SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating three suspects on drug and theft allegations.

On August 8, 2024, members of the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit served a search warrant in the 2500 Block SE Illinois Avenue in Topeka related to an ongoing investigation, according to Topeka Police&nbsp; LT Ronnie Connell.

While conducting the search warrant, officers located fentanyl, methamphetamine, stolen property and drug paraphernalia.

As a result police arrested 51-year-old&nbsp; Amy Jensen; 40-year-old Jerry Lewis and 36-year-old&nbsp; Cameron Laska.

&nbsp;Jensen is being held on requested charges of&nbsp;Distribution of Fentanyl, Distribution of Methamphetamine, Drug Tax,&nbsp;&nbsp;Distribution/Possession with intent of drug paraphernalia and&nbsp;&nbsp;Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

&nbsp;Lewis is being held on requested charges of Possession of stolen property,&nbsp;Theft and&nbsp;Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Laska is accused of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723234432912.png" alt="Jensen photo Shawnee&nbsp; Co." />
 <figcaption>Jensen photo Shawnee&nbsp; Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating three suspects on drug and theft allegations.On August 8, 2024, members of the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit served a search warrant in the 2500 Block SE Illinois Avenue in Topeka related to an ongoing investigation, according to Topeka Police&nbsp; LT Ronnie Connell.While conducting the search warrant, officers located fentanyl, methamphetamine, stolen property and drug paraphernalia.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723234715100.png" alt="Laska photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Laska photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>As a result police arrested 51-year-old&nbsp; Amy Jensen; 40-year-old Jerry Lewis and 36-year-old&nbsp; Cameron Laska.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723234755571.png" alt="Lewis photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Lewis photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Jensen is being held on requested charges of&nbsp;Distribution of Fentanyl, Distribution of Methamphetamine, Drug Tax,&nbsp;&nbsp;Distribution/Possession with intent of drug paraphernalia and&nbsp;&nbsp;Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.&nbsp;Lewis is being held on requested charges of Possession of stolen property,&nbsp;Theft and&nbsp;Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.Laska is accused of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Police: Suspects were selling fentanyl, meth from Kansas home

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

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Education said last week it will use a phased rollout to launch the 2025-26 form to apply for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/dont-give-fafsa-advocates-student-financial-aid-urge" target="_blank">federal financial student aid</a>, which will make the application fully available two months later than usual.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid — better known as FAFSA — will be available to hundreds of students on Oct. 1, gradually ramping up to be available to all by Dec. 1. The staggered approach is an attempt to fix any issues before the form is open to everyone.

The phased rollout came after the 2024-25 form, which got a makeover following Congress passing the FAFSA Simplification Act in late 2020, witnessed its share of hiccups and glitches during the soft launch in December and past the official debut in January.

Though advocates expressed concerns regarding the form’s failure to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/01/24/politics/fafsa-inflation-fix-income/index.html" target="_blank">adjust for inflation</a>, its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.chronicle.com/article/miscalculation-in-fafsa-formula-is-another-unforced-error" target="_blank">formula miscalculation</a>&nbsp;and its&nbsp;<a href="https://fsapartners.ed.gov/knowledge-center/library/electronic-announcements/2024-04-01/update-tax-data-received-fa-ddx-and-manually-entered-information" target="_blank">tax data errors</a>, which prompted processing delays, the department has worked to fix these issues.

“As we rolled out the 2024-2025 FAFSA cycle, we met various challenges in its first year,” U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said during a call with reporters Wednesday.

Cardona said “these challenges — rooted in a federal student aid department that was also in desperate need of modernization — resulted in frustration for many students, families, education leaders and policy makers from the Hill.”

The Education secretary added that over the last 10 months, the department has “spent lots of time with these stakeholders to ensure their experience and their input influences our work moving forward,” noting that the new rollout process reflects the extensive feedback the department has received.

Jeremy Singer, who leads FAFSA strategy within the department’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/us-department-education-announces-jeremy-singer-fafsa-executive-advisor-office-federal-student-aid" target="_blank">Office of Federal Student Aid</a>, said hundreds of students will participate in the testing period beginning Oct. 1.

Singer said that availability will expand to thousands of students in mid-October and then to tens of thousands of students in early November, all prior to the form opening up to all students and families by Dec. 1.

Hearing from many students, families, schools and organizations, Singer said some of the most common demands included a concrete launch timeline and ability to track progress on that timeline, the launch of a form that’s fully functioning and assurance that there will be no major defects once the form is launched.

Senior department officials said states and schools have told them that no determination of financial aid will be made before the system opens for all students in December.

U.S. Under Secretary of Education James Kvaal, who oversees higher education and financial aid, including the&nbsp; Office of Federal Student Aid, said that in March, the department received nearly 40% fewer FAFSAs than they had on the same date a year prior.

But now that gap is under 4% and they “continue to close it every week,” Kvaal said.

The department is inviting volunteers to take part in the testing period and said it will release more information in the coming weeks on how students and other partners can get involved in this initial process.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700516528497.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/shauneen-miranda/">SHAUNEEN MIRANDA</a>WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Education said last week it will use a phased rollout to launch the 2025-26 form to apply for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/dont-give-fafsa-advocates-student-financial-aid-urge" target="_blank">federal financial student aid</a>, which will make the application fully available two months later than usual.The Free Application for Federal Student Aid — better known as FAFSA — will be available to hundreds of students on Oct. 1, gradually ramping up to be available to all by Dec. 1. The staggered approach is an attempt to fix any issues before the form is open to everyone.The phased rollout came after the 2024-25 form, which got a makeover following Congress passing the FAFSA Simplification Act in late 2020, witnessed its share of hiccups and glitches during the soft launch in December and past the official debut in January.Though advocates expressed concerns regarding the form’s failure to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/01/24/politics/fafsa-inflation-fix-income/index.html" target="_blank">adjust for inflation</a>, its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.chronicle.com/article/miscalculation-in-fafsa-formula-is-another-unforced-error" target="_blank">formula miscalculation</a>&nbsp;and its&nbsp;<a href="https://fsapartners.ed.gov/knowledge-center/library/electronic-announcements/2024-04-01/update-tax-data-received-fa-ddx-and-manually-entered-information" target="_blank">tax data errors</a>, which prompted processing delays, the department has worked to fix these issues.“As we rolled out the 2024-2025 FAFSA cycle, we met various challenges in its first year,” U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said during a call with reporters Wednesday.Cardona said “these challenges — rooted in a federal student aid department that was also in desperate need of modernization — resulted in frustration for many students, families, education leaders and policy makers from the Hill.”The Education secretary added that over the last 10 months, the department has “spent lots of time with these stakeholders to ensure their experience and their input influences our work moving forward,” noting that the new rollout process reflects the extensive feedback the department has received.Jeremy Singer, who leads FAFSA strategy within the department’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/us-department-education-announces-jeremy-singer-fafsa-executive-advisor-office-federal-student-aid" target="_blank">Office of Federal Student Aid</a>, said hundreds of students will participate in the testing period beginning Oct. 1.Singer said that availability will expand to thousands of students in mid-October and then to tens of thousands of students in early November, all prior to the form opening up to all students and families by Dec. 1.Hearing from many students, families, schools and organizations, Singer said some of the most common demands included a concrete launch timeline and ability to track progress on that timeline, the launch of a form that’s fully functioning and assurance that there will be no major defects once the form is launched.Senior department officials said states and schools have told them that no determination of financial aid will be made before the system opens for all students in December.U.S. Under Secretary of Education James Kvaal, who oversees higher education and financial aid, including the&nbsp; Office of Federal Student Aid, said that in March, the department received nearly 40% fewer FAFSAs than they had on the same date a year prior.But now that gap is under 4% and they “continue to close it every week,” Kvaal said.The department is inviting volunteers to take part in the testing period and said it will release more information in the coming weeks on how students and other partners can get involved in this initial process.

U.S. Education Department to gradually roll out new FAFSA form by Dec. 1

MCCONNELL&nbsp;AIR FORCE BASE, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;McConnell&nbsp;Air Force Base is adding extra horsepower to the 2024 Frontiers in Flight Airshow with the addition of the Budweiser Clydesdales­&nbsp;alongside Folds of Honor, according to a media release.

