MONTGOMERY COUNTY —A Kansas teen died in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Thursday in Montgomery County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported an electric scooter driven by Noah Edward&nbsp;Corish, 18, Independence, Kansas, was westbound on Chestnut Street at&nbsp;Pennsylvania Street in the city of Independence.

The teen failed to yield to a 2001 Chevy Silverado driven by Brent Alan&nbsp;Heuer, 39, Elk City, Kansas, who was turning northbound from Chestnut onto Pennsylvania. The pickup struck the electric scooter in the intersection.

&nbsp; EMS transported Corish to Labette Health where was pronounced deceased just after 11a.m.&nbsp; Heuer was not injured and properly restrained.&nbsp; Corish was not wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY —A Kansas teen died in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Thursday in Montgomery County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported an electric scooter driven by Noah Edward&nbsp;Corish, 18, Independence, Kansas, was westbound on Chestnut Street at&nbsp;Pennsylvania Street in the city of Independence.The teen failed to yield to a 2001 Chevy Silverado driven by Brent Alan&nbsp;Heuer, 39, Elk City, Kansas, who was turning northbound from Chestnut onto Pennsylvania. The pickup struck the electric scooter in the intersection.&nbsp; EMS transported Corish to Labette Health where was pronounced deceased just after 11a.m.&nbsp; Heuer was not injured and properly restrained.&nbsp; Corish was not wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.

Kansas teen dies after pickup strikes electric scooter

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

Outside consultant hired to review $150 million infrastructure grant award program

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Commerce issued a blanket statement Thursday describing as “categorically false” the allegation attributed to a recently deceased former agency employee that Lt. Gov. David Toland influenced distribution of state infrastructure grants based on political factors.

The statement issued by agency spokesman Patrick Lowry said the death of Jonathan Clayton in an apparent traffic accident was unfortunate, but the Department of Commerce believed it necessary to “provide clarity regarding allegations made publicly” in an email released to coincide with Claytons’ disappearance in early August. That email took on greater urgency when a body was found Sunday in a smashed truck registered to Clayton, 42, of Peabody. The corpse hasn’t been officially identified as Clayton, but a family member and published reports made the connection.

This email linked to Clayton included an assertion Toland, a Democrat who serves as secretary of the Department of Commerce, put a political spin on the scoring system for applications for grant funding from the Build a Stronger Economy, or BASE, program. Allegedly, the distortion was part of a deal with Republican Senate President Ty Masterson of Butler County and now-former GOP House Speaker Ron Ryckman of Johnson County.

The death message claimed “resulting awards from both rounds of the program are inaccurate due to the orders from Toland to alter the application scores after a pre-selected group of awardees were determined.”

Lowry’s rebuttal statement said Clayton’s allegation that Toland undermined integrity of BASE grant awards was inaccurate. The statement likewise said a claim that Toland forced Clayton to serve on a volunteer theater board was “categorically false.”

“While there is no evidence of any impropriety at the Department of Commerce, as an extra precaution an independent third-party contractor is doing a full review of all ARPA grants,” Lowry said. The third-party entity selected to examine grant awards wasn’t identified.

Meanwhile, Masterson spokesman Mike Pirner said “the Senate president never requested or even had a conversation about altering the department’s scoring.”

“It’s important to emphasize that legislative leaders had no role in the department’s scoring of BASE projects,” Pirner said. “The president was involved merely in his capacity as a member of the SPARK executive committee.” He was referring to the Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas, or SPARK, committee that was assigned the job of issuing grants made with federal COVID-19 pandemic appropriations.

BASE infrastructure grants were made in two rounds in Kansas. In the first round, 35 grants were issued from a pool of $100 million. Johnson and Butler counties received 47% of that funding. Concerns were expressed about geographic distribution of the money. In the second round, 38 recipients shared $50 million available through the program. Butler County received nothing in the second round, while Johnson County secured 8% of that total.

The Aug. 8 email to news organizations and others, which was attributed to Clayton, said he was forced to resign from the commerce department because he refused to distort scoring on the second round of BASE grants. Clayton was placed in charge of the agency’s COVID-19 grants in 2021.

Clayton left the department in late 2023, but commerce officials said they didn’t know when hiring him in early 2020 that he had been convicted of financial offenses in Pennsylvania. He was placed on probation in 2018 in a check-fraud case and reportedly still owned $195,000 in restitution.

“Under existing Kansas law, we are unable to perform national level criminal background checks for the position that Clayton held,” said Lowry, the commerce department spokesman. “Our process for vetting prospective employees included online searches, social media reviews and reference checks, which unfortunately failed to uncover his felony convictions. He would not have been hired by commerce had we been aware of these convictions.”

Lowry said the state agency would assist local, state and federal agencies investigating Clayton’s work at community-based organizations in Kiowa and Marion counties that could have been victims of fraud.

Clayton, who accepted a job in June as Peabody’s interim clerk, vanished in early August about the time information became available that Clayton might be involved in problems with a $425,000 Department of Commerce grant to the Mullinville Community Foundation.

In addition, the state agency raised an alarm about documentation gaps associated with part of a $1.5 million grant to Peabody that could involve Clayton.

Clayton also claimed in the email to reporters that allegations he might be responsible for misuse of BASE grant awards in Mullinville or Peabody were “unilaterally unfounded and I believe to be a form of retaliation.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724967500301.png" alt=" The Kansas Department of Commerce issued a statement denouncing claims by a deceased former agency employee that Lt. Gov. David Toland, who serves as commerce secretary, used political factors to influence allocation of $150 million in infrastructure grants. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> The Kansas Department of Commerce issued a statement denouncing claims by a deceased former agency employee that Lt. Gov. David Toland, who serves as commerce secretary, used political factors to influence allocation of $150 million in infrastructure grants. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a><h2>Outside consultant hired to review $150 million infrastructure grant award program</h2>TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Commerce issued a blanket statement Thursday describing as “categorically false” the allegation attributed to a recently deceased former agency employee that Lt. Gov. David Toland influenced distribution of state infrastructure grants based on political factors.The statement issued by agency spokesman Patrick Lowry said the death of Jonathan Clayton in an apparent traffic accident was unfortunate, but the Department of Commerce believed it necessary to “provide clarity regarding allegations made publicly” in an email released to coincide with Claytons’ disappearance in early August. That email took on greater urgency when a body was found Sunday in a smashed truck registered to Clayton, 42, of Peabody. The corpse hasn’t been officially identified as Clayton, but a family member and published reports made the connection.This email linked to Clayton included an assertion Toland, a Democrat who serves as secretary of the Department of Commerce, put a political spin on the scoring system for applications for grant funding from the Build a Stronger Economy, or BASE, program. Allegedly, the distortion was part of a deal with Republican Senate President Ty Masterson of Butler County and now-former GOP House Speaker Ron Ryckman of Johnson County.The death message claimed “resulting awards from both rounds of the program are inaccurate due to the orders from Toland to alter the application scores after a pre-selected group of awardees were determined.”Lowry’s rebuttal statement said Clayton’s allegation that Toland undermined integrity of BASE grant awards was inaccurate. The statement likewise said a claim that Toland forced Clayton to serve on a volunteer theater board was “categorically false.”“While there is no evidence of any impropriety at the Department of Commerce, as an extra precaution an independent third-party contractor is doing a full review of all ARPA grants,” Lowry said. The third-party entity selected to examine grant awards wasn’t identified.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724967456309.png" alt=" A spokesman for Senate President Ty Masterson, an Andover Republican, said there was no substance to the claim by a deceased former Kansas Department of Commerce employee that Masterson used political influence to secure extra infrastructure grants for his home county. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> A spokesman for Senate President Ty Masterson, an Andover Republican, said there was no substance to the claim by a deceased former Kansas Department of Commerce employee that Masterson used political influence to secure extra infrastructure grants for his home county. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>Meanwhile, Masterson spokesman Mike Pirner said “the Senate president never requested or even had a conversation about altering the department’s scoring.”“It’s important to emphasize that legislative leaders had no role in the department’s scoring of BASE projects,” Pirner said. “The president was involved merely in his capacity as a member of the SPARK executive committee.” He was referring to the Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas, or SPARK, committee that was assigned the job of issuing grants made with federal COVID-19 pandemic appropriations.BASE infrastructure grants were made in two rounds in Kansas. In the first round, 35 grants were issued from a pool of $100 million. Johnson and Butler counties received 47% of that funding. Concerns were expressed about geographic distribution of the money. In the second round, 38 recipients shared $50 million available through the program. Butler County received nothing in the second round, while Johnson County secured 8% of that total.The Aug. 8 email to news organizations and others, which was attributed to Clayton, said he was forced to resign from the commerce department because he refused to distort scoring on the second round of BASE grants. Clayton was placed in charge of the agency’s COVID-19 grants in 2021.Clayton left the department in late 2023, but commerce officials said they didn’t know when hiring him in early 2020 that he had been convicted of financial offenses in Pennsylvania. He was placed on probation in 2018 in a check-fraud case and reportedly still owned $195,000 in restitution.“Under existing Kansas law, we are unable to perform national level criminal background checks for the position that Clayton held,” said Lowry, the commerce department spokesman. “Our process for vetting prospective employees included online searches, social media reviews and reference checks, which unfortunately failed to uncover his felony convictions. He would not have been hired by commerce had we been aware of these convictions.”Lowry said the state agency would assist local, state and federal agencies investigating Clayton’s work at community-based organizations in Kiowa and Marion counties that could have been victims of fraud.Clayton, who accepted a job in June as Peabody’s interim clerk, vanished in early August about the time information became available that Clayton might be involved in problems with a $425,000 Department of Commerce grant to the Mullinville Community Foundation.In addition, the state agency raised an alarm about documentation gaps associated with part of a $1.5 million grant to Peabody that could involve Clayton.Clayton also claimed in the email to reporters that allegations he might be responsible for misuse of BASE grant awards in Mullinville or Peabody were “unilaterally unfounded and I believe to be a form of retaliation.”

