reserved in advance through the Chiefs Kingdom Rewards program at www.chiefskingdomrewards.com. Due to heightened demand, attendance at daily practice will be limited to provide the best fan experience.

Fans without Chiefs Kingdom Rewards accounts who wish to reserve Training Camp tickets can sign up for free at www.chiefskingdomrewards.com.

Ticket reservation will begin at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, July 7. Fans can reserve a maximum of four tickets per practice and can reserve tickets for a maximum of three separate practices.

All tickets are mobile entry only. Due to NFL protocols, no autographs are allowed this year.

The Chiefs will host two free, exclusive Season Ticket Member Days that won't be open to the public. Those will be July 28 and August 10. Parking will be free on both of those days.

Additional camp details will be communicated to ticket holders via email in the weeks leading up to training camp. All ticket reservations and purchases are subject to the Chiefs ticket terms found at www.chiefs.com/tickets/terms/.

Per Missouri Western policy, all parking and paid admission date ticket sales are final.

All practice times and dates are subject to change and all practices will be on the Mosaic Training Fields.

All practices, except for the final day of camp, will begin at 9:15 a.m. Weather and field conditions are evaluated daily. If practice is moved indoors due to poor conditions, it will be closed to the general public and fans will notified beforehand.

Chiefs Training Camp Dates and Times

Wednesday, July 28 Practice – 9:15 a.m.&nbsp; -Exclusive Season Ticket Member Day presented by GEHA (Not Open to Public)

Thursday, July 29 Practice – 9:15 a.m. -First Practice Open to the Public

Friday, July 30 Practice – 9:15 a.m. -$5 Admission Fee

Saturday, July 31 Practice – 9:15 a.m. -$5 Admission Fee

Friday, Aug. 6 Practice – 9:15 a.m. - Chiefs Alumni Day, Gatorade Junior Training Camp

Tuesday, Aug. 10 Practice – 9:15 a.m. -Exclusive Season Ticket Member Day presented by GEHA (Not Open to Public)

Saturday, Aug. 14 Preseason Game No. 1 – Chiefs at 49ers – 7:30 p.m. CT

Wednesday, Aug. 18 Practice – 8:15 a.m. - Military Appreciation Day presented by GEHA – Final Camp Practice

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624467204680.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ST. JOSEPH, MO. —After a temporary relocation to Kansas City last year due to COVID-19, the Kansas City Chiefs have announced that their Training Camp will return to Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph this July.The camp will be open to fans again, as this marks the Chiefs' 11th year of training camp at Missouri Western."The energy and excitement of Training Camp will be another welcome sign that we are returning to normal. It will set the stage for an exciting and engaging fall semester," said Missouri Western president Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy in a release.The Chiefs also announced dates and times for all practices, which start on Wednesday, July 28 and conclude on Wednesday, August 18.Nearly all training camp practices will be free to the public. Missouri Western will charge a $5 admission fee on three practice days – July 30, July 31 and August 8. There will be a $5 parking fee each of those days, and cash will be accepted for that.All training camp tickets must be reserved in advance through the Chiefs Kingdom Rewards program at www.chiefskingdomrewards.com. Due to heightened demand, attendance at daily practice will be limited to provide the best fan experience.Fans without Chiefs Kingdom Rewards accounts who wish to reserve Training Camp tickets can sign up for free at www.chiefskingdomrewards.com.Ticket reservation will begin at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, July 7. Fans can reserve a maximum of four tickets per practice and can reserve tickets for a maximum of three separate practices.All tickets are mobile entry only. Due to NFL protocols, no autographs are allowed this year.The Chiefs will host two free, exclusive Season Ticket Member Days that won't be open to the public. Those will be July 28 and August 10. Parking will be free on both of those days.Additional camp details will be communicated to ticket holders via email in the weeks leading up to training camp. All ticket reservations and purchases are subject to the Chiefs ticket terms found at www.chiefs.com/tickets/terms/.Per Missouri Western policy, all parking and paid admission date ticket sales are final.All practice times and dates are subject to change and all practices will be on the Mosaic Training Fields.All practices, except for the final day of camp, will begin at 9:15 a.m. Weather and field conditions are evaluated daily. If practice is moved indoors due to poor conditions, it will be closed to the general public and fans will notified beforehand.Chiefs Training Camp Dates and TimesWednesday, July 28 Practice – 9:15 a.m.&nbsp; -Exclusive Season Ticket Member Day presented by GEHA (Not Open to Public)Thursday, July 29 Practice – 9:15 a.m. -First Practice Open to the PublicFriday, July 30 Practice – 9:15 a.m. -$5 Admission FeeSaturday, July 31 Practice – 9:15 a.m. -$5 Admission FeeSunday, Aug. 1 No PracticeMonday, Aug. 2 Practice – 9:15 a.m.Tuesday, Aug. 3 Practice – 9:15 a.m.Wednesday, Aug. 4 Practice – 9:15 a.m.Thursday, Aug. 5 Practice – 9:15 a.m.Friday, Aug. 6 Practice – 9:15 a.m. - Chiefs Alumni Day, Gatorade Junior Training CampSaturday, Aug. 7 No PracticeSunday, Aug. 8 Practice – 9:15 a.m.Family Fun Day -- $5 Admission FeeMonday, Aug. 9 Practice – 9:15 a.m.Tuesday, Aug. 10 Practice – 9:15 a.m. -Exclusive Season Ticket Member Day presented by GEHA (Not Open to Public)Wednesday, Aug. 11 No PracticeThursday, Aug. 12 Practice – 9:15 a.m.Friday, Aug. 13 No PracticeSaturday, Aug. 14 Preseason Game No. 1 – Chiefs at 49ers – 7:30 p.m. CTSunday, Aug. 15 No PracticeMonday, Aug. 16 Practice – 9:15 a.m.Tuesday, Aug. 17 Practice – 9:15 a.m.Wednesday, Aug. 18 Practice – 8:15 a.m. - Military Appreciation Day presented by GEHA – Final Camp Practice