The Budweiser Clydesdales have served as iconic brand symbols for over 90 years, and since 1933, they’ve appeared at a number of events across the nation, from the Rose Parade to 2023’s Riverfest in Wichita. This year, they also starred in their 46th Super Bowl commercial.

At&nbsp;McConnell, the horses, handlers and Dalmatians will make Hangar 1111 their temporary headquarters, which is on the southern end of the airshow area. The Clydesdale hitch will pass by airshow attendees prior to the start of flying activity at approximately 11:30 a.m. each day of the airshow.

The Clydesdales’ visit is part of Anheuser-Busch and Budweiser’s nationwide tour to celebrate 14 years of partnership with Folds of Honor, a nonprofit organization that provides life-changing educational scholarships to the families of fallen or disabled U.S. service members and first responders.

The Frontiers in Flight airshow is free to attend and runs Aug. 24-25 at&nbsp;McConnell&nbsp;Air Force Base. The airshow features performances by the Navy Blue Angels and a host of other aerial acts. For more on the airshow, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.frontiersinflight.com/" target="_blank">www.frontiersinflight.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723306852448.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>MCCONNELL&nbsp;AIR FORCE BASE, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;McConnell&nbsp;Air Force Base is adding extra horsepower to the 2024 Frontiers in Flight Airshow with the addition of the Budweiser Clydesdales­&nbsp;alongside Folds of Honor, according to a media release.The Budweiser Clydesdales have served as iconic brand symbols for over 90 years, and since 1933, they’ve appeared at a number of events across the nation, from the Rose Parade to 2023’s Riverfest in Wichita. This year, they also starred in their 46th Super Bowl commercial.At&nbsp;McConnell, the horses, handlers and Dalmatians will make Hangar 1111 their temporary headquarters, which is on the southern end of the airshow area. The Clydesdale hitch will pass by airshow attendees prior to the start of flying activity at approximately 11:30 a.m. each day of the airshow.The Clydesdales’ visit is part of Anheuser-Busch and Budweiser’s nationwide tour to celebrate 14 years of partnership with Folds of Honor, a nonprofit organization that provides life-changing educational scholarships to the families of fallen or disabled U.S. service members and first responders.The Frontiers in Flight airshow is free to attend and runs Aug. 24-25 at&nbsp;McConnell&nbsp;Air Force Base. The airshow features performances by the Navy Blue Angels and a host of other aerial acts. For more on the airshow, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.frontiersinflight.com/" target="_blank">www.frontiersinflight.com</a>.

 Kansas Air Force Base adds major horsepower to airshow

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a burglary have captured a suspect.

Just after 3p.m. Thursday, police responded to a reported traffic-related call for service in the 2900 block of SW 31st Court in Topeka, according tp Police Captain Jerry Monasmith. 

&nbsp;At the scene, officers identified the individual involved as Shawn M. Ward, 26, of Topeka, who is a suspect in an ongoing aggravated burglary and auto theft investigation.

Officers attempted to initiate a car stop, but Ward failed to comply. Additional units were requested to assist. After a brief period, Ward was taken into custody without further incident.

As a result of the investigation, Ward was arrested and transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Aggravated burglary, Misdemeanor theft from a Building, Felony theft of a motor vehicle, Criminal use of a financial card, Criminal Trespass and Felony obstruction; interference with a Law Enforcement Officer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723235082950.png" alt="Ward -photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Ward -photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a burglary have captured a suspect.Just after 3p.m. Thursday, police responded to a reported traffic-related call for service in the 2900 block of SW 31st Court in Topeka, according tp Police Captain Jerry Monasmith. &nbsp;At the scene, officers identified the individual involved as Shawn M. Ward, 26, of Topeka, who is a suspect in an ongoing aggravated burglary and auto theft investigation.Officers attempted to initiate a car stop, but Ward failed to comply. Additional units were requested to assist. After a brief period, Ward was taken into custody without further incident.As a result of the investigation, Ward was arrested and transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Aggravated burglary, Misdemeanor theft from a Building, Felony theft of a motor vehicle, Criminal use of a financial card, Criminal Trespass and Felony obstruction; interference with a Law Enforcement Officer.

Police captured burglary suspect at scene of car crash

KANSAS CITY—A man drowned in a pond a Kansas City area pond on Saturday.

Just after 5:30p.m., the Kansas City Fire Department responded to a water rescue call at 12701 E. 150 highway, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

Witnesses stated that two individuals in a canoe on the pond overturned. One victim, an eight year old was able to make their way back to the bank and was safe.

 The second victim, a 23-year-old Hispanic male was not able to swim to shore. The victim was overcome and drowned. KCFD put swimmers in the water and searched the last known location. 

Missouri Highway Patrol was notified, and a water patrol boat was sent to the location to search with sonar. KCFD also called in their search dog. The dog quickly hit on area where the witnesses stated the individual was last seen. 

The Highway patrol then was able to ID the victim on sonar and retrieve the body. Neither the survivor or the victim were wearing life jackets. 

The KCFD stressed to the public to "wear a life jacket any time you are in a body of water where you can not see the bottom, and if you are not a strong swimmer or cannot swim."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723378703298.png" alt="KCFD crews on the scene of the search -photo courtesy KMBC" />
 <figcaption>KCFD crews on the scene of the search -photo courtesy KMBC</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—A man drowned in a pond a Kansas City area pond on Saturday.Just after 5:30p.m., the Kansas City Fire Department responded to a water rescue call at 12701 E. 150 highway, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.Witnesses stated that two individuals in a canoe on the pond overturned. One victim, an eight year old was able to make their way back to the bank and was safe. The second victim, a 23-year-old Hispanic male was not able to swim to shore. The victim was overcome and drowned. KCFD put swimmers in the water and searched the last known location. Missouri Highway Patrol was notified, and a water patrol boat was sent to the location to search with sonar. KCFD also called in their search dog. The dog quickly hit on area where the witnesses stated the individual was last seen. The Highway patrol then was able to ID the victim on sonar and retrieve the body. Neither the survivor or the victim were wearing life jackets. The KCFD stressed to the public to "wear a life jacket any time you are in a body of water where you can not see the bottom, and if you are not a strong swimmer or cannot swim."

Man drowns in Kansas City area pond when canoe overturns

Kunce said he’d agree to a Lincoln-Douglas style debate hosted by Missouri Farm Bureau if Hawley agrees in writing to televised debates

By RUDI KELLER&nbsp; <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

BOONVILLE – U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley said Thursday that he will participate in moderated television debates with Democrat Lucas Kunce, but first he wants Kunce to agree to debate without moderators at the Missouri State Fair.

In response, Kunce said he will take part in the Lincoln-Douglas style debate Hawley wants, but first the incumbent Republican must agree to specific dates and hosts for future televised encounters.

By Friday afternoon, the Missouri State Fair Commission weighed in,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/LucasKunceMO/status/1821988106918408518" target="_blank">releasing a statement</a>&nbsp;saying it was unable to accommodate any requests for political debates during the fair.

Hawley “says there’s a debate at the State Fair — but there isn’t one,” Kunce said in response to the commission’s statement. “Josh Hawley is a fraud and a coward.”

That standoff leaves the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/08/josh-hawley-lucas-kunce-trade-jabs-over-timing-format-of-missouri-u-s-senate-debates/">likelihood of any meeting between the two</a>&nbsp;– or one that would also include independent candidate Jared Young or Libertarian Party nominee W.C. Young – uncertain.

Hawley was unopposed and Kunce, making his&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/01/06/democrat-lucas-kunce-says-hell-challenge-josh-hawley-in-2024-missouri-senate-race/">second bid for a Senate seat</a>, easily won in Tuesday’s primary election. Hawley was the&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/HawleyMO/status/1820988936732209638" target="_blank">first to issue a debate challenge</a>, calling on Kunce to meet him next Thursday for a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nps.gov/liho/learn/historyculture/debates.htm" target="_blank">Lincoln-Douglas-style debate</a>&nbsp;that would occur right after the Governor’s Ham Breakfast in Sedalia.