Commerce secretary, Senate president deflect claims tied to deceased former state worker

Detectives have arrested one of the suspects responsible for burning down Haha's Kebab's and Shawarma restaurant,&nbsp;204 W 39th Street, Kansas City just after 2a.m. on July 8, according to a social media report. The suspect is charged with arson. Police thanked the public for their tips to help ID the suspect.

Detectives are still trying to identify the second person, pictured wearing black pants.&nbsp;

If you have information, visit <a href="https://t.co/gULWXwQSro" target="_blank">http://kccrimestoppers.com</a> and remain anonymous. Or call 816-474-TIPS.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724863011701.png" alt="Photo KCPD" />
 <figcaption>Photo KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">UPDATE: Detectives have arrested one of the suspects responsible for burning down Haha&#39;s Kebab&#39;s and Shawarma restaurant. The suspect is charged with arson. Thank you to everyone who provided tips. Detectives are still trying to identify... 1/2 <a href="https://t.co/MqYiv7vxOe">pic.twitter.com/MqYiv7vxOe</a>&mdash; kcpolice (@kcpolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/kcpolice/status/1828823411789107423?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Detectives have arrested one of the suspects responsible for burning down Haha's Kebab's and Shawarma restaurant,&nbsp;204 W 39th Street, Kansas City just after 2a.m. on July 8, according to a social media report. The suspect is charged with arson. Police thanked the public for their tips to help ID the suspect.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724863094806.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Detectives are still trying to identify the second person, pictured wearing black pants.&nbsp;If you have information, visit <a href="https://t.co/gULWXwQSro" target="_blank">http://kccrimestoppers.com</a> and remain anonymous. Or call 816-474-TIPS.

🎥Police arrest suspect in arson fire at KC restaurant

WASHINGTON —&nbsp;The U.S. economy added 818,000 fewer jobs from April 2023 through March this year than were originally reported, the government said last week. The revised total adds to evidence that the job market has been steadily slowing and likely reinforces the Federal Reserve’s plan to start cutting interest rates soon.&nbsp;

Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall wrote on social media, "Kamala Harris and Joe Biden are cooking the books for political power."

They have completely fabricated job growth in an attempt to make you believe the economy is stronger than it is. How insulting to American’s intelligence."

On Wednesday Marshall wrote,&nbsp;"We are days away from the 2024 election and this administration is cooking the books in a last-ditch attempt to rewrite history and manipulate the public's perception of Biden-Harris’ economic failures, and consistent mismanagement of government spending and the economy."

"We’re calling on the Dept. of Labor to provide answers to their misleading reporting and provide the American people with accurate info on the economic health of our nation"

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724879028891.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON —&nbsp;The U.S. economy added 818,000 fewer jobs from April 2023 through March this year than were originally reported, the government said last week. The revised total adds to evidence that the job market has been steadily slowing and likely reinforces the Federal Reserve’s plan to start cutting interest rates soon.&nbsp;Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall wrote on social media, "Kamala Harris and Joe Biden are cooking the books for political power."They have completely fabricated job growth in an attempt to make you believe the economy is stronger than it is. How insulting to American’s intelligence."On Wednesday Marshall wrote,&nbsp;"We are days away from the 2024 election and this administration is cooking the books in a last-ditch attempt to rewrite history and manipulate the public's perception of Biden-Harris’ economic failures, and consistent mismanagement of government spending and the economy.""We’re calling on the Dept. of Labor to provide answers to their misleading reporting and provide the American people with accurate info on the economic health of our nation"<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724879077210.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Kan. U.S. Senator calls on Dept. of Labor to explain misleading job report

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a suspect for alleged arson.

Just before&nbsp;9 p.m. August 27, crews from the Topeka Fire Department&nbsp; responded to a fire at 1325 SW Western Avenue, according to department spokesperson Rosie Nichols. 

Firefighters found a fire in the front yard of the apartment building and quickly extinguished it before any damage was done to the structure. No injuries were reported from the incident.

Investigators determine the fire was intentionally set. As a result of the investigation, Trentnell O. Morris, 44, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on a warrant and one count of arson. The total estimated loss from the fire was approximately $200.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724945197660.png" alt="Morris photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Morris photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a suspect for alleged arson.Just before&nbsp;9 p.m. August 27, crews from the Topeka Fire Department&nbsp; responded to a fire at 1325 SW Western Avenue, according to department spokesperson Rosie Nichols. Firefighters found a fire in the front yard of the apartment building and quickly extinguished it before any damage was done to the structure. No injuries were reported from the incident.Investigators determine the fire was intentionally set. As a result of the investigation, Trentnell O. Morris, 44, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on a warrant and one count of arson. The total estimated loss from the fire was approximately $200.

Arson: Kan. man accused of starting fire in yard of apartment building

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating a fatal Kansas crash have identified the victim as&nbsp;77-year-old Judith E. Smith of Gardner, Kansas, according to Olathe Police Sergeant John Moncayo.

The crash occurred just before 7p.m. August 24 involving a minivan and a semi-truck occurred in&nbsp; area of East Old 56 Highway and South Lone Elm Road in Olathe.

Smith was the driver and sole occupant of the minivan. She was found unresponsive. Life-saving measures were performed while on scene, but she was later declared deceased., according to Moncayo. The 42-year-old male driver of the semi-truck remained on scene.

This case remains under investigation by the Olathe Police Department.&nbsp; &nbsp;Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to call the Olathe Police Department at (913) 971-6363 or the TIPS Hotline at (816) 474-8477.

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating a fatal Kansas crash have identified the victim as&nbsp;77-year-old Judith E. Smith of Gardner, Kansas, according to Olathe Police Sergeant John Moncayo.The crash occurred just before 7p.m. August 24 involving a minivan and a semi-truck occurred in&nbsp; area of East Old 56 Highway and South Lone Elm Road in Olathe.Smith was the driver and sole occupant of the minivan. She was found unresponsive. Life-saving measures were performed while on scene, but she was later declared deceased., according to Moncayo. The 42-year-old male driver of the semi-truck remained on scene.This case remains under investigation by the Olathe Police Department.&nbsp; &nbsp;Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to call the Olathe Police Department at (913) 971-6363 or the TIPS Hotline at (816) 474-8477.

Police ID Kansas woman who died in minivan, semi crash

More illnesses and deaths have been reported due to a massive contamination of deli meats. It is now the largest listeria outbreak in 13 years, according to a statement from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Illnesses have been reported over the past several weeks in Missouri and 17 other states including Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and Wisconsin.

Death have occurred in six states including Illinois, New Jersey, New Mexico, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.

 Listeria is a hardy germ that can remain on surfaces, like meat slicers, and foods, even at refrigerated temperatures. It can also take up to 10 weeks for some people to have symptoms of listeriosis. 

Do not eat recalled deli meats. Some of the products have sell by dates into October 2024.&nbsp; <a href="https://boarshead.com/pages/product-recall-full-product-list">&nbsp;Click here for a list</a> of items included in the recall.

Boar’s Head also recalled all deli products, including prepackaged deli products, in shelf life from this establishment. Look for “EST. 12612” or “P-12612” inside the USDA mark of inspection on the product labels.

For people who are generally healthy and not at higher risk of serious infection:

Listeria&nbsp;is especially harmful if you are pregnant, are aged 65 or older, or have a weakened immune system due to certain medical conditions or treatments. Other people can be infected with&nbsp;Listeria,&nbsp;but they rarely become seriously ill.