Chiefs training camp officially returning to St. Joseph

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 322 to a total of 317,017, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

The state reported 10 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 5139.

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

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

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 322 to a total of 317,017, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;The state reported 10 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 5139.<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624467785834.png" alt="Wednesday June 23, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday June 23, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

WEBSTER CITY, Iowa (AP) — A Kansas man has been sentenced to 50 years in prison for killing his girlfriend in Iowa in 2018. 

Zackery Bassett, 34, originally from Elwood, Kansas, must serve at least 35 years of the sentence that was handed down Monday. 

A jury in February convicted Bassett of second-degree murder in the death of 50-year-old Andrea Solokowski. She was killed in September 2018 in Webster City, Iowa. 

Prosecutors said Bassett had abused and stalked Solokowski, of Sioux City, Iowa, for more than a year before her death. An autopsy found injuries consistent with asphyxiation but Solokowski’s cause of death was listed as undetermined.

WEBSTER CITY, IOWA (AP)&nbsp;— A Kansas&nbsp;man has been convicted of second-degree murder in the 2018 death of his girlfriend in&nbsp;Iowa.

Zackery Bassett, 34, of Elwood, Kansas, was originally charged with first-degree murder after Andrea Solokowski, 50, was found not breathing in a home in Webster City. An autopsy showed evidence of asphyxiation but her cause of death was listed as undetermined.

Bassett was convicted in Hamilton County Tuesday on the lesser charge after a trial that had been repeatedly delayed by COVID-19 precautions.

Prosecutors alleged Bassett repeatedly abused Solokowski, of Sioux City, for more than a year before her death. Her family told investigators Bassett had stalked her and she had told a friend she was afraid he would kill her.

The maximum sentence possible in Iowa for second-degree murder is 50 years. Bassett is scheduled to be sentenced April 5.

WEBSTER CITY, Iowa (AP) — A March trial has been scheduled for a&nbsp;man accused of killing his girlfriend&nbsp;in central Iowa.

Hamilton County District Court records show 32-year-old Zackery Bassett, of Webster City, entered a written plea of not guilty Monday to a charge of first-degree murder. His trial is set to begin March 5.

Investigators said Bassett called Webster City police Sept. 22&nbsp;to report his girlfriend, 50-year-old Andrea Sokolowski, was not breathing. Sokolowski was taken by ambulance to a Webster City hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Bassett was&nbsp;arrested on an Iowa warrant&nbsp;Nov. 14 in St. Joseph, Missouri.

Through interviews and medical records, detectives determined&nbsp;Bassett had expressed jealousy and violence toward&nbsp;Sokolowski&nbsp;in the months leading up to her death, according to charging documents.