The Missouri Farm Bureau, which has endorsed Hawley, has offered to provide for the logistical needs, Hawley said to reporters after a campaign rally at the&nbsp;<a href="https://mrvsea.com/" target="_blank">Missouri River Valley Steam Engine Association</a>&nbsp;property near Boonville.

“I cannot believe that this guy Kunce will not just say yes to this debate opportunity with the Missouri Farm Bureau,” Hawley said. “I am doing him a favor.”

Hawley is seeking a second term in the U.S. Senate, defending a seat he won in 2018 from Democratic U.S. Sen. Claire McCaskill. Kunce&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/08/02/beer-heiress-trudy-bucsh-valentine-captures-missouri-democratic-nomination-for-u-s-senate/">lost the 2022 Democratic primary</a>&nbsp;to beer heiress Trudy Busch Valentine, who was defeated in November by then-Attorney General Eric Schmitt.

Kunce has outraised Hawley since entering the race and is the best-funded Democrat running statewide.&nbsp; Hawley holds a cash advantage built on fundraising prior to the start of 2023.

Both candidates have begun their television ad campaigns, with Kunce airing an ad highlighting his positions on economic issues and Hawley launching an attack on Kunce over energy policy.

During Thursday’s rally, attended by about 100 people, Hawley teased Kunce for refusing his debate proposal.

“He spent the last two days dancing and prancing and saying ‘oh, whoa, I need it to be in a studio. I need to have a moderator. I need it to be 71 degrees. I need to be able to put on my makeup,’” Hawley said.

In an interview with The Independent, Kunce said he will participate in the debate Hawley has proposed if the incumbent will commit, in writing, to join him for five televised debates.

“I will do his event hosted by his endorsers if he agrees to five televised debates in writing,” Kunce said.

The commitment has to be in writing, he said, “because we kind of know his tendency to skitter away.”

The Hawley campaign did not respond to a request for comment on the demand for a written pledge to debate.

On Wednesday, in response to Hawley’s challenge to a debate Thursday morning, television stations KSDK in St. Louis and KSHB in Kansas City offered to moderate and televise a debate from the fairgrounds. The offer shifted the time to 7 p.m.

The candidates have also been offered televised debates by Gray Media, owner of five television stations with a Missouri market, public television stations, the League of Women Voters and Fox News. Kunce said he has accepted all offers but Hawley has not.

“The only thing I’ve heard is that he’s willing to do a non-debate hosted by one of his own endorsers on a Thursday morning when it’s not going to be covered by any television or in prime time,” Kunce said.

Hawley said he is not dodging televised debates with moderators.

“We’ll do a lot of them, I expect,” he said.

Hawley said there is a commitment from a broadcaster with several stations to put the State Fair debate on the air, but he did not name the company. Any other broadcaster who wants to provide live coverage is also welcome, he said.

Under a Lincoln-Douglas debate format, one candidate starts with lengthy remarks, followed by the other. The candidate who goes first is given time for a rebuttal. In 1858, the debates lasted three hours, with each receiving 90 minutes.

Hawley said his proposal is for a shorter time, 60 to 90 minutes total, with time for audience questions.

“Let people ask questions, and then go back and forth,” Hawley said.

The format would give Kunce the opportunity to demand a firm commitment to dates for future debates. It needs to be in writing because Hawley could make a promise but back out, Kunce said.

“That would be fine,” he said, “except that that debate is probably not going to be televised, and no one’s going to see that, or know about that.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723378224807.png" alt="U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley calls on Democratic opponent Lucas Kunce to debate him at the Missouri State Fair during a Thursday campaign rally near Boonville. (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent)" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley calls on Democratic opponent Lucas Kunce to debate him at the Missouri State Fair during a Thursday campaign rally near Boonville. (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Kunce said he’d agree to a Lincoln-Douglas style debate hosted by Missouri Farm Bureau if Hawley agrees in writing to televised debates</h2>By RUDI KELLER&nbsp; <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>BOONVILLE – U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley said Thursday that he will participate in moderated television debates with Democrat Lucas Kunce, but first he wants Kunce to agree to debate without moderators at the Missouri State Fair.In response, Kunce said he will take part in the Lincoln-Douglas style debate Hawley wants, but first the incumbent Republican must agree to specific dates and hosts for future televised encounters.By Friday afternoon, the Missouri State Fair Commission weighed in,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/LucasKunceMO/status/1821988106918408518" target="_blank">releasing a statement</a>&nbsp;saying it was unable to accommodate any requests for political debates during the fair.Hawley “says there’s a debate at the State Fair — but there isn’t one,” Kunce said in response to the commission’s statement. “Josh Hawley is a fraud and a coward.”That standoff leaves the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/08/josh-hawley-lucas-kunce-trade-jabs-over-timing-format-of-missouri-u-s-senate-debates/">likelihood of any meeting between the two</a>&nbsp;– or one that would also include independent candidate Jared Young or Libertarian Party nominee W.C. Young – uncertain.Hawley was unopposed and Kunce, making his&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/01/06/democrat-lucas-kunce-says-hell-challenge-josh-hawley-in-2024-missouri-senate-race/">second bid for a Senate seat</a>, easily won in Tuesday’s primary election. Hawley was the&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/HawleyMO/status/1820988936732209638" target="_blank">first to issue a debate challenge</a>, calling on Kunce to meet him next Thursday for a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nps.gov/liho/learn/historyculture/debates.htm" target="_blank">Lincoln-Douglas-style debate</a>&nbsp;that would occur right after the Governor’s Ham Breakfast in Sedalia.The Missouri Farm Bureau, which has endorsed Hawley, has offered to provide for the logistical needs, Hawley said to reporters after a campaign rally at the&nbsp;<a href="https://mrvsea.com/" target="_blank">Missouri River Valley Steam Engine Association</a>&nbsp;property near Boonville.“I cannot believe that this guy Kunce will not just say yes to this debate opportunity with the Missouri Farm Bureau,” Hawley said. “I am doing him a favor.”Hawley is seeking a second term in the U.S. Senate, defending a seat he won in 2018 from Democratic U.S. Sen. Claire McCaskill. Kunce&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/08/02/beer-heiress-trudy-bucsh-valentine-captures-missouri-democratic-nomination-for-u-s-senate/">lost the 2022 Democratic primary</a>&nbsp;to beer heiress Trudy Busch Valentine, who was defeated in November by then-Attorney General Eric Schmitt.Kunce has outraised Hawley since entering the race and is the best-funded Democrat running statewide.&nbsp; Hawley holds a cash advantage built on fundraising prior to the start of 2023.Both candidates have begun their television ad campaigns, with Kunce airing an ad highlighting his positions on economic issues and Hawley launching an attack on Kunce over energy policy.During Thursday’s rally, attended by about 100 people, Hawley teased Kunce for refusing his debate proposal.“He spent the last two days dancing and prancing and saying ‘oh, whoa, I need it to be in a studio. I need to have a moderator. I need it to be 71 degrees. I need to be able to put on my makeup,’” Hawley said.In an interview with The Independent, Kunce said he will participate in the debate Hawley has proposed if the incumbent will commit, in writing, to join him for five televised debates.“I will do his event hosted by his endorsers if he agrees to five televised debates in writing,” Kunce said.The commitment has to be in writing, he said, “because we kind of know his tendency to skitter away.”The Hawley campaign did not respond to a request for comment on the demand for a written pledge to debate.On Wednesday, in response to Hawley’s challenge to a debate Thursday morning, television stations KSDK in St. Louis and KSHB in Kansas City offered to moderate and televise a debate from the fairgrounds. The offer shifted the time to 7 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723378272094.png" alt=" Lucas Kunce, who is challenging Josh Hawley for a U.S. Senate seat, speaks to reporters Feb. 27, the first day of campaign filing (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> Lucas Kunce, who is challenging Josh Hawley for a U.S. Senate seat, speaks to reporters Feb. 27, the first day of campaign filing (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>The candidates have also been offered televised debates by Gray Media, owner of five television stations with a Missouri market, public television stations, the League of Women Voters and Fox News. Kunce said he has accepted all offers but Hawley has not.“The only thing I’ve heard is that he’s willing to do a non-debate hosted by one of his own endorsers on a Thursday morning when it’s not going to be covered by any television or in prime time,” Kunce said.Hawley said he is not dodging televised debates with moderators.“We’ll do a lot of them, I expect,” he said.Hawley said there is a commitment from a broadcaster with several stations to put the State Fair debate on the air, but he did not name the company. Any other broadcaster who wants to provide live coverage is also welcome, he said.Under a Lincoln-Douglas debate format, one candidate starts with lengthy remarks, followed by the other. The candidate who goes first is given time for a rebuttal. In 1858, the debates lasted three hours, with each receiving 90 minutes.Hawley said his proposal is for a shorter time, 60 to 90 minutes total, with time for audience questions.“Let people ask questions, and then go back and forth,” Hawley said.The format would give Kunce the opportunity to demand a firm commitment to dates for future debates. It needs to be in writing because Hawley could make a promise but back out, Kunce said.“That would be fine,” he said, “except that that debate is probably not going to be televised, and no one’s going to see that, or know about that.”

