KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating the cause of a house fire in Kansas City.

Just before 4a.m. Friday, crews&nbsp;responded to a reported house fire near 110th and N. Lewis, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

 Crews reported heavy fire on arrival and initiated interior operations using two handlines. Searches of the structure came back all clear. The occupants were able to evacuate prior to KCFD arrival. No injuries were reported at this incident. 

Red Cross was ordered for 2 adults and 2 pets. Authorities have not released a damage estimate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733505932292.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating the cause of a house fire in Kansas City.Just before 4a.m. Friday, crews&nbsp;responded to a reported house fire near 110th and N. Lewis, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins. Crews reported heavy fire on arrival and initiated interior operations using two handlines. Searches of the structure came back all clear. The occupants were able to evacuate prior to KCFD arrival. No injuries were reported at this incident. Red Cross was ordered for 2 adults and 2 pets. Authorities have not released a damage estimate.

2 adults, 2 pets escape house fire in Kansas City

Missouri’s Amendment 3 legalizing abortion went into effect at 12:01 a.m. Friday. But Planned Parenthood officials said they will not restart abortions until after a judge rules on their lawsuit hoping to strike down the state’s restrictive laws

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/">ANNA SPOERRE</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

It’s been more than twelve hours since Amendment 3 went into effect in Missouri. No abortions have begun again at the state’s Planned Parenthood clinics.

That’s because officials with Planned Parenthood, which operates health centers across the state, said they are still&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/12/05/abortion-lawsuit-planned-parenthood-amendment-3-missouri-jackson-county/">waiting on a judge’s decision</a>&nbsp;on whether to grant an injunction that would allow abortions without decades’ worth of restrictive targeted regulations on abortion providers, or TRAP, laws.&nbsp;

The day after voters narrowly decided to overturn the state’s near-total abortion ban and protect the right to an abortion in the state constitution, the ACLU of Missouri, Planned Parenthood Great Plains and Planned Parenthood Great Rivers&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/06/missouri-abortion-access-planned-parenthood-lawsuit-amendment-3/">sued the state to strike down those statutes.</a>

Jackson County Judge Jerri Zhang on Wednesday heard arguments in the lawsuit. As of 2 p.m. Friday, she had not issued a decision.&nbsp;

Planned Parenthood officials on Wednesday said they intended to start taking walk-in medication abortion appointments at their clinics in Kansas City, Columbia and St. Louis as early as Friday if the judge ruled in their favor. Surgical abortion appointments would become available later.&nbsp;

Spokespeople with the local Planned Parenthood clinics told the Missouri Independent midday Friday that the clinics had not started walk-in abortion medication appointments nor had they started scheduling surgical abortions as they await a ruling.

While the lawsuit asks for a preliminary injunction, issuing one is up to Zhang’s discretion. Court challenges can take months, if not years. In Ohio, where citizens voted to protect abortion rights last year, it wasn’t until nearly a year later that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-abortion-ban-ruling-e83ad0f1af11ded06d73d900bb240a04" target="_blank">a county judge struck down that state’s “heartbeat” law.</a>

“The court is no doubt carefully analyzing years of anti-abortion laws and multiple outright bans on abortion. We know that review takes time,” Emily Wales, president and CEO, Planned Parenthood Great Plains, said in a statement Friday. “Complicating the process, however, is an Attorney General’s office that has made clear it will fight tooth and nail to prevent Missourians from accessing their new constitutional right to reproductive freedom.&nbsp;

Amendment 3 states&nbsp;“the right to reproductive freedom shall not be denied, interfered with, delayed, or otherwise restricted unless the government demonstrates that such action is justifiable by a compelling governmental interest achieved by the least restrictive means.”&nbsp;

Wednesday’s hearing in-part centered around whether the state’s TRAP laws helped or harmed women seeking abortions.

These laws include a 72-hour waiting period between an initial appointment and an abortion; requiring doctors providing abortions to have hospital admitting privileges; and a&nbsp;requirement that the same physician who initially saw the patient also perform the abortion.&nbsp;

Attorneys with Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey’s office maintain the regulations protect women and said the office plans to enforce the current TRAP laws until a judge rules otherwise.

“It’s sick that Planned Parenthood doesn’t acknowledge the difference between a miscarriage and an abortion, a slap in the face to the millions who have lost beloved babies prematurely,” Madeline Sieren, the spokeswoman for Bailey, said in a statement Friday, adding that the office will “continue to thwart Planned Parenthood at every opportunity.”

On Thursday, members of 40 Days For Life gathered outside five Planned Parenthood clinics across the state to pray that the judge deny the injunction “for&nbsp;the health&nbsp;and&nbsp;safety&nbsp;of&nbsp;women seeking abortions.”

“I am just happy the judge is taking time to consider this and not just rushing into a judgement,” Kathy Forck, with 40 Days for Life in Columbia, said Friday afternoon.

If Zhang rules in Planned Parenthood’s favor, the Columbia clinic would begin offering abortions again for the first time in six years.

“Now that the possibility is there that it could happen again, we are trusting in God,” Forck said. “We have continued to receive advanced training for sidewalk counseling through these six years, and we are ready to offer that same message of hope and health that we’ve always offered to the women.”

A decade ago, more than 5,000 abortions were performed in Missouri, according to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. By 2020, when abortions were still legal, that number fell to 167, a drop that abortion providers attributed to the state’s growing list of regulations.

“As of today, Missourians have an unrealized constitutional right,” Wales said. “They are entitled to access abortion under the state’s constitution, and every day they cannot get that care here at home, their rights are being violated.”

Zhang on Wednesday denied&nbsp;the state’s request to remove Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker as a defendant and move the case to Cole County, where, earlier this year, a judge&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/09/20/missouri-supreme-court-opinions-amendment-3-abortion/">struck Amendment 3 from the ballot</a>. That decision swas soon overridden by the Missouri Court of Appeals.

The attorney general’s office said they plan to appeal this decision, arguing that Peters Baker does not appropriately represent all statewide prosecutors because of her previous statements in support of abortion rights.

