&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.&nbsp;

Just after&nbsp;10:30 p.m., August 5, a Jackson County Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 2009 Hyundai Sonata for an alleged traffic infraction, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 The driver was identified as 36-year-old Starkesha Sabrina Palmer, of Topeka.  Palmer was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of THC, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving while suspended.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754403061745.png" alt="Palmer photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Palmer photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.&nbsp;Just after&nbsp;10:30 p.m., August 5, a Jackson County Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 2009 Hyundai Sonata for an alleged traffic infraction, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. The driver was identified as 36-year-old Starkesha Sabrina Palmer, of Topeka. Palmer was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of THC, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving while suspended.

Sheriff: Kansas woman caught transporting meth, THC

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an encounter with a deputy.&nbsp;

Just after 11a.m. August 6,&nbsp;a sheriff's deputy made contact with two individuals with a red 2003 Dodge Ram pickup truck backed into the bushes of a business in the 2600 block of SW Rochester Road in rural Shawnee County, according to Shawnee County Deputy Abigail Christian.

During the investigation, it was determined that the man had a felony warrant for his arrest and illegal narcotics were located.

Todd A. Lohness, 59, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requeste charges of Possession of an opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, Possession of marijuana, and Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia.

Lohness also had a felony warrant out of the county for a probation violation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754665135292.png" alt="Lohness photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Lohness photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an encounter with a deputy.&nbsp;Just after 11a.m. August 6,&nbsp;a sheriff's deputy made contact with two individuals with a red 2003 Dodge Ram pickup truck backed into the bushes of a business in the 2600 block of SW Rochester Road in rural Shawnee County, according to Shawnee County Deputy Abigail Christian.During the investigation, it was determined that the man had a felony warrant for his arrest and illegal narcotics were located.Todd A. Lohness, 59, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requeste charges of Possession of an opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, Possession of marijuana, and Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia.Lohness also had a felony warrant out of the county for a probation violation.

Wanted suspect was hiding in bushes of rural Kan. business

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/ashley-murray/">Ashley Murray</a>&nbsp;

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump will remove former Missouri Republican U.S. Rep. Billy Long from his post as head of the Internal Revenue Service less than two months after his confirmation, according to the White House Friday.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will step in as commissioner of the agency tasked with enforcing tax law and collecting revenue, according to a White House official. Long’s sudden departure was first reported by the New York Times.

Long wrote on social media that Trump will now appoint him to be U.S. ambassador to Iceland. The White House confirmed Long’s statement.

“It is a honor to serve my friend&nbsp;President Trump and I am excited to take on my new role as the ambassador to Iceland. I am thrilled to answer his call to service and deeply committed to advancing his bold agenda. Exciting times ahead!” Long wrote.

The former lawmaker’s ouster comes as the IRS must begin to implement changes to the tax code&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-house-passes-massive-tax-break-and-spending-cut-bill-sending-it-trump" target="_blank">championed</a>&nbsp;by Senate Republicans and signed into law by Trump just last month. Those include temporary tax relief for some tipped and overtime workers, as well as permanent changes to the child tax credit and several clean energy tax credits.

The agency, which collects the lion’s share of the country’s revenue from individual taxpayers, lost more than 11,000 employees, or 11% of its workforce, either through deferred resignations or mass firings of probationary workers since Trump began his second term, according to a May 2&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tigta.gov/sites/default/files/reports/2025-05/2025ier017fr.pdf" target="_blank">report</a>&nbsp;from the agency’s inspector general.

Long, who represented Missouri in the U.S. House from 2011 to 2023 and then worked many years as a talk radio host, was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/billy-long-confirmed-internal-revenue-service-commissioner" target="_blank">confirmed</a>&nbsp;by the U.S. Senate in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1191/vote_119_1_00308.htm" target="_blank">53-44</a>&nbsp;vote on June 12.

The former lawmaker and media personality faced&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/irs-nominee-billy-long-probed-democrats-over-nonexistent-tribal-tax-credits" target="_blank">scrutiny</a>&nbsp;during his confirmation process from Senate Democrats who demanded an investigation into Long’s work with two companies, Capital Edge Strategies and White River, where he allegedly peddled fake tax credits.