Josh Hawley, Lucas Kunce remain at an impasse on Missouri U.S. Senate debates

JOHNSON COUNTY –&nbsp; Ricardo Marin-Valadez was placed on escape status at approximately 6:00 p.m. on Friday, after not reporting to his job or returning to the facility, according to the&nbsp;Kansas Department of Corrections.

Marin-Valadez, a 24-year-old Hispanic male, was reported missing when the resident could not be located at the Johnson County Department of Corrections (JCDOC) Adult Residential Center (ARC). This walkaway does not impact the facility's security or operations.

Marin-Valadez is described as 5-foot 11-inches, and weighs 206 pounds, with a heavy build. He has brown hair and eyes and was last seen wearing black t-shirt and camouflage shorts.

Marin-Valadez was convicted in Johnson County for drug-related convictions. He is serving a 15-month sentence at the ARC, from which he walked away. Under an agreement between the KDOC and JCDOC, residents with release plans appropriate to Johnson County are housed at the ARC

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723306461184.png" alt="Marin-Valadez photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Marin-Valadez photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY –&nbsp; Ricardo Marin-Valadez was placed on escape status at approximately 6:00 p.m. on Friday, after not reporting to his job or returning to the facility, according to the&nbsp;Kansas Department of Corrections.Marin-Valadez, a 24-year-old Hispanic male, was reported missing when the resident could not be located at the Johnson County Department of Corrections (JCDOC) Adult Residential Center (ARC). This walkaway does not impact the facility's security or operations.Marin-Valadez is described as 5-foot 11-inches, and weighs 206 pounds, with a heavy build. He has brown hair and eyes and was last seen wearing black t-shirt and camouflage shorts.Marin-Valadez was convicted in Johnson County for drug-related convictions. He is serving a 15-month sentence at the ARC, from which he walked away. Under an agreement between the KDOC and JCDOC, residents with release plans appropriate to Johnson County are housed at the ARC

Search continues for inmate who escaped from Kan. prison

JOHNSON COUNTY—A Kansas woman is facing sex crime allegations.

Kassidy Alexander, 27, is charged with unlawful sexual relations, according to online jail records in Johnson County.&nbsp; She is a former USD 232 school district employee.

The charges involve events occurring from July 25, 2022, to March 2024, according to court documents.&nbsp; Alexander is accused of "unlawfully and feloniously engaging in consensual sexual intercourse" with someone 16 years or older, a student in the school, according to court documents.

USD 232 in a message to school district families reported the district became aware of the investigation in May.

"On Tuesday, May 14, district administration was made aware of an allegation of an inappropriate relationship between a female classified employee at Lexington Trails Middle School and a male high school student."&nbsp; "Based on this information, the school district acted immediately to protect and care for those involved by suspending the employee in question. Upon being suspended, the individual immediately resigned their employment."

Alexander met the requirements of the $75,000 bond and is no longer in custody. She made her first court appearance on Aug. 8, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723146446335.png" alt="Alexander photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Alexander photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY—A Kansas woman is facing sex crime allegations.Kassidy Alexander, 27, is charged with unlawful sexual relations, according to online jail records in Johnson County.&nbsp; She is a former USD 232 school district employee.The charges involve events occurring from July 25, 2022, to March 2024, according to court documents.&nbsp; Alexander is accused of "unlawfully and feloniously engaging in consensual sexual intercourse" with someone 16 years or older, a student in the school, according to court documents.USD 232 in a message to school district families reported the district became aware of the investigation in May."On Tuesday, May 14, district administration was made aware of an allegation of an inappropriate relationship between a female classified employee at Lexington Trails Middle School and a male high school student."&nbsp; "Based on this information, the school district acted immediately to protect and care for those involved by suspending the employee in question. Upon being suspended, the individual immediately resigned their employment."Alexander met the requirements of the $75,000 bond and is no longer in custody. She made her first court appearance on Aug. 8, according to online jail records.

Kansas middle school employee accused of sex crimes

OSAGE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas man on drug allegations.

Just after 11:31 am August 8, a Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit located a subject known to have an Osage County arrest warrant in the 20000 block of South Stanley Road, according to Sheriff Chris Wells.

 The subject was also found to be in possession of illegal narcotics while being taken into custody. Delwin D. Watkins, 58, of Pomona, Kansas was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of Distribution of methamphetamine and the arrest warrant.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723166607050.png" alt="Watkins photo Osage Co." />
 <figcaption>Watkins photo Osage Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>OSAGE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas man on drug allegations.Just after 11:31 am August 8, a Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit located a subject known to have an Osage County arrest warrant in the 20000 block of South Stanley Road, according to Sheriff Chris Wells. The subject was also found to be in possession of illegal narcotics while being taken into custody. Delwin D. Watkins, 58, of Pomona, Kansas was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of Distribution of methamphetamine and the arrest warrant.

Kansas man accused of selling methamphetamine 

JOHNSON COUNTY—One person was injured in a fire on Friday in Overland Park.

The fire occurred late Friday morning at a home at&nbsp;120th and Roe, according to a social media report from Overland Park Fire.&nbsp;The fire significantly damaged the home. 

EMS transported one resident to an area hospital after receiving  burns. The Red Cross is assisting one adult and one child. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723232536986.png" alt="Photos from Overland Park Fire video" />
 <figcaption>Photos from Overland Park Fire video</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY—One person was injured in a fire on Friday in Overland Park.The fire occurred late Friday morning at a home at&nbsp;120th and Roe, according to a social media report from Overland Park Fire.&nbsp;The fire significantly damaged the home. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723232496232.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>EMS transported one resident to an area hospital after receiving burns. The Red Cross is assisting one adult and one child. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

One hospitalized for treatment of burns after Kan. house fire

WASHINGTON&nbsp;- U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) – members of the Senate Commerce Committee and co-chairs of the Senate Travel and Tourism Caucus – introduced the bipartisan&nbsp;Hotel Fees Transparency Act,&nbsp;which passed the Senate Commerce Committee unanimously.&nbsp;

This legislation will improve transparency for consumers by requiring anyone advertising a hotel room or short-term rental to clearly show upfront the final price a customer will pay to book lodging. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.V.) cosponsored the legislation. The&nbsp;No Hidden FEES Act of 2023, companion legislation led by Representative Young Kim (CA-40), passed the House of Representatives last month.&nbsp;

“The Hotel Fees Transparency Act gives customers the transparency they deserve while booking travel and planning expenses,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“I appreciate the opportunity to work with Sen. Klobuchar on this legislation and its clearance through the Commerce Committee and encourage Sen. Schumer to quickly consider this bill so that individuals across the nation can make informed travel decisions.”

“Too often, Americans making reservations online are being met with hidden fees that make it difficult to compare prices and understand the true cost of an overnight stay,”&nbsp;said Sen. Klobuchar.&nbsp;“The Senate passed my bipartisan legislation to improve transparency so that travelers can make informed decisions.”&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Hotel Fees Transparency Act&nbsp;is supported by Consumer Reports, the Travel Tech Association and the American Hotel &amp; Lodging Association.