<h2>Missouri’s Amendment 3 legalizing abortion went into effect at 12:01 a.m. Friday. But Planned Parenthood officials said they will not restart abortions until after a judge rules on their lawsuit hoping to strike down the state’s restrictive laws</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/">ANNA SPOERRE</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>It’s been more than twelve hours since Amendment 3 went into effect in Missouri. No abortions have begun again at the state’s Planned Parenthood clinics.That’s because officials with Planned Parenthood, which operates health centers across the state, said they are still&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/12/05/abortion-lawsuit-planned-parenthood-amendment-3-missouri-jackson-county/">waiting on a judge’s decision</a>&nbsp;on whether to grant an injunction that would allow abortions without decades’ worth of restrictive targeted regulations on abortion providers, or TRAP, laws.&nbsp;The day after voters narrowly decided to overturn the state’s near-total abortion ban and protect the right to an abortion in the state constitution, the ACLU of Missouri, Planned Parenthood Great Plains and Planned Parenthood Great Rivers&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/06/missouri-abortion-access-planned-parenthood-lawsuit-amendment-3/">sued the state to strike down those statutes.</a>Jackson County Judge Jerri Zhang on Wednesday heard arguments in the lawsuit. As of 2 p.m. Friday, she had not issued a decision.&nbsp;Planned Parenthood officials on Wednesday said they intended to start taking walk-in medication abortion appointments at their clinics in Kansas City, Columbia and St. Louis as early as Friday if the judge ruled in their favor. Surgical abortion appointments would become available later.&nbsp;Spokespeople with the local Planned Parenthood clinics told the Missouri Independent midday Friday that the clinics had not started walk-in abortion medication appointments nor had they started scheduling surgical abortions as they await a ruling.While the lawsuit asks for a preliminary injunction, issuing one is up to Zhang’s discretion. Court challenges can take months, if not years. In Ohio, where citizens voted to protect abortion rights last year, it wasn’t until nearly a year later that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-abortion-ban-ruling-e83ad0f1af11ded06d73d900bb240a04" target="_blank">a county judge struck down that state’s “heartbeat” law.</a>“The court is no doubt carefully analyzing years of anti-abortion laws and multiple outright bans on abortion. We know that review takes time,” Emily Wales, president and CEO, Planned Parenthood Great Plains, said in a statement Friday. “Complicating the process, however, is an Attorney General’s office that has made clear it will fight tooth and nail to prevent Missourians from accessing their new constitutional right to reproductive freedom.&nbsp;Amendment 3 states&nbsp;“the right to reproductive freedom shall not be denied, interfered with, delayed, or otherwise restricted unless the government demonstrates that such action is justifiable by a compelling governmental interest achieved by the least restrictive means.”&nbsp;Wednesday’s hearing in-part centered around whether the state’s TRAP laws helped or harmed women seeking abortions.These laws include a 72-hour waiting period between an initial appointment and an abortion; requiring doctors providing abortions to have hospital admitting privileges; and a&nbsp;requirement that the same physician who initially saw the patient also perform the abortion.&nbsp;Attorneys with Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey’s office maintain the regulations protect women and said the office plans to enforce the current TRAP laws until a judge rules otherwise.“It’s sick that Planned Parenthood doesn’t acknowledge the difference between a miscarriage and an abortion, a slap in the face to the millions who have lost beloved babies prematurely,” Madeline Sieren, the spokeswoman for Bailey, said in a statement Friday, adding that the office will “continue to thwart Planned Parenthood at every opportunity.”On Thursday, members of 40 Days For Life gathered outside five Planned Parenthood clinics across the state to pray that the judge deny the injunction “for&nbsp;the health&nbsp;and&nbsp;safety&nbsp;of&nbsp;women seeking abortions.”“I am just happy the judge is taking time to consider this and not just rushing into a judgement,” Kathy Forck, with 40 Days for Life in Columbia, said Friday afternoon.If Zhang rules in Planned Parenthood’s favor, the Columbia clinic would begin offering abortions again for the first time in six years.“Now that the possibility is there that it could happen again, we are trusting in God,” Forck said. “We have continued to receive advanced training for sidewalk counseling through these six years, and we are ready to offer that same message of hope and health that we’ve always offered to the women.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733517737335.png" alt=" Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman, anti-abortion activist Kathy Forck and Thomas More Society attorney Mary Catherine Martin stand Sept. 10 on the steps of the Missouri Supreme Court following oral arguments in a case involving Missouri’s abortion-rights amendment (Anna Spoerre/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman, anti-abortion activist Kathy Forck and Thomas More Society attorney Mary Catherine Martin stand Sept. 10 on the steps of the Missouri Supreme Court following oral arguments in a case involving Missouri’s abortion-rights amendment (Anna Spoerre/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>A decade ago, more than 5,000 abortions were performed in Missouri, according to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. By 2020, when abortions were still legal, that number fell to 167, a drop that abortion providers attributed to the state’s growing list of regulations.“As of today, Missourians have an unrealized constitutional right,” Wales said. “They are entitled to access abortion under the state’s constitution, and every day they cannot get that care here at home, their rights are being violated.”Zhang on Wednesday denied&nbsp;the state’s request to remove Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker as a defendant and move the case to Cole County, where, earlier this year, a judge&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/09/20/missouri-supreme-court-opinions-amendment-3-abortion/">struck Amendment 3 from the ballot</a>. That decision swas soon overridden by the Missouri Court of Appeals.The attorney general’s office said they plan to appeal this decision, arguing that Peters Baker does not appropriately represent all statewide prosecutors because of her previous statements in support of abortion rights.

Mo. Planned Parenthood clinics hold off resuming abortions, await court ruling

RICE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 6:30a.m. Friday in Rice County.&nbsp;

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Honda Element driven by Gabriel Herron, 26, Kansas City, Kansas was westbound on U.S. 56 near Just east of 28th Road.

The SUV traveled off the road the right and the driver overcorrected. The vehicle returned to the road, traveled back into the ditch and rolled. Herron was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Birzer Funeral home. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

RICE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 6:30a.m. Friday in Rice County.&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Honda Element driven by Gabriel Herron, 26, Kansas City, Kansas was westbound on U.S. 56 near Just east of 28th Road.The SUV traveled off the road the right and the driver overcorrected. The vehicle returned to the road, traveled back into the ditch and rolled. Herron was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Birzer Funeral home. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies after SUV rollover accident

JOHNSON COUNTY —Authorities are working to determine the cause of a fire at an apartment complex under construct in Olathe.

Just after 4a.m. fire crews from Olathe, Lenexa and the city of Shawnee responded to the fire at 275 S Parker, according to a social media report from the Olathe Fire Department.&nbsp;When the call came in, fire was seen from over four miles away.

The was a partial building collapse.&nbsp;It took around two hours to get the fire under control. Firefighters wore working on the hot spots. There were injuries reported.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733487921624.png" alt="Photos Olathe Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photos Olathe Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —Authorities are working to determine the cause of a fire at an apartment complex under construct in Olathe.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733500334457.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 4a.m. fire crews from Olathe, Lenexa and the city of Shawnee responded to the fire at 275 S Parker, according to a social media report from the Olathe Fire Department.&nbsp;When the call came in, fire was seen from over four miles away.The was a partial building collapse.&nbsp;It took around two hours to get the fire under control. Firefighters wore working on the hot spots. There were injuries reported.&nbsp;

Kan. apartment building fire observed from miles away

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City.

Just after 5p.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to a shooting in the 8700 block of Blue Ridge Boulevard, according to KCPD&nbsp;Officer Alayna Gonzalez.

First responders immediately began to canvas for a victim. There were several people in the area summoning officers to a nearby vehicle, where an adult male victim was reportedly shot. 

Officers located the victim unresponsive and suffering from apparent gunshot trauma. EMS responded shortly after and pronounced the victim deceased at the scene.

Police do not have a person of interest identified or anyone in custody at this time.

Homicide detectives and crime scene personnel responded to collect any evidence and gather witness statements. Detectives are working to determine what led up to the shooting. The name of the victim has not been released.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733484217063.png" alt="Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'" />
 <figcaption>Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City.Just after 5p.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to a shooting in the 8700 block of Blue Ridge Boulevard, according to KCPD&nbsp;Officer Alayna Gonzalez.First responders immediately began to canvas for a victim. There were several people in the area summoning officers to a nearby vehicle, where an adult male victim was reportedly shot. Officers located the victim unresponsive and suffering from apparent gunshot trauma. EMS responded shortly after and pronounced the victim deceased at the scene.Police do not have a person of interest identified or anyone in custody at this time.Homicide detectives and crime scene personnel responded to collect any evidence and gather witness statements. Detectives are working to determine what led up to the shooting. The name of the victim has not been released.

KCPD: Man found with gunshot wound in vehicle

MIAMI COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating the death of a juvenile in rural Miami County have identified the victim as a 15-year-old from Olathe, according to the Miami County Sheriff's office.

Just before 3p.m. Wednesday, the Miami County Sheriff's office received a 911 call requesting an ambulance for a death, according to a media release.

The caller indicated a juvenile had been injured inside a residence. First responders discovered the juvenile deceased inside the home.&nbsp; EMS transported a second juvenile, a 16-year-old Spring Hill boy, to the local hospital as a precautionary measure.

