TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 1362 to a total of 61,111 the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;

Coronavirus deaths were reported at 698, an increase of 20.

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

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 1362 to a total of 61,111 the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 698, an increase of 20.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional numbers from the KDHE.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601658585408.png" alt="Friday Oct. 2, 2020 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Friday Oct. 2, 2020 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Latest on President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump testing positive for the coronavirus.

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden and other politial leaders in Kansas, Missouri and across the nation are sending best wishes to President Trump and First Lady Melania after after they tested positive for the coronavirus.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is extending wishes of a speedy recovery to U.S. President Donald Trump and his wife, Melania, and expressing “sincere support in this difficult moment,” according to a statement released by the Kremlin on Friday.

The Kremlin says Putin sent Trump a telegram saying that his "inherent vitality, good spirits and optimism will help you cope with the dangerous virus.”

Vice President Mike Pence and second lady Karen Pence tested negative for COVID-19 Friday morning.

Spokesman Devin O’Malley says Pence “remains in good health and wishes the Trumps well in their recovery.” Pence is tested every day for the virus, O’Malley confirmed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590010329081.png" alt="Kansas Governor Laura Kelly met with President Trump at the White House in May-image courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Governor Laura Kelly met with President Trump at the White House in May-image courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Latest on President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump testing positive for the coronavirus.Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden and other politial leaders in Kansas, Missouri and across the nation are sending best wishes to President Trump and First Lady Melania after after they tested positive for the coronavirus.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I’m wishing the President and the First Lady a strong and speedy recovery from COVID-19.&mdash; Governor Laura Kelly (@GovLauraKelly) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovLauraKelly/status/1312027319373004800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Robba and I are wishing the president and first lady a speedy recovery. Our prayers are with them and all Kansans and Americans who have been impacted by this virus. <a href="https://t.co/LcN8TtfU6q">https://t.co/LcN8TtfU6q</a>&mdash; Senator Jerry Moran (@JerryMoran) <a href="https://twitter.com/JerryMoran/status/1312034696000401411?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Abby and I wish <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FLOTUS</a> a quick recovery&mdash; Senator Roy Blunt (@RoyBlunt) <a href="https://twitter.com/RoyBlunt/status/1312015881501802496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">As I said when our governor contracted COVID-19, I hope the President, First Lady, and all near them make a full recovery. I also hope the president will now understand how dangerous this highly contagious virus is, particularly for the many without our nation’s best medical care&mdash; Mayor Q (@QuintonLucasKC) <a href="https://twitter.com/QuintonLucasKC/status/1311915646771441664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Jill and I send our thoughts to President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump for a swift recovery. We will continue to pray for the health and safety of the president and his family.&mdash; Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1312010736604979201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Franki and I wish the President and First Lady a quick and full recovery. <a href="https://t.co/MxmsCwKD1R">https://t.co/MxmsCwKD1R</a>&mdash; Senator Pat Roberts (@SenPatRoberts) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenPatRoberts/status/1312002513168629760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">You’re in Laina and my prayers, Mr. President. Wishing you and the First Lady a speedy recovery. <a href="https://t.co/UeAt6WOA3i">https://t.co/UeAt6WOA3i</a>&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1311896004044771328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Russian President Vladimir Putin is extending wishes of a speedy recovery to U.S. President Donald Trump and his wife, Melania, and expressing “sincere support in this difficult moment,” according to a statement released by the Kremlin on Friday.The Kremlin says Putin sent Trump a telegram saying that his "inherent vitality, good spirits and optimism will help you cope with the dangerous virus.”Vice President Mike Pence and second lady Karen Pence tested negative for COVID-19 Friday morning.Spokesman Devin O’Malley says Pence “remains in good health and wishes the Trumps well in their recovery.” Pence is tested every day for the virus, O’Malley confirmed.

The Latest: Kan. Governor, others send well wishes to Trumps

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas teen after an incident early Thursday in Salina.

Just after 5a.m. Thursday, a 51-year-old Salina man told police that he witnessed an orange car strike a white pickup at Crawford and Fairdale at approximately 5 a.m. Thursday, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester 

The white pickup drove off and the man pulled his 2007 Chevy Trailblazer in front of the orange vehicle driven by 18-year-old Michela Redmond of Salina, in an effort to prevent her from leaving.

Redmond exited her vehicle, approached the Trailblazer, and allegedly began pulling on the rear driver side window that was open slightly until it broke, according to Forrester. 

The 51-year-old man exited his vehicle and Redmond allegedly began punching him repeatedly in the face, breaking his eye glasses.

&nbsp;Redmond then got back in her vehicle and allegedly ran directly into the Trailblazer causing approximately $1,300 in damage to the front bumper. She then fled the scene.

Police located Redmond driving a 2005 Chevy Cobalt in the 700 block of Fairdale in Salina and arrested her on requested charges that include Aggravated battery, Felony damage to property, Battery and Damage to property.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601648104093.jpeg" alt="Redmond photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Redmond photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas teen after an incident early Thursday in Salina.Just after 5a.m. Thursday, a 51-year-old Salina man told police that he witnessed an orange car strike a white pickup at Crawford and Fairdale at approximately 5 a.m. Thursday, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester The white pickup drove off and the man pulled his 2007 Chevy Trailblazer in front of the orange vehicle driven by 18-year-old Michela Redmond of Salina, in an effort to prevent her from leaving.Redmond exited her vehicle, approached the Trailblazer, and allegedly began pulling on the rear driver side window that was open slightly until it broke, according to Forrester. The 51-year-old man exited his vehicle and Redmond allegedly began punching him repeatedly in the face, breaking his eye glasses.&nbsp;Redmond then got back in her vehicle and allegedly ran directly into the Trailblazer causing approximately $1,300 in damage to the front bumper. She then fled the scene.Police located Redmond driving a 2005 Chevy Cobalt in the 700 block of Fairdale in Salina and arrested her on requested charges that include Aggravated battery, Felony damage to property, Battery and Damage to property.

Police: Kansas teen jailed after alleged violent attack

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas collected nearly $73 million more in taxes than expected in September, suggesting that its economy is bouncing back faster than the state had initially anticipated, though officials still warned Thursday that the recovery is fragile.

The coronavirus pandemic’s arrival in Kansas in March scrambled the state’s financial picture, leading to a statewide stay-at-home order that Gov. Laura Kelly kept in place for five weeks. State officials and university economists then&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/66bc36a2cf33d0b60df265bdd0b70a70">slashed the state’s revenue projections</a>&nbsp;in April, creating a projected shortfall in the state budget.

The financial picture has since brightened, with better-than-anticipated tax collections during five of the past six months.

But Kansas last month saw its biggest average numbers of new coronavirus cases since the pandemic began in March, peaking at 667 per day for the seven days ending Monday. And the director of the state health department told reporters Wednesday that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-hutchinson-prisons-kansas-wichita-6fde15e9983c7e7382be97b6f6a65aed">the state could see an average of 800 or 900 new cases a day</a>&nbsp;in the coming months. Kansas has reported nearly 60,000 cases and 678 COVID-19-related deaths.

“The impact that the pandemic will have on the economy during the fall and winter months is uncertain at best,” Mark Burghart, the head of the state Department of Revenue, said Thursday in a statement.

The Department of Revenue said Kansas collected nearly $729 million in taxes last month, when it expected to take in $656 million. The surplus of 11% for the month was tied largely to better-than-expected income tax collections.

The September collections allowed the state to finish the first three months of the 2021 budget year that started July 1 with $108 million more in tax collections than anticipated. The state collected $2.25 billion during those three months, 5.1% more than projected.

Kelly said while there’s reason for optimism, “We must remain committed to fiscal steadiness, public health, and support our core services.”

A monthly Creighton University survey of business leaders released Thursday suggested that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-business-archive-economy-c5349e88c4aa120e6ca3ecb38c464a1e">the economy continues to improve</a>&nbsp;in nine Midwest and Plains states, including Kansas, though it remains less robust than before the pandemics starts.

The unemployment rate in Kansas, hovering at about 3% for months and dipping to 2.8% in March, spiked at 11.9% in April. That month the state had 125,500 fewer private-sector, nonfarm jobs — nearly 11% less than in April 2019.

The numbers have gotten better since. But the unemployment rate still was 6.9% in August, and the state had 53,800 fewer private-sector nonfarm jobs than in August 2019, a decline of 4.6%.

Kelly, a Democrat, and top Republicans in the GOP-controlled Legislature clashed repeatedly over her handling of the pandemic, with Republicans pushing her to reopen the economy more quickly and forcing her to accept local control of many decisions. Senate President Susan Wagle, a Wichita Republican, said that as a result, “our revenues are starting to rebound.”

“I’m glad to see the Kansas economy showing strength,” House Speaker Ron Ryckman Jr., an Olathe Republican, said in a text to The Associated Press. “But this recovery is fragile. Without keeping our economy open and our state safe we risk losing what we have gained.”