WASHINGTON&nbsp;- U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) – members of the Senate Commerce Committee and co-chairs of the Senate Travel and Tourism Caucus – introduced the bipartisan&nbsp;Hotel Fees Transparency Act,&nbsp;which passed the Senate Commerce Committee unanimously.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">With Kansas City set to host the FIFA World Cup in 2026, prioritizing secure, hassle-free travel isn’t just a precaution – it’s a priority. To ensure soccer fans can visit KC safely, I included language to improve visa processing in the Senate’s FY2025appropriations bill.&mdash; Senator Jerry Moran (@JerryMoran) <a href="https://twitter.com/JerryMoran/status/1821650476548661344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>This legislation will improve transparency for consumers by requiring anyone advertising a hotel room or short-term rental to clearly show upfront the final price a customer will pay to book lodging. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.V.) cosponsored the legislation. The&nbsp;No Hidden FEES Act of 2023, companion legislation led by Representative Young Kim (CA-40), passed the House of Representatives last month.&nbsp;“The Hotel Fees Transparency Act gives customers the transparency they deserve while booking travel and planning expenses,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“I appreciate the opportunity to work with Sen. Klobuchar on this legislation and its clearance through the Commerce Committee and encourage Sen. Schumer to quickly consider this bill so that individuals across the nation can make informed travel decisions.”“Too often, Americans making reservations online are being met with hidden fees that make it difficult to compare prices and understand the true cost of an overnight stay,”&nbsp;said Sen. Klobuchar.&nbsp;“The Senate passed my bipartisan legislation to improve transparency so that travelers can make informed decisions.”&nbsp;The&nbsp;Hotel Fees Transparency Act&nbsp;is supported by Consumer Reports, the Travel Tech Association and the American Hotel &amp; Lodging Association.

Moran's bill requires hotels to be up-front with fees

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a car crash and arrest.

Just after 11:30 a.m. Friday, the Shawnee Police Department and Shawnee Fire Department responded to a crash near Kansas 7 and 47th Street, according to a social media report.

While investigating the injury accident, a suspect involved in the crash ran away from the scene. 

A citizen reported that the suspect then stole their vehicle near the crash scene. The suspect nearly struck a Shawnee police officer with the stolen vehicle. The officer was not injured.

The suspect was pursued and apprehended in Olathe with the assistance of multiple law enforcement agencies. Police did release the name of the suspect.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723227849036.png" alt="Photos Shawnee Police" />
 <figcaption>Photos Shawnee Police</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a car crash and arrest.Just after 11:30 a.m. Friday, the Shawnee Police Department and Shawnee Fire Department responded to a crash near Kansas 7 and 47th Street, according to a social media report.While investigating the injury accident, a suspect involved in the crash ran away from the scene. A citizen reported that the suspect then stole their vehicle near the crash scene. The suspect nearly struck a Shawnee police officer with the stolen vehicle. The officer was not injured.The suspect was pursued and apprehended in Olathe with the assistance of multiple law enforcement agencies. Police did release the name of the suspect.

Kansas suspect stole another vehicle after involved in crash

COFFEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged attempted child abduction in Coffey County.

Just before 2p.m. Friday, an attempted child abduction was reported to the Coffey County, Kansas sheriff's office

The attempted abduction occurred in Waverly, Kansas, near the city park, 112 N Powers Boulevard,  according a social media report from the sheriff's office.. 

The vehicle involved was a late model Silver Lexus with Minnesota tags. The vehicle was last seen traveling westbound on 6th Avenue from Kelley Street.  If you see a vehicle of this description, please do not approach.  Contact Coffey County Sheriff's Office at 620-364-2123. The sheriff's office urged parents to talk to your children about what they should do if approached by strangers.

COFFEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged attempted child abduction in Coffey County.Just before 2p.m. Friday, an attempted child abduction was reported to the Coffey County, Kansas sheriff's officeThe attempted abduction occurred in Waverly, Kansas, near the city park, 112 N Powers Boulevard, according a social media report from the sheriff's office.. The vehicle involved was a late model Silver Lexus with Minnesota tags. The vehicle was last seen traveling westbound on 6th Avenue from Kelley Street. If you see a vehicle of this description, please do not approach. Contact Coffey County Sheriff's Office at 620-364-2123. The sheriff's office urged parents to talk to your children about what they should do if approached by strangers.

Sheriff investigating attempted child abduction at Kansas park

KANSAS CITY—A shooting victim in Kansas City died four days after the crime.

Just before 11p.m. Sunday,&nbsp; police were called to a shooting in the 2000 block of Manchester, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.

First responders found 21-year-old Louis H. Runnels&nbsp;suffering from gunshot trauma inside a vehicle.&nbsp; EMS transported him to an area hospital. He died on Thursday, according to Forte'.

Police have not released suspect details or reported an arrest.

KANSAS CITY—A shooting victim in Kansas City died four days after the crime.Just before 11p.m. Sunday,&nbsp; police were called to a shooting in the 2000 block of Manchester, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.First responders found 21-year-old Louis H. Runnels&nbsp;suffering from gunshot trauma inside a vehicle.&nbsp; EMS transported him to an area hospital. He died on Thursday, according to Forte'.Police have not released suspect details or reported an arrest.

21-year-old KC man dies four days after shooting

Expiration of tax credits lowering premium costs likely to slash enrollment in 2026

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

TOPEKA — A record 171,000 Kansans enrolled this year in the subsidized health insurance marketplace under the Affordable Care Act, an increase more than 60,000 over the past two years.

The nonprofit, nonpartisan&nbsp;<a href="https://www.khi.org/articles/marketplace-enrollment-reached-record-high-for-third-consecutive-year/" target="_blank">Kansas Health Institute reported</a>&nbsp;Thursday that enrollment in Kansas for the 2024 plan year climbed 37.7% from the 124,000 total in 2023 and the 107,000 total in 2022. Nationally, enrollment in the ACA reached 21.5 million in 2024, a 31.1% rise from the previous year.

Twenty-two of Kansas’ 105 counties had more than 7.1% of the population enrolled in health insurance through the federally assisted marketplace, while six counties in Kansas enrolled less than 4% of the population in the marketplace insurance system.

Enrollment growth was documented in southeast Kansas, including Allen County where 7.6% of the population this year took part in the subsidized insurance marketplace.

“We just try to meet people where they’re at,” said Rhonda Culp, director of Care Coordination at Thrive Allen County. “We just try to do any type of community outreach events within our communities that we are serving. Those could be from fairs to back-to-school efforts, promotions. We do billboards, radio and newspaper ads. We also do social media ads.”

Enrollment in the Kansas marketplace — eight companies offered 98 plans during 2024, and every county had at least two insurance options — was again fueled by tax credits substantially cutting monthly premiums. All eligible plans must include 10 health benefits, including preventative health services. The plans must cover preexisting conditions.

Nine in 10, or 93.3%, of marketplace enrollees in Kansas took advantage of enhanced tax credits to lower premium payments in 2024. Overall, the average monthly premium paid by Kansans was $111, a $28 decrease compared to 2023.

Enhanced financial assistance through the American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act was extended through the 2025 plan year, but those tax credits weren’t made permanent. Without renewal of those special subsidies, enrollment in the Kansas marketplace in 2026 could return to 2021 levels and the number of Kansans without health insurance would rise.

Molly Gotobed, director at Community Health Council of Wyandotte County, said collaborative efforts at the state and county levels helped link eligible families in Wyandotte County to ACA health care. In 2024, KHI’s report said, 7.4% of the county’s population, or 13,000 people, secured health insurance through the marketplace.

She said outreach efforts including inserting marketplace information in utility bills sent to 77,000 residents of Wyandotte County. In addition, she said, managed care organizations contracted by the state to operate the state’s Medicaid programs referred people who could be eligible for marketplace insurance.

“We worked with the Kansas chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics to do some large events,” Gotobed said.

KHI reported 201,000 Kansans applied for a marketplace health plan in the 2024 benefit year and 192,000 were declared eligible. In the end, 171,376 completed the enrollment process by selecting a plan or were automatically re-enrolled in a plan. One of four Kansas enrollees were new consumers of the marketplace.