If you are pregnant, are aged 65 or older, or have a weakened immune system:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721435735887.png" alt="FILE - Microscopic image of Listeriabacterium, responsible for the food borne illness listeriosis. (Elizabeth White/CDC )" />
 <figcaption>FILE - Microscopic image of Listeriabacterium, responsible for the food borne illness listeriosis. (Elizabeth White/CDC )</figcaption>
 </figure>More illnesses and deaths have been reported due to a massive contamination of deli meats. It is now the largest listeria outbreak in 13 years, according to a statement from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.&nbsp;&nbsp;Illnesses have been reported over the past several weeks in Missouri and 17 other states including Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and Wisconsin.Death have occurred in six states including Illinois, New Jersey, New Mexico, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. Listeria is a hardy germ that can remain on surfaces, like meat slicers, and foods, even at refrigerated temperatures. It can also take up to 10 weeks for some people to have symptoms of listeriosis. Do not eat recalled deli meats. Some of the products have sell by dates into October 2024.&nbsp; <a href="https://boarshead.com/pages/product-recall-full-product-list">&nbsp;Click here for a list</a> of items included in the recall.<ul>
 <li>Produced between June 11, 2024 and July 17, 2024, and have a 44-day shelf-life</li><li>"Boar's Head Strassburger Brand Liverwurst made in Virginia"</li><li>3.5 pound loaves in plastic casing, or various weight packages sliced in retail delis</li><li>Sell by dates range from July 25, 2024, to August 30, 2024</li>
 </ul><h2>Other Boar's Head Deli Meat Products</h2>Boar’s Head also recalled all deli products, including prepackaged deli products, in shelf life from this establishment. Look for “EST. 12612” or “P-12612” inside the USDA mark of inspection on the product labels.<h2>What you should do</h2>For people who are generally healthy and not at higher risk of serious infection:<ul>
 <li>Do not eat recalled meats.&nbsp;Throw them away or contact stores about returns.</li><li>Check your refrigerator for any recalled deli meats and throw them away or return them to the store.&nbsp;Listeria&nbsp;can grow on foods kept in the refrigerator.</li><li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/food-safety/communication-resources/clean-refrigerator-steps.html">Clean</a>&nbsp;your refrigerator, containers and surfaces that may have touched recalled meats.</li>
 </ul><h2>What People at Higher Risk Should Do</h2>Listeria&nbsp;is especially harmful if you are pregnant, are aged 65 or older, or have a weakened immune system due to certain medical conditions or treatments. Other people can be infected with&nbsp;Listeria,&nbsp;but they rarely become seriously ill.If you are pregnant, are aged 65 or older, or have a weakened immune system:<ul>
 <li>Do not eat recalled deli meats.&nbsp;Throw them away or contact stores about returns.</li><li>In addition, do not eat any other deli meats you get sliced at deli counters, unless it is reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot.&nbsp;Let it cool before you eat it.Listeria&nbsp;can grow on foods kept in the refrigerator, but it is easily killed by heating food to a high enough temperature.</li><li>Listeria&nbsp;can grow on foods kept in the refrigerator, but it is easily killed by heating food to a high enough temperature.</li><li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/food-safety/communication-resources/clean-refrigerator-steps.html">Clean</a>&nbsp;your refrigerator, containers, and surfaces that may have touched sliced deli meats.This is especially important if you purchased any of the recalled deli products.</li><li>This is especially important if you purchased any of the recalled deli products.</li><li>Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of these symptoms:People who are not pregnant&nbsp;usually have fever, muscle aches, and tiredness. They may also get a headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or seizures.Pregnant people&nbsp;usually have fever, muscle aches, and tiredness. However,&nbsp;Listeria&nbsp;can cause pregnancy loss or premature birth. It can also cause serious illness or death in newborns.</li><li>People who are not pregnant&nbsp;usually have fever, muscle aches, and tiredness. They may also get a headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or seizures.</li><li>Pregnant people&nbsp;usually have fever, muscle aches, and tiredness. However,&nbsp;Listeria&nbsp;can cause pregnancy loss or premature birth. It can also cause serious illness or death in newborns.</li>
 </ul><h2>What Businesses Should Do</h2><ul>
 <li>For delis that received recalled meats:Thoroughly clean and sanitize all food and non-food surfaces, including deli slicers.Throw away any open meats and cheeses in the deli.USDA-FSIS is advising delis to not use any opened deli products because recalled products can cross-contaminate other deli meats and cheeses.</li><li>Thoroughly clean and sanitize all food and non-food surfaces, including deli slicers.</li><li>Throw away any open meats and cheeses in the deli.</li><li>USDA-FSIS is advising delis to not use any opened deli products because recalled products can cross-contaminate other deli meats and cheeses.</li><li>Always follow USDA-FSIS&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/guidelines/2023-0004" target="_blank">best practices</a>&nbsp;for controlling&nbsp;Listeria&nbsp;contamination in deli areas.</li>
 </ul><h2>Symptoms of Listeria</h2><ul>
 <li>Listeria&nbsp;is especially harmful to people who are pregnant, aged 65 or older, or with weakened immune systems. This is because&nbsp;Listeria&nbsp;is more likely to spread beyond their gut to other parts of their body, resulting in a severe condition known as invasive listeriosis.For people who are pregnant,&nbsp;Listeria&nbsp;can cause pregnancy loss, premature birth, or a life-threatening infection in their newborn.For people who are 65 years or older&nbsp;or&nbsp;who have a weakened immune system,&nbsp;Listeria&nbsp;often results in hospitalization and sometimes death.</li><li>For people who are pregnant,&nbsp;Listeria&nbsp;can cause pregnancy loss, premature birth, or a life-threatening infection in their newborn.</li><li>For people who are 65 years or older&nbsp;or&nbsp;who have a weakened immune system,&nbsp;Listeria&nbsp;often results in hospitalization and sometimes death.</li><li>Symptoms usually start within 2 weeks after eating food contaminated with&nbsp;Listeria&nbsp;but may start as early as the same day or as late as 10 weeks after.Pregnant people&nbsp;usually have fever, muscle aches, and tiredness.People who are not pregnant&nbsp;usually have fever, muscle aches, and tiredness. They may also get a headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or seizures.</li><li>Pregnant people&nbsp;usually have fever, muscle aches, and tiredness.</li><li>People who are not pregnant&nbsp;usually have fever, muscle aches, and tiredness. They may also get a headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or seizures.</li>
 </ul>

Death toll grows: Listeria outbreak tied to deli meat; illness reported in Missouri

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas. Just before 5:30p.m. Wednesday, police responded to a shooting&nbsp; at 63rd and Rockhill in Kansas City, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.&nbsp;

Police found a victim in a parking lot adjacent to several businesses, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino. He was taking out the trash when he "observed multiple subjects by a vehicle. An altercation occurred, resulting in the shooting.

Detectives interviewed witnesses and are examining surveillance footage and crime scene investigators collected evidence.

Anyone with information can contact the police at 816-234-5043 or the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724898681553.png" alt="Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'" />
 <figcaption>Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas. Just before 5:30p.m. Wednesday, police responded to a shooting&nbsp; at 63rd and Rockhill in Kansas City, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.&nbsp;Police found a victim in a parking lot adjacent to several businesses, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino. He was taking out the trash when he "observed multiple subjects by a vehicle. An altercation occurred, resulting in the shooting.Detectives interviewed witnesses and are examining surveillance footage and crime scene investigators collected evidence.Anyone with information can contact the police at 816-234-5043 or the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS.

Homicide: Man shot taking out the trash at KC business

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an arrest.

On August 24, midnight shift officers responded to a call of a suspicious vehicle near 76th Street and Norwood in Prairie Village, according to a media release. 

Officers arrived, located the suspicious vehicle, and contacted the driver later identified as&nbsp;22-year-old Jaylen Stallworth of Wylie, Texas. A search of the vehicle was conducted after drugs were observed in the car. 

 During the search, officers recovered a firearm that was stolen from Fort Worth, Texas. Stallworth was also found to be a felon in possession of a firearm.  After the arrest, Prairie Village police were notified that the Stallworth was also wanted in a homicide in Dallas.

Stallworth remains jailed in Johnson County on a requested charges of felony firearm theft and marijuana possession.

Police reminded, "you never know how far a stolen gun may travel, so please secure your personal firearms."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724840467796.png" alt="Stallworth-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Stallworth-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an arrest.On August 24, midnight shift officers responded to a call of a suspicious vehicle near 76th Street and Norwood in Prairie Village, according to a media release. Officers arrived, located the suspicious vehicle, and contacted the driver later identified as&nbsp;22-year-old Jaylen Stallworth of Wylie, Texas. A search of the vehicle was conducted after drugs were observed in the car. During the search, officers recovered a firearm that was stolen from Fort Worth, Texas. Stallworth was also found to be a felon in possession of a firearm. After the arrest, Prairie Village police were notified that the Stallworth was also wanted in a homicide in Dallas.Stallworth remains jailed in Johnson County on a requested charges of felony firearm theft and marijuana possession.Police reminded, "you never know how far a stolen gun may travel, so please secure your personal firearms."