Authorities said&nbsp;Bassett abused&nbsp;Sokolowski&nbsp;for&nbsp;more than a year before she died.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614355180712.png" alt=" Bassett is being held in Hamilton County" />
 <figcaption> Bassett is being held in Hamilton County</figcaption>
 </figure>WEBSTER CITY, Iowa (AP) — A Kansas man has been sentenced to 50 years in prison for killing his girlfriend in Iowa in 2018. Zackery Bassett, 34, originally from Elwood, Kansas, must serve at least 35 years of the sentence that was handed down Monday. A jury in February convicted Bassett of second-degree murder in the death of 50-year-old Andrea Solokowski. She was killed in September 2018 in Webster City, Iowa. Prosecutors said Bassett had abused and stalked Solokowski, of Sioux City, Iowa, for more than a year before her death. An autopsy found injuries consistent with asphyxiation but Solokowski’s cause of death was listed as undetermined.----------WEBSTER CITY, IOWA (AP)&nbsp;— A Kansas&nbsp;man has been convicted of second-degree murder in the 2018 death of his girlfriend in&nbsp;Iowa.Zackery Bassett, 34, of Elwood, Kansas, was originally charged with first-degree murder after Andrea Solokowski, 50, was found not breathing in a home in Webster City. An autopsy showed evidence of asphyxiation but her cause of death was listed as undetermined.Bassett was convicted in Hamilton County Tuesday on the lesser charge after a trial that had been repeatedly delayed by COVID-19 precautions.Prosecutors alleged Bassett repeatedly abused Solokowski, of Sioux City, for more than a year before her death. Her family told investigators Bassett had stalked her and she had told a friend she was afraid he would kill her.The maximum sentence possible in Iowa for second-degree murder is 50 years. Bassett is scheduled to be sentenced April 5.----------WEBSTER CITY, Iowa (AP) — A March trial has been scheduled for a&nbsp;man accused of killing his girlfriend&nbsp;in central Iowa.Hamilton County District Court records show 32-year-old Zackery Bassett, of Webster City, entered a written plea of not guilty Monday to a charge of first-degree murder. His trial is set to begin March 5.Investigators said Bassett called Webster City police Sept. 22&nbsp;to report his girlfriend, 50-year-old Andrea Sokolowski, was not breathing. Sokolowski was taken by ambulance to a Webster City hospital, where she was pronounced dead.Bassett was&nbsp;arrested on an Iowa warrant&nbsp;Nov. 14 in St. Joseph, Missouri.Through interviews and medical records, detectives determined&nbsp;Bassett had expressed jealousy and violence toward&nbsp;Sokolowski&nbsp;in the months leading up to her death, according to charging documents.Authorities said&nbsp;Bassett abused&nbsp;Sokolowski&nbsp;for&nbsp;more than a year before she died.&nbsp;

Kansas man sentenced for killing girlfriend in Iowa

WICHITA—Authorities continue to investigate what caused the illness in children who attended the Splash Park at Taganyika Wildlife Park in Goddard.

On Tuesday,&nbsp;Patterson Legal Group filed a lawsuit in Sedgwick County District Court on behalf of those injured at the Splash Park, according to a statement from the law firm.

“Many children and adults were unknowingly exposed to a pathogen and have suffered violent periods of illness,” said Coleman Younger, one of two attorneys representing those who were infected.

The lawsuit alleges that Tanganyika failed to maintain proper sanitary conditions and did not warn guests once they knew, or should have known, about the outbreak.

“It’s a very scary situation for all involved, especially the children who fell seriously ill,” says Younger. “Businesses have a responsibility to the public to ensure that splash parks are operated in a safe manner to ensure situations like this do not happen.” 

Tanganyika Wildlife Park’s Director Matt Fouts said on soicial media that he decided <a href="https://twpark.com/splash-park-closure/">to close the attraction</a> after discussions with the Sedgwick County Health Department.

He said the park is working to fix a filtration system problem.&nbsp; Cameron Vandusen said his 4-year-old daughter, Kennedy, was hospitalized Saturday after she started throwing up. Four other family members who went to the splash park Friday were also throwing up and having diarrhea on Saturday.

If you or a family member experienced symptoms of fever, diarrhea or vomiting after visiting Tanganyika Wildlife Park on or after May 28, 2021, please take this survey at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA2MjAuNDIxNzE3NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3Rpbnl1cmwuY29tL2tkaGVzcGxhc2g_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.kdvq3t3XT2EXzMLHYDA8EhdOIcOsD3HGal2gwUpZvbk/s/1305913448/br/108183106576-l" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/kdhesplash</a>.

If you live in Sedgwick County, and do not have access to a computer to complete the survey, contact the Sedgwick County Health Department via email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:DiseaseReporting@sedgwick.gov" target="_blank">DiseaseReporting@sedgwick.gov</a>&nbsp;or call the COVID-19 line at 316-660-1022 (press 1 to leave a message). Sedgwick County is working to set up a separate, non-COVID phone line which will be released this week.