Kansas enrollees receiving a tax credit on average paid $77 per month for health insurance premiums in 2024 compared to $97 in 2023. Enrollees without the tax credit, paid $578 per month during 2024 and $586 per month in 2023.

Here is the age breakdown of Kansas marketplace enrollees during 2024: age 0-17, 15,228 individuals or 8.9% of the total in that age group; age 18-25, 17,469, 10.2%; age 26-34, 27,528, 16.1%; age 35-44, 33,778, 19.7%; age 45-54, 32,111, 18.7%; age 55-64, 43,611, 25.4%; and age 65 and above, 1,641, 1%.

The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services issued a warning in May highlighting fraudulent ACA enrollment activity in 32 states, including Kansas. The Kansas Department of Insurance has identified 24 complaints pertaining to unauthorized enrollment activities by insurance agents tied to marketplace scams, the KHI report said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723233797815.png" alt=" Kansas Health Institute, a nonpartisan and nonprofit health education organization in Topeka, says a record 171,000 Kansans secured health insurance in 2025 through the Affordable Care Act marketplace. About 93% received tax credits to lower monthly premium costs. (Screen capture from Kansas Health Institute’s YouTube channel)" />
 <figcaption> Kansas Health Institute, a nonpartisan and nonprofit health education organization in Topeka, says a record 171,000 Kansans secured health insurance in 2025 through the Affordable Care Act marketplace. About 93% received tax credits to lower monthly premium costs. (Screen capture from Kansas Health Institute’s YouTube channel)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Expiration of tax credits lowering premium costs likely to slash enrollment in 2026</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — A record 171,000 Kansans enrolled this year in the subsidized health insurance marketplace under the Affordable Care Act, an increase more than 60,000 over the past two years.The nonprofit, nonpartisan&nbsp;<a href="https://www.khi.org/articles/marketplace-enrollment-reached-record-high-for-third-consecutive-year/" target="_blank">Kansas Health Institute reported</a>&nbsp;Thursday that enrollment in Kansas for the 2024 plan year climbed 37.7% from the 124,000 total in 2023 and the 107,000 total in 2022. Nationally, enrollment in the ACA reached 21.5 million in 2024, a 31.1% rise from the previous year.Twenty-two of Kansas’ 105 counties had more than 7.1% of the population enrolled in health insurance through the federally assisted marketplace, while six counties in Kansas enrolled less than 4% of the population in the marketplace insurance system.Enrollment growth was documented in southeast Kansas, including Allen County where 7.6% of the population this year took part in the subsidized insurance marketplace.“We just try to meet people where they’re at,” said Rhonda Culp, director of Care Coordination at Thrive Allen County. “We just try to do any type of community outreach events within our communities that we are serving. Those could be from fairs to back-to-school efforts, promotions. We do billboards, radio and newspaper ads. We also do social media ads.”Enrollment in the Kansas marketplace — eight companies offered 98 plans during 2024, and every county had at least two insurance options — was again fueled by tax credits substantially cutting monthly premiums. All eligible plans must include 10 health benefits, including preventative health services. The plans must cover preexisting conditions.Nine in 10, or 93.3%, of marketplace enrollees in Kansas took advantage of enhanced tax credits to lower premium payments in 2024. Overall, the average monthly premium paid by Kansans was $111, a $28 decrease compared to 2023.Enhanced financial assistance through the American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act was extended through the 2025 plan year, but those tax credits weren’t made permanent. Without renewal of those special subsidies, enrollment in the Kansas marketplace in 2026 could return to 2021 levels and the number of Kansans without health insurance would rise.Molly Gotobed, director at Community Health Council of Wyandotte County, said collaborative efforts at the state and county levels helped link eligible families in Wyandotte County to ACA health care. In 2024, KHI’s report said, 7.4% of the county’s population, or 13,000 people, secured health insurance through the marketplace.She said outreach efforts including inserting marketplace information in utility bills sent to 77,000 residents of Wyandotte County. In addition, she said, managed care organizations contracted by the state to operate the state’s Medicaid programs referred people who could be eligible for marketplace insurance.“We worked with the Kansas chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics to do some large events,” Gotobed said.KHI reported 201,000 Kansans applied for a marketplace health plan in the 2024 benefit year and 192,000 were declared eligible. In the end, 171,376 completed the enrollment process by selecting a plan or were automatically re-enrolled in a plan. One of four Kansas enrollees were new consumers of the marketplace.Kansas enrollees receiving a tax credit on average paid $77 per month for health insurance premiums in 2024 compared to $97 in 2023. Enrollees without the tax credit, paid $578 per month during 2024 and $586 per month in 2023.Here is the age breakdown of Kansas marketplace enrollees during 2024: age 0-17, 15,228 individuals or 8.9% of the total in that age group; age 18-25, 17,469, 10.2%; age 26-34, 27,528, 16.1%; age 35-44, 33,778, 19.7%; age 45-54, 32,111, 18.7%; age 55-64, 43,611, 25.4%; and age 65 and above, 1,641, 1%.The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services issued a warning in May highlighting fraudulent ACA enrollment activity in 32 states, including Kansas. The Kansas Department of Insurance has identified 24 complaints pertaining to unauthorized enrollment activities by insurance agents tied to marketplace scams, the KHI report said.

Record 171,000 Kansans enroll in the federally subsidized ACA health insurance marketplace

The Silver Alert for 73-year-old David Reese remains active, according to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. He is still missing. Please keep an eye out for him or his vehicle, a white 2017 Chevy Silverado bearing Kansas tag 885NEW.

On Monday the Harper Police Department, the Barber County Sheriff’s Office, the Harper County Sheriff’s Office, the Elwood Township Fire, the Kansas Fire Marshall, Kiowa Police Department, Kansas Highway Patrol, Medicine Lodge Fire Department, Kiowa Fire Department, Barber County Rural Fire Department, and Barber County Emergency Management, conducted a search for Reese over 700 square miles in an 8-hour time frame.

The search utilized aircraft, multiple drones, vehicles, and off-road vehicles. The area searched was over half of Barber County surrounding the last known location of Reese which was near Little Mule and Hardtner Shortcut.

 No evidence of Reese or his vehicle were found. The search continues. If you own property in Barber or Harper County, you are asked to check your land for anything out of the ordinary.&nbsp;Reese is a white male who is 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighs around 250 pounds. He has brown eyes, a white beard, and is balding. He may be traveling with a chocolate Labrador retriever, and is likely wearing a baseball cap. Reese has diabetes, anxiety, and a condition impairing cognition and memory. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722706150273.png" alt="David Reese courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>David Reese courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The Silver Alert for 73-year-old David Reese remains active, according to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. He is still missing. Please keep an eye out for him or his vehicle, a white 2017 Chevy Silverado bearing Kansas tag 885NEW.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722939097388.png" alt="Photos Barber Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photos Barber Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>On Monday the Harper Police Department, the Barber County Sheriff’s Office, the Harper County Sheriff’s Office, the Elwood Township Fire, the Kansas Fire Marshall, Kiowa Police Department, Kansas Highway Patrol, Medicine Lodge Fire Department, Kiowa Fire Department, Barber County Rural Fire Department, and Barber County Emergency Management, conducted a search for Reese over 700 square miles in an 8-hour time frame.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722939061343.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The search utilized aircraft, multiple drones, vehicles, and off-road vehicles. The area searched was over half of Barber County surrounding the last known location of Reese which was near Little Mule and Hardtner Shortcut. No evidence of Reese or his vehicle were found. The search continues. If you own property in Barber or Harper County, you are asked to check your land for anything out of the ordinary.&nbsp;Reese is a white male who is 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighs around 250 pounds. He has brown eyes, a white beard, and is balding. He may be traveling with a chocolate Labrador retriever, and is likely wearing a baseball cap. Reese has diabetes, anxiety, and a condition impairing cognition and memory.

KBI: Silver Alert continues for missing Kansas man

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement are working to locate the owner of a piece of luggage found with a substantial cache of illegal drugs.