By JOHN HANNATOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas collected nearly $73 million more in taxes than expected in September, suggesting that its economy is bouncing back faster than the state had initially anticipated, though officials still warned Thursday that the recovery is fragile.The coronavirus pandemic’s arrival in Kansas in March scrambled the state’s financial picture, leading to a statewide stay-at-home order that Gov. Laura Kelly kept in place for five weeks. State officials and university economists then&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/66bc36a2cf33d0b60df265bdd0b70a70">slashed the state’s revenue projections</a>&nbsp;in April, creating a projected shortfall in the state budget.The financial picture has since brightened, with better-than-anticipated tax collections during five of the past six months.But Kansas last month saw its biggest average numbers of new coronavirus cases since the pandemic began in March, peaking at 667 per day for the seven days ending Monday. And the director of the state health department told reporters Wednesday that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-hutchinson-prisons-kansas-wichita-6fde15e9983c7e7382be97b6f6a65aed">the state could see an average of 800 or 900 new cases a day</a>&nbsp;in the coming months. Kansas has reported nearly 60,000 cases and 678 COVID-19-related deaths.“The impact that the pandemic will have on the economy during the fall and winter months is uncertain at best,” Mark Burghart, the head of the state Department of Revenue, said Thursday in a statement.The Department of Revenue said Kansas collected nearly $729 million in taxes last month, when it expected to take in $656 million. The surplus of 11% for the month was tied largely to better-than-expected income tax collections.The September collections allowed the state to finish the first three months of the 2021 budget year that started July 1 with $108 million more in tax collections than anticipated. The state collected $2.25 billion during those three months, 5.1% more than projected.Kelly said while there’s reason for optimism, “We must remain committed to fiscal steadiness, public health, and support our core services.”A monthly Creighton University survey of business leaders released Thursday suggested that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-business-archive-economy-c5349e88c4aa120e6ca3ecb38c464a1e">the economy continues to improve</a>&nbsp;in nine Midwest and Plains states, including Kansas, though it remains less robust than before the pandemics starts.The unemployment rate in Kansas, hovering at about 3% for months and dipping to 2.8% in March, spiked at 11.9% in April. That month the state had 125,500 fewer private-sector, nonfarm jobs — nearly 11% less than in April 2019.The numbers have gotten better since. But the unemployment rate still was 6.9% in August, and the state had 53,800 fewer private-sector nonfarm jobs than in August 2019, a decline of 4.6%.Kelly, a Democrat, and top Republicans in the GOP-controlled Legislature clashed repeatedly over her handling of the pandemic, with Republicans pushing her to reopen the economy more quickly and forcing her to accept local control of many decisions. Senate President Susan Wagle, a Wichita Republican, said that as a result, “our revenues are starting to rebound.”“I’m glad to see the Kansas economy showing strength,” House Speaker Ron Ryckman Jr., an Olathe Republican, said in a text to The Associated Press. “But this recovery is fragile. Without keeping our economy open and our state safe we risk losing what we have gained.”--------

Despite $73M tax surplus; recovery in Kan. still seen as fragile

WASHINGTON (AP) — Democrats controlling the House narrowly passed a $2.2 trillion COVID-19 relief bill Thursday night, a move that came as top-level talks on a smaller, potentially bipartisan measure dragged on toward an uncertain finish. An air of pessimism has largely taken over the Capitol.

The Democratic bill passed after a partisan debate by a 214-207 vote without any Republicans in support. The move puts lawmakers no closer to actually delivering aid such as more generous weekly unemployment payments, extended help for small businesses and especially troubled economic sectors such as restaurants and airlines, and another round of $1,200 direct payments to most Americans.

Passage of the $2.2 trillion plan came after a burst of negotiations this week between Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif. The Trump administration delivered concessions Wednesday, including a $400 per week pandemic jobless benefit and a markedly higher overall price tag of $1.6 trillion, but that failed to win over Pelosi.

“This isn’t half a loaf, this is the heel of the loaf,” Pelosi said in a televised interview Thursday. Pelosi spoke after the White House attacked her as “not being serious.”

The ramped-up negotiations come as challenging economic news continues to confront policymakers. The airlines are furloughing about 30,000 workers with the expiration of aid passed earlier this year, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-jobless-claims-archive-united-states-economy-0ad4c225f28cef814e8e0afab3ec0e6a">a report Thursday showed 837,000 people</a>&nbsp;claiming jobless benefits for the first time last week. Most of the economic benefits of an immediate round of COVID relief could accrue under the next administration, and failure now could mean no significant help for struggling families and businesses until February.

The vote was advertised as a way to demonstrate Democrats were making a good faith offer on coronavirus relief, but 18 Democrats abandoned the party and sentiment remains among more moderate Democrats to make more concessions and guarantee an agreement before Election Day. Republicans controlling the Senate remained divided.

Talks between Mnuchin and Pelosi were closely held and the Speaker told reporters that no deal would come on Thursday. Mnuchin’s offer of a $400 per week jobless benefit put him in the same ballpark as Democrats backing a $600 benefit. Mnuchin’s price tag of $1.6 trillion or more could drive many Republicans away, however, even as it failed to satisfy Pelosi.

“We raised our offer to $1.6 trillion,” White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany told reporters Thursday. “It’s one that she is is not interested in.”

Mnuchin and Pelosi spoke by phone Thursday, but the speaker was publicly dismissive of the latest White House plan. Discussions are continuing, Pelosi said.

The White House plan, offered Wednesday, gave ground with a $250 billion proposal on funding for state and local governments and backed $20 billion in help for the struggling airline industry.

Details on the White House offer were confirmed by congressional aides, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss closed-door discussions.

As the talks dragged on, House leaders announced a Thursday evening vote on their scaled-back “HEROES Act,” which started out as a $3.4 trillion bill in May but is now down to $2.2 trillion after Pelosi cut back her demands for aiding state and local governments. The legislation came after party moderates openly criticized her stance.

White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows has drawn a line in the sand and warns that Trump won’t approve legislation that approaches a $2 trillion threshold. But there’s plenty of wiggle room in numbers so large, and the revenue picture for many states is not as alarming as feared when Democrats passed more than $900 billion for state and local governments in May.

Pelosi said Thursday that the administration is still far short on aid to state and local governments and in other areas.

“Some of you have asked, ‘Isn’t something better than nothing?’ No,” Pelosi told reporters, citing the “opportunity cost” for provisions sought by Democrats but potentially lost in any rush to agreement.

At issue is a long-delayed package that would extend another round of $1,200 direct stimulus payments, restore bonus pandemic jobless benefits, speed aid to schools and extend assistance to airlines, restaurants and other struggling businesses. A landmark $2 trillion relief bill in March passed with sweeping support and is credited with helping the economy through the spring and summer, but worries are mounting that the recovery may sputter without additional relief.

Pelosi has largely assumed a hard line so far. But she’s never had a reputation for leaving large sums of money on the table and her tactical position — facing a White House and Senate controlled by Republicans — is not as strong as her demands might indicate.

The White House also seems far more eager for a deal than Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. Any compromise that could pass both the House and Senate is sure to alienate a large chunk of the Senate GOP. McConnell expressed support for the talks and another bill but isn’t leaning into the effort. But some of his members appear worried that the deadlock is harming their reelection bids.

“I’d like to see another rescue package. We’ve been trying for months to get there,” McConnell told reporters Thursday. “I wish them well.”

Even if Pelosi and Mnuchin were able to reach a tentative agreement on “top line” spending levels, dozens of details would need to be worked out. A particularly difficult issue, Pelosi told her colleagues earlier in the day, remains McConnell’s insistence on a liability shield for businesses fearing COVID-related lawsuits after they reopen their doors.