If you live outside of Sedgwick County and do not have access to a computer to complete the survey, please contact your local health department.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624228385006.png" alt="Photo courtesy Tanganyika Wildlife Park" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Tanganyika Wildlife Park</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA—Authorities continue to investigate what caused the illness in children who attended the Splash Park at Taganyika Wildlife Park in Goddard.On Tuesday,&nbsp;Patterson Legal Group filed a lawsuit in Sedgwick County District Court on behalf of those injured at the Splash Park, according to a statement from the law firm.“Many children and adults were unknowingly exposed to a pathogen and have suffered violent periods of illness,” said Coleman Younger, one of two attorneys representing those who were infected.The lawsuit alleges that Tanganyika failed to maintain proper sanitary conditions and did not warn guests once they knew, or should have known, about the outbreak.“It’s a very scary situation for all involved, especially the children who fell seriously ill,” says Younger. “Businesses have a responsibility to the public to ensure that splash parks are operated in a safe manner to ensure situations like this do not happen.” Tanganyika Wildlife Park’s Director Matt Fouts said on soicial media that he decided <a href="https://twpark.com/splash-park-closure/">to close the attraction</a> after discussions with the Sedgwick County Health Department. He said the park is working to fix a filtration system problem.&nbsp; Cameron Vandusen said his 4-year-old daughter, Kennedy, was hospitalized Saturday after she started throwing up. Four other family members who went to the splash park Friday were also throwing up and having diarrhea on Saturday.If you or a family member experienced symptoms of fever, diarrhea or vomiting after visiting Tanganyika Wildlife Park on or after May 28, 2021, please take this survey at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA2MjAuNDIxNzE3NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3Rpbnl1cmwuY29tL2tkaGVzcGxhc2g_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.kdvq3t3XT2EXzMLHYDA8EhdOIcOsD3HGal2gwUpZvbk/s/1305913448/br/108183106576-l" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/kdhesplash</a>.If you live in Sedgwick County, and do not have access to a computer to complete the survey, contact the Sedgwick County Health Department via email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:DiseaseReporting@sedgwick.gov" target="_blank">DiseaseReporting@sedgwick.gov</a>&nbsp;or call the COVID-19 line at 316-660-1022 (press 1 to leave a message). Sedgwick County is working to set up a separate, non-COVID phone line which will be released this week.If you live outside of Sedgwick County and do not have access to a computer to complete the survey, please contact your local health department.

Lawsuit filed over illnesses in children at Kan. splash park

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden is announcing new efforts to stem a rising national tide of violent crime as administration officials brace for what could be a turbulent summer, focusing on attacking gun violence, providing money to cities that need more police and offering community support.

The worry over crime is real: It has created economic hardship, displacement and anxiety. But there are also tricky politics at play. The spike in crime has become a Republican talking point and has been a frequent topic of conversation on conservative media.

White House aides believe that Biden, with his long legislative record on fighting crime as a senator, is not easy to paint as soft on the issue, and the president has been clear that he is opposed to the “defund the police” movement, which has been effectively used against other Democrats to cast them as anti-law enforcement.

But Biden also is trying to boost progressives' efforts to reform policing, following a year of mass demonstrations and public anguish sparked by the killing by police of George Floyd and other Black people across the country. And while combating crime and reforming the police don't have to be at odds with each other, the two efforts are increasingly billed that way.

Biden will try to do both at once, according to senior administration officials who detailed his upcoming address on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly about it.

In his speech Wednesday, Biden will announce a “zero tolerance" policy — not to be confused with the Trump administration's “zero tolerance” policy on immigration that separated thousands of children from their families at the U.S.-Mexico border. This one gives no leeway to gun dealers who fail to comply with federal law — their license to sell will be revoked on the first offense.

The president has already announced a half-dozen executive actions on gun control, including cracking down on “ghost guns,” homemade firearms that lack serial numbers used to trace them and that are often purchased without a background check.

But Biden is limited in his power to act alone. The House passed two bills requiring background checks on all firearm sales and transfers and allowing an expanded 10-day review for gun purchases. That legislation faces strong headwinds in the Senate, where some Republican support would be needed for passage.

In the meantime, Biden will also seek increased transparency on gun data and better coordination among states, and he will push Congress for more money for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the agency responsible for enforcing federal gun laws and regulating gun dealers. The Justice Department is also launching strike forces in Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Washington, D.C., to help take down illegal gun traffickers, building on an initiative begun last month.

Police officials around the country have said they are struggling with increasing crime and continued tensions between police and communities, and some say their calls for support aren't answered as they take the blame for the spike.

“Many of us — if not most of us — are seeing a rise in crime, while at the same time, we’re hearing calls for reform,” Baltimore Police Commissioner Michael Harrison said of cities in remarks Tuesday at a forum on policing. “And some of those calls are to the extreme of dismantle and defund ... while all of the same time we’re sworn to protect the people.”

Biden planned to discuss how $350 billion of the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package can be used by cities to hire law enforcement officers, pay overtime, prosecute gun traffickers and invest in technology to make law enforcement more efficient. The officials said the Biden administration hoped cities would choose to use the money for alternatives to policing, too, and to invest in community policing models.

While crime is rising — homicides and shootings are up from the same period last year in Chicago; Los Angeles; Minneapolis; Portland, Oregon; Baltimore; Baton Rouge, Louisiana; and Houston — violent crime overall remains lower than it was a decade ago or even five years ago. And most violent crimes plummeted during the first six months of the coronavirus pandemic, as people stayed indoors and away from others.