Senate Democrats also scrutinized donations Long received to his defunct Senate campaign after Trump announced in December he intended to install the former congressman at the helm of the IRS.

Long denied any wrongdoing, and received the support of all Senate Republicans, including Senate Committee on Finance Chair Mike Crapo, of Idaho, who praised Long’s promise to “implement a top-down culture change at the agency.”

‘One corruption bombshell after another’

Sen. Ron Wyden, the committee’s top Democrat, said in a statement Friday that&nbsp;“it was obvious this would end badly, but every Senate Republican voted to confirm his nomination anyway.”

“He didn’t even last two months on the job. Let’s not forget that there wasn’t a vacancy at the time Trump announced Long’s nomination. Danny Werfel, a skilled leader with fans among Democrats and Republicans, had years left on his term,” the Oregon lawmaker said.

Upon Long’s confirmation, Wyden said the vote should have been an “easy no” for Republicans.

“It’s one corruption bombshell after another with former Congressman Billy Long,” he said in June.

States Newsroom reached out to what appeared to be Long’s phone number for comment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754682615731.png" alt="Billy Long, former Missouri Congressman, photo IRS" />
 <figcaption>Billy Long, former Missouri Congressman, photo IRS</figcaption>
 </figure>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/ashley-murray/">Ashley Murray</a>&nbsp;WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump will remove former Missouri Republican U.S. Rep. Billy Long from his post as head of the Internal Revenue Service less than two months after his confirmation, according to the White House Friday.Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will step in as commissioner of the agency tasked with enforcing tax law and collecting revenue, according to a White House official. Long’s sudden departure was first reported by the New York Times.Long wrote on social media that Trump will now appoint him to be U.S. ambassador to Iceland. The White House confirmed Long’s statement.“It is a honor to serve my friend&nbsp;President Trump and I am excited to take on my new role as the ambassador to Iceland. I am thrilled to answer his call to service and deeply committed to advancing his bold agenda. Exciting times ahead!” Long wrote.The former lawmaker’s ouster comes as the IRS must begin to implement changes to the tax code&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-house-passes-massive-tax-break-and-spending-cut-bill-sending-it-trump" target="_blank">championed</a>&nbsp;by Senate Republicans and signed into law by Trump just last month. Those include temporary tax relief for some tipped and overtime workers, as well as permanent changes to the child tax credit and several clean energy tax credits.The agency, which collects the lion’s share of the country’s revenue from individual taxpayers, lost more than 11,000 employees, or 11% of its workforce, either through deferred resignations or mass firings of probationary workers since Trump began his second term, according to a May 2&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tigta.gov/sites/default/files/reports/2025-05/2025ier017fr.pdf" target="_blank">report</a>&nbsp;from the agency’s inspector general.<h2>Confirmed in June</h2>Long, who represented Missouri in the U.S. House from 2011 to 2023 and then worked many years as a talk radio host, was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/billy-long-confirmed-internal-revenue-service-commissioner" target="_blank">confirmed</a>&nbsp;by the U.S. Senate in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1191/vote_119_1_00308.htm" target="_blank">53-44</a>&nbsp;vote on June 12.The former lawmaker and media personality faced&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/irs-nominee-billy-long-probed-democrats-over-nonexistent-tribal-tax-credits" target="_blank">scrutiny</a>&nbsp;during his confirmation process from Senate Democrats who demanded an investigation into Long’s work with two companies, Capital Edge Strategies and White River, where he allegedly peddled fake tax credits.Senate Democrats also scrutinized donations Long received to his defunct Senate campaign after Trump announced in December he intended to install the former congressman at the helm of the IRS.Long denied any wrongdoing, and received the support of all Senate Republicans, including Senate Committee on Finance Chair Mike Crapo, of Idaho, who praised Long’s promise to “implement a top-down culture change at the agency.”<h2>‘One corruption bombshell after another’</h2>Sen. Ron Wyden, the committee’s top Democrat, said in a statement Friday that&nbsp;“it was obvious this would end badly, but every Senate Republican voted to confirm his nomination anyway.”“He didn’t even last two months on the job. Let’s not forget that there wasn’t a vacancy at the time Trump announced Long’s nomination. Danny Werfel, a skilled leader with fans among Democrats and Republicans, had years left on his term,” the Oregon lawmaker said.Upon Long’s confirmation, Wyden said the vote should have been an “easy no” for Republicans.“It’s one corruption bombshell after another with former Congressman Billy Long,” he said in June.States Newsroom reached out to what appeared to be Long’s phone number for comment.