The latest Democratic bill would revive a $600-per-week pandemic jobless benefit and send a second round of direct payments to most individuals. It would scale back an aid package to state and local governments to a still-huge $436 billion, send $225 billion to colleges and universities and deliver another round of subsidies to businesses under the Paycheck Protection Program. Airlines would get another $25 billion in aid to prevent a wave of layoffs.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Democrats controlling the House narrowly passed a $2.2 trillion COVID-19 relief bill Thursday night, a move that came as top-level talks on a smaller, potentially bipartisan measure dragged on toward an uncertain finish. An air of pessimism has largely taken over the Capitol.The Democratic bill passed after a partisan debate by a 214-207 vote without any Republicans in support. The move puts lawmakers no closer to actually delivering aid such as more generous weekly unemployment payments, extended help for small businesses and especially troubled economic sectors such as restaurants and airlines, and another round of $1,200 direct payments to most Americans.Passage of the $2.2 trillion plan came after a burst of negotiations this week between Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif. The Trump administration delivered concessions Wednesday, including a $400 per week pandemic jobless benefit and a markedly higher overall price tag of $1.6 trillion, but that failed to win over Pelosi.“This isn’t half a loaf, this is the heel of the loaf,” Pelosi said in a televised interview Thursday. Pelosi spoke after the White House attacked her as “not being serious.”The ramped-up negotiations come as challenging economic news continues to confront policymakers. The airlines are furloughing about 30,000 workers with the expiration of aid passed earlier this year, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-jobless-claims-archive-united-states-economy-0ad4c225f28cef814e8e0afab3ec0e6a">a report Thursday showed 837,000 people</a>&nbsp;claiming jobless benefits for the first time last week. Most of the economic benefits of an immediate round of COVID relief could accrue under the next administration, and failure now could mean no significant help for struggling families and businesses until February.The vote was advertised as a way to demonstrate Democrats were making a good faith offer on coronavirus relief, but 18 Democrats abandoned the party and sentiment remains among more moderate Democrats to make more concessions and guarantee an agreement before Election Day. Republicans controlling the Senate remained divided.Talks between Mnuchin and Pelosi were closely held and the Speaker told reporters that no deal would come on Thursday. Mnuchin’s offer of a $400 per week jobless benefit put him in the same ballpark as Democrats backing a $600 benefit. Mnuchin’s price tag of $1.6 trillion or more could drive many Republicans away, however, even as it failed to satisfy Pelosi.“We raised our offer to $1.6 trillion,” White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany told reporters Thursday. “It’s one that she is is not interested in.”Mnuchin and Pelosi spoke by phone Thursday, but the speaker was publicly dismissive of the latest White House plan. Discussions are continuing, Pelosi said.The White House plan, offered Wednesday, gave ground with a $250 billion proposal on funding for state and local governments and backed $20 billion in help for the struggling airline industry.Details on the White House offer were confirmed by congressional aides, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss closed-door discussions.As the talks dragged on, House leaders announced a Thursday evening vote on their scaled-back “HEROES Act,” which started out as a $3.4 trillion bill in May but is now down to $2.2 trillion after Pelosi cut back her demands for aiding state and local governments. The legislation came after party moderates openly criticized her stance.White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows has drawn a line in the sand and warns that Trump won’t approve legislation that approaches a $2 trillion threshold. But there’s plenty of wiggle room in numbers so large, and the revenue picture for many states is not as alarming as feared when Democrats passed more than $900 billion for state and local governments in May.Pelosi said Thursday that the administration is still far short on aid to state and local governments and in other areas.“Some of you have asked, ‘Isn’t something better than nothing?’ No,” Pelosi told reporters, citing the “opportunity cost” for provisions sought by Democrats but potentially lost in any rush to agreement.At issue is a long-delayed package that would extend another round of $1,200 direct stimulus payments, restore bonus pandemic jobless benefits, speed aid to schools and extend assistance to airlines, restaurants and other struggling businesses. A landmark $2 trillion relief bill in March passed with sweeping support and is credited with helping the economy through the spring and summer, but worries are mounting that the recovery may sputter without additional relief.Pelosi has largely assumed a hard line so far. But she’s never had a reputation for leaving large sums of money on the table and her tactical position — facing a White House and Senate controlled by Republicans — is not as strong as her demands might indicate.The White House also seems far more eager for a deal than Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. Any compromise that could pass both the House and Senate is sure to alienate a large chunk of the Senate GOP. McConnell expressed support for the talks and another bill but isn’t leaning into the effort. But some of his members appear worried that the deadlock is harming their reelection bids.“I’d like to see another rescue package. We’ve been trying for months to get there,” McConnell told reporters Thursday. “I wish them well.”Even if Pelosi and Mnuchin were able to reach a tentative agreement on “top line” spending levels, dozens of details would need to be worked out. A particularly difficult issue, Pelosi told her colleagues earlier in the day, remains McConnell’s insistence on a liability shield for businesses fearing COVID-related lawsuits after they reopen their doors.The latest Democratic bill would revive a $600-per-week pandemic jobless benefit and send a second round of direct payments to most individuals. It would scale back an aid package to state and local governments to a still-huge $436 billion, send $225 billion to colleges and universities and deliver another round of subsidies to businesses under the Paycheck Protection Program. Airlines would get another $25 billion in aid to prevent a wave of layoffs.

House passes another partisan COVID relief bill; GOP ignores it 

PINE BLUFF, Ark. (AP) — Authorities say a man charged with shooting and killing two people in Arkansas was captured in Kansas and sent back to stand trial. 

Bryant Lamont Smith, 33, was arrested Friday in Parsons, Kansas, in an operation that included officials from the U.S. Marshals Service and the Kansas Highway Patrol. 

Deputies took Smith&nbsp; back to Pine Bluff on Tuesday and he was being held in jail without bail in Jefferson County. 

Prosecutor Kyle Hunter says Smith was charged Sept. 24 in Jefferson County Circuit Court with two counts of capital murder in the fatal shootings of Kavon Mitchell and Emonya Moten.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601588453145.png" alt="Smith spent the weekend the Labette County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Smith spent the weekend the Labette County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>PINE BLUFF, Ark. (AP) — Authorities say a man charged with shooting and killing two people in Arkansas was captured in Kansas and sent back to stand trial. Bryant Lamont Smith, 33, was arrested Friday in Parsons, Kansas, in an operation that included officials from the U.S. Marshals Service and the Kansas Highway Patrol. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601588424966.png" alt="Smith photo Jefferson Co." />
 <figcaption>Smith photo Jefferson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Deputies took Smith&nbsp; back to Pine Bluff on Tuesday and he was being held in jail without bail in Jefferson County. Prosecutor Kyle Hunter says Smith was charged Sept. 24 in Jefferson County Circuit Court with two counts of capital murder in the fatal shootings of Kavon Mitchell and Emonya Moten.

Man wanted in 2 Arkansas killings spent weekend in Kan. jail

HUTCHINSON —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged violent attack on two women and have made an arrest.

Braxton Allen, 21, is being held on a bond of $350,000 on requested charges of of aggravated kidnapping, aggravated battery, and aggravated robbery and a single count of felony criminal damage to property.

A 24-year-old woman from Hutchinson and 22-year-old woman from Lyons reported to police that they were beaten, restrained&nbsp; and had property damaged and taken from them by a man identified as Allen, according to a media release.&nbsp;

Just after 3:30a.m. Thursday, police located Allen and booked him into the Reno County Correctional Facility.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601579222281.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Allen photo Reno County" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Allen photo Reno County</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged violent attack on two women and have made an arrest.Braxton Allen, 21, is being held on a bond of $350,000 on requested charges of of aggravated kidnapping, aggravated battery, and aggravated robbery and a single count of felony criminal damage to property.A 24-year-old woman from Hutchinson and 22-year-old woman from Lyons reported to police that they were beaten, restrained&nbsp; and had property damaged and taken from them by a man identified as Allen, according to a media release.&nbsp;Just after 3:30a.m. Thursday, police located Allen and booked him into the Reno County Correctional Facility.

Police arrest Kansas man for alleged violent attack on 2 women

TOPEKA&nbsp;– An Ohio man who was stopped in Kansas with more than $1 million in his vehicle pleaded guilty Thursday to a federal drug trafficking charge, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.

Joseph Michael Martin, 41, Euclid, Ohio, pleaded guilty to one count of interstate travel in furtherance of drug trafficking. On Sept. 20, 2018, the Kansas Highway Patrol stopped Martin on I-70 in Ellsworth County for speeding. When troopers searched the 2016 GM pickup truck Martin was driving, they found $1,124,840 in bundles wrapped in red plastic. The bundles were concealed in metal pipes with welded caps that were in the bed of the truck.

Sentencing is set for Jan. 12. He could face up to five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601572087350.png" alt="Martin booking photo" />
 <figcaption>Martin booking photo</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;– An Ohio man who was stopped in Kansas with more than $1 million in his vehicle pleaded guilty Thursday to a federal drug trafficking charge, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.Joseph Michael Martin, 41, Euclid, Ohio, pleaded guilty to one count of interstate travel in furtherance of drug trafficking. On Sept. 20, 2018, the Kansas Highway Patrol stopped Martin on I-70 in Ellsworth County for speeding. When troopers searched the 2016 GM pickup truck Martin was driving, they found $1,124,840 in bundles wrapped in red plastic. The bundles were concealed in metal pipes with welded caps that were in the bed of the truck.Sentencing is set for Jan. 12. He could face up to five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.

KHP found over $1M cash during I-70 traffic stop

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Thursday met with Judge Amy Coney Barrett, the president’s nominee to serve as an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court:

“After meeting with Judge Amy Coney Barrett, I have an appreciation for her principled judicial philosophy and her views on the Constitution," Moran stated in a media release.

"During our meeting, we discussed how she has developed her judicial philosophy, her balance of work and family life, and the importance of carrying out the law as written. She has risen to the pinnacle of her profession while also raising a young family and being an admired professor."