Crime started creeping up last summer, a trend criminologists say is hard to define and is likely due to a variety of factors such as historic unemployment, fear over the virus and mass anger over stay-at-home orders. Public mass shootings have also made an alarming return.

The rise in violence comes against the backdrop of the national debate on policing and racism in policing — and as a police reform bill is being crafted in Congress. White House press secretary Jen Psaki on Tuesday dismissed suggestions that a presidential event focused on cracking down on crime would undermine that legislative effort.

As a senator, Biden wrote several major anti-crime packages, including a 1994 bill that contained provisions now viewed by some as an overreaction to the crime spikes in the 1980s and 1990s. Critics say those bills helped lead to mass incarceration of Black Americans, and Biden’s involvement became a flashpoint in his 2020 campaign.

Biden has expressed second thoughts about some aspects of the legislation, and he has acknowledged its harmful impact on many Black Americans. But he and his allies still hold out the law’s provisions to address domestic violence, ban assault weapons and finance community policing.

On the reform side, Biden on Wednesday is expected to push cities to use $122 billion to help keep schoolchildren busy this summer — they're often both targets and perpetrators of violence — and to expand summer hiring programs for teenagers, the officials said. Labor Department funding will be used to provide pre-apprenticeship jobs for youths and help formerly incarcerated adults and young people in 28 communities get work.

The White House also planned to convene a bipartisan meeting Wednesday of law enforcement officials, politicians, activists and prosecutors and will meet with 14 jurisdictions from around the country that have committed to using a portion of the funding for violence intervention programs.

“Yes, there need to be reforms of police systems across the country. The president is a firm believer in that," Psaki said Tuesday. "But there are also steps he can take as president of the United States to help address and hopefully reduce that crime. A big part of that, in his view, is putting in place gun safety measures ... using the bully pulpit but also using levers at his disposal as president.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624447816031.png" alt="President Joe Biden is expected to announce a partnership between federal law enforcement and local police to help combat a rising tide of violent crime. The effort is aimed at building on his administration’s gun control efforts so far and is to including new strike forces to tackle gun trafficking.-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>President Joe Biden is expected to announce a partnership between federal law enforcement and local police to help combat a rising tide of violent crime. The effort is aimed at building on his administration’s gun control efforts so far and is to including new strike forces to tackle gun trafficking.-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden is announcing new efforts to stem a rising national tide of violent crime as administration officials brace for what could be a turbulent summer, focusing on attacking gun violence, providing money to cities that need more police and offering community support.The worry over crime is real: It has created economic hardship, displacement and anxiety. But there are also tricky politics at play. The spike in crime has become a Republican talking point and has been a frequent topic of conversation on conservative media.White House aides believe that Biden, with his long legislative record on fighting crime as a senator, is not easy to paint as soft on the issue, and the president has been clear that he is opposed to the “defund the police” movement, which has been effectively used against other Democrats to cast them as anti-law enforcement.But Biden also is trying to boost progressives' efforts to reform policing, following a year of mass demonstrations and public anguish sparked by the killing by police of George Floyd and other Black people across the country. And while combating crime and reforming the police don't have to be at odds with each other, the two efforts are increasingly billed that way.Biden will try to do both at once, according to senior administration officials who detailed his upcoming address on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly about it.In his speech Wednesday, Biden will announce a “zero tolerance" policy — not to be confused with the Trump administration's “zero tolerance” policy on immigration that separated thousands of children from their families at the U.S.-Mexico border. This one gives no leeway to gun dealers who fail to comply with federal law — their license to sell will be revoked on the first offense.The president has already announced a half-dozen executive actions on gun control, including cracking down on “ghost guns,” homemade firearms that lack serial numbers used to trace them and that are often purchased without a background check.But Biden is limited in his power to act alone. The House passed two bills requiring background checks on all firearm sales and transfers and allowing an expanded 10-day review for gun purchases. That legislation faces strong headwinds in the Senate, where some Republican support would be needed for passage.In the meantime, Biden will also seek increased transparency on gun data and better coordination among states, and he will push Congress for more money for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the agency responsible for enforcing federal gun laws and regulating gun dealers. The Justice Department is also launching strike forces in Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Washington, D.C., to help take down illegal gun traffickers, building on an initiative begun last month.Police officials around the country have said they are struggling with increasing crime and continued tensions between police and communities, and some say their calls for support aren't answered as they take the blame for the spike.“Many of us — if not most of us — are seeing a rise in crime, while at the same time, we’re hearing calls for reform,” Baltimore Police Commissioner Michael Harrison said of cities in remarks Tuesday at a forum on policing. “And some of those calls are to the extreme of dismantle and defund ... while all of the same time we’re sworn to protect the people.”Biden planned to discuss how $350 billion of the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package can be used by cities to hire law enforcement officers, pay overtime, prosecute gun traffickers and invest in technology to make law enforcement more efficient. The officials said the Biden administration hoped cities would choose to use the money for alternatives to policing, too, and to invest in community policing models.While crime is rising — homicides and shootings are up from the same period last year in Chicago; Los Angeles; Minneapolis; Portland, Oregon; Baltimore; Baton Rouge, Louisiana; and Houston — violent crime overall remains lower than it was a decade ago or even five years ago. And most violent crimes plummeted during the first six months of the coronavirus pandemic, as people stayed indoors and away from others.Crime started creeping up last summer, a trend criminologists say is hard to define and is likely due to a variety of factors such as historic unemployment, fear over the virus and mass anger over stay-at-home orders. Public mass shootings have also made an alarming return.The rise in violence comes against the backdrop of the national debate on policing and racism in policing — and as a police reform bill is being crafted in Congress. White House press secretary Jen Psaki on Tuesday dismissed suggestions that a presidential event focused on cracking down on crime would undermine that legislative effort.As a senator, Biden wrote several major anti-crime packages, including a 1994 bill that contained provisions now viewed by some as an overreaction to the crime spikes in the 1980s and 1990s. Critics say those bills helped lead to mass incarceration of Black Americans, and Biden’s involvement became a flashpoint in his 2020 campaign.Biden has expressed second thoughts about some aspects of the legislation, and he has acknowledged its harmful impact on many Black Americans. But he and his allies still hold out the law’s provisions to address domestic violence, ban assault weapons and finance community policing.On the reform side, Biden on Wednesday is expected to push cities to use $122 billion to help keep schoolchildren busy this summer — they're often both targets and perpetrators of violence — and to expand summer hiring programs for teenagers, the officials said. Labor Department funding will be used to provide pre-apprenticeship jobs for youths and help formerly incarcerated adults and young people in 28 communities get work.The White House also planned to convene a bipartisan meeting Wednesday of law enforcement officials, politicians, activists and prosecutors and will meet with 14 jurisdictions from around the country that have committed to using a portion of the funding for violence intervention programs.“Yes, there need to be reforms of police systems across the country. The president is a firm believer in that," Psaki said Tuesday. "But there are also steps he can take as president of the United States to help address and hopefully reduce that crime. A big part of that, in his view, is putting in place gun safety measures ... using the bully pulpit but also using levers at his disposal as president.”