Missouri’s Billy Long ousted by Trump as IRS chief after less than 2 months in office

ALLEN COUNTY — A Kansas man was hospitalized after a grain bin accident in rural Allen County.

Just before 8p.m. Thursday emergency crews responded to the Bernsten Farms, 3061 Utah Road near La Harpe, according to a statement from The&nbsp;Allen County Sheriff’s Office.

The farmer was working inside the 10,000 bushel bin when the corn shifted and he was trapped. After four hours, emergency crews were able to extricate him through the roof. He was transported to the Allen County Hospital

Crews from La Harpe, Iola, Colony and Anderson County assisted in the rescue.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754702271561.png" alt="Photos Allen County Sheriff'f office" />
 <figcaption>Photos Allen County Sheriff'f office</figcaption>
 </figure>ALLEN COUNTY — A Kansas man was hospitalized after a grain bin accident in rural Allen County.Just before 8p.m. Thursday emergency crews responded to the Bernsten Farms, 3061 Utah Road near La Harpe, according to a statement from The&nbsp;Allen County Sheriff’s Office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754743823489.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The farmer was working inside the 10,000 bushel bin when the corn shifted and he was trapped. After four hours, emergency crews were able to extricate him through the roof. He was transported to the Allen County HospitalCrews from La Harpe, Iola, Colony and Anderson County assisted in the rescue.&nbsp;

Kansas man rescued after trapped for hours in grain bin

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Donald J. Trump, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan sign peace and economic agreements at the White House <a href="https://t.co/yUvKZf0g0r">pic.twitter.com/yUvKZf0g0r</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1953914524081201264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev <a href="https://twitter.com/presidentaz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@presidentaz</a>: We will turn the page of standoff, confrontation, and bloodshed ... I am very happy because today, we are writing a great new history. Mr. President, thank you for what you are doing for us, for our region, and for the whole world. <a href="https://t.co/5FPTM0afwf">pic.twitter.com/5FPTM0afwf</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1953913464629735696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Armenian Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/NikolPashinyan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NikolPashinyan</a>: &quot;I think President Trump deserves to have the Nobel Peace Prize... we will promote for that... Today&#39;s event I think is a very bright expression of that.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/p7nzMswU8l">https://t.co/p7nzMswU8l</a> <a href="https://t.co/pk0AqmaMYd">pic.twitter.com/pk0AqmaMYd</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1953915878287851540?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/presidentaz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@presidentaz</a>: &quot;Maybe we agree with Prime Minister Pashinyan to send a joint appeal to the Nobel committee to award President Trump with the Nobel Peace Prize... This is a tangible result of President Trump&#39;s leadership and no one could&#39;ve achieved that.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/CVE1GkXL5X">pic.twitter.com/CVE1GkXL5X</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1953916600542757100?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Trump seals peace deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan

CLAY COUNTY, Mo. —Investigators have positively identified the individual whose body was located in the Missouri River on Wednesday evening as&nbsp;32-year-old Dusenge Y. Mukiza of Kansas City, Kansas, according to a statement from the Clay County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office.

&nbsp;An autopsy revealed no evidence of trauma or foul play.

Just after 8:30p.m. a couple who were fishing called 911 and reported seeing a body in the water near 210 Highway and Edwards Road. 

When deputies arrived, they found Mukiz'a body of the man on the north side of the river. The Missouri State Highway Patrol's Water Patrol Division assisted with recovering the body.

CLAY COUNTY, Mo. —Investigators have positively identified the individual whose body was located in the Missouri River on Wednesday evening as&nbsp;32-year-old Dusenge Y. Mukiza of Kansas City, Kansas, according to a statement from the Clay County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office.&nbsp;An autopsy revealed no evidence of trauma or foul play.Just after 8:30p.m. a couple who were fishing called 911 and reported seeing a body in the water near 210 Highway and Edwards Road. When deputies arrived, they found Mukiz'a body of the man on the north side of the river. The Missouri State Highway Patrol's Water Patrol Division assisted with recovering the body.