Texas murder suspect captured in Kansas after report of suspicious vehicle

SALINE COUNTY —Officials are working to determine the cause of a 3-alarm fire at a battery manufacturing plant in Salina.

Just after 4p.m. Wednesday, Salina Fire, Rural Fire District One and Two, the Saline County Sheriff's Office, Salina Police Department, Saline County Emergency Management and the Kansas Highway Patrol all responded to a fire at Stryten Energy in Salina.&nbsp;

According to Salina Fire Marshal Joe Kvacik, nearly a dozen fire apparatuses remain on the scene attacking hot spots inside the Stryten Energy building, 413 East Berg Road, Salina.

On the second and third floors of the large, multiple story Stryten Energy complex, Salina and Saline County Rural fire fighters encountered moderate fire conditions.&nbsp;

"Eventually we got the fire knocked down on the inside. Then we had some roofing material and stuff on the on the roof that was burning," Kvacik said. "We had multiple levels of this building that had fire on it. So we had several ladder trucks out here."

According to Michelle Weis, Saline County Emergency Management Director, fire crews have informed her that there were no live flames as of 6:11 p.m. Kvacik said fire crews continue to overhaul the building checking for hot spots.&nbsp;

"We have a lot of hot spots in there," Kvacik said. "They're pulling a lot of insulation and and just chasing down anything that's still smoldering."

On Wednesday Aug. 28, Saline County residents near the Stryten Energy Building saw large black plumes of smoke rise from the large factory building located at 413 East Berg Road.&nbsp; Nate King

According to Kvacik, this was a three alarm fire.

"Our first alarm is basically the crews that are on duty, the fire trucks that would go to this initial alarm when something's called," Kvacik said. "A second alarm is where we'll call back one of our shifts and they staff, like our backup trucks, or they'll send some guys out here to assist, and then the third alarm is when we call the other shift back. Third alarm is everybody."

Kvacik said the cause of the fire at this time is unknown.&nbsp;

"They [fire fighters] are still chasing hot spots," Kvacik said. "We haven't started the investigation yet. We haven't really sat down and talked to Stryten to see what was going on or what was observed. For us, this is a pretty large scene."&nbsp;

Melissa Floyd, a representative of Stryten Energy, said the company was unable to issue a statement at this time. Salina Post asked if residents should avoid the area because of the possibility of potentially harmful chemicals present in the smoke plumes.

Floyd was unable to provide a comment at this time.&nbsp;

SALINE COUNTY —Fire crews are on the scene of a fire at Stryten Energy, 413 E Berg Road, Salina.&nbsp;

Just after 4p.m. Saline County paged first responders to the fire.&nbsp; In addition to fire crews, Saline County Emergency Management officials are on the scene.

Stryten is a&nbsp;stored energy solutions firm, according to the company web site. Their&nbsp; products " power everything from forklifts in warehouses and distribution centers to cars, trains and trucks to microgrids and vast telecom networks. In addition to manufacturing high-quality advanced lead, lithium, and vanadium batteries and intelligent chargers."

This is a developing story. Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724880816222.png" alt="Submitted photo" />
 <figcaption>Submitted photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —Officials are working to determine the cause of a 3-alarm fire at a battery manufacturing plant in Salina.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/otfY-UhCeWI?si=DOqSJEbheL3sTKOO" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Just after 4p.m. Wednesday, Salina Fire, Rural Fire District One and Two, the Saline County Sheriff's Office, Salina Police Department, Saline County Emergency Management and the Kansas Highway Patrol all responded to a fire at Stryten Energy in Salina.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724881266993.png" alt="Photo by Nate King" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Nate King</figcaption>
 </figure>According to Salina Fire Marshal Joe Kvacik, nearly a dozen fire apparatuses remain on the scene attacking hot spots inside the Stryten Energy building, 413 East Berg Road, Salina.On the second and third floors of the large, multiple story Stryten Energy complex, Salina and Saline County Rural fire fighters encountered moderate fire conditions.&nbsp;"Eventually we got the fire knocked down on the inside. Then we had some roofing material and stuff on the on the roof that was burning," Kvacik said. "We had multiple levels of this building that had fire on it. So we had several ladder trucks out here."According to Michelle Weis, Saline County Emergency Management Director, fire crews have informed her that there were no live flames as of 6:11 p.m. Kvacik said fire crews continue to overhaul the building checking for hot spots.&nbsp;"We have a lot of hot spots in there," Kvacik said. "They're pulling a lot of insulation and and just chasing down anything that's still smoldering."On Wednesday Aug. 28, Saline County residents near the Stryten Energy Building saw large black plumes of smoke rise from the large factory building located at 413 East Berg Road.&nbsp; Nate KingAccording to Kvacik, this was a three alarm fire."Our first alarm is basically the crews that are on duty, the fire trucks that would go to this initial alarm when something's called," Kvacik said. "A second alarm is where we'll call back one of our shifts and they staff, like our backup trucks, or they'll send some guys out here to assist, and then the third alarm is when we call the other shift back. Third alarm is everybody."Kvacik said the cause of the fire at this time is unknown.&nbsp;"They [fire fighters] are still chasing hot spots," Kvacik said. "We haven't started the investigation yet. We haven't really sat down and talked to Stryten to see what was going on or what was observed. For us, this is a pretty large scene."&nbsp;Melissa Floyd, a representative of Stryten Energy, said the company was unable to issue a statement at this time. Salina Post asked if residents should avoid the area because of the possibility of potentially harmful chemicals present in the smoke plumes.Floyd was unable to provide a comment at this time.&nbsp;-------------SALINE COUNTY —Fire crews are on the scene of a fire at Stryten Energy, 413 E Berg Road, Salina.&nbsp;Just after 4p.m. Saline County paged first responders to the fire.&nbsp; In addition to fire crews, Saline County Emergency Management officials are on the scene.Stryten is a&nbsp;stored energy solutions firm, according to the company web site. Their&nbsp; products " power everything from forklifts in warehouses and distribution centers to cars, trains and trucks to microgrids and vast telecom networks. In addition to manufacturing high-quality advanced lead, lithium, and vanadium batteries and intelligent chargers."This is a developing story. Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

🎥 Cause of fire at central Kansas battery plant under investigation

JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating suspect on drug allegaions.

Just before 9a.m. August 25, a Sheriff’s Deputy stopped a Mercury Milan for a traffic infraction on U.S. Highway 75 near 174th Road in rural Jackson County, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

Deputies conducted a probable cause search of the vehicle and discovered illegal contraband. The driver, 21-year-old David Joseph Donald Friend, of Holton, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges that include possession of cocaine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724705941633.png" alt="Friend photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Friend photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating suspect on drug allegaions.Just before 9a.m. August 25, a Sheriff’s Deputy stopped a Mercury Milan for a traffic infraction on U.S. Highway 75 near 174th Road in rural Jackson County, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.Deputies conducted a probable cause search of the vehicle and discovered illegal contraband. The driver, 21-year-old David Joseph Donald Friend, of Holton, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges that include possession of cocaine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Sheriff: Kansas man caught transporting cocaine

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect in connection with a man's body found in the trunk of a car in Wichita on August 21.

On Tuesday, the Wichita Police Department arrested a 23-year old Daitrez J. Birch, according to the Sedgwick County booking report on a requested charge of First-Degree Murder.&nbsp;The arrest took place in the 1800 block of N. Hillside in Wichita, according to Wichita Police Captain Aaron Moses.

Just after 8a.m. August 21, police responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle in a vacant lot located in the 8200 block of West Irving Street in Wichita, according to police spokesman Andrew Ford.

Officers were directed to a white four door Mercedes and discovered a deceased 39-year-old man later identified as Kyce Barnes in the trunk of the vehicle.

Barnes was found wrapped in blood-stained bedding with multiple gunshot wounds to his upper and lower body. His remains were transported to the Sedgwick County Medical Examiner's Office for further examination.

During the investigation, detectives identified the Deluxe Motel at 8401 W. Kellogg Drive as the original crime scene.&nbsp;

Barnes had a long history of crime. He spent time in the Kansas Department of Corrections for drug convictions in Cowley County. He was released from prison in 2020.&nbsp; On August 20, police booked Barnes into the Sedgwick County Jail on requested charges that included possession of stolen property and drug possession, according to jail booking records. He was released from the Sedgwick County jail just after 3p.m. August 21.