Biden taking steps to combat rising tide of violent crime

WASHINGTON— U.S. Senator Roger Marshall and U.S. Representative Mike Gallagher are demanding answers from the Departments of Defense and Health and Human Services (HHS) on&nbsp;possible COVID-19 infections of U.S. Army troops&nbsp;who participated in the 2019 World Military Games that took place in Wuhan, China from October 18-28, 2019, according to a media release from Marshall's office.

 Following completion of the games, athletes from numerous participating countries reported experiencing symptoms similar to those associated with COVID-19. Senator Marshall and Representative Gallagher issued these statements after sending letters to the Secretaries of the&nbsp;Defense&nbsp;and&nbsp;HHS&nbsp;demanding answers on the matter:

“The World Military Games’ proximity to the WIV and the new details of the athletes potentially being exposed to COVID-19 while participating in the event present an alarming coincidence our government must investigate to establish an accurate timeline of the outbreak. This merits a thorough examination as a possible ‘super spreader’ event based on the time, location, and reported symptoms of the participating athletes. If these individuals were exposed in October, this evidence will further help us understand the origin of COVID-19 and prepare for future outbreaks,”&nbsp;said Senator Marshall.

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/Becerra-Letter_COVID-Origins_6.22.21.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to read Senator Marshall’s letter to HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra.

“These reports are extremely troubling and cast further doubt on the CCP’s official timeline regarding the spread of this virus,”&nbsp;said Rep. Gallagher. “Information involving the health of those who participated in the 2019 games could provide critical insight into understanding where and when COVID-19 first emerged, and it’s essential for the Biden Administration to immediately release this information to the public.”

WASHINGTON— U.S. Senator Roger Marshall and U.S. Representative Mike Gallagher are demanding answers from the Departments of Defense and Health and Human Services (HHS) on&nbsp;possible COVID-19 infections of U.S. Army troops&nbsp;who participated in the 2019 World Military Games that took place in Wuhan, China from October 18-28, 2019, according to a media release from Marshall's office. Following completion of the games, athletes from numerous participating countries reported experiencing symptoms similar to those associated with COVID-19. Senator Marshall and Representative Gallagher issued these statements after sending letters to the Secretaries of the&nbsp;Defense&nbsp;and&nbsp;HHS&nbsp;demanding answers on the matter:“The World Military Games’ proximity to the WIV and the new details of the athletes potentially being exposed to COVID-19 while participating in the event present an alarming coincidence our government must investigate to establish an accurate timeline of the outbreak. This merits a thorough examination as a possible ‘super spreader’ event based on the time, location, and reported symptoms of the participating athletes. If these individuals were exposed in October, this evidence will further help us understand the origin of COVID-19 and prepare for future outbreaks,”&nbsp;said Senator Marshall.Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/Becerra-Letter_COVID-Origins_6.22.21.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to read Senator Marshall’s letter to HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra.“These reports are extremely troubling and cast further doubt on the CCP’s official timeline regarding the spread of this virus,”&nbsp;said Rep. Gallagher. “Information involving the health of those who participated in the 2019 games could provide critical insight into understanding where and when COVID-19 first emerged, and it’s essential for the Biden Administration to immediately release this information to the public.”