Body found by couple fishing in river identified as Kansas man

Merit-based selection adherents keen to keep status quo, reformists want direct elections

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

LAWRENCE — Campaigns for and against a proposed amendment to the Kansas Constitution allowing direct election of justices to the Kansas Supreme Court have begun the one-year charge to the August 2026 primary election where the issue will be decided.

While Attorney General Kris Kobach lauded the potential switch to statewide elections at an Americans for Prosperity-Kansas dinner in Wichita, a panel of skeptics brought together by Kansas Appleseed outlined Wednesday for an audience on the University of Kansas campus the reasons it would be a mistake to abandon the existing merit-based selection process.

Retired Kansas Supreme Court Justice Carol Beier, who served on the high court from 2003 to 2020, said opening the process up to expensive popular elections financed by special interests was contrary to the idea of an independent judiciary. Vague language of the amendment in terms of the process for electing justices to had yet to be clarified by the Legislature, she said.

“It is exceedingly vague,” she said. “It will be decided by the Legislature. Do you trust them?”

Mark Tallman, who lobbied for three decades at the Capitol and continues to work with the Kansas Association of School Boards, said the state Constitution mandated the Legislature make suitable provision for the financing of public education. Four major lawsuits over the past 60 years delved into constitutionality of school aid and the Supreme Court weighed into each of those disputes, he said.

He said the current school funding formula for K-12 public schools was due to expire in 2027 and substantive changes could trigger more lawsuits likely to work their way to the Supreme Court.

“Those who have been active in our association fundamentally believe that the system works and we shouldn’t risk change,” Tallman said.

Teresa Woody, litigation director of the advocacy organization Kansas Appleseed, said it would be impossible for elections of Supreme Court justices to be anything other than partisan brawls. She said the current system properly relied on candidates submitting applications, the selection of three finalists by an independent commission and appointment of new justices by a Kansas governor.

“It will work much better than the best iteration of a (proposed) constitutional amendment in really protecting Kansans’ rights,” Woody said. “Judges are there to interpret the law, not to make the law.”

Conventional wisdom says the amendment on next year’s ballot was the creation of conservative politicians frustrated with Supreme Court decisions leading to increases in state funding of K-12 public schools and declaring women had a constitutional right to abortion.

Steady reshuffling of the Supreme Court at the ballot box could influence judicial review of those poignant issues, but the Supreme Court also could assume a transformative role in voting rights and capital punishment cases.

“The Legislature appears to believe that partisan judges are likely to side with them on certain issues regardless of the rule of law,” Woody said. “They’re trying to change the rules of the game to be more favorable to those special interests and not to the general citizens of Kansas.”

Meanwhile, Kobach said he was pleased to be with AFP-Kansas to kick off of the campaign to gain voter approval for the judicial selection amendment. The amendment was endorsed by two-thirds majorities of the House and Senate. To be added to the state constitution, a simple majority of people casting votes on the August 2026 issue would resolve whether the amendment was added or discarded.

“People, not only lawyers in smoke-filled back rooms, should have a voice in selecting Kansas Supreme Court justices,” Kobach said.

In the past, Kobach said, adoption of the constitutional amendment would enable Kansans to reclaim the right to vote for justices.

“Polling shows that Kansans overwhelmingly prefer voting on Supreme Court justices to the status quo,” Kobach said. “Seventy-four percent support the direct election of Supreme Court justices, while only 20% like the current attorney-controlled system.”

In Kansas, the merit-based selection process used to fill the seven seats on the Supreme Court relied on work of a nominating commission. It has nine members, with five elected by attorneys who passed the state bar exam. The four nonlawyers are appointed by the governor.

Commission interviews with candidates and the voting by commission members are open to the public and livestreamed on the internet. On Thursday, Gov. Laura Kelly selected a new justice to the Supreme Court by choosing from among three finalists nominated by the commission. She could have rejected all three nominees, which would have returned it to the nominating commission for a redo.

“It’s an ultra-rigorous vetting process. I’ve been through it myself,” said Beier, who was appointed to the Kansas Court of Appeals by Republican Gov. Bill Graves and to the Supreme Court by Democratic Gov. Kathleen Sebelius.