As the investigation unfolded, the death was deemed suspicious prompting the involvement of additional recourses. The sheriff's office reviewed the scene and a search warrant was executed at the home. The Johnson County Sheriff's office crime scene unit also assisted.

During the investigation, the 16-year-old at the hospital was taken into custody and later transported to the juvenile detention facility. Both juveniles were students in the Spring Hill USD 230&nbsp; and are not related.

Authorities have not released details on the cause of death.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733398221816.png" alt="Law enforcement on the scene of the investigation on Wednesday-photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Law enforcement on the scene of the investigation on Wednesday-photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>MIAMI COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating the death of a juvenile in rural Miami County have identified the victim as a 15-year-old from Olathe, according to the Miami County Sheriff's office.Just before 3p.m. Wednesday, the Miami County Sheriff's office received a 911 call requesting an ambulance for a death, according to a media release.The caller indicated a juvenile had been injured inside a residence. First responders discovered the juvenile deceased inside the home.&nbsp; EMS transported a second juvenile, a 16-year-old Spring Hill boy, to the local hospital as a precautionary measure.As the investigation unfolded, the death was deemed suspicious prompting the involvement of additional recourses. The sheriff's office reviewed the scene and a search warrant was executed at the home. The Johnson County Sheriff's office crime scene unit also assisted.During the investigation, the 16-year-old at the hospital was taken into custody and later transported to the juvenile detention facility. Both juveniles were students in the Spring Hill USD 230&nbsp; and are not related.Authorities have not released details on the cause of death.

Rural Kan. homicide: 15-year-old victim, 16-year-old in custody

KANSAS CITY —One person injured in a November 21 three-vehicle crash in Kansas&nbsp; City has&nbsp; died, according to the Jackson County Medical Examiner's office.

Just before 8:30a.m. Nov. 21, a Volkswagen and a Volvo were southbound on Troost Avenue near East 83rd Street, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez.&nbsp;

A Chevrolet Malibu was facing east on East 83rd Street. The driver of the Chevrolet pulled out in front of the Volvo and Volkswagen. Both of those vehicles struck the Chevrolet in the left side.

EMS transported the rear passenger in the Chevrolet to an area hospital with critical injuries. He was pronounced dead just after 1:30p.m. Thursday from injuries&nbsp; in the crash. Police did not know if he was wearing his seatbelt.&nbsp;

KANSAS CITY —One person injured in a November 21 three-vehicle crash in Kansas&nbsp; City has&nbsp; died, according to the Jackson County Medical Examiner's office.Just before 8:30a.m. Nov. 21, a Volkswagen and a Volvo were southbound on Troost Avenue near East 83rd Street, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez.&nbsp;A Chevrolet Malibu was facing east on East 83rd Street. The driver of the Chevrolet pulled out in front of the Volvo and Volkswagen. Both of those vehicles struck the Chevrolet in the left side.EMS transported the rear passenger in the Chevrolet to an area hospital with critical injuries. He was pronounced dead just after 1:30p.m. Thursday from injuries&nbsp; in the crash. Police did not know if he was wearing his seatbelt.&nbsp;

KCPD: Man dies two weeks after 3-vehicle crash

JOHNSON COUNTY —Firefighters battled a well-involved garage fire&nbsp;in Olathe on Wednesday. Crews responded just before 6p.m.

The blaze caused extensive damage to the home and two vehicles parked in the driveway. Thankfully, no injuries. A family of four is displaced. Investigators are working on a cause.

Fire officials reminded the public to "check your home smoke alarms by pressing the test button. Replace any alarm that is 10 years of age or older."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733397790498.jpeg" alt="Photos Olathe Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photos Olathe Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —Firefighters battled a well-involved garage fire&nbsp;in Olathe on Wednesday. Crews responded just before 6p.m.The blaze caused extensive damage to the home and two vehicles parked in the driveway. Thankfully, no injuries. A family of four is displaced. Investigators are working on a cause.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733397853229.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Fire officials reminded the public to "check your home smoke alarms by pressing the test button. Replace any alarm that is 10 years of age or older."

Family displaced after fire at Kansas home

JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating two suspect on drug alegations.

Just after 12:30a.m. December 2, a Jackson County Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 2010 Hyundai Sonata near 150th&nbsp;and Q. Roads, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 During the traffic stop, the deputy observed inside the vehicle what appeared to be LSD.&nbsp;

The driver, 28-year-old Ryan Michelle Laiku Schommer of Iola allegedly resisted arrest with a brief struggle. Deputies arrested and booked her into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of LSD, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of drug paraphernalia, battery on a law enforcement officer and interference with law enforcement and driving while suspended.

The passenger, Jeffrey Scott Wilson, 35, of Grove, Oklahoma, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of LSD, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733179106675.png" alt="Wilson photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Wilson photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating two suspect on drug alegations.Just after 12:30a.m. December 2, a Jackson County Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 2010 Hyundai Sonata near 150th&nbsp;and Q. Roads, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733179066160.png" alt="Schommer-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Schommer-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure> During the traffic stop, the deputy observed inside the vehicle what appeared to be LSD.&nbsp;The driver, 28-year-old Ryan Michelle Laiku Schommer of Iola allegedly resisted arrest with a brief struggle. Deputies arrested and booked her into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of LSD, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of drug paraphernalia, battery on a law enforcement officer and interference with law enforcement and driving while suspended.The passenger, Jeffrey Scott Wilson, 35, of Grove, Oklahoma, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of LSD, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Sheriff: Kansas woman caught with LSD resisted arrest

KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating the cause a fire at a home in Kansas City.

Just after 2p.m. Wednesday, crews responded to a reported fire in a single-story duplex located in the 3800 block of NW. 93rd street in Kanas City, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins

First responders reported heavy fire and smoke coming from the garage of the structure.&nbsp; Searches of the structure came back all clear. The occupants were able to self-evacuate prior to KCFD arrival.

Crews quickly were able to get the fire under control, and contain the fire to the one unit. No injuries were reported at this incident. Red Cross was ordered for two adults and three children.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733348902226.png" alt="Photo KC Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photo KC Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating the cause a fire at a home in Kansas City.Just after 2p.m. Wednesday, crews responded to a reported fire in a single-story duplex located in the 3800 block of NW. 93rd street in Kanas City, according to Battalion Chief Michael HopkinsFirst responders reported heavy fire and smoke coming from the garage of the structure.&nbsp; Searches of the structure came back all clear. The occupants were able to self-evacuate prior to KCFD arrival.Crews quickly were able to get the fire under control, and contain the fire to the one unit. No injuries were reported at this incident. Red Cross was ordered for two adults and three children.

2 adults, 3 children escape duplex fire in Kansas City

KINGMAN COUNTY—Law enforcement are&nbsp;investigating two incidents with missing calves and we are asking for the public's help with any information, according to a social media report from the Kingman County Sheriff.

The first incident in southeast Kingman County involved approximately 13 calves that were reported missing.&nbsp; The second incident, in northwest&nbsp; Kingman County involved approximately 37 calves reported missing. 

The Kansas Department of Agriculture Livestock Brand Program and Special Agent Jim Pinegar is assisting with the investigation. 

The sheriff's office encouraged the public to be on the look out and report any suspicious activity.&nbsp; Contact the Kingman County sheriff's office with any details to help with their investigation.