Sen. Marshall: Possible U.S. troops infected with COVID in 2019

BONNER SPRINGS, Kan. (AP) — A 14-year-old Kansas boy has died after falling from a moving vehicle driven by another juvenile. The accident happened Monday in Bonner Springs in suburban Kansas City. 

Police did not identify the victim. A statement from police said officers responded to a report of a medical emergency in a parking lot and determined that two juveniles were riding on a vehicle driven by another juvenile. 

One of them fell and was critically injured. He died at a hospital. No additional information was immediately released.

BONNER SPRINGS, Kan. (AP) — A 14-year-old Kansas boy has died after falling from a moving vehicle driven by another juvenile. The accident happened Monday in Bonner Springs in suburban Kansas City. Police did not identify the victim. A statement from police said officers responded to a report of a medical emergency in a parking lot and determined that two juveniles were riding on a vehicle driven by another juvenile. One of them fell and was critically injured. He died at a hospital. No additional information was immediately released.

Kansas boy dies after falling from moving vehicle

JEFFERSON COUNTY— A Kansas woman died in an accident just after 7p.m. Tuesday in Jefferson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Ford Ranger driven by Patrick M. Shuler, 22, Ozawkie, was eastbound on Kansas 92 highway one mile east of Ozawkie. 

The driver was attempting to pass a 2000 Toyota Camry driven by Frances A. Stockton, 45, Ozawkie, when he saw oncoming traffic and swerved back into the east bound lane and rear-ended the Camry.

Stockton was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp; Barnett's Funeral Home. Shuler was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

JEFFERSON COUNTY— A Kansas woman died in an accident just after 7p.m. Tuesday in Jefferson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Ford Ranger driven by Patrick M. Shuler, 22, Ozawkie, was eastbound on Kansas 92 highway one mile east of Ozawkie. The driver was attempting to pass a 2000 Toyota Camry driven by Frances A. Stockton, 45, Ozawkie, when he saw oncoming traffic and swerved back into the east bound lane and rear-ended the Camry.Stockton was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp; Barnett's Funeral Home. Shuler was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman dies after rear-end crash

DALLAS (AP) — More than 150 employees at a Houston hospital system who refused to get the COVID-19 vaccine have been fired or resigned after a judge dismissed an employee lawsuit over the vaccine requirement.

A spokesperson for Houston Methodist hospital system said 153 employees either resigned in the two-week suspension period or were terminated on Tuesday.

The case over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-coronavirus-pandemic-business-health-fb23579a72964b583299c79688f87334">how far health care institutions can go</a>&nbsp;to protect patients and others against the coronavirus has been closely watched. It’s believed to be the first of its kind in the U.S. But it won’t be the end of the debate.

Earlier this month, a federal judge&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ar-state-wire-hurricanes-storms-floods-tropical-cyclones-5a1271ab361a4bf3864340739662ae89">threw out the lawsuit</a>&nbsp;filed by 117 employees over the requirement. The hospital system’s decision in April to require the vaccine for workers made it the first major U.S. health care system to do so.

The Houston Methodist employees who filed the lawsuit likened their situation to medical experiments performed on unwilling victims in Nazi concentration camps during World War II. U.S. District Judge Lynn Hughes called that comparison “reprehensible” and said claims made in the lawsuit that the vaccines are experimental and dangerous are false.

Hughes, who dismissed the lawsuit on June 12, said that if the employees didn’t like the requirement, they could go work elsewhere.

Those who filed the lawsuit have already appealed the judge’s dismissal to the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.

The hospital system had required employees to complete their immunization by June 7. The next day, 178 employees were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tx-state-wire-houston-coronavirus-pandemic-health-6d96b666fd521ea4cab5956022c195d0">suspended</a>&nbsp;for two weeks without pay for not complying.

Jennifer Bridges, a registered nurse who is the lead plaintiff in the lawsuit against Houston Methodist, said her director called her Tuesday to ask if she’d gotten the vaccine yet or made any effort to do so. She said that when she replied “absolutely not,” she was told that she was terminated.

“We all knew we were getting fired today,” said Bridges, 39. “We knew unless we took that shot to come back, we were getting fired today. There was no ifs, ands or buts.”