Police in Wichita also arrested him in 2022 on requested charges of theft, violation of a protection order, domestic battery and failure to appear.&nbsp;

Birch is expected to make a court appearance in the case later this week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724854691982.png" alt="Birch photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Birch photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect in connection with a man's body found in the trunk of a car in Wichita on August 21.On Tuesday, the Wichita Police Department arrested a 23-year old Daitrez J. Birch, according to the Sedgwick County booking report on a requested charge of First-Degree Murder.&nbsp;The arrest took place in the 1800 block of N. Hillside in Wichita, according to Wichita Police Captain Aaron Moses.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724266152157.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 8a.m. August 21, police responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle in a vacant lot located in the 8200 block of West Irving Street in Wichita, according to police spokesman Andrew Ford.Officers were directed to a white four door Mercedes and discovered a deceased 39-year-old man later identified as Kyce Barnes in the trunk of the vehicle.Barnes was found wrapped in blood-stained bedding with multiple gunshot wounds to his upper and lower body. His remains were transported to the Sedgwick County Medical Examiner's Office for further examination.During the investigation, detectives identified the Deluxe Motel at 8401 W. Kellogg Drive as the original crime scene.&nbsp;Barnes had a long history of crime. He spent time in the Kansas Department of Corrections for drug convictions in Cowley County. He was released from prison in 2020.&nbsp; On August 20, police booked Barnes into the Sedgwick County Jail on requested charges that included possession of stolen property and drug possession, according to jail booking records. He was released from the Sedgwick County jail just after 3p.m. August 21.Police in Wichita also arrested him in 2022 on requested charges of theft, violation of a protection order, domestic battery and failure to appear.&nbsp;Birch is expected to make a court appearance in the case later this week.

 Kan. man accused in murder of victim found in trunk of car

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

Missouri legislative leaders are demanding answers from state education officials about a monthslong backlog in a child care subsidy program.

Two House committees — the budget committee and the education committee — have scheduled hearings into the matter next month, and a Republican Senate leader has called for her chamber to launch a similar inquiry.

“I think it is safe to say The Office of Childhood is a massive disaster,” Senate Majority Leader Cindy O’Laughlin, a Republican from Shelbina,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/1312548800/posts/pfbid0rzwkp3qSZikSAxDunLENbhXBzsx7jaSXFiezPcV9FTmjhPMkWmFiubpZv6VNgqX8l/?app=fbl" target="_blank">wrote</a>&nbsp;in a Facebook post Tuesday, referring to the office within the&nbsp;Department of Elementary and Secondary Education that&nbsp;is responsible for administration of the subsidy.

“… instead of creating more child care,” she wrote, “this office is running day cares out of business.”

Child care providers have been struggling to keep their doors open, and in some cases forced to shutter, due to technical issues with the education department’s disbursal of federal funds.

State education officials have largely blamed a contracted vendor for the monthslong backlogs. The system launched in December after the program shifted from the Department of Social Services to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

The subsidy, part of a federal block grant program that is state-administered, helps cover the cost for day care owners serving low-income and foster children. Some day cares&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/07/05/missouri-child-care-subsidy-providers-day-care-children/">rely on the program</a>&nbsp;to pay their staff.

O’Laughlin said due to the “incompetence” of the office, she is requesting that Missouri Senate President Pro Tem Caleb Rowden appoint an interim committee to look into the issues.&nbsp;

The technology vendor, along with leadership of the Office of Childhood, parents and child care providers would be asked to testify, she wrote.

The vendor contracted to develop and implement the new system for the subsidy program is World Wide Technology, a large technology services provider headquartered in St. Louis.

In addition to O’Laughlin, House Minority Leader Crystal Quade, a Springfield Democrat running for governor, demanded that her chamber’s leadership create an interim committee to look into the issues surrounding the subsidy.&nbsp;

The problems administering the program have “escalated to the point of crisis, with families losing access to care,” Quade&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/25079422-8-22-interim-committee-request-1" target="_blank">wrote</a>&nbsp;in a letter last week to House Speaker Dean Plocher, “as some facilities have been forced to close, due in large part to the department’s failure to remit the payments owed in a timely manner.”

The education department has been “less than forthcoming” in communication, she wrote.&nbsp;

“Since members of the House Democratic Caucus are being inundated with pleas for help from desperate families and struggling providers,” Quade wrote, “I’m certain our Republican colleagues are as well.&nbsp;

“If the department is unable or unwilling to provide answers, it is our duty to demand them.”

Wednesday, Plocher&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/25079476-house-education-committee-to-hold-special-hearing-on-dese-childcare-payment-delays" target="_blank">announced</a>&nbsp;the House Elementary and Secondary Education Committee will hold a hearing Sept. 10 to “investigate the causes and impacts of delays” in the state issuing child care payments.

A House Budget Committee hearing was already scheduled for Sept. 11 to discuss child care with the education agency.

“At any hearing that is scheduled with lawmakers,” the education department’s spokesperson, Mallory McGowin, said in an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/25079575-8-28-24-dese-comment" target="_blank">email</a>&nbsp;to The Independent, “DESE plans to be transparent about the challenges that exist, and the work being done to address the issues.”

McGowin said there are currently backlogs in family applications for subsidy assistance, provider contract applications, and in providers’ requests to resolve outstanding payment issues.

And there are ongoing issues getting providers their full payment: “Payments are being processed daily and providers are getting paid,” she said, “though some are not receiving full payment due to ongoing technical issues.”

Regarding the backlog of family applications, McGowin said the department has contracted with a staffing agency and expects it to be cleared by “mid to late September.” The department has also cross-trained additional staff to clear the backlog of provider contract applications. That backlog is expected to be cleared “by early to mid-September.”

Regarding outstanding payment issues, she said the current contractors have doubled their staff working on “issues preventing or delaying provider payments.” DESE has also contracted with an agency to clear the backlog of subsidy payment corrections and hired part-time workers to help process requests for missing payments. McGowin didn’t provide a timeline for the department overcoming the backlog of payment corrections.

“DESE recognizes the importance of subsidy payments to the child care industry and the value the program provides to Missouri’s workforce, in particular for families who provide care to children in foster care,” McGowin said.

McGowin encouraged parents and providers with questions to call the subsidy hotline at&nbsp;<a href="tel:5734158605" target="_blank">573-415-8605</a>.

“DESE and its contractors, World Wide Technology and MTX, are working hard to address these issues and sincerely apologizes to the child care providers and families affected by this transition,” she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724869100628.png" alt=" Child care providers have been struggling to keep their doors open, and in some cases forced to shutter, due to technical issues with the education department’s disbursal of federal funds (Rebecca Rivas/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> Child care providers have been struggling to keep their doors open, and in some cases forced to shutter, due to technical issues with the education department’s disbursal of federal funds (Rebecca Rivas/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/cbates/">CLARA BATES</a><a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>Missouri legislative leaders are demanding answers from state education officials about a monthslong backlog in a child care subsidy program.Two House committees — the budget committee and the education committee — have scheduled hearings into the matter next month, and a Republican Senate leader has called for her chamber to launch a similar inquiry.“I think it is safe to say The Office of Childhood is a massive disaster,” Senate Majority Leader Cindy O’Laughlin, a Republican from Shelbina,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/1312548800/posts/pfbid0rzwkp3qSZikSAxDunLENbhXBzsx7jaSXFiezPcV9FTmjhPMkWmFiubpZv6VNgqX8l/?app=fbl" target="_blank">wrote</a>&nbsp;in a Facebook post Tuesday, referring to the office within the&nbsp;Department of Elementary and Secondary Education that&nbsp;is responsible for administration of the subsidy.“… instead of creating more child care,” she wrote, “this office is running day cares out of business.”Child care providers have been struggling to keep their doors open, and in some cases forced to shutter, due to technical issues with the education department’s disbursal of federal funds.State education officials have largely blamed a contracted vendor for the monthslong backlogs. The system launched in December after the program shifted from the Department of Social Services to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.The subsidy, part of a federal block grant program that is state-administered, helps cover the cost for day care owners serving low-income and foster children. Some day cares&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/07/05/missouri-child-care-subsidy-providers-day-care-children/">rely on the program</a>&nbsp;to pay their staff.O’Laughlin said due to the “incompetence” of the office, she is requesting that Missouri Senate President Pro Tem Caleb Rowden appoint an interim committee to look into the issues.&nbsp;The technology vendor, along with leadership of the Office of Childhood, parents and child care providers would be asked to testify, she wrote.The vendor contracted to develop and implement the new system for the subsidy program is World Wide Technology, a large technology services provider headquartered in St. Louis.In addition to O’Laughlin, House Minority Leader Crystal Quade, a Springfield Democrat running for governor, demanded that her chamber’s leadership create an interim committee to look into the issues surrounding the subsidy.&nbsp;The problems administering the program have “escalated to the point of crisis, with families losing access to care,” Quade&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/25079422-8-22-interim-committee-request-1" target="_blank">wrote</a>&nbsp;in a letter last week to House Speaker Dean Plocher, “as some facilities have been forced to close, due in large part to the department’s failure to remit the payments owed in a timely manner.”The education department has been “less than forthcoming” in communication, she wrote.&nbsp;“Since members of the House Democratic Caucus are being inundated with pleas for help from desperate families and struggling providers,” Quade wrote, “I’m certain our Republican colleagues are as well.&nbsp;“If the department is unable or unwilling to provide answers, it is our duty to demand them.”Wednesday, Plocher&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/25079476-house-education-committee-to-hold-special-hearing-on-dese-childcare-payment-delays" target="_blank">announced</a>&nbsp;the House Elementary and Secondary Education Committee will hold a hearing Sept. 10 to “investigate the causes and impacts of delays” in the state issuing child care payments.A House Budget Committee hearing was already scheduled for Sept. 11 to discuss child care with the education agency.“At any hearing that is scheduled with lawmakers,” the education department’s spokesperson, Mallory McGowin, said in an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/25079575-8-28-24-dese-comment" target="_blank">email</a>&nbsp;to The Independent, “DESE plans to be transparent about the challenges that exist, and the work being done to address the issues.”McGowin said there are currently backlogs in family applications for subsidy assistance, provider contract applications, and in providers’ requests to resolve outstanding payment issues.And there are ongoing issues getting providers their full payment: “Payments are being processed daily and providers are getting paid,” she said, “though some are not receiving full payment due to ongoing technical issues.”Regarding the backlog of family applications, McGowin said the department has contracted with a staffing agency and expects it to be cleared by “mid to late September.” The department has also cross-trained additional staff to clear the backlog of provider contract applications. That backlog is expected to be cleared “by early to mid-September.”Regarding outstanding payment issues, she said the current contractors have doubled their staff working on “issues preventing or delaying provider payments.” DESE has also contracted with an agency to clear the backlog of subsidy payment corrections and hired part-time workers to help process requests for missing payments. McGowin didn’t provide a timeline for the department overcoming the backlog of payment corrections.“DESE recognizes the importance of subsidy payments to the child care industry and the value the program provides to Missouri’s workforce, in particular for families who provide care to children in foster care,” McGowin said.McGowin encouraged parents and providers with questions to call the subsidy hotline at&nbsp;<a href="tel:5734158605" target="_blank">573-415-8605</a>.“DESE and its contractors, World Wide Technology and MTX, are working hard to address these issues and sincerely apologizes to the child care providers and families affected by this transition,” she said.