KINGMAN COUNTY—Law enforcement are&nbsp;investigating two incidents with missing calves and we are asking for the public's help with any information, according to a social media report from the Kingman County Sheriff.The first incident in southeast Kingman County involved approximately 13 calves that were reported missing.&nbsp; The second incident, in northwest&nbsp; Kingman County involved approximately 37 calves reported missing. The Kansas Department of Agriculture Livestock Brand Program and Special Agent Jim Pinegar is assisting with the investigation. The sheriff's office encouraged the public to be on the look out and report any suspicious activity.&nbsp; Contact the Kingman County sheriff's office with any details to help with their investigation.

Sheriff investigating alleged missing calves in Kansas

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">JASON HANCOCK</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>

Former Missouri Congressman Billy Long was tapped on Wednesday evening by President-elect Donald Trump to lead the Internal Revenue Service.

Trump called Long — who served six terms representing a Southwest Missouri district — a “consummate people person,” adding “taxpayers and the wonderful employees of the IRS will love having Billy at the helm.”

The current IRS commissioner’s term doesn’t expire until 2027.

Long was one of the first elected officials to jump on the “Trump train,” a phrase&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/auctnr1/status/1549611376980774913?s=20&amp;t=QhHX4mOsFHJZWKf49JBMww" target="_blank">he claims to have coined</a>. When most considered Trump’s candidacy a joke or publicity stunt, Long said he was all in, touting Trump to foreign leaders and GOP insiders who snickered at the notion that the real estate mogul and reality TV star would be the next president.

“Trump, I saw it early on,” Long told The Independent in 2022, “he has the ‘it’ factor.”

After a long career as an auctioneer, and a few years as a conservative talk radio host, Long decided to jump into the 2010 race for the Congressional seat being vacated when Roy Blunt decided to run for U.S. Senate.

“It was an eight-way race,” Long said, “and I was supposed to come in ninth. I was the Donald Trump of the race.”

He was pegged as a candidate who was only in the race “for publicity,” Long said, “to help my business and blah, blah, blah, the same things they said about Trump.”

His own campaign consultants told him he was “too fat to put on TV,” he said. “And you can put that in the newspaper. They said, ‘You’re too fat. You can’t go on TV. You’ll scare people.’”

In the end, Long won the primary by around 7.5 percentage points. He cruised to victory that fall,&nbsp; joining a massive class of freshmen Republicans who swept into office in the Tea Party wave.

He says the key to his victory was authenticity.

“I may not look the part,” Long said. “But I guaranteed to voters that I would be the part, that I would do the right thing for the right reason every day. And that resonated with people.”

His first year in Congress,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.levernews.com/trump-nominee-pressured-irs-to-crush-the-humane-society/" target="_blank">according to The Lever</a>, Long signed&nbsp;a letter urging the IRS to launch a probe of the tax-exempt status of the Humane Society of the United States, a nonprofit that focuses on animal welfare and opposes animal cruelty. The letter followed the Humane Society’s support of a successful&nbsp;Missouri ballot measure strengthening regulations on dog breeders.

In 2022, Long gave up his congressional seat to run for U.S. Senate, finishing fourth in the GOP primary behind the eventual winner, Eric Schmitt.

According to Trump’s Wednesday announcement, since leaving Congress Long has worked as a business and tax advisor, “helping small businesses navigate the complexities of complying with the IRS Rules and Regulations.”

“I have known Billy since 2011,” Trump said. “He is an extremely hard worker, and respected by all, especially by those who know him in Congress… Congratulations Billy!”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648132265420.png" alt="File photo Billy Long (photo by Madeline Carter)." />
 <figcaption>File photo Billy Long (photo by Madeline Carter).</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">JASON HANCOCK</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>Former Missouri Congressman Billy Long was tapped on Wednesday evening by President-elect Donald Trump to lead the Internal Revenue Service.Trump called Long — who served six terms representing a Southwest Missouri district — a “consummate people person,” adding “taxpayers and the wonderful employees of the IRS will love having Billy at the helm.”The current IRS commissioner’s term doesn’t expire until 2027.Long was one of the first elected officials to jump on the “Trump train,” a phrase&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/auctnr1/status/1549611376980774913?s=20&amp;t=QhHX4mOsFHJZWKf49JBMww" target="_blank">he claims to have coined</a>. When most considered Trump’s candidacy a joke or publicity stunt, Long said he was all in, touting Trump to foreign leaders and GOP insiders who snickered at the notion that the real estate mogul and reality TV star would be the next president.“Trump, I saw it early on,” Long told The Independent in 2022, “he has the ‘it’ factor.”After a long career as an auctioneer, and a few years as a conservative talk radio host, Long decided to jump into the 2010 race for the Congressional seat being vacated when Roy Blunt decided to run for U.S. Senate.Long said no one took him seriously.“It was an eight-way race,” Long said, “and I was supposed to come in ninth. I was the Donald Trump of the race.”He was pegged as a candidate who was only in the race “for publicity,” Long said, “to help my business and blah, blah, blah, the same things they said about Trump.”His own campaign consultants told him he was “too fat to put on TV,” he said. “And you can put that in the newspaper. They said, ‘You’re too fat. You can’t go on TV. You’ll scare people.’”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733407966054.png" alt=" Billy Long shows off his tie that was signed by former President Donald Trump shortly before filing to run for the U.S. Senate on Feb. 22, 2022, in Jefferson City (Madeline Carter/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> Billy Long shows off his tie that was signed by former President Donald Trump shortly before filing to run for the U.S. Senate on Feb. 22, 2022, in Jefferson City (Madeline Carter/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>In the end, Long won the primary by around 7.5 percentage points. He cruised to victory that fall,&nbsp; joining a massive class of freshmen Republicans who swept into office in the Tea Party wave.He says the key to his victory was authenticity.“I may not look the part,” Long said. “But I guaranteed to voters that I would be the part, that I would do the right thing for the right reason every day. And that resonated with people.”His first year in Congress,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.levernews.com/trump-nominee-pressured-irs-to-crush-the-humane-society/" target="_blank">according to The Lever</a>, Long signed&nbsp;a letter urging the IRS to launch a probe of the tax-exempt status of the Humane Society of the United States, a nonprofit that focuses on animal welfare and opposes animal cruelty. The letter followed the Humane Society’s support of a successful&nbsp;Missouri ballot measure strengthening regulations on dog breeders.In 2022, Long gave up his congressional seat to run for U.S. Senate, finishing fourth in the GOP primary behind the eventual winner, Eric Schmitt.According to Trump’s Wednesday announcement, since leaving Congress Long has worked as a business and tax advisor, “helping small businesses navigate the complexities of complying with the IRS Rules and Regulations.”“I have known Billy since 2011,” Trump said. “He is an extremely hard worker, and respected by all, especially by those who know him in Congress… Congratulations Billy!”

Donald Trump picks Missouri’s Billy Long to lead the IRS

MIAMI COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating the death of a juvenile in rural Miami County, Kansas.

Just before 3p.m. Wednesday, emergency personnel responded to a death investigation in the 22800 block of Lewis Drive, located in rural Miami County, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.

While on scene, additional resources were requested to assist with the investigation. One juvenile was pronounced deceased at the scene, while another juvenile was taken into custody.

The sheriff's office released no additional details.&nbsp; Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733398221816.png" alt="Law enforcement on the scene of the investigation on Wednesday-photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Law enforcement on the scene of the investigation on Wednesday-photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>MIAMI COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating the death of a juvenile in rural Miami County, Kansas.Just before 3p.m. Wednesday, emergency personnel responded to a death investigation in the 22800 block of Lewis Drive, located in rural Miami County, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.While on scene, additional resources were requested to assist with the investigation. One juvenile was pronounced deceased at the scene, while another juvenile was taken into custody.The sheriff's office released no additional details.&nbsp; Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

Juvenile in custody after juvenile found dead in rural Kan.