"She is without a doubt a well-qualified, thoughtful nominee, who is committed to upholding the law and applying it fairly. I look forward to Judge Barrett further demonstrating her judicial views as the confirmation process continues.”

Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Lindsey Graham says his panel will hold four days of confirmation hearings the week of Oct. 12.

Once the committee approves the nomination, it goes to the Senate floor for a final vote. This could all happen by Nov. 3 if the process goes smoothly. Graham said he hopes the committee can move the nomination to the Senate floor by the week of Oct. 26 for a confirmation vote.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601587839982.png" alt="Photos courtesy of Senator Moran" />
 <figcaption>Photos courtesy of Senator Moran</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Thursday met with Judge Amy Coney Barrett, the president’s nominee to serve as an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court:“After meeting with Judge Amy Coney Barrett, I have an appreciation for her principled judicial philosophy and her views on the Constitution," Moran stated in a media release."During our meeting, we discussed how she has developed her judicial philosophy, her balance of work and family life, and the importance of carrying out the law as written. She has risen to the pinnacle of her profession while also raising a young family and being an admired professor."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601587712273.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"She is without a doubt a well-qualified, thoughtful nominee, who is committed to upholding the law and applying it fairly. I look forward to Judge Barrett further demonstrating her judicial views as the confirmation process continues.”Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Lindsey Graham says his panel will hold four days of confirmation hearings the week of Oct. 12.Once the committee approves the nomination, it goes to the Senate floor for a final vote. This could all happen by Nov. 3 if the process goes smoothly. Graham said he hopes the committee can move the nomination to the Senate floor by the week of Oct. 26 for a confirmation vote.

Moran meets with Supreme Court Nominee Judge Barrett

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/10/01/covid-19-pandemic-undercuts-enrollment-by-8-1-at-kansas-universities-colleges/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Enrollment at the 32 public universities and colleges under supervision of the Kansas Board of Regents collapsed by 8.1% in the fall semester as the COVID-19 pandemic interrupted educational plans of thousands of students.

The systemwide headcount dwindled to 165,251, down nearly 15,000 students from last fall. Overall enrollment in Kansas’ public higher education system had eroded in the three previous years, but the slippage amounted to about 3,800 students.

In the new report on fall 2020 enrollment, the University of Kansas, Kansas State University and the four other state universities enrolled 3.5% fewer students than a year ago. Washburn University, a municipal institution in Topeka, was hammered by a 10% reduction.

The 19 community colleges collectively lost 14.1% of their students. Only one — Cowley Community College — added students to register a 0.5% increase. At the six technical colleges in Kansas, all suffered enrollment declines for a total 9.4% reduction.

Blake Flanders, president and chief executive officer of the Board of Regents, said COVID-19’s influence on fall enrollment was anticipated.

“COVID has introduced a unique set of hurdles for higher education,” Flanders said. “However, the pandemic has also converged with longer-term challenges facing enrollment, including a steady decline in the college going rate of Kansas high school graduates.”

He said the Board of Regents would continue to press for deliver opportunities for Kansans to build rewarding careers and to provide Kansas businesses access to a skilled workforce.

KU chancellor Doug Girod said an 804-student reduction in enrollment at the university was driven by a 7.2% decline in first-time freshmen and 18.1% drop among international students. Given hardships the pandemic presented students and families, Girod said, the overall loss of 2.7% at KU could have been worse.

The pandemic created a projected $120 million deficit in the current fiscal year at KU that will necessitate “painful cost-savings measures in the months ahead,” the chancellor said.

“KU will need to adopt new business models, reorganize and restructure and implement cost reductions. All options — including furloughs, layoffs and salary reductions — must be considered for us to manage through this,” Girod said.

Here are fall semester losses among universities in the state system: Washburn, down 6.4%; Fort Hays State, down 5.5%; Kansas State, down 4.1%; Pittsburg State, down 3.7%; Wichita State, down 3.2%; KU, down 2.7%; and Emporia State, down 0.8%.

Karen Goos, vice provost for enrollment management at Kansas State, said decline of 865 students from one year ago mirroried state and national trends related to COVID-19. Kansas State’s decline of more than 3,000 students since 2015 led to initiation of a more aggressive recruiting program.

“Our 4% drop is much lower than expected and we know the next year will bring strong opportunities for growth when our new Missouri tuition match program providing in-state tuition to qualified Missouri students takes effect in fall 2021,” Goos said.

Heather Morgan, executive director of the Kansas Association of Community College Trustees, said the sharp decline experienced by the community college system was a direct consequence of the spread of COVID-19.

“Kansas community colleges typically serve students who face greater barriers to higher education, which were magnified by the pandemic,” she said in a statement on behalf of the community colleges.

Here are the community colleges with double-digit enrollment downturns this fall semester: Johnson County, down 24.1%; Coffeyville, down 21.5%; Fort Scott, down 17.4%; Barton, down 14.9%; Kansas City, down 14.2%; Seward County, down 14%; Labette, down 13.3%; Allen, down 12.2%; Cloud County, down 11.9%; and Butler, 10.5%.

At the technical colleges, Flint Hills reported a 19.3% enrollment drop for the fall semester. That compared to declines of 12% at the Manhattan and 11.9% at the Salina campuses of those technical schools. Washburn Institute of Technology suffered a 25.2% enrollment reduction.

Tim Carpenter has reported on Kansas for 35 years. He covered the Capitol for 16 years at the Topeka Capital-Journal and previously worked for the Lawrence Journal-World and United Press International.

<figure>
 <img src="https://kansasreflector.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/KU-and-KSU-masks-scaled.jpg" alt="Enrollment at the public colleges and universities under direction of the Kansas Board of Regents declined 8.1% in the fall semester as COVID-19 left its mark on both Kansas State University and the University of Kansas. This image is of KU chancellor Doug Girod and KSU president Richard Myers at a recent Board of Regents meeting in Topeka. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Enrollment at the public colleges and universities under direction of the Kansas Board of Regents declined 8.1% in the fall semester as COVID-19 left its mark on both Kansas State University and the University of Kansas. This image is of KU chancellor Doug Girod and KSU president Richard Myers at a recent Board of Regents meeting in Topeka. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/10/01/covid-19-pandemic-undercuts-enrollment-by-8-1-at-kansas-universities-colleges/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Enrollment at the 32 public universities and colleges under supervision of the Kansas Board of Regents collapsed by 8.1% in the fall semester as the COVID-19 pandemic interrupted educational plans of thousands of students.The systemwide headcount dwindled to 165,251, down nearly 15,000 students from last fall. Overall enrollment in Kansas’ public higher education system had eroded in the three previous years, but the slippage amounted to about 3,800 students.In the new report on fall 2020 enrollment, the University of Kansas, Kansas State University and the four other state universities enrolled 3.5% fewer students than a year ago. Washburn University, a municipal institution in Topeka, was hammered by a 10% reduction.The 19 community colleges collectively lost 14.1% of their students. Only one — Cowley Community College — added students to register a 0.5% increase. At the six technical colleges in Kansas, all suffered enrollment declines for a total 9.4% reduction.Blake Flanders, president and chief executive officer of the Board of Regents, said COVID-19’s influence on fall enrollment was anticipated.“COVID has introduced a unique set of hurdles for higher education,” Flanders said. “However, the pandemic has also converged with longer-term challenges facing enrollment, including a steady decline in the college going rate of Kansas high school graduates.”He said the Board of Regents would continue to press for deliver opportunities for Kansans to build rewarding careers and to provide Kansas businesses access to a skilled workforce.KU chancellor Doug Girod said an 804-student reduction in enrollment at the university was driven by a 7.2% decline in first-time freshmen and 18.1% drop among international students. Given hardships the pandemic presented students and families, Girod said, the overall loss of 2.7% at KU could have been worse.The pandemic created a projected $120 million deficit in the current fiscal year at KU that will necessitate “painful cost-savings measures in the months ahead,” the chancellor said.“KU will need to adopt new business models, reorganize and restructure and implement cost reductions. All options — including furloughs, layoffs and salary reductions — must be considered for us to manage through this,” Girod said.Here are fall semester losses among universities in the state system: Washburn, down 6.4%; Fort Hays State, down 5.5%; Kansas State, down 4.1%; Pittsburg State, down 3.7%; Wichita State, down 3.2%; KU, down 2.7%; and Emporia State, down 0.8%.Karen Goos, vice provost for enrollment management at Kansas State, said decline of 865 students from one year ago mirroried state and national trends related to COVID-19. Kansas State’s decline of more than 3,000 students since 2015 led to initiation of a more aggressive recruiting program.“Our 4% drop is much lower than expected and we know the next year will bring strong opportunities for growth when our new Missouri tuition match program providing in-state tuition to qualified Missouri students takes effect in fall 2021,” Goos said.Heather Morgan, executive director of the Kansas Association of Community College Trustees, said the sharp decline experienced by the community college system was a direct consequence of the spread of COVID-19.“Kansas community colleges typically serve students who face greater barriers to higher education, which were magnified by the pandemic,” she said in a statement on behalf of the community colleges.Here are the community colleges with double-digit enrollment downturns this fall semester: Johnson County, down 24.1%; Coffeyville, down 21.5%; Fort Scott, down 17.4%; Barton, down 14.9%; Kansas City, down 14.2%; Seward County, down 14%; Labette, down 13.3%; Allen, down 12.2%; Cloud County, down 11.9%; and Butler, 10.5%.At the technical colleges, Flint Hills reported a 19.3% enrollment drop for the fall semester. That compared to declines of 12% at the Manhattan and 11.9% at the Salina campuses of those technical schools. Washburn Institute of Technology suffered a 25.2% enrollment reduction.Tim Carpenter has reported on Kansas for 35 years. He covered the Capitol for 16 years at the Topeka Capital-Journal and previously worked for the Lawrence Journal-World and United Press International.