Missouri legislative leaders call for hearings over child care subsidy ‘crisis’

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the father of a Kansas teen for alleged child abuse.

On Monday evening, police were dispatched to a local hospital in response to a child abuse report involving a 13-year-old boy, according to Wichita Police Officer Kris Gupilan.&nbsp; The investigation revealed that the suspect involved was the boy's 39-year-old father Dallas L. Ellis, according to the Sedgwick County daily booking report.

Officers proceeded to the 11000 block of W. Jennie Circle in Wichita to apprehend the Ellis. He refused to cooperate and exit the residence. In response, police negotiators and SWAT were deployed to the scene. After several hours of negotiation, Ellis ultimately surrendered without incident and was taken into custody peacefully.

Just after 8a.m. Tuesday Ellis was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail&nbsp; on requested charges of abuse of a child; reckless great bodily harm/abuse head trauma/permanent disability/disfigurement, according to the jail arrest report. He bonded out of jail on Tuesday afternoon.

Police will present the case to the District Attorney’s Office.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724841201711.png" alt="Ellis-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Ellis-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the father of a Kansas teen for alleged child abuse.On Monday evening, police were dispatched to a local hospital in response to a child abuse report involving a 13-year-old boy, according to Wichita Police Officer Kris Gupilan.&nbsp; The investigation revealed that the suspect involved was the boy's 39-year-old father Dallas L. Ellis, according to the Sedgwick County daily booking report.Officers proceeded to the 11000 block of W. Jennie Circle in Wichita to apprehend the Ellis. He refused to cooperate and exit the residence. In response, police negotiators and SWAT were deployed to the scene. After several hours of negotiation, Ellis ultimately surrendered without incident and was taken into custody peacefully.Just after 8a.m. Tuesday Ellis was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail&nbsp; on requested charges of abuse of a child; reckless great bodily harm/abuse head trauma/permanent disability/disfigurement, according to the jail arrest report. He bonded out of jail on Tuesday afternoon.Police will present the case to the District Attorney’s Office.&nbsp;

Kan. father arrested after 13-year-old hospitalized with injuries

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating after a group of possibly teenagers or individuals in their early twenties, were involved in a shooting incident near Exploration Place,&nbsp;300 N McLean Blvd. in Wichita. Police asked for help to identify suspects and released a security camera image.

&nbsp;The Sedgwick County District Attorney's office has charged 19-year-old D’Angelo Martinez for criminal discharge of a firearm in connection with the crime.

Just before 12:30a.m. August 4, there was an exchange of gunshots between the groups, and a bullet struck a glass window at Exploration Place.

Fortunately, no one was injured, including a group of children at a sleepover event at Exploration Place. Police believed that a confrontation occurred near the Keeper of the Plains Statue and the South Bridge prior to the shooting taking place.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722947154401.png" alt="Security camera image Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Security camera image Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating after a group of possibly teenagers or individuals in their early twenties, were involved in a shooting incident near Exploration Place,&nbsp;300 N McLean Blvd. in Wichita. Police asked for help to identify suspects and released a security camera image.&nbsp;The Sedgwick County District Attorney's office has charged 19-year-old D’Angelo Martinez for criminal discharge of a firearm in connection with the crime.Just before 12:30a.m. August 4, there was an exchange of gunshots between the groups, and a bullet struck a glass window at Exploration Place.Fortunately, no one was injured, including a group of children at a sleepover event at Exploration Place. Police believed that a confrontation occurred near the Keeper of the Plains Statue and the South Bridge prior to the shooting taking place.

Suspect charged for gunfire that damaged Kan. science museum

RENO COUNTY —Authorities are investigating the cause of a rural Kansas house fire.

Just after 4:30p.m. Tuesday, Reno County Fire units from Pretty Prairie, District 8, and District 9 were dispatched to a fire at a residence in the 26,000 block of South Sandcreek Road, according to a social media report from Reno County Emergency management.

Crews encountered an abandoned home that had smoke coming from the roof, as well as a grass fire on the east and west side of the home. There were also two small storage sheds that were fully involved in fire. 

 Crews made an aggressive interior attack on the home, but the fire was located in the attic space and was difficult to access. Due to the progression of the fire and partial collapse of a section of the roof, crews went to a defensive attack from the exterior. 

Due to the extreme heat and humidity, crews were rotated out to rehab often. Cheney Fire was also requested for extra manpower. The fire took 2 hours to control. The home is considered a total loss. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724845945318.png" alt="Photo Reno Co. Emergency Management" />
 <figcaption>Photo Reno Co. Emergency Management</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY —Authorities are investigating the cause of a rural Kansas house fire.Just after 4:30p.m. Tuesday, Reno County Fire units from Pretty Prairie, District 8, and District 9 were dispatched to a fire at a residence in the 26,000 block of South Sandcreek Road, according to a social media report from Reno County Emergency management.Crews encountered an abandoned home that had smoke coming from the roof, as well as a grass fire on the east and west side of the home. There were also two small storage sheds that were fully involved in fire. Crews made an aggressive interior attack on the home, but the fire was located in the attic space and was difficult to access. Due to the progression of the fire and partial collapse of a section of the roof, crews went to a defensive attack from the exterior. Due to the extreme heat and humidity, crews were rotated out to rehab often. Cheney Fire was also requested for extra manpower. The fire took 2 hours to control. The home is considered a total loss.

Rural Kansas home a total loss after fire

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating a teens death just days after a violent attack in Kansas City.

Just after 6:30p.m. August 21, police responded to report of disturbance in the 5000 block of Swope Parkway, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.

First responders found 18-year-old Montague Ashline suffering from head trauma. EMS transported him Ashline to a local hospital

Preliminary investigation showed there was an argument between multiple people that led to Ashline being hit with an object.

On Monday, Ashline died from his injuries. Police have not reported an arrest.

If anyone has any information on Ashline’s death they are asked to call the TIPS Hotline anonymously at 816-474-TIPS. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously that leads to closure in the case.

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating a teens death just days after a violent attack in Kansas City.Just after 6:30p.m. August 21, police responded to report of disturbance in the 5000 block of Swope Parkway, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.First responders found 18-year-old Montague Ashline suffering from head trauma. EMS transported him Ashline to a local hospitalPreliminary investigation showed there was an argument between multiple people that led to Ashline being hit with an object.On Monday, Ashline died from his injuries. Police have not reported an arrest.If anyone has any information on Ashline’s death they are asked to call the TIPS Hotline anonymously at 816-474-TIPS. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously that leads to closure in the case.