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating another homicide in Topeka have identified the victim as 49-year-old&nbsp;Lavaughn E. Lewis of Topeka, according to police spokesperson Rosie Nichols.

Just before 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, police responded to a shooting in the 2000 Block of SW 12th Street. Upon arrival, first responders found Lewis with life-threatening injuries.

Medical staff&nbsp;pronounced him deceased on scene. This is the city’s 20th homicide investigation of 2024.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733348510836.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating another homicide in Topeka have identified the victim as 49-year-old&nbsp;Lavaughn E. Lewis of Topeka, according to police spokesperson Rosie Nichols.Just before 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, police responded to a shooting in the 2000 Block of SW 12th Street. Upon arrival, first responders found Lewis with life-threatening injuries.Medical staff&nbsp;pronounced him deceased on scene. This is the city’s 20th homicide investigation of 2024.

Police ID Kansas man who died in shooting 

JOHNSON COUNTY —Firefighters stopped a deck fire from spreading into a home near 154th Terrace and Ridgeview in Olathe, according to a social media report from the Olathe Fire Department.

The fire occurred just before 2:30p.m. Wednesday. No injuries. Investigators say discarded smoking&nbsp;materials caused the fire.&nbsp;

If you smoke:
 Smoke on a surface that won't burn like concrete; put cigarettes out, all the way, in an ashtray or non-combustible bucket with sand and douse the ashes and butts with water to make sure they are completely out

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733359545363.jpeg" alt="Photos Olathe Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photos Olathe Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —Firefighters stopped a deck fire from spreading into a home near 154th Terrace and Ridgeview in Olathe, according to a social media report from the Olathe Fire Department.The fire occurred just before 2:30p.m. Wednesday. No injuries. Investigators say discarded smoking&nbsp;materials caused the fire.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733359525944.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>If you smoke:
 Smoke on a surface that won't burn like concrete; put cigarettes out, all the way, in an ashtray or non-combustible bucket with sand and douse the ashes and butts with water to make sure they are completely out

Discarded smoking materials caused deck fire at Kan. home

KANSAS CITY —A woman has been charged with stealing packages from porches throughout the Kansas City area this past weekend, according to a statement from the Clay County, Missouri Sheriff.

Kayley Worthington, 24, of Excelsior Springs is charged with one count of felony theft and one count of felony possession of a controlled substance. She is being held in the Clay County Detention Center on a $20,000 bond. If she posts bond, one of the conditions of her bond is that she may not be within 100 feet of anyone’s porch other than her own. Additional charges against additional suspects are possible.

After seeing multiple reports on social media of packages being stolen in Liberty, Smithville, and Kansas City, North, over the weekend, Sheriff’s Office investigators began collaborating with police departments in those cities and working to identify the thieves. Their investigation led them to a home in Excelsior Springs early Monday evening, where they located Worthington and took her into custody. Deputies served a search warrant at the house and recovered 51 stolen items, as well as methamphetamine.

Detectives have so far identified nine victims. Clay County residents who had a package stolen Nov. 29 – Dec. 1 and have not yet filed a police report are encouraged to do so.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733275672983.png" alt="Worthington photo Clay County" />
 <figcaption>Worthington photo Clay County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A woman has been charged with stealing packages from porches throughout the Kansas City area this past weekend, according to a statement from the Clay County, Missouri Sheriff.Kayley Worthington, 24, of Excelsior Springs is charged with one count of felony theft and one count of felony possession of a controlled substance. She is being held in the Clay County Detention Center on a $20,000 bond. If she posts bond, one of the conditions of her bond is that she may not be within 100 feet of anyone’s porch other than her own. Additional charges against additional suspects are possible.After seeing multiple reports on social media of packages being stolen in Liberty, Smithville, and Kansas City, North, over the weekend, Sheriff’s Office investigators began collaborating with police departments in those cities and working to identify the thieves. Their investigation led them to a home in Excelsior Springs early Monday evening, where they located Worthington and took her into custody. Deputies served a search warrant at the house and recovered 51 stolen items, as well as methamphetamine.Detectives have so far identified nine victims. Clay County residents who had a package stolen Nov. 29 – Dec. 1 and have not yet filed a police report are encouraged to do so.

Deputies catch Kansas City area porch pirate, recover items

STONE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 2p.m. Wednesday in Stone County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Polaris Ranger driven by a 65-year-old man from Crane, Missouri, was westbound on a hillside in a field along Billy Joe Road one mile northeast of Crane.

The UTV traveled into a hole and overturned. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to the county coroner's office.

STONE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 2p.m. Wednesday in Stone County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Polaris Ranger driven by a 65-year-old man from Crane, Missouri, was westbound on a hillside in a field along Billy Joe Road one mile northeast of Crane.The UTV traveled into a hole and overturned. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to the county coroner's office.

Missouri man dies after UTV accident

HUTCHINSON, KAN. –&nbsp;Hutchinson Correctional Facility (HCF) resident Chancellor Copenhaver, 33, died Wednesday, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Corrections.

 Copenhaver was found unresponsive in his cell Wednesday morning. Staff began life-saving measures immediately and continued after emergency medical services arrived but were unsuccessful. The cause of death is pending the results of an independent autopsy.

Copenhaver was serving a 121-month sentence for convictions of attempted second-degree murder, attempted kidnapping, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, aggravated battery, aggravated burglary, and stalking in Riley County, Kansas.

Per protocol, when a resident dies in the custody of the KDOC, the death is under investigation by the KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733343953732.png" alt="Copenhaver-photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Copenhaver-photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, KAN. –&nbsp;Hutchinson Correctional Facility (HCF) resident Chancellor Copenhaver, 33, died Wednesday, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Corrections. Copenhaver was found unresponsive in his cell Wednesday morning. Staff began life-saving measures immediately and continued after emergency medical services arrived but were unsuccessful. The cause of death is pending the results of an independent autopsy.Copenhaver was serving a 121-month sentence for convictions of attempted second-degree murder, attempted kidnapping, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, aggravated battery, aggravated burglary, and stalking in Riley County, Kansas.Per protocol, when a resident dies in the custody of the KDOC, the death is under investigation by the KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.&nbsp;

Kan. inmate serving time for attempted murder found dead

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/shauneen-miranda/">SHAUNEEN MIRANDA</a>

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Education Department called on every state, school and district on Tuesday to adopt policies on cellphone use in schools.

The department asks schools to have well-thought-out policies on the matter, but does not dictate exactly what those policies should be. An accompanying resource for schools notes the risk social media can pose to students’ mental health.

“In this digital age, every elementary, middle, and high school should have a clear, consistent, and research-informed policy to guide the use of phones and personal devices in school,” U.S Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said in a written statement.

“The evidence makes clear: there is no one-size-fits-all policy,” Cardona added, noting that “different school communities have different needs, and the nuances of this issue demand that local voices — parents, educators, and students — inform local decisions around the use of personal devices in school.”

The department acknowledged the role cellphones can play in keeping parents connected to their kids, especially in emergency situations, while also highlighting the increasing evidence on the harms social media can have on youth mental health, such as sleep deprivation and depression.

An increasing number of states and school districts have enacted policies either prohibiting or restricting students from using their cellphones in the classrooms.

Across the country, schools and districts continue to grapple with how to deal with kids’ cellphone use, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.axios.com/2024/09/29/cell-phone-schools-bans-states" target="_blank">more than half of all states</a>&nbsp;have sought to ban or restrict cellphone use in classrooms.