Pandemic undercuts enrollment by 8.1% at Kan. universities, colleges

WICHITA —Due to the downturn in the commercial aviation market caused by the global pandemic and the effect on&nbsp; business from the grounding of the 737 MAX, Spirit AeroSystems now has an excess of production capacity across their global operations, according to a media release.

 As a result, Spirit made the difficult decision to close their facility in McAlester, Oklahoma.

Over the next several months, Spirit will begin moving the work currently performed by the McAlester operations to their facilities in Tulsa and Wichita, and a residual amount will be placed with the company's regional suppliers.

According <a href="https://www.spiritaero.com/pages/release/spirit-aerosystems-mcalester-facility">to the release</a>, "The fall-off in airline travel due to the COVID-19 pandemic has reduced overall demand for new commercial airplanes. In a matter of months, Spirit’s production rates for commercial aircraft fell from historic highs to much lower volumes. Airline travel, and corresponding demand for new airplanes, is not returning as fast as expected at this point. As a result, we continue taking steps to restructure our company for a protracted market downturn, including consolidating certain operations."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578673038303.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA —Due to the downturn in the commercial aviation market caused by the global pandemic and the effect on&nbsp; business from the grounding of the 737 MAX, Spirit AeroSystems now has an excess of production capacity across their global operations, according to a media release. As a result, Spirit made the difficult decision to close their facility in McAlester, Oklahoma.Over the next several months, Spirit will begin moving the work currently performed by the McAlester operations to their facilities in Tulsa and Wichita, and a residual amount will be placed with the company's regional suppliers.According <a href="https://www.spiritaero.com/pages/release/spirit-aerosystems-mcalester-facility">to the release</a>, "The fall-off in airline travel due to the COVID-19 pandemic has reduced overall demand for new commercial airplanes. In a matter of months, Spirit’s production rates for commercial aircraft fell from historic highs to much lower volumes. Airline travel, and corresponding demand for new airplanes, is not returning as fast as expected at this point. As a result, we continue taking steps to restructure our company for a protracted market downturn, including consolidating certain operations."

Aircraft parts maker moving work to Kan., closing Okla. plant

TOPEKA –&nbsp;Closing out the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2021, Governor Laura Kelly announced Thursday that the State of Kansas is $108.4 million ahead of its estimate, with $2.3 billion in total tax collections for the fiscal year. That is $515.7 million, or 29.7%, more than the same time last fiscal year quarter, according to a media release from the Kansas Dept. of Revenue.

The increase is due in part to the change in the filing deadline for income taxes, and the increased revenue seen in compensating use tax collections.

"Since I took office, my administration has&nbsp;returned to responsible&nbsp;fiscal practices that have allowed Kansas to successfully remain financially healthy, even as we respond to the COVID-19 pandemic,"&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;"While there is optimism&nbsp;with these projections, we must&nbsp;remain committed to&nbsp;fiscal steadiness, public health,&nbsp;and&nbsp;support our core services like education, infrastructure, and economic development which will enable Kansas to remain on the path to recovery.”

September's total tax collections were $728.9 million; a $72.8 million increase over the estimate. That is a 2%, or $15.2 million, decrease from the same month of the last fiscal year.&nbsp;

Individual income tax and corporate income tax collections performed better than expected. The state saw a $23.6 million, or 7%, increase in individual income tax collections with $358.6 collected. This increase could be due, in part, to estimated tax payments and economic optimism. Corporate income tax collections were $89.7 million, an increase of $29.7 million, or 49.5%, more than the estimate.

Retail sales tax collections were 1.2%, or $2.4 million, less than the estimate, with $195.6 collected. The decline in retail sales tax collections could be due to some temporary change in consumer habits as the school year started. However, compensating use tax collections continue the trajectory of growth as those collections were $11.6 million, or 34.1%, more than estimated with $45.6 collected. This trend is the effect of changing consumer purchasing habits and increased registrations of out-of-state retailers to collect and remit taxes to the state.

"The impact that the pandemic will have on the economy during the fall and winter months is uncertain at best,"&nbsp;Secretary Mark Burghart said.&nbsp;"That same uncertainty carries over to the anticipated sales and use tax receipts associated with purchases that will be made during the upcoming holiday season."

The Consensus Revenue Estimating Group will be meeting to evaluate the stability of the Kansas economy and look at the estimates for the rest of the fiscal year. This group is composed of representatives of the Division of the Budget, Department of Revenue, Legislative Research Department, and one consulting economist each from the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and Wichita State University.

TOPEKA –&nbsp;Closing out the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2021, Governor Laura Kelly announced Thursday that the State of Kansas is $108.4 million ahead of its estimate, with $2.3 billion in total tax collections for the fiscal year. That is $515.7 million, or 29.7%, more than the same time last fiscal year quarter, according to a media release from the Kansas Dept. of Revenue.The increase is due in part to the change in the filing deadline for income taxes, and the increased revenue seen in compensating use tax collections."Since I took office, my administration has&nbsp;returned to responsible&nbsp;fiscal practices that have allowed Kansas to successfully remain financially healthy, even as we respond to the COVID-19 pandemic,"&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;"While there is optimism&nbsp;with these projections, we must&nbsp;remain committed to&nbsp;fiscal steadiness, public health,&nbsp;and&nbsp;support our core services like education, infrastructure, and economic development which will enable Kansas to remain on the path to recovery.”September's total tax collections were $728.9 million; a $72.8 million increase over the estimate. That is a 2%, or $15.2 million, decrease from the same month of the last fiscal year.&nbsp;Individual income tax and corporate income tax collections performed better than expected. The state saw a $23.6 million, or 7%, increase in individual income tax collections with $358.6 collected. This increase could be due, in part, to estimated tax payments and economic optimism. Corporate income tax collections were $89.7 million, an increase of $29.7 million, or 49.5%, more than the estimate.Retail sales tax collections were 1.2%, or $2.4 million, less than the estimate, with $195.6 collected. The decline in retail sales tax collections could be due to some temporary change in consumer habits as the school year started. However, compensating use tax collections continue the trajectory of growth as those collections were $11.6 million, or 34.1%, more than estimated with $45.6 collected. This trend is the effect of changing consumer purchasing habits and increased registrations of out-of-state retailers to collect and remit taxes to the state."The impact that the pandemic will have on the economy during the fall and winter months is uncertain at best,"&nbsp;Secretary Mark Burghart said.&nbsp;"That same uncertainty carries over to the anticipated sales and use tax receipts associated with purchases that will be made during the upcoming holiday season."The Consensus Revenue Estimating Group will be meeting to evaluate the stability of the Kansas economy and look at the estimates for the rest of the fiscal year. This group is composed of representatives of the Division of the Budget, Department of Revenue, Legislative Research Department, and one consulting economist each from the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and Wichita State University.

Governor: Kansas $108M ahead of first-quarter projections

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/09/30/former-topekan-to-lead-smithsonians-museum-of-african-american-history-culture/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Former Kansan 
Kevin Young was named Wednesday as director of the Smithsonian’s 
National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Young is best known as a 
poet, author, essayist and editor. He’s published 11 books of poetry, 
two works of nonfiction and served as editor of 10 other works, 
including a book coming out this fall, “African American Poetry: 250 
Years of Struggle and Song.”

He will start in January 
at the museum in Washington, D.C. He will remain director of the 
Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture in New York City until 
December. Since 2016, he’s been poetry editor at The New Yorker magazine
 and is expected to retain that post.

Young, 49, said he was 
eager to be part of the museum’s powerful influence on visitors and to 
reveal the central role of African American culture in the nation’s 
experience. He wants to further conversations “around Black history, 
art, liberation and joy.”

“I look forward to 
directing the National Museum of African American History and Culture in
 this next phase of leadership, after its founding, opening and dynamic 
exhibitions and events,” Young said. “Having visited the museum myself 
with my family, I know what a powerful place it is.”