On Wednesday evening Lawrence Police K9 Shadow, a highly trained dual-purpose patrol dog and his handler were engaged in a routine security sweep at a local transportation facility, according to a media release from the Lawrence Police Department.&nbsp; Shadow indicated to the presence of illegal drugs in a piece of luggage.

Upon inspection, officers located&nbsp;33.08 pounds of methamphetamines and 1.26 pounds of cocaine.

Investigators will be forwarding the seized substances to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) laboratory for comprehensive testing to determine if fentanyl is contained within the drugs.

Unsurprisingly, no one claimed the luggage in question. No one has been taken into custody, but investigators are working to identify the owner. The investigation remains ongoing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723125227983.png" alt="Photo Lawrence. Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Lawrence. Police</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement are working to locate the owner of a piece of luggage found with a substantial cache of illegal drugs.On Wednesday evening Lawrence Police K9 Shadow, a highly trained dual-purpose patrol dog and his handler were engaged in a routine security sweep at a local transportation facility, according to a media release from the Lawrence Police Department.&nbsp; Shadow indicated to the presence of illegal drugs in a piece of luggage.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723125209060.png" alt="Photo Lawrence Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Lawrence Police</figcaption>
 </figure>Upon inspection, officers located&nbsp;33.08 pounds of methamphetamines and 1.26 pounds of cocaine.Investigators will be forwarding the seized substances to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) laboratory for comprehensive testing to determine if fentanyl is contained within the drugs.Unsurprisingly, no one claimed the luggage in question. No one has been taken into custody, but investigators are working to identify the owner. The investigation remains ongoing.

Police: Nobody has claimed luggage filled with cocaine, meth

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating a homicide are asking the public for help to identify two suspects seen on security cameras, according to Kansas City Police.

The homicide occurred at E 9th Street and Chestnut Ave on July 20.

If you can identify&nbsp; either subject, please contact the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS.  

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723210784097.png" alt="photo KCPD" />
 <figcaption>photo KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating a homicide are asking the public for help to identify two suspects seen on security cameras, according to Kansas City Police.The homicide occurred at E 9th Street and Chestnut Ave on July 20.If you can identify&nbsp; either subject, please contact the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS.

KCPD ask for help to ID homicide suspects

KANSAS CITY —Investigators are working to determine the cause of an apartment building fire in Kansas City.

Just after 7:30a.m. Friday, crews responded to a reported apartment fire in the 600 block of Ewing, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

 Crews reported light smoke showing on arrival.

A search of the affected apartments was conducted, and all occupants were evacuated. The fire was in the wall in a pipe chase and extended from the first-floor apartment to the apartment above on the second floor. 

Companies quickly got the fire under control and limited the damage. The residents of two apartments will be displaced.&nbsp; No injuries were reported as a result of the fire.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723212870643.png" alt="Photo KCFD" />
 <figcaption>Photo KCFD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Investigators are working to determine the cause of an apartment building fire in Kansas City.Just after 7:30a.m. Friday, crews responded to a reported apartment fire in the 600 block of Ewing, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723213102725.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure> Crews reported light smoke showing on arrival.A search of the affected apartments was conducted, and all occupants were evacuated. The fire was in the wall in a pipe chase and extended from the first-floor apartment to the apartment above on the second floor. Companies quickly got the fire under control and limited the damage. The residents of two apartments will be displaced.&nbsp; No injuries were reported as a result of the fire.

Cause of Kansas City apartment fire under investigation

Attorney General Kris Kobach argues expansion of ACA violates federal law

TOPEKA — Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach filed a lawsuit Thursday on behalf of 15 states in an attempt to stop President Joe Biden from expanding health care access to DACA recipients by making them eligible for participation in the Affordable Care Act’s insurance marketplace.

Kobach, a Republican who built a political career concentrated on legal issues tied to undocumented migrants, was&nbsp;<a href="https://ag.ks.gov/docs/default-source/documents/daca-obamacare-complaint-8-8-24.pdf" target="_blank">joined in the federal lawsuit by attorneys general</a>&nbsp;in Alabama, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee and Virginia.

Kobach challenged the federal rule issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that would make people who arrived in the United States as children, sometimes known as Dreamers, eligible for taxpayer-subsidized health plans under the ACA. The Biden administration’s initiative would enable DACA, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, to be part of the health insurance marketplace on Nov. 1.

The lawsuit urged the federal court to postpone the effective date of the HHS rule pending completion of the case. It also sought to vacate the rule as “both contrary to law and unreasonable, arbitrary and capricious.”

“Illegal aliens shouldn’t get a free pass into our country,” said Kobach, using an offensive term for undocumented residents. “They shouldn’t receive taxpayer benefits when they arrive, and the Biden-Harris administration shouldn’t get a free pass to violate federal law. That’s why I am leading a multistate lawsuit to stop this illegal regulation from going into effect.”

Kobach said in the U.S. District Court complaint filed in North Dakota that the administration of President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris intended to violate a federal law forbidding government benefits from flowing to people who weren’t citizens of the United States or were otherwise unlawfully in the country.

He said Congress limited eligibility for federal public benefits to certain “qualified aliens” in 1996. DACA recipients weren’t included in the definition of qualified immigrants, he said. In addition, Kobach’s filing said Congress restricted eligibility to participate in the ACA’s qualified health plans to “citizens or nationals” of the United States or “aliens lawfully present in the United States.”

“Indeed, eligibility for DACA requires unlawful presence in the United States,” Kobach’s petition said.

Xavier Becerra, the secretary of HHS, said when the final DACA rule was published in May the change could lead to 100,000 previously uninsured DACA recipients enrolling in health coverage through the marketplaces.

“HHS is committed to making health coverage accessible for DACA recipients — Dreamers — who have worked hard to live the American dream,” Becerra said. “Dreamers are our neighbors and friends. They are students, teachers, social workers, doctors and nurses. More importantly, they are fellow Americans.”

Kobach asserted the HHS rule would make as many as 200,000 DACA recipients eligible for health insurance through the marketplace. His total of DACA participants included 4,350 in Kansas and 2,550 in Missouri. In terms of other plaintiff states, the numbers ranged from 7,810 in Virginia, 7,450 in Indiana, 6,360 in Tennessee and 4,840 in South Carolina to 220 in New Hampshire, 130 in North Dakota and 80 in Montana.

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall said extending health insurance through the ACA to 3,460 DACA recipients in Alabama represented a new “assault on the American worker.”

“First, this administration is demanding that hardworking Americans pay for someone else’s college degree, then it forces them to pay for medical procedures that violate their beliefs, and now they want to dictate paying for health care for people who shouldn’t even be in this country,” Marshall said.

South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson said the lawsuit was necessary to derail the Biden administration’s unconstitutional move to broaden the reach of Obamacare.