She had worked for 6½ years at the medical-surgical in-patient unit at Houston Methodist’s hospital in the suburb of Baytown.

Bridges said Tuesday was also her first day at her new job at a company that sends nurses into people’s homes.

“I’m hoping if we win this at a federal level then they’re going to create laws to protect employees from having to go through this anywhere else in the country,” said Bridges, who said she does not have confidence in the vaccine’s safety.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said that while a small number of health problems have been reported, COVID-19 vaccines are safe and highly effective.

Other hospital systems around the country, including in Washington, D.C., Indiana, Maryland, Pennsylvania and most recently New York, have followed Houston Methodist and have also gotten pushback.

Legal experts say such vaccine requirements, particularly in a public health crisis, will probably continue be upheld in court as long as employers provide reasonable exemptions, including for medical conditions or religious objections.

Harris Methodist has said some employees got medical or religious exemptions, and some were deferred for pregnancy or other reasons.

But Houston Methodist’s president and CEO, Marc Boom, has said nearly 25,000 of the system’s more than 26,000 workers have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

“You did the right thing. You protected our patients, your colleagues, your families and our community. The science proves that the vaccines are not only safe but necessary if we are going to turn the corner against COVID-19,” Boom said in a statement to employees.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623674276825.png" alt="Employee protest outside the hospital&nbsp; photo courtesy KTRK-TV" />
 <figcaption>Employee protest outside the hospital&nbsp; photo courtesy KTRK-TV</figcaption>
 </figure>DALLAS (AP) — More than 150 employees at a Houston hospital system who refused to get the COVID-19 vaccine have been fired or resigned after a judge dismissed an employee lawsuit over the vaccine requirement.A spokesperson for Houston Methodist hospital system said 153 employees either resigned in the two-week suspension period or were terminated on Tuesday.The case over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-coronavirus-pandemic-business-health-fb23579a72964b583299c79688f87334">how far health care institutions can go</a>&nbsp;to protect patients and others against the coronavirus has been closely watched. It’s believed to be the first of its kind in the U.S. But it won’t be the end of the debate.Earlier this month, a federal judge&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ar-state-wire-hurricanes-storms-floods-tropical-cyclones-5a1271ab361a4bf3864340739662ae89">threw out the lawsuit</a>&nbsp;filed by 117 employees over the requirement. The hospital system’s decision in April to require the vaccine for workers made it the first major U.S. health care system to do so.The Houston Methodist employees who filed the lawsuit likened their situation to medical experiments performed on unwilling victims in Nazi concentration camps during World War II. U.S. District Judge Lynn Hughes called that comparison “reprehensible” and said claims made in the lawsuit that the vaccines are experimental and dangerous are false.Hughes, who dismissed the lawsuit on June 12, said that if the employees didn’t like the requirement, they could go work elsewhere.Those who filed the lawsuit have already appealed the judge’s dismissal to the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.The hospital system had required employees to complete their immunization by June 7. The next day, 178 employees were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tx-state-wire-houston-coronavirus-pandemic-health-6d96b666fd521ea4cab5956022c195d0">suspended</a>&nbsp;for two weeks without pay for not complying.Jennifer Bridges, a registered nurse who is the lead plaintiff in the lawsuit against Houston Methodist, said her director called her Tuesday to ask if she’d gotten the vaccine yet or made any effort to do so. She said that when she replied “absolutely not,” she was told that she was terminated.“We all knew we were getting fired today,” said Bridges, 39. “We knew unless we took that shot to come back, we were getting fired today. There was no ifs, ands or buts.”She had worked for 6½ years at the medical-surgical in-patient unit at Houston Methodist’s hospital in the suburb of Baytown.Bridges said Tuesday was also her first day at her new job at a company that sends nurses into people’s homes.“I’m hoping if we win this at a federal level then they’re going to create laws to protect employees from having to go through this anywhere else in the country,” said Bridges, who said she does not have confidence in the vaccine’s safety.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said that while a small number of health problems have been reported, COVID-19 vaccines are safe and highly effective.Other hospital systems around the country, including in Washington, D.C., Indiana, Maryland, Pennsylvania and most recently New York, have followed Houston Methodist and have also gotten pushback.Legal experts say such vaccine requirements, particularly in a public health crisis, will probably continue be upheld in court as long as employers provide reasonable exemptions, including for medical conditions or religious objections.Harris Methodist has said some employees got medical or religious exemptions, and some were deferred for pregnancy or other reasons.But Houston Methodist’s president and CEO, Marc Boom, has said nearly 25,000 of the system’s more than 26,000 workers have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19.“You did the right thing. You protected our patients, your colleagues, your families and our community. The science proves that the vaccines are not only safe but necessary if we are going to turn the corner against COVID-19,” Boom said in a statement to employees.