He was born in Nebraska, 
but his family lived in six different places before he reached the age 
of 10. His family settled in Topeka, where he began to pursue writing at
 age 13 following a summer writing class at Washburn University in 
Topeka.

He earned degrees at 
Harvard and Brown universities, and held a two-year fellowship at 
Stanford University. He taught at Emory University for 11 years.

Lonnie Bunch, the museum’s founding director, said Young would bring a mix of scholarship, technological savvy and bold vision.

“As a poet, he understands
 how the museum fulfilled the dreams of many Americans, and under his 
leadership the museum will shape the hopes of future generations.”

During his four-year 
tenure as director of the Schomburg Center, Young secured the 
Harlem-based archives of Harry Belafonte, James Baldwin, Ossie Davis and
 Ruby Dee, Sonny Rollins and Fred “Fab 5 Freddy” Brathwaite and the 
manuscript of “The Autobiography of Malcolm X,” including a once-lost 
chapter. At the Schomburg Center, he raised $10 million in grants and 
donations and bolstered attendance by 40%.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601574015001.png" alt="Former Topeka resident Kevin Young, a poet and author, will become director of the director of the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. (Melanie Dunea/Smithsonian Institution)" />
 <figcaption>Former Topeka resident Kevin Young, a poet and author, will become director of the director of the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. (Melanie Dunea/Smithsonian Institution)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/09/30/former-topekan-to-lead-smithsonians-museum-of-african-american-history-culture/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Former Kansan 
Kevin Young was named Wednesday as director of the Smithsonian’s 
National Museum of African American History and Culture.Young is best known as a 
poet, author, essayist and editor. He’s published 11 books of poetry, 
two works of nonfiction and served as editor of 10 other works, 
including a book coming out this fall, “African American Poetry: 250 
Years of Struggle and Song.”He will start in January 
at the museum in Washington, D.C. He will remain director of the 
Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture in New York City until 
December. Since 2016, he’s been poetry editor at The New Yorker magazine
 and is expected to retain that post.Young, 49, said he was 
eager to be part of the museum’s powerful influence on visitors and to 
reveal the central role of African American culture in the nation’s 
experience. He wants to further conversations “around Black history, 
art, liberation and joy.”“I look forward to 
directing the National Museum of African American History and Culture in
 this next phase of leadership, after its founding, opening and dynamic 
exhibitions and events,” Young said. “Having visited the museum myself 
with my family, I know what a powerful place it is.”He was born in Nebraska, 
but his family lived in six different places before he reached the age 
of 10. His family settled in Topeka, where he began to pursue writing at
 age 13 following a summer writing class at Washburn University in 
Topeka.He earned degrees at 
Harvard and Brown universities, and held a two-year fellowship at 
Stanford University. He taught at Emory University for 11 years.Lonnie Bunch, the museum’s founding director, said Young would bring a mix of scholarship, technological savvy and bold vision.“As a poet, he understands
 how the museum fulfilled the dreams of many Americans, and under his 
leadership the museum will shape the hopes of future generations.”During his four-year 
tenure as director of the Schomburg Center, Young secured the 
Harlem-based archives of Harry Belafonte, James Baldwin, Ossie Davis and
 Ruby Dee, Sonny Rollins and Fred “Fab 5 Freddy” Brathwaite and the 
manuscript of “The Autobiography of Malcolm X,” including a once-lost 
chapter. At the Schomburg Center, he raised $10 million in grants and 
donations and bolstered attendance by 40%.Tim Carpenter has reported on Kansas for 35 years. He covered the Capitol for 16 years at the Topeka Capital-Journal and previously worked for the Lawrence Journal-World and United Press International.

Former Kansan to lead Smithsonian museum of African American history, culture

TOPEKA—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the 2017 cold case murder of <a href="https://www.penwellgabeltopeka.com/Obituary/133858/Kianna-Hodge/Topeka-KS">Kianna C. Hodge, </a>18, of Topeka, and have arrested 19-year-old Javon A. Smith of Topeka.

Just before midnight March 4, 2017, police were dispatched to SE 23rd Street and SE Bellview Avenue in reference to shots fired in the area, according to police spokesperson Gretchen Koenen. 

Five adults were injured as a result of the shooting.&nbsp; Police located Hodge in a vehicle near SE 6th Avenue and SE Deer Creek Trafficway. She was pronounced deceased by medical personnel at the scene. 

The four other victims received non-life threatening injuries as a result of the shooting.

“Since 2017, investigators have worked diligently to bring justice to Hodge, the four other shooting victims and their families. I am pleased that today we can announce we have made an arrest in this case,” said Topeka Police Chief Bill Cochran. “Topekans should be very proud of all of the hard work investigators put into this case.”

Police booked Smith Thursday into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges that include&nbsp;1st Degree Murder and Aggravated Battery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601575530743.png" alt="Javon Smith-photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Javon Smith-photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the 2017 cold case murder of <a href="https://www.penwellgabeltopeka.com/Obituary/133858/Kianna-Hodge/Topeka-KS">Kianna C. Hodge, </a>18, of Topeka, and have arrested 19-year-old Javon A. Smith of Topeka.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601570234524.png" alt="Kianna Hodge -photo courtesy <a href="https://www.penwellgabeltopeka.com/Obituary/133858/Kianna-Hodge/Topeka-KS">Penwell-Gable Funeral Home</a>" />
 <figcaption>Kianna Hodge -photo courtesy <a href="https://www.penwellgabeltopeka.com/Obituary/133858/Kianna-Hodge/Topeka-KS">Penwell-Gable Funeral Home</a></figcaption>
 </figure>Just before midnight March 4, 2017, police were dispatched to SE 23rd Street and SE Bellview Avenue in reference to shots fired in the area, according to police spokesperson Gretchen Koenen. Five adults were injured as a result of the shooting.&nbsp; Police located Hodge in a vehicle near SE 6th Avenue and SE Deer Creek Trafficway. She was pronounced deceased by medical personnel at the scene. The four other victims received non-life threatening injuries as a result of the shooting.“Since 2017, investigators have worked diligently to bring justice to Hodge, the four other shooting victims and their families. I am pleased that today we can announce we have made an arrest in this case,” said Topeka Police Chief Bill Cochran. “Topekans should be very proud of all of the hard work investigators put into this case.”Police booked Smith Thursday into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges that include&nbsp;1st Degree Murder and Aggravated Battery.

Police: Suspect arrested in Kan. teen's cold case killing

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — In a story published early Thursday about the coronavirus in Kansas, The Associated Press erroneously reported, citing information from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, a cluster of five active cases within the past two weeks at the state’s inmate work-release center in Wichita. 

The health department said Oct. 1, 2020, that its listing was incorrect and that the cluster actually was at a residential center run by Sedgwick County.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The top public health official in Kansas said Wednesday that the state has yet to see its biggest wave of coronavirus cases, suggesting the pandemic could spawn an average of 800 or even 900 new cases a day in coming months.

Dr. Lee Norman, the head of the state Department of Health and Environment, said Kansas is likely to surpass the record numbers of new confirmed and probable cases it has recently seen. The state had an average of 646 new cases a day for the seven days ending Wednesday, second only to the 667 cases per day for the seven days ending Monday.

While the state’s most populous counties have continued to generate hundreds of new cases every week, rural areas also have been seeing spikes. And health department data released Wednesday showed that outbreaks have returned to the state’s prison system.

The health department said Kansas saw 1,120 new confirmed and probable cases since Monday, an increase of 1.9%, bringing the total to 59,729. Norman said he thinks the state will see cases level off at the current daily increases, then “take off” for a “second wave.”

Norman said the likelihood of larger numbers demonstrates the need for continued “vigilance” in wearing masks and social distancing. He said efforts in March and April that included a statewide stay-at-home order and the closing of K-12 schools, cut down on the numbers of new cases but, “we would prefer not to go down that road again.”

“We have a long ways to go,” Norman said during a Statehouse news conference. “That really brings up, focuses on, why we need a vaccine.”

The number of coronavirus cases is thought to be higher because people can be infected without feeling ill and because of limited testing early in the pandemic. Norman said he believes Kansas is “close” to having its actual number of cases represent 3% to 5% of its population — from 87,000 to 145,000 cases.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness and death.

In Kansas, COVID-19-related deaths continue to represent about 1.1% of the number of reported cases.

The state health department reported 41 new COVID-19-related deaths since Monday, bringing the total to 678. However, the department said 21 of those occurred earlier this year and were reported after officials examined death certificates.

The health department also reported that there are active clusters of five or more cases in four prisons and an inmate work-release program in Wichita. They account for 244 cases within the past 14 days.

The health department said the prison in Hutchinson has had 85 active cases in the past two weeks and the state’s prison mental health center in Larned has had 79.

The state saw a massive outbreak at its prison in Lansing earlier this year, with more than 900 cases, though corrections officials declared it contained as of early June.