As of early November, at least eight states have passed statewide policies that either limit or prohibit cellphone use in the classrooms, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kff.org/mental-health/issue-brief/a-look-at-state-efforts-to-ban-cellphones-in-schools-and-implications-for-youth-mental-health/" target="_blank">KFF</a>.

That includes California, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, Ohio, South Carolina and Virginia. A Minnesota law forces schools to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mprnews.org/episode/2024/08/29/minnesota-now-new-school-cellphone-policy-landscape-across-minnesota-locked-pouches" target="_blank">adopt a policy on cellphone use</a>&nbsp;by March 2025.

A handful of other states’&nbsp;<a href="https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2024/11/01/oregon-department-of-education-offers-schools-guidance-on-limiting-student-cell-phone-use/" target="_blank">education departments</a>&nbsp;have issued&nbsp;<a href="https://alaskabeacon.com/2024/10/24/alaska-joins-growing-number-of-states-considering-crackdown-on-cellphones-in-schools/" target="_blank">policy recommendations</a>&nbsp;or pilot programs, while lawmakers in several more have introduced statewide legislation regarding cellphone use.

The guidance from the U.S. Education Department coincides with the release of a&nbsp;<a href="https://tech.ed.gov/device-policy-playbook/" target="_blank">resource</a>&nbsp;for education officials and local communities on adopting cellphone use policies.

In the playbook, Cardona points to U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/sg-youth-mental-health-social-media-advisory.pdf" target="_blank">public warning</a>&nbsp;in 2023 on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/prodded-fed-parents-some-congress-try-curb-kids-use-social-media" target="_blank">social media’s effects</a>&nbsp;on youth mental health.

Murthy warns: “More research is needed to fully understand the impact of social media; however, the current body of evidence indicates that while social media may have benefits for some children and adolescents, there are ample indicators that social media can also have a profound risk of harm to the mental health and well-being of children and adolescents.”&nbsp;

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/shauneen-miranda/">SHAUNEEN MIRANDA</a>WASHINGTON — The U.S. Education Department called on every state, school and district on Tuesday to adopt policies on cellphone use in schools.The department asks schools to have well-thought-out policies on the matter, but does not dictate exactly what those policies should be. An accompanying resource for schools notes the risk social media can pose to students’ mental health.“In this digital age, every elementary, middle, and high school should have a clear, consistent, and research-informed policy to guide the use of phones and personal devices in school,” U.S Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said in a written statement.“The evidence makes clear: there is no one-size-fits-all policy,” Cardona added, noting that “different school communities have different needs, and the nuances of this issue demand that local voices — parents, educators, and students — inform local decisions around the use of personal devices in school.”The department acknowledged the role cellphones can play in keeping parents connected to their kids, especially in emergency situations, while also highlighting the increasing evidence on the harms social media can have on youth mental health, such as sleep deprivation and depression.<h2>Increasing state policies</h2>An increasing number of states and school districts have enacted policies either prohibiting or restricting students from using their cellphones in the classrooms.Across the country, schools and districts continue to grapple with how to deal with kids’ cellphone use, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.axios.com/2024/09/29/cell-phone-schools-bans-states" target="_blank">more than half of all states</a>&nbsp;have sought to ban or restrict cellphone use in classrooms.As of early November, at least eight states have passed statewide policies that either limit or prohibit cellphone use in the classrooms, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kff.org/mental-health/issue-brief/a-look-at-state-efforts-to-ban-cellphones-in-schools-and-implications-for-youth-mental-health/" target="_blank">KFF</a>.That includes California, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, Ohio, South Carolina and Virginia. A Minnesota law forces schools to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mprnews.org/episode/2024/08/29/minnesota-now-new-school-cellphone-policy-landscape-across-minnesota-locked-pouches" target="_blank">adopt a policy on cellphone use</a>&nbsp;by March 2025.A handful of other states’&nbsp;<a href="https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2024/11/01/oregon-department-of-education-offers-schools-guidance-on-limiting-student-cell-phone-use/" target="_blank">education departments</a>&nbsp;have issued&nbsp;<a href="https://alaskabeacon.com/2024/10/24/alaska-joins-growing-number-of-states-considering-crackdown-on-cellphones-in-schools/" target="_blank">policy recommendations</a>&nbsp;or pilot programs, while lawmakers in several more have introduced statewide legislation regarding cellphone use.The guidance from the U.S. Education Department coincides with the release of a&nbsp;<a href="https://tech.ed.gov/device-policy-playbook/" target="_blank">resource</a>&nbsp;for education officials and local communities on adopting cellphone use policies.In the playbook, Cardona points to U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/sg-youth-mental-health-social-media-advisory.pdf" target="_blank">public warning</a>&nbsp;in 2023 on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/prodded-fed-parents-some-congress-try-curb-kids-use-social-media" target="_blank">social media’s effects</a>&nbsp;on youth mental health.Murthy warns: “More research is needed to fully understand the impact of social media; however, the current body of evidence indicates that while social media may have benefits for some children and adolescents, there are ample indicators that social media can also have a profound risk of harm to the mental health and well-being of children and adolescents.”&nbsp;

U.S. Education Department pings states, schools to set policies on cellphone use

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/maxnesterak/">MAX NESTERAK</a>

UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, 50, was shot and killed Wednesday morning outside the Hilton in midtown Manhattan, where he was set to address investors.

A manhunt is now underway for the gunman who police believe targeted Thompson in the shooting, although a motive remains unclear, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/live/2024/12/04/nyregion/brian-thompson-uhc-ceo-shot#shooting-midtown-nyc-united-healthcare-brian-thompson" target="_blank">New York Times.</a>

Thompson, a Minnesota resident, took the helm of UnitedHealth Group’s insurance division,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/press-center/press-releases/ama-identifies-market-leaders-health-insurance" target="_blank">one of the nation’s largest</a>, in 2021.

He was walking into the hotel for UnitedHealth Group’s annual investor conference when he was shot in the chest by a masked man, who then fled on bicycle,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/04/us/brian-thompson-united-healthcare-death/index.html" target="_blank">CNN reported</a>. Thompson was taken to Mount Sinai hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The investor conference was abruptly canceled after the shooting.

“We’re dealing with a very serious… situation,” UnitedHealth Group CEO Andrew Witty said,&nbsp;<a href="https://pix11.com/news/crime/man-critically-injured-in-midtown-shooting-nypd/" target="_blank">according to PIX11</a>. “We’re going to have to bring to a close the event today… I apologize for bringing things to a close but I hope you’ll understand.”

UnitedHealth Group is one of the largest corporations in the country, with $372 billion in revenue last year.

New York police commissioner Jessica Tisch called the killing a “brazen targeted attack.”

“This is horrifying news and a terrible loss for the business and health care community in Minnesota,”&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/GovTimWalz/status/1864326551661154556" target="_blank">Gov. Tim Walz posted on X</a>.