18-year-old dies days after violent attack in Kansas City

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a. Kansas man on multiple allegations after an alleged violent domestic incident in July that led to a high speed chase and fire this week.

Just after 2a.m. August 26, police observed a passenger vehicle run a red light near SW 21st Street and South Kansas Avenue, according to Sheriff Brian Hill.

The driver fled at a high rate of speed and initiated a pursuit. The suspect vehicle began driving erratically, swerving into both lanes of traffic and ignoring traffic control devices. Near SE 53rd Street and SE Adams Street, the driver left the roadway and officers discontinued the pursuit.

The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office became aware of the pursuit and responded to the area to assist. Around 2:20am, a deputy observed the suspect vehicle driving through the Forbes Field Air National Guard Base, and attempted to stop the vehicle.

The suspect vehicle again failed to stop and initiated a second vehicle pursuit that ended in the 2800 block of South Kansas Avenue, where the driver later identified as 28-year-old&nbsp;Jose L. Escalante, 29, of Topeka was taken into custody.

The Topeka Fire Department responded to assist with a vehicle fire at the conclusion of the pursuit.

Escalante is being held on on requested charges that include&nbsp;Aggravated Kidnapping; Aggravated battery; Knowingly use weapon cause grt body harm/disfigure/death, Domestic battery; Knowing rude physical contact w/ family member or dating relationship, Agg Weapons Violation By Felon; Aggravated assault; Use of a deadly weapon, Aggravated intimidation of a witness/victim; Threat of force/violence, Fleeing or attempting to elude a LEO; Unknown felony; Flee or attempt to elude; Commission of any felony; Driving Wrong Direction On 1-Way Road/Highway, Disobeying Traffic Control Device, Failure to comply with construction zone restrictions, Driving Without Lights When Needed, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, Fail To Stop For A Red Traffic Control, Turn Signal Must Be Used At Least 100' Prior To Move, Driving Opposite Direction On Divided Highway, Headlamps On Vehicle Must Be Equip With Two; Reckless driving; 1st conviction; Speeding;maximum Limits, Fail To Stop At Stop Sign, Flee or attempt to elude; Commission of any felony, Interference with LEO; obstruct/resist/oppose felony warrant service or execution, Criminal trespass; Property as posted per KSA 32-1013, Criminal Damage To Property; Misdemeanor, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, Vehicle liability insurance; Liability coverage required, Vehicles; Operate vehicle without registration or w/ expired tag, Improper Driving On Laned Roadway, Improper Turn Or Approach, Yield emergency vehicle; approaching vehicle, Probation County On Felony and Driving while suspended; 2nd or subsequent conviction.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724810142476.png" alt="Escalante photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Escalante photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a. Kansas man on multiple allegations after an alleged violent domestic incident in July that led to a high speed chase and fire this week.Just after 2a.m. August 26, police observed a passenger vehicle run a red light near SW 21st Street and South Kansas Avenue, according to Sheriff Brian Hill.The driver fled at a high rate of speed and initiated a pursuit. The suspect vehicle began driving erratically, swerving into both lanes of traffic and ignoring traffic control devices. Near SE 53rd Street and SE Adams Street, the driver left the roadway and officers discontinued the pursuit.The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office became aware of the pursuit and responded to the area to assist. Around 2:20am, a deputy observed the suspect vehicle driving through the Forbes Field Air National Guard Base, and attempted to stop the vehicle.The suspect vehicle again failed to stop and initiated a second vehicle pursuit that ended in the 2800 block of South Kansas Avenue, where the driver later identified as 28-year-old&nbsp;Jose L. Escalante, 29, of Topeka was taken into custody.

The Topeka Fire Department responded to assist with a vehicle fire at the conclusion of the pursuit.Escalante is being held on on requested charges that include&nbsp;Aggravated Kidnapping; Aggravated battery; Knowingly use weapon cause grt body harm/disfigure/death, Domestic battery; Knowing rude physical contact w/ family member or dating relationship, Agg Weapons Violation By Felon; Aggravated assault; Use of a deadly weapon, Aggravated intimidation of a witness/victim; Threat of force/violence, Fleeing or attempting to elude a LEO; Unknown felony; Flee or attempt to elude; Commission of any felony; Driving Wrong Direction On 1-Way Road/Highway, Disobeying Traffic Control Device, Failure to comply with construction zone restrictions, Driving Without Lights When Needed, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, Fail To Stop For A Red Traffic Control, Turn Signal Must Be Used At Least 100' Prior To Move, Driving Opposite Direction On Divided Highway, Headlamps On Vehicle Must Be Equip With Two; Reckless driving; 1st conviction; Speeding;maximum Limits, Fail To Stop At Stop Sign, Flee or attempt to elude; Commission of any felony, Interference with LEO; obstruct/resist/oppose felony warrant service or execution, Criminal trespass; Property as posted per KSA 32-1013, Criminal Damage To Property; Misdemeanor, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, Vehicle liability insurance; Liability coverage required, Vehicles; Operate vehicle without registration or w/ expired tag, Improper Driving On Laned Roadway, Improper Turn Or Approach, Yield emergency vehicle; approaching vehicle, Probation County On Felony and Driving while suspended; 2nd or subsequent conviction.

Wanted Kan. suspect captured after chase through Air National Guard base

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —A pedestrian suffered critical injuries just before 9p.m. Tuesday after being struck by a vehicle at the intersection of Village Parkway West and France Family Drive in Kansas City, Kansas.

The pedestrian, a 17 year-old girl was crossing Village Parkway West at the intersection with France Family Drive, when she was struck by a northbound vehicle, according to a media release.

EMS transported her to an area hospital with potentially life-threatening injuries. The driver of the vehicle remained on scene and cooperated with police. The preliminary investigation does not indicate weather, speed or driver impairment were contributing factors.

The accident occurred during the weather-delayed start of a U.S. Open Cup Match at Children’s Mercy Park.

This incident is under investigation by the KCKPD Traffic Division. Anyone with information on this case is urged to call the Crime Stoppers TIPS hotline at 816-474-TIPS (8477). There is nothing further to report at this time.

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —A pedestrian suffered critical injuries just before 9p.m. Tuesday after being struck by a vehicle at the intersection of Village Parkway West and France Family Drive in Kansas City, Kansas.The pedestrian, a 17 year-old girl was crossing Village Parkway West at the intersection with France Family Drive, when she was struck by a northbound vehicle, according to a media release.EMS transported her to an area hospital with potentially life-threatening injuries. The driver of the vehicle remained on scene and cooperated with police. The preliminary investigation does not indicate weather, speed or driver impairment were contributing factors.The accident occurred during the weather-delayed start of a U.S. Open Cup Match at Children’s Mercy Park.This incident is under investigation by the KCKPD Traffic Division. Anyone with information on this case is urged to call the Crime Stoppers TIPS hotline at 816-474-TIPS (8477). There is nothing further to report at this time.

17-year-old Kan. girl critically injured after struck by vehicle

KANSAS CITY —Police are investigating another homicide in Kansas City.&nbsp;

Just before 10p.m. Monday, police responded to a shooting at a residence in the&nbsp;in the 8400 Block of Drury Circle in Kansas City, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'&nbsp;

First responders found a man injured outside a home. Inside, officers found another man who had been shot. Emergency crews pronounced the man inside the home dead.&nbsp; EMS transported the man outside the home to a local hospital in critical condition, according to KDPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino

Detectives are talking to witnesses. Police have not reported an arrest or released additional details.

Police ask anyone with information to call homicide detectives at (816) 234-5043 or call the TIPS Hotline anonymously at (816) 474-TIPS.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724776852665.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation photo courtesy KMBC" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation photo courtesy KMBC</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Police are investigating another homicide in Kansas City.&nbsp;Just before 10p.m. Monday, police responded to a shooting at a residence in the&nbsp;in the 8400 Block of Drury Circle in Kansas City, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'&nbsp;First responders found a man injured outside a home. Inside, officers found another man who had been shot. Emergency crews pronounced the man inside the home dead.&nbsp; EMS transported the man outside the home to a local hospital in critical condition, according to KDPD Sergeant Phil DiMartinoDetectives are talking to witnesses. Police have not reported an arrest or released additional details.Police ask anyone with information to call homicide detectives at (816) 234-5043 or call the TIPS Hotline anonymously at (816) 474-TIPS.

Police: 1 dead, 1 hospitalized after gunfight at Kansas City home

MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. – Five of the aircraft that visited McConnell Air Force Base for the 2024 Frontiers in Flight airshow are remaining at McConnell.