But Department of Corrections spokesman Randall Bowman said prisons began seeing new outbreaks in early August as the virus “just keeps cycling.”

The department said last week that it had 308 active cases among inmates and 12 among staff, and Bowman said the figures will be updated later this week.

The health department’s total included five active cases at the work-release program in Wichita, though Bowman said it ceased operations in mid-May after an outbreak and move staff to other locations. There was no immediate explanation for its listing by the health department.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — In a story published early Thursday about the coronavirus in Kansas, The Associated Press erroneously reported, citing information from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, a cluster of five active cases within the past two weeks at the state’s inmate work-release center in Wichita. The health department said Oct. 1, 2020, that its listing was incorrect and that the cluster actually was at a residential center run by Sedgwick County.----TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The top public health official in Kansas said Wednesday that the state has yet to see its biggest wave of coronavirus cases, suggesting the pandemic could spawn an average of 800 or even 900 new cases a day in coming months.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKDHEnews%2Fvideos%2F341030597193783%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Dr. Lee Norman, the head of the state Department of Health and Environment, said Kansas is likely to surpass the record numbers of new confirmed and probable cases it has recently seen. The state had an average of 646 new cases a day for the seven days ending Wednesday, second only to the 667 cases per day for the seven days ending Monday.While the state’s most populous counties have continued to generate hundreds of new cases every week, rural areas also have been seeing spikes. And health department data released Wednesday showed that outbreaks have returned to the state’s prison system.The health department said Kansas saw 1,120 new confirmed and probable cases since Monday, an increase of 1.9%, bringing the total to 59,729. Norman said he thinks the state will see cases level off at the current daily increases, then “take off” for a “second wave.”Norman said the likelihood of larger numbers demonstrates the need for continued “vigilance” in wearing masks and social distancing. He said efforts in March and April that included a statewide stay-at-home order and the closing of K-12 schools, cut down on the numbers of new cases but, “we would prefer not to go down that road again.”“We have a long ways to go,” Norman said during a Statehouse news conference. “That really brings up, focuses on, why we need a vaccine.”The number of coronavirus cases is thought to be higher because people can be infected without feeling ill and because of limited testing early in the pandemic. Norman said he believes Kansas is “close” to having its actual number of cases represent 3% to 5% of its population — from 87,000 to 145,000 cases.For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness and death.In Kansas, COVID-19-related deaths continue to represent about 1.1% of the number of reported cases.The state health department reported 41 new COVID-19-related deaths since Monday, bringing the total to 678. However, the department said 21 of those occurred earlier this year and were reported after officials examined death certificates.The health department also reported that there are active clusters of five or more cases in four prisons and an inmate work-release program in Wichita. They account for 244 cases within the past 14 days.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601486349462.png" alt="Wednesday Sept. 30, 2020 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday Sept. 30, 2020 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>The health department said the prison in Hutchinson has had 85 active cases in the past two weeks and the state’s prison mental health center in Larned has had 79.The state saw a massive outbreak at its prison in Lansing earlier this year, with more than 900 cases, though corrections officials declared it contained as of early June.But Department of Corrections spokesman Randall Bowman said prisons began seeing new outbreaks in early August as the virus “just keeps cycling.”The department said last week that it had 308 active cases among inmates and 12 among staff, and Bowman said the figures will be updated later this week.The health department’s total included five active cases at the work-release program in Wichita, though Bowman said it ceased operations in mid-May after an outbreak and move staff to other locations. There was no immediate explanation for its listing by the health department.

Correction: 🎥  Kan. health chief predicts bigger COVID-19 spikes to come

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Authorities are investigating the cause of Thursday morning fire in Topeka.

Just before 2:30a.m., fire crews&nbsp;responded to a the fire at an apartment complex at 3930 SW Twilight Drive in Topeka, according to Fire Marshal Todd Harrison.&nbsp;&nbsp;Upon arrival, fire crews found smoke and flames coming from the two story building. 

Firefighters assisted several occupants with evacuation. EMS transported one adult to a local hospital with non life-threatening injuries, according to Harrison.

The preliminary investigation indicates the fire started&nbsp;in the kitchen of apartment #207. Estimated dollar loss – $125,000.00; of which $100,000.00 is associated with structural loss and $25,000.00 associated with contents loss.

Working smoke detectors were not located within the structure of fire origin, according to Harrison.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601548740169.png" alt="View of second floor of the apartment complex fire early Thursday -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>View of second floor of the apartment complex fire early Thursday -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Authorities are investigating the cause of Thursday morning fire in Topeka.Just before 2:30a.m., fire crews&nbsp;responded to a the fire at an apartment complex at 3930 SW Twilight Drive in Topeka, according to Fire Marshal Todd Harrison.&nbsp;&nbsp;Upon arrival, fire crews found smoke and flames coming from the two story building. Firefighters assisted several occupants with evacuation. EMS transported one adult to a local hospital with non life-threatening injuries, according to Harrison.The preliminary investigation indicates the fire started&nbsp;in the kitchen of apartment #207. Estimated dollar loss – $125,000.00; of which $100,000.00 is associated with structural loss and $25,000.00 associated with contents loss.Working smoke detectors were not located within the structure of fire origin, according to Harrison.

Fire Marshal: 1 hospitalized after Kan. apartment complex fire

TOPEKA —Starting Friday, Oct. 2, the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) will begin accepting self-certification and processing payments to eligible unemployed workers under the Lost Wages Assistance (LWA program)

This is for claimants that are determined to be eligible, the LWA payment of $300 will be paid weekly, not in a single lump sum. 

<a href="https://www.dol.ks.gov/ui-faqs/lwa?fbclid=IwAR0n_QA2R-bOE71LKDGYZ3SAUIPYpTfxqeYjkaI7m4KudEv0tq1f_UySbt4">Click here to see </a>the FAQs for the LWA program

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601562760487.png" alt="Kansas Governor Laura Kelly " />
 <figcaption>Kansas Governor Laura Kelly </figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —Starting Friday, Oct. 2, the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) will begin accepting self-certification and processing payments to eligible unemployed workers under the Lost Wages Assistance (LWA program)This is for claimants that are determined to be eligible, the LWA payment of $300 will be paid weekly, not in a single lump sum. <a href="https://www.dol.ks.gov/ui-faqs/lwa?fbclid=IwAR0n_QA2R-bOE71LKDGYZ3SAUIPYpTfxqeYjkaI7m4KudEv0tq1f_UySbt4">Click here to see </a>the FAQs for the LWA program

Unemployed in Kan. will be eligible for new $300 benefit 

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — The paternal grandparents of a 10-year-old Kansas girl killed in a crash last week are suing the truck driver involved in the collision, along with his employer.

&nbsp;Mark and Carrie Brady are seeking damages in excess of $75,000 from the driver and L.B. White Trucking Inc. of Wellington.

The Bradys’ granddaughter, Anaiah Brady, along with her mother and three young siblings, all died in the accident on Friday when the family’s Ford Expedition collided with a loaded grain truck between Cheney and Clearwater.

Ronald White, who is affiliated with the trucking company, said he was not aware of the lawsuit and called the crash “a tragedy” when contacted by phone, but declined further comment.

An investigation of the accident continues and no charges have been filed.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Authorities have released names of the victims involved in the fatal Friday evening crash in Sedgwick County.

A Ford Expedition driven by Jessica Noel, 33, Viola, with her four children as passengers was southbound in the 7100 Block of South 263rd Street West southeast of Cheny, according to the Sedgwick County Sheriff's office daily accident bulletin.

A semi trailer loaded with grain and driven by Andrew Specht ran a stop sign, according the sheriff's department. Noel's vehicle struck the trailer and it split in two pieces.

Noel, and her children Jeffrey Thompson III, 4,&nbsp;&nbsp;Hank Thompson, 4-months, and Anaiah Brady, 10, were pronounced dead at the scene and were transported to the Forensic Science Center, according to the sheriff's department.

EMS transported a fourth passenger 1-year-old Mack Thompson to Wesley Medical Center in critical condition, according to the bulletin from the sheriff's department. He died at the hospital. Specht was not injured.