This story was originally published by the&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/briefs/unitedhealthcare-ceo-brian-thompson-killed-outside-investor-conference-in-new-york-city/" target="_blank">Minnesota Reformer</a>, a States Newsroom affiliate.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733331413907.png" alt="NYPD" />
 <figcaption>NYPD</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/maxnesterak/">MAX NESTERAK</a>UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, 50, was shot and killed Wednesday morning outside the Hilton in midtown Manhattan, where he was set to address investors.A manhunt is now underway for the gunman who police believe targeted Thompson in the shooting, although a motive remains unclear, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/live/2024/12/04/nyregion/brian-thompson-uhc-ceo-shot#shooting-midtown-nyc-united-healthcare-brian-thompson" target="_blank">New York Times.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733324311684.png" alt="Brian Thompson courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Brian Thompson courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Thompson, a Minnesota resident, took the helm of UnitedHealth Group’s insurance division,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/press-center/press-releases/ama-identifies-market-leaders-health-insurance" target="_blank">one of the nation’s largest</a>, in 2021.He was walking into the hotel for UnitedHealth Group’s annual investor conference when he was shot in the chest by a masked man, who then fled on bicycle,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/04/us/brian-thompson-united-healthcare-death/index.html" target="_blank">CNN reported</a>. Thompson was taken to Mount Sinai hospital, where he was pronounced dead.The investor conference was abruptly canceled after the shooting.“We’re dealing with a very serious… situation,” UnitedHealth Group CEO Andrew Witty said,&nbsp;<a href="https://pix11.com/news/crime/man-critically-injured-in-midtown-shooting-nypd/" target="_blank">according to PIX11</a>. “We’re going to have to bring to a close the event today… I apologize for bringing things to a close but I hope you’ll understand.”UnitedHealth Group is one of the largest corporations in the country, with $372 billion in revenue last year.New York police commissioner Jessica Tisch called the killing a “brazen targeted attack.”“This is horrifying news and a terrible loss for the business and health care community in Minnesota,”&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/GovTimWalz/status/1864326551661154556" target="_blank">Gov. Tim Walz posted on X</a>.This story was originally published by the&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/briefs/unitedhealthcare-ceo-brian-thompson-killed-outside-investor-conference-in-new-york-city/" target="_blank">Minnesota Reformer</a>, a States Newsroom affiliate.&nbsp;

United Healthcare CEO killed outside investor conference in New York City

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a>&nbsp;AND&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sherman-smith/">SHERMAN SMITH</a>&nbsp;- <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson’s ask for unity and civility turned into a warning Monday as he retained his title in an unopposed leadership election at the Kansas Statehouse.&nbsp;

As both parties elected the slate of leadership for the 2025 Legislature, Democrats prepared for a difficult session while Republicans emphasized a united front.&nbsp;

“What I ask is that we would treat each other with civility because that’s what brings the unity,” Masterson said. “So on the flipside of that ask is the warning, right? The warning — the kryptonite to that superpower of unity is the gossip circle, which is kind of the standard operating procedure in bodies of politic, right?”

Masterson’s&nbsp;nomination came from Sen. Rick Kloos, a Topeka Republican who was reelected as majority whip without opposition. Kloos said Masterson’s vision, strategy and hands-on approach made him the right person for the job. This will be Masterson’s second four-year term as Senate president.

Masterson, of Andover, requested his fellow legislators do their best to honor one another “in word and in deed.” Disagreement sells better in the news, he said.

Senate Republicans were fresh from an election that resulted in expanded supermajorities in both chambers. Democrats lost two seats in the November election, reducing their ranks from 11 to nine in the 40-member Senate. Calling themselves “the divine nine,” they retained Dinah Sykes, of Lenexa, as their minority leader.

Sykes said Democrats were prepared to resist Republican attempts to pass damaging policies. She predicted an effort to overhaul the way Kansas Supreme Court members are nominated, with a goal of overturning a 2019 ruling that secured the right to terminate a pregnancy in Kansas. Sykes also said Republicans would try to pass private school vouchers, and that she was concerned the majority party would reduce budgets for state agencies and services in order to support tax cuts that won’t be sustainable.

“I think we all have a more difficult session ahead of us,” Sykes told her caucus, “but we’ve been mighty, and we will continue that.”

Republicans elected to the majority leader seat Sen. Chase Blasi, a former Masterson chief of staff who was appointed to fill a vacancy in 2023. He defeated current Senate Majority Leader&nbsp;Larry Alley, of Winfield. Sen. J.R. Claeys of Salina nominated Blasi, describing him as a “trusted adviser.”&nbsp;

Sen. Tim Shallenburger, a longtime politician and 2002 GOP gubernatorial candidate, defeated&nbsp;Wichita Republican Sen. Renee Erickson for the Senate vice president seat. Erickson is the current assistant majority leader. Shallenburger was speaker of the House in the ’90s, the 36th state treasurer, and chair of the Kansas Republican Party from 2005 to 2007. Sen.&nbsp;Elaine Bowers nominated him on the premise that his institutional knowledge and experience set him apart, she said.

“What stands out to me about Senator Tim is his experience and deep understanding of Kansas history and its issues,” Bowers said.

Sen. Caryn Tyson, of Parker, clinched the assistant majority leader position with 23 votes to eight for Sen. Beverly Gossage, of Eudora. Sen. Mike Thompson, a Shawnee Republican who nominated her, cited her as a champion for collaboration and tax legislation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733338763560.png" alt=" Senate President Ty Masterson, R-Andover, addresses fellow legislators Dec. 2, 2024, during Senate Republican leadership elections after an unopposed win allowing him to retain his seat. (Anna Kaminski/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Senate President Ty Masterson, R-Andover, addresses fellow legislators Dec. 2, 2024, during Senate Republican leadership elections after an unopposed win allowing him to retain his seat. (Anna Kaminski/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a>&nbsp;AND&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sherman-smith/">SHERMAN SMITH</a>&nbsp;- <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a> TOPEKA — Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson’s ask for unity and civility turned into a warning Monday as he retained his title in an unopposed leadership election at the Kansas Statehouse.&nbsp;As both parties elected the slate of leadership for the 2025 Legislature, Democrats prepared for a difficult session while Republicans emphasized a united front.&nbsp;“What I ask is that we would treat each other with civility because that’s what brings the unity,” Masterson said. “So on the flipside of that ask is the warning, right? The warning — the kryptonite to that superpower of unity is the gossip circle, which is kind of the standard operating procedure in bodies of politic, right?”Masterson’s&nbsp;nomination came from Sen. Rick Kloos, a Topeka Republican who was reelected as majority whip without opposition. Kloos said Masterson’s vision, strategy and hands-on approach made him the right person for the job. This will be Masterson’s second four-year term as Senate president.Masterson, of Andover, requested his fellow legislators do their best to honor one another “in word and in deed.” Disagreement sells better in the news, he said.Senate Republicans were fresh from an election that resulted in expanded supermajorities in both chambers. Democrats lost two seats in the November election, reducing their ranks from 11 to nine in the 40-member Senate. Calling themselves “the divine nine,” they retained Dinah Sykes, of Lenexa, as their minority leader.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733338713113.jpeg" alt=" Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes, of Lenexa, talks to reporters Dec. 2, 2024, at the Statehouse in Topeka following a meeting with her caucus. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes, of Lenexa, talks to reporters Dec. 2, 2024, at the Statehouse in Topeka following a meeting with her caucus. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>Sykes said Democrats were prepared to resist Republican attempts to pass damaging policies. She predicted an effort to overhaul the way Kansas Supreme Court members are nominated, with a goal of overturning a 2019 ruling that secured the right to terminate a pregnancy in Kansas. Sykes also said Republicans would try to pass private school vouchers, and that she was concerned the majority party would reduce budgets for state agencies and services in order to support tax cuts that won’t be sustainable.“I think we all have a more difficult session ahead of us,” Sykes told her caucus, “but we’ve been mighty, and we will continue that.”Republicans elected to the majority leader seat Sen. Chase Blasi, a former Masterson chief of staff who was appointed to fill a vacancy in 2023. He defeated current Senate Majority Leader&nbsp;Larry Alley, of Winfield. Sen. J.R. Claeys of Salina nominated Blasi, describing him as a “trusted adviser.”&nbsp;Sen. Tim Shallenburger, a longtime politician and 2002 GOP gubernatorial candidate, defeated&nbsp;Wichita Republican Sen. Renee Erickson for the Senate vice president seat. Erickson is the current assistant majority leader. Shallenburger was speaker of the House in the ’90s, the 36th state treasurer, and chair of the Kansas Republican Party from 2005 to 2007. Sen.&nbsp;Elaine Bowers nominated him on the premise that his institutional knowledge and experience set him apart, she said.“What stands out to me about Senator Tim is his experience and deep understanding of Kansas history and its issues,” Bowers said.Sen. Caryn Tyson, of Parker, clinched the assistant majority leader position with 23 votes to eight for Sen. Beverly Gossage, of Eudora. Sen. Mike Thompson, a Shawnee Republican who nominated her, cited her as a champion for collaboration and tax legislation.