“I’m sympathetic to these people who didn’t choose to be brought here,” Wilson said. “However, this is yet another example of the Biden administration trying to do something it doesn’t have the authority to do.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723226584139.png" alt=" Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach, in concert with 14 other state attorneys general, filed a federal lawsuit challenging the President Joe Biden's plan to expand health insurance access to DACA recipients. The lawsuit seeks to block implementation of the rule on Nov. 1. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach, in concert with 14 other state attorneys general, filed a federal lawsuit challenging the President Joe Biden's plan to expand health insurance access to DACA recipients. The lawsuit seeks to block implementation of the rule on Nov. 1. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Attorney General Kris Kobach argues expansion of ACA violates federal law</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach filed a lawsuit Thursday on behalf of 15 states in an attempt to stop President Joe Biden from expanding health care access to DACA recipients by making them eligible for participation in the Affordable Care Act’s insurance marketplace.Kobach, a Republican who built a political career concentrated on legal issues tied to undocumented migrants, was&nbsp;<a href="https://ag.ks.gov/docs/default-source/documents/daca-obamacare-complaint-8-8-24.pdf" target="_blank">joined in the federal lawsuit by attorneys general</a>&nbsp;in Alabama, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee and Virginia.Kobach challenged the federal rule issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that would make people who arrived in the United States as children, sometimes known as Dreamers, eligible for taxpayer-subsidized health plans under the ACA. The Biden administration’s initiative would enable DACA, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, to be part of the health insurance marketplace on Nov. 1.The lawsuit urged the federal court to postpone the effective date of the HHS rule pending completion of the case. It also sought to vacate the rule as “both contrary to law and unreasonable, arbitrary and capricious.”“Illegal aliens shouldn’t get a free pass into our country,” said Kobach, using an offensive term for undocumented residents. “They shouldn’t receive taxpayer benefits when they arrive, and the Biden-Harris administration shouldn’t get a free pass to violate federal law. That’s why I am leading a multistate lawsuit to stop this illegal regulation from going into effect.”Kobach said in the U.S. District Court complaint filed in North Dakota that the administration of President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris intended to violate a federal law forbidding government benefits from flowing to people who weren’t citizens of the United States or were otherwise unlawfully in the country.He said Congress limited eligibility for federal public benefits to certain “qualified aliens” in 1996. DACA recipients weren’t included in the definition of qualified immigrants, he said. In addition, Kobach’s filing said Congress restricted eligibility to participate in the ACA’s qualified health plans to “citizens or nationals” of the United States or “aliens lawfully present in the United States.”“Indeed, eligibility for DACA requires unlawful presence in the United States,” Kobach’s petition said.Xavier Becerra, the secretary of HHS, said when the final DACA rule was published in May the change could lead to 100,000 previously uninsured DACA recipients enrolling in health coverage through the marketplaces.“HHS is committed to making health coverage accessible for DACA recipients — Dreamers — who have worked hard to live the American dream,” Becerra said. “Dreamers are our neighbors and friends. They are students, teachers, social workers, doctors and nurses. More importantly, they are fellow Americans.”Kobach asserted the HHS rule would make as many as 200,000 DACA recipients eligible for health insurance through the marketplace. His total of DACA participants included 4,350 in Kansas and 2,550 in Missouri. In terms of other plaintiff states, the numbers ranged from 7,810 in Virginia, 7,450 in Indiana, 6,360 in Tennessee and 4,840 in South Carolina to 220 in New Hampshire, 130 in North Dakota and 80 in Montana.Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall said extending health insurance through the ACA to 3,460 DACA recipients in Alabama represented a new “assault on the American worker.”“First, this administration is demanding that hardworking Americans pay for someone else’s college degree, then it forces them to pay for medical procedures that violate their beliefs, and now they want to dictate paying for health care for people who shouldn’t even be in this country,” Marshall said.South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson said the lawsuit was necessary to derail the Biden administration’s unconstitutional move to broaden the reach of Obamacare.“I’m sympathetic to these people who didn’t choose to be brought here,” Wilson said. “However, this is yet another example of the Biden administration trying to do something it doesn’t have the authority to do.”

Kan., 14 other state attorneys general file suit challenging health insurance for DACA recipients

WYANDOTTE&nbsp; COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating a Kansas bank robbery have taken a suspect into custody.

The robbery occurred just before 3p.m. Thursday at Mainstreet Credit Union, 8245 State Avenue, Kansas City, KS.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Suspect is described a white or Hispanic male, approximately 6ft tall and 150 pounds.  Suspect was wearing sunglasses, a face covering, a hooded sweatshirt, sweatpants and tennis shoes.

Just before 7p.m. Kansas City, Kansas police reported&nbsp; an individual was been taken into custody without incident within close proximity of the Mainstreet Credit Union. Police thanked partners and residents who assisted officers with their tips.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723164711471.png" alt="Photo KCK Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo KCK Police</figcaption>
 </figure>WYANDOTTE&nbsp; COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating a Kansas bank robbery have taken a suspect into custody.The robbery occurred just before 3p.m. Thursday at Mainstreet Credit Union, 8245 State Avenue, Kansas City, KS.&nbsp;&nbsp;Suspect is described a white or Hispanic male, approximately 6ft tall and 150 pounds. Suspect was wearing sunglasses, a face covering, a hooded sweatshirt, sweatpants and tennis shoes.Just before 7p.m. Kansas City, Kansas police reported&nbsp; an individual was been taken into custody without incident within close proximity of the Mainstreet Credit Union. Police thanked partners and residents who assisted officers with their tips.

Suspect captured just hours after Kansas bank robbery

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A funeral for Firefighter Ty Voth, who died battling a fire, was held at 10 a.m. on Friday at Hartman Arena, 8151 N Hartman Arena Drive in Park City.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/wichitafiredepartment">Click here to watch a</a> replay of the service

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722607741656.png" alt="Ty Voth courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Ty Voth courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A funeral for Firefighter Ty Voth, who died battling a fire, was held at 10 a.m. on Friday at Hartman Arena, 8151 N Hartman Arena Drive in Park City.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/wichitafiredepartment">Click here to watch a</a> replay of the service<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Below are the links for Firefighter Voth&#39;s obituary and for those who have asked, direct links to the memorials established in his honor. <a href="https://t.co/jFhklb01lI">https://t.co/jFhklb01lI</a><a href="https://t.co/dPD1epLuLB">https://t.co/dPD1epLuLB</a><a href="https://t.co/9s3dRb6YWk">https://t.co/9s3dRb6YWk</a> <a href="https://t.co/c4D8q8ZEwD">pic.twitter.com/c4D8q8ZEwD</a>&mdash; WichitaFireDept (@WichitaFireDept) <a href="https://twitter.com/WichitaFireDept/status/1821182072787968068?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Before the funeral, there was a public viewing at 9 a.m. at Hartman Arena.&nbsp;Following the service, Voth was transported to Whitewater Cemetery in Whitewater, Kansas.Official Procession Route from the Park City Arena:Park City Arena, 8151 N Hartman Arena Dr, Park City, KS 67147 To Whitewater Cemetery, 10881-11579 SE 72nd St, Whitewater, KS 67154<ol>
 <li>Exit Park City Arena using the southwest exit (E. Briar Rose Ln.)</li><li>Turn right (west) on E. Briar Rose Ln. and proceed to Broadway</li><li>Turn right (north) on Broadway and proceed approximately 9 miles</li><li>Turn right (east) onto K-196/SE 72nd and proceed east for approximately 8 miles</li><li>Cross Harvest Hill Rd. and attendants will assist in parking in the appropriate location upon arrival to the cemetery</li>
 </ol>His obituary is belowVoth was a 2015 graduate of Newton High School and attended Hutchinson Community College, graduating from the Fire Science Program in 2017. He then went on to work at the Manhattan Fire Department until 2019. From there, he was hired on to the Wichita Fire Department, to be closer to his family.From day one, Ty’s passion was to be a firefighter. He was a second generation firefighter, following in his father's and uncle’s footsteps. In his spare time, he was an avid outdoorsmen, spending most of his time out in the field hunting beside his grandpa, Jack; his brother, Nic; brother-in-law, Matt; cousin, Matthew; his best friends; along with his hunting dog, Mossy.Ty’s life revolved around his family. He was always there to help when needed and made sure his mother and family were always taken care of. The help and care that he showed extended out to his buddies and their families.Everyone has their kin family, but Ty was lucky enough to have a second family in Station Five B-Shift. Not only were they firefighters, they enjoyed time together outside of the station, taking vacations and making memories.He was preceded in death by: his grandmother, Jeannie Belcher; his grandfather, Ray Voth; his uncle, Mike Belcher; his cousin, Ryan Booth; along with his hunting dog, Mossy Girl.He is survived by: his mother, Angie Voth; his father, Chad Voth; his sister, Riley (Matt); his nephew, Mason; his brother, Nic (Leticia); his sister, Lindsey; his grandpa, Jack; his grandma, Sherry "Bud"; his aunts, Kathy (Tony) and Dana (Kent); his uncle, Kyle; his cousins, Matthew (Deana), Michael (Sydney), and Chad; along with his childhood buddies.On behalf of the family, they would like to thank the Wichita Fire Department for their support and compassion during this difficult time.There has been a memorial fund in honor of Ty Voth that may be designated to the Wichita Police and Fire Foundation, PO Box 782736, Wichita, Kansas 67278 or the Wichita Firefighters Charitable Fund, 428 N. St. Francis, Wichita, Kansas 67202.