Each aircraft received varying degrees of damage from a wet microburst that lingered over the base Sunday morning, delivering recorded wind gusts of up to 54mph. That weather event forced the cancellation of the airshow.

The privately-owned Cessna 150, seen in many photos for being flipped upside-down by the winds, was righted Monday by Airmen from the 22nd&nbsp;Maintenance Group.

That Cessna 150 is painted to resemble a Civil Air Patrol aircraft from an earlier era, and has been misidentified as a current Civil Air Patrol aircraft. The Civil Air Patrol is the U.S. Air Force Auxiliary.

That Cessna 150 left McConnell Tuesday on a flatbed truck, to return to its home airfield to begin repairs.

In the meantime, the McConnell flightline has been returned to normal military operations, after the return of most McConnell aircraft not currently engaged in other missions off-station.

As part of that procedure, Airmen from across base conducted a 'Foreign Object Damage' walk on Monday morning and again Tuesday morning. An&nbsp; FOD Walk is a safety procedure, when Airmen line up in a side-by-side formation to walk a flightline and remove any potential loose items. This is to prevent any FOD from being accidentally ingested by a jet engine and damaging that engine.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724783548738.png" alt="Airmen from the 22nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron Crash Damage or Disabled Aircraft Recovery team used airbags, forklifts and cranes to raise, pull and stabilize a flipped aircraft Aug. 26, 2024, at McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas. The aircraft was flipped during a thunderstorm with wind gusts of up to 54 mph Aug. 25, 2024. The storm caused damage to several visiting aircraft and vendor stands leading to the cancelation of the second day of the Frontiers in Flight Airshow. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Gavin Hameed)" />
 <figcaption>Airmen from the 22nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron Crash Damage or Disabled Aircraft Recovery team used airbags, forklifts and cranes to raise, pull and stabilize a flipped aircraft Aug. 26, 2024, at McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas. The aircraft was flipped during a thunderstorm with wind gusts of up to 54 mph Aug. 25, 2024. The storm caused damage to several visiting aircraft and vendor stands leading to the cancelation of the second day of the Frontiers in Flight Airshow. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Gavin Hameed)</figcaption>
 </figure>MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. – Five of the aircraft that visited McConnell Air Force Base for the 2024 Frontiers in Flight airshow are remaining at McConnell.Each aircraft received varying degrees of damage from a wet microburst that lingered over the base Sunday morning, delivering recorded wind gusts of up to 54mph. That weather event forced the cancellation of the airshow.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724615907118.png" alt="Image of the storm damage Sunday-courtesy McConnell Air Force base video" />
 <figcaption>Image of the storm damage Sunday-courtesy McConnell Air Force base video</figcaption>
 </figure>The aircraft that are remaining include:<ul>
 <li>One Civil Air Patrol Cessna 182</li><li>One Kansas Highway Patrol Cessna 206</li><li>One Commemorative Air Force Cessna UC-78 Bobcat</li><li>And two Stearman Biplanes</li>
 </ul><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724783735321.png" alt="Airmen from the 22nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron Crash Damage or Disabled Aircraft Recovery team hoist up a flipped aircraft with airbags and a crane lift Aug. 26, 2024, at McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas. The aircraft was flipped during a thunderstorm with wind gusts of up to 54 mph Aug. 25, 2024. The storm caused damage to several visiting aircraft and vendor stands leading to the cancelation of the second day of the Frontiers in Flight Airshow. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Gavin Hameed)" />
 <figcaption>Airmen from the 22nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron Crash Damage or Disabled Aircraft Recovery team hoist up a flipped aircraft with airbags and a crane lift Aug. 26, 2024, at McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas. The aircraft was flipped during a thunderstorm with wind gusts of up to 54 mph Aug. 25, 2024. The storm caused damage to several visiting aircraft and vendor stands leading to the cancelation of the second day of the Frontiers in Flight Airshow. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Gavin Hameed)</figcaption>
 </figure>The privately-owned Cessna 150, seen in many photos for being flipped upside-down by the winds, was righted Monday by Airmen from the 22nd&nbsp;Maintenance Group.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724616021735.png" alt="Photo Kansas Highway Patrol" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Highway Patrol</figcaption>
 </figure>That Cessna 150 is painted to resemble a Civil Air Patrol aircraft from an earlier era, and has been misidentified as a current Civil Air Patrol aircraft. The Civil Air Patrol is the U.S. Air Force Auxiliary.That Cessna 150 left McConnell Tuesday on a flatbed truck, to return to its home airfield to begin repairs.In the meantime, the McConnell flightline has been returned to normal military operations, after the return of most McConnell aircraft not currently engaged in other missions off-station.As part of that procedure, Airmen from across base conducted a 'Foreign Object Damage' walk on Monday morning and again Tuesday morning. An&nbsp; FOD Walk is a safety procedure, when Airmen line up in a side-by-side formation to walk a flightline and remove any potential loose items. This is to prevent any FOD from being accidentally ingested by a jet engine and damaging that engine.&nbsp;

Cleanup continues after microburst ended airshow at Kan. Air Force base 

By Lindley Lund &nbsp; K-State&nbsp;News and Communications Services

&nbsp; MANHATTAN — Kansas State University and U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran announced on Monday a $7 million federal investment to support the university's Biomanufacturing Training and Education Initiative, a comprehensive program designed to position Kansas as a national leader in biomanufacturing and biosecurity.

The funding will be directed toward the construction of the new Biomanufacturing Core and Training Facility, which will accelerate the university's ability to lead cutting-edge research and workforce development in the expanding field of biomanufacturing. K-State's innovative ecosystem fosters collaboration between academia, industry and research to make significant strides in animal health, food security and public safety. Through the initiative, the university is establishing itself as a hub for industry partnerships and workforce development, which are critical to solving challenges in both human and animal health.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724706380485.png" alt="-K-State announces $7 million in federal funding for the Biomanufacturing Core and Training Facility, a state-of-the-art facility that will advance vaccine production in Kansas.&nbsp;A rendering of the new facility is pictured above." />
 <figcaption>-K-State announces $7 million in federal funding for the Biomanufacturing Core and Training Facility, a state-of-the-art facility that will advance vaccine production in Kansas.&nbsp;A rendering of the new facility is pictured above.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Lindley Lund &nbsp; K-State&nbsp;News and Communications Services&nbsp; MANHATTAN — Kansas State University and U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran announced on Monday a $7 million federal investment to support the university's Biomanufacturing Training and Education Initiative, a comprehensive program designed to position Kansas as a national leader in biomanufacturing and biosecurity.The funding will be directed toward the construction of the new Biomanufacturing Core and Training Facility, which will accelerate the university's ability to lead cutting-edge research and workforce development in the expanding field of biomanufacturing. K-State's innovative ecosystem fosters collaboration between academia, industry and research to make significant strides in animal health, food security and public safety. Through the initiative, the university is establishing itself as a hub for industry partnerships and workforce development, which are critical to solving challenges in both human and animal health."As Kansas continues to grow its animal health corridor, Kansas State University is uniquely equipped to train the workforce needed for this industry," Moran said. "I worked to secure federal resources to bolster&nbsp;K-State's efforts to build Manhattan into a premier location for biotechnology and biodefense companies looking to expand."The Biomanufacturing Core and Training Facility is one of four state-of-the-art facilities integral to the initiative. It will advance vaccine production by adhering to the highest safety standards set by regulatory agencies while producing critical biologics to combat zoonotic diseases and other health threats. It will also provide hands-on training for the next generation of biosecurity researchers to ensure that Kansas remains at the forefront of biomanufacturing expertise. As&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;leads advancements in biomanufacturing, it is also strengthening the state's economy by attracting jobs and top-tier industry partners to Kansas. This initiative enhances both the agricultural and public health sectors."We are incredibly grateful to Senator Moran for supporting us to receive this federal funding. With it,&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;is positioned to have a lasting impact on both the health of Kansans and the health of the economy," President Richard Linton said. "Our work in biomanufacturing not only addresses current health challenges but will also pave the way for future innovation as the next-generation land-grant university."Along with the Biomanufacturing Core and Training Facility, the initiative features three additional cutting-edge facilities that will help&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;tackle critical public health issues:• Biosecurity Research Institute Biologics Development Module — Focusing on zoonotic and foreign animal diseases, this facility develops diagnostics, vaccines and therapeutics to safeguard food security and public health.• College of Veterinary Medicine Biologics Development Module — Specializing in large-scale biologics production, this facility enhances vaccine efficacy through advanced protein purification techniques, ensuring that life-saving biologics can be produced efficiently.• Biomanufacturing Training and Education Center — Currently under construction in Seaton Hall, this center will provide students with hands-on biomanufacturing experience, creating a highly skilled talent pipeline that supports the state's growing biomanufacturing industry.