Kansas Senate president called for civility, while issuing warning, as chamber picked leaders

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Two Kansas officers avoided serious injuries while on the scene of weekend crash during a storm that brought heavy snow to the Kansas City metro.

Just before 8a.m. November 30, KHP Master Trooper Garver and an officer with the Kansas City Kansas Police Department were struck while on southbound Interstate 635 at State Avenue while working a non-injury crash due to slick roads due to the snow storm.



As Master Trooper Garver talked with the officer, he observed a car quickly approaching after losing control on the slick roads.

  Master Trooper Garver warned the KCK Officer to "watch out" as he was running away.  The officer put his emergency vehicle in drive and attempted to pull forward to avoid a collision. 

 Unfortunately, both law enforcement vehicles and a citizen's vehicle were struck. 

 Thankfully, no one was injured in the crash.

The outcome of this crash was mitigated because Master Trooper Garver and the KCK officer remained vigilant of their surroundings.

  As we continue to enter the winter weather months, remember to slow down for the road conditions and move over for all first responders.

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Two Kansas officers avoided serious injuries while on the scene of weekend crash during a storm that brought heavy snow to the Kansas City metro.Just before 8a.m. November 30, KHP Master Trooper Garver and an officer with the Kansas City Kansas Police Department were struck while on southbound Interstate 635 at State Avenue while working a non-injury crash due to slick roads due to the snow storm.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">On Saturday, November 30, just before 8:00 am, Master Trooper Garver and an officer with the Kansas City Kansas Police Department - KCKPD were struck while on southbound I-635 at State Avenue working a non-injury crash due to a snow storm in Kansas Highway Patrol - Troop A.… <a href="https://t.co/rQiBmYvZp6">pic.twitter.com/rQiBmYvZp6</a>&mdash; KS Highway Patrol (@kshighwaypatrol) <a href="https://twitter.com/kshighwaypatrol/status/1864306808401142258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

As Master Trooper Garver talked with the officer, he observed a car quickly approaching after losing control on the slick roads. Master Trooper Garver warned the KCK Officer to "watch out" as he was running away. The officer put his emergency vehicle in drive and attempted to pull forward to avoid a collision. Unfortunately, both law enforcement vehicles and a citizen's vehicle were struck. Thankfully, no one was injured in the crash.

The outcome of this crash was mitigated because Master Trooper Garver and the KCK officer remained vigilant of their surroundings. As we continue to enter the winter weather months, remember to slow down for the road conditions and move over for all first responders.

🎥2 Kan. officers struck while working crash during snow storm

The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education believes that lowering a GPA requirement for teachers will improve teacher recruitment and retention without reducing educator quality

BY:&nbsp;ANNELISE HANSHAW <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>

Missouri educators will no longer need a 3.0 grade-point average in their subject area to teach in public schools beginning in July,&nbsp;<a href="https://dese.mo.gov/media/pdf/consideration-notice-proposed-rulemaking-amend-5-csr-20-400530-certification-requirements" target="_blank">the State Board of Education</a>&nbsp;unanimously voted Tuesday.

The threshold to be qualified to teach in the state is now a 2.5 grade-point average in the teacher’s content area. The only exception will be special-education teachers, who will still be required to meet the 3.0 mark.

Officials with the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Educations say the change is intended to increase the number of certificated teachers coming into public schools. Commissioner of Education Karla Eslinger said in a statement that the change would remove “unnecessary barriers to the teaching profession.”

“There is no evidence tying a particular GPA in the content area to more effective teaching,” Daryl Fridley, the department’s education preparation coordinator, told the board on Tuesday. “Most of the non-teaching professional options in sciences, math and history do not require such a high GPA.”

A 3.0 GPA requirement most impacts teachers in STEM subjects, he said. When the department looked at teacher candidates who met other requirements but didn’t meet the GPA standard, nearly a quarter of those disqualified were in STEM.

Teacher candidates still must pass a performance assessment, with a test of subject knowledge, to be certified. Of those who didn’t meet the GPA requirements, 90% passed the performance assessment, Fridley said.

The department hopes the new requirements will bring more teachers into the profession. Currently, almost 44% of first-year teachers are certified in Missouri. Over a quarter are serving as a substitute teacher, 6% have no certification and the rest have alternative certifications.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733328661240.png" alt=" Governor-elect Mike Kehoe stops by the State Board of Education meeting Tuesday. During the meeting, board members unanimously agreed to lower the GPA requirement for teacher certification (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> Governor-elect Mike Kehoe stops by the State Board of Education meeting Tuesday. During the meeting, board members unanimously agreed to lower the GPA requirement for teacher certification (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education believes that lowering a GPA requirement for teachers will improve teacher recruitment and retention without reducing educator quality</h2>BY:&nbsp;ANNELISE HANSHAW <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>Missouri educators will no longer need a 3.0 grade-point average in their subject area to teach in public schools beginning in July,&nbsp;<a href="https://dese.mo.gov/media/pdf/consideration-notice-proposed-rulemaking-amend-5-csr-20-400530-certification-requirements" target="_blank">the State Board of Education</a>&nbsp;unanimously voted Tuesday.The threshold to be qualified to teach in the state is now a 2.5 grade-point average in the teacher’s content area. The only exception will be special-education teachers, who will still be required to meet the 3.0 mark.Officials with the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Educations say the change is intended to increase the number of certificated teachers coming into public schools. Commissioner of Education Karla Eslinger said in a statement that the change would remove “unnecessary barriers to the teaching profession.”“There is no evidence tying a particular GPA in the content area to more effective teaching,” Daryl Fridley, the department’s education preparation coordinator, told the board on Tuesday. “Most of the non-teaching professional options in sciences, math and history do not require such a high GPA.”A 3.0 GPA requirement most impacts teachers in STEM subjects, he said. When the department looked at teacher candidates who met other requirements but didn’t meet the GPA standard, nearly a quarter of those disqualified were in STEM.Teacher candidates still must pass a performance assessment, with a test of subject knowledge, to be certified. Of those who didn’t meet the GPA requirements, 90% passed the performance assessment, Fridley said.The department hopes the new requirements will bring more teachers into the profession. Currently, almost 44% of first-year teachers are certified in Missouri. Over a quarter are serving as a substitute teacher, 6% have no certification and the rest have alternative certifications.“Discussions about this issue often include the question, ‘Isn’t this a case of lowering standards?’” Fridley said. “We maintain that with a third of the state’s first year teachers having no more than a substitute teacher certificate and some with even less, any action that leads to a higher proportion of first-year teachers completing the preparation program is actually a net gain for the overall quality of teachers.”&nbsp;In the midst of low teacher retention rates and poor recruitment, the change is welcome, the department reiterated.“Both quantity and quality of teachers are really important to the learning of students,” Paul Katnik, assistant commissioner of educator quality, said during Tuesday’s meeting.The department reiterated that it doesn’t believe the lower GPA threshold will affect teacher quality.