The accident remains under investigation.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601304945425.png" alt="Jessica Noel and 3 of the children who died in the crash -Photo courtesy <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-the-williams-family-after-tragic-accident">GoFundMe</a>" />
 <figcaption>Jessica Noel and 3 of the children who died in the crash -Photo courtesy <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-the-williams-family-after-tragic-accident">GoFundMe</a></figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — The paternal grandparents of a 10-year-old Kansas girl killed in a crash last week are suing the truck driver involved in the collision, along with his employer.&nbsp;Mark and Carrie Brady are seeking damages in excess of $75,000 from the driver and L.B. White Trucking Inc. of Wellington.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601087662644.png" alt="First responders on the scene of the fatal Friday evening crash -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>First responders on the scene of the fatal Friday evening crash -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>The Bradys’ granddaughter, Anaiah Brady, along with her mother and three young siblings, all died in the accident on Friday when the family’s Ford Expedition collided with a loaded grain truck between Cheney and Clearwater.Ronald White, who is affiliated with the trucking company, said he was not aware of the lawsuit and called the crash “a tragedy” when contacted by phone, but declined further comment.An investigation of the accident continues and no charges have been filed.----------------SEDGWICK COUNTY —Authorities have released names of the victims involved in the fatal Friday evening crash in Sedgwick County.A Ford Expedition driven by Jessica Noel, 33, Viola, with her four children as passengers was southbound in the 7100 Block of South 263rd Street West southeast of Cheny, according to the Sedgwick County Sheriff's office daily accident bulletin.A semi trailer loaded with grain and driven by Andrew Specht ran a stop sign, according the sheriff's department. Noel's vehicle struck the trailer and it split in two pieces.Noel, and her children Jeffrey Thompson III, 4,&nbsp;&nbsp;Hank Thompson, 4-months, and Anaiah Brady, 10, were pronounced dead at the scene and were transported to the Forensic Science Center, according to the sheriff's department.EMS transported a fourth passenger 1-year-old Mack Thompson to Wesley Medical Center in critical condition, according to the bulletin from the sheriff's department. He died at the hospital. Specht was not injured.The accident remains under investigation.&nbsp;

Lawsuit filed over Kansas crash that killed mother, 4 kids

WASHINGTON (AP) — House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin held an “extensive conversation" Wednesday on a huge COVID-19 rescue package, meeting face to face for the first time in more than a month in a last-ditch effort to seal a tentative accord on an additional round of coronavirus relief.

After a 90-minute meeting in the Capitol, Pelosi issued a statement saying the two would continue to talk. “We found areas where we are seeking further clarification," she said. Talks resume Thursday.

“We made a lot of progress over the last few days. We still don’t have an agreement," Mnuchin said after meeting with Pelosi and briefing top Senate Republican Mitch McConnell.

At the very least, the positive tone set by Pelosi and Mnuchin represented an improvement over earlier statements. But there is still a considerable gulf between the two sides, McConnell said.

“I’ve seen substantial movement, yes, and certainly the rhetoric has changed,” White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows said.

In an appearance on Fox Business Wednesday night, Mnuchin described the talks as the first serious discussions with Pelosi in “several weeks" and said he is raising his offer into “the neighborhood” of $1.5 trillion. That's well above what many Senate Republicans want but would probably be acceptable to GOP pragmatists and senators in difficult races.

After initially saying the Democratic-controlled chamber would vote Wednesday night on a $2.2 trillion relief bill — a debate that would have been partisan and possibly unproductive — Pelosi made an about-face and postponed the vote until Thursday in hopes of giving the talks with Mnuchin greater breathing room.

Mnuchin said Wednesday morning that he would tender a new offer resembling a plan released a couple of weeks ago by the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus. That proposal was previously rejected by Pelosi and other top Democrats as inadequate. It totals about $1.5 trillion and would provide additional jobless benefits if unemployment remains unacceptably high.

The “top line" limit upon which Pelosi, the Trump administration and Senate Republicans might be able to agree has been a subject of considerable speculation. Pelosi had drawn a hard line until recently, and talks have foundered, but failure now could mean there wouldn't be any COVID relief until next year, especially if Trump loses his reelection bid. Pelosi has never had a reputation for leaving large sums of money on the table.

Pelosi and Mnuchin have ramped up talks in recent days but remain far apart. The two have worked effectively together in the past and were key forces on the “CARES Act" in March, but the bipartisan spirit that drove that measure into law has all but evaporated. Neither side has publicly offered the kind of concessions that would generate tangible momentum.

McConnell said the two sides remain “very, very far apart," though he spoke before being briefed on the Mnuchin-Pelosi meeting. GOP congressional aides said the two sides are not close, even as administration officials like Meadows and Mnuchin sounded more optimistic.

Even if Pelosi and Mnuchin were able to reach a tentative agreement on “top line" spending levels, dozens of nettlesome details would need to be worked out. A particularly difficult issue, Pelosi told her colleagues earlier in the day, remains McConnell's insistence on a liability shield for businesses fearing COVID-related lawsuits after they reopen their doors.

“Let’s see if we can get a compromise agreement with the Speaker, something that works, and then we’ll continue to work with both sides on all the exact language and the policies,” Mnuchin said earlier.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601548046725.png" alt="Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin following his discussion with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi Wednesday -image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin following his discussion with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi Wednesday -image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin held an “extensive conversation" Wednesday on a huge COVID-19 rescue package, meeting face to face for the first time in more than a month in a last-ditch effort to seal a tentative accord on an additional round of coronavirus relief.After a 90-minute meeting in the Capitol, Pelosi issued a statement saying the two would continue to talk. “We found areas where we are seeking further clarification," she said. Talks resume Thursday.“We made a lot of progress over the last few days. We still don’t have an agreement," Mnuchin said after meeting with Pelosi and briefing top Senate Republican Mitch McConnell.At the very least, the positive tone set by Pelosi and Mnuchin represented an improvement over earlier statements. But there is still a considerable gulf between the two sides, McConnell said.“I’ve seen substantial movement, yes, and certainly the rhetoric has changed,” White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows said.In an appearance on Fox Business Wednesday night, Mnuchin described the talks as the first serious discussions with Pelosi in “several weeks" and said he is raising his offer into “the neighborhood” of $1.5 trillion. That's well above what many Senate Republicans want but would probably be acceptable to GOP pragmatists and senators in difficult races.After initially saying the Democratic-controlled chamber would vote Wednesday night on a $2.2 trillion relief bill — a debate that would have been partisan and possibly unproductive — Pelosi made an about-face and postponed the vote until Thursday in hopes of giving the talks with Mnuchin greater breathing room.At issue is a long-delayed package that would extend another round of $1,200 direct stimulus payments, restore bonus pandemic jobless benefits, speed aid to schools and extend assistance to airlines, restaurants and other struggling businesses. A landmark $2 trillion relief bill in March passed with sweeping support and is credited with helping the economy through the spring and summer, but worries are mounting that the recovery may sputter without additional relief.Mnuchin said Wednesday morning that he would tender a new offer resembling a plan released a couple of weeks ago by the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus. That proposal was previously rejected by Pelosi and other top Democrats as inadequate. It totals about $1.5 trillion and would provide additional jobless benefits if unemployment remains unacceptably high.The “top line" limit upon which Pelosi, the Trump administration and Senate Republicans might be able to agree has been a subject of considerable speculation. Pelosi had drawn a hard line until recently, and talks have foundered, but failure now could mean there wouldn't be any COVID relief until next year, especially if Trump loses his reelection bid. Pelosi has never had a reputation for leaving large sums of money on the table.Pelosi and Mnuchin have ramped up talks in recent days but remain far apart. The two have worked effectively together in the past and were key forces on the “CARES Act" in March, but the bipartisan spirit that drove that measure into law has all but evaporated. Neither side has publicly offered the kind of concessions that would generate tangible momentum.McConnell said the two sides remain “very, very far apart," though he spoke before being briefed on the Mnuchin-Pelosi meeting. GOP congressional aides said the two sides are not close, even as administration officials like Meadows and Mnuchin sounded more optimistic.Even if Pelosi and Mnuchin were able to reach a tentative agreement on “top line" spending levels, dozens of nettlesome details would need to be worked out. A particularly difficult issue, Pelosi told her colleagues earlier in the day, remains McConnell's insistence on a liability shield for businesses fearing COVID-related lawsuits after they reopen their doors.“Let’s see if we can get a compromise agreement with the Speaker, something that works, and then we’ll continue to work with both sides on all the exact language and the policies,” Mnuchin said earlier.Pelosi has sold her latest bill as an attempt to establish a negotiating position that might boost the negotiations. A more skeptical take is that the Speaker is trying to placate party moderates who protested that she has been too inflexible in negotiations and played a role in the collapse of aid talks this summer and earlier this month.It would revive a $600-per-week pandemic jobless benefit and send a second round of direct payments to most individuals. It would scale back an aid package to state and local governments to a still-huge $436 billion, send a whopping $225 billion to colleges and universities and deliver another round of subsidies to businesses under the Paycheck Protection Program. Airlines would get another $25 billion in aid to prevent a wave of layoffs that are expected this week.It also contains $3.6 billion to assist voting during the pandemic, $15 billion for the Postal Service and additional billions for treatment and vaccines.The proposal represents a cutback from a $3.4 trillion bill that passed the House in May but remains well above what Senate Republicans are willing to accept. Republicans have endorsed staying in the $650 billion to $1 trillion range.The specific numbers are also fuzzy because both sides are using offset spending cuts or new tax revenues to pay for part of their respective bills. The Congressional Budget Office has not scored either the most recent Senate GOP measure or the Democratic plan slated for Wednesday night's vote.