Appellate judges and justices in Kansas must stand every six years for retention elections by Kansas voters.

In 2013, GOP Gov. Sam Brownback and the Legislature agreed to alter state law to replace the merit-based process for vacancies on the Court of Appeals with a system of appointment by the governor subject to confirmation by the Kansas Senate. Kelly has voluntarily made use of merit selection as she submitted Court of Appeals nominees to the Senate.

Brownback couldn’t use statute to amend the selection method for the Supreme Court because the structure was embedded in the Constitution.

Woody said rural voters ought to be wary of the proposed constitutional amendment because a majority vote would be applied to candidates for the Supreme Court. Kelly won reelection as governor in 2022 by winning fewer than 10 of the state’s 105 counties. That outcome suggested a cluster of urban centers — perhaps Johnson, Douglas, Wyandotte, Sedgwick and Riley counties — could dictate who sat on the Supreme Court.

Beier said legislative and executive branch politicians by their nature were expected to declare policy preferences and allow voters to hold accountable to their personal pledges and the platforms of political parties.

She said judges and justices should operate in a manner that concentrated on facts in evidence, weighed issues raised by participants and took into account laws enacted by government.

“Nowhere in that did you hear judges should worry about their popularity,” Beier said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754657223916.png" alt=" From left, Mark Tallman of the Kansas Association of School Boards, Teresa Woody, litigation director of Kansas Appleseed, and retired Kansas Supreme Court Justice Carol Beier participate in a panel discussion Wednesday at the University of Kansas on a proposed amendment to the Kansas Constitution to allow direct election of Supreme Court justices. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> From left, Mark Tallman of the Kansas Association of School Boards, Teresa Woody, litigation director of Kansas Appleseed, and retired Kansas Supreme Court Justice Carol Beier participate in a panel discussion Wednesday at the University of Kansas on a proposed amendment to the Kansas Constitution to allow direct election of Supreme Court justices. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Merit-based selection adherents keen to keep status quo, reformists want direct elections</h2>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>LAWRENCE — Campaigns for and against a proposed amendment to the Kansas Constitution allowing direct election of justices to the Kansas Supreme Court have begun the one-year charge to the August 2026 primary election where the issue will be decided.While Attorney General Kris Kobach lauded the potential switch to statewide elections at an Americans for Prosperity-Kansas dinner in Wichita, a panel of skeptics brought together by Kansas Appleseed outlined Wednesday for an audience on the University of Kansas campus the reasons it would be a mistake to abandon the existing merit-based selection process.Retired Kansas Supreme Court Justice Carol Beier, who served on the high court from 2003 to 2020, said opening the process up to expensive popular elections financed by special interests was contrary to the idea of an independent judiciary. Vague language of the amendment in terms of the process for electing justices to had yet to be clarified by the Legislature, she said.“It is exceedingly vague,” she said. “It will be decided by the Legislature. Do you trust them?”Mark Tallman, who lobbied for three decades at the Capitol and continues to work with the Kansas Association of School Boards, said the state Constitution mandated the Legislature make suitable provision for the financing of public education. Four major lawsuits over the past 60 years delved into constitutionality of school aid and the Supreme Court weighed into each of those disputes, he said.He said the current school funding formula for K-12 public schools was due to expire in 2027 and substantive changes could trigger more lawsuits likely to work their way to the Supreme Court.“Those who have been active in our association fundamentally believe that the system works and we shouldn’t risk change,” Tallman said.Teresa Woody, litigation director of the advocacy organization Kansas Appleseed, said it would be impossible for elections of Supreme Court justices to be anything other than partisan brawls. She said the current system properly relied on candidates submitting applications, the selection of three finalists by an independent commission and appointment of new justices by a Kansas governor.“It will work much better than the best iteration of a (proposed) constitutional amendment in really protecting Kansans’ rights,” Woody said. “Judges are there to interpret the law, not to make the law.”Conventional wisdom says the amendment on next year’s ballot was the creation of conservative politicians frustrated with Supreme Court decisions leading to increases in state funding of K-12 public schools and declaring women had a constitutional right to abortion.Steady reshuffling of the Supreme Court at the ballot box could influence judicial review of those poignant issues, but the Supreme Court also could assume a transformative role in voting rights and capital punishment cases.“The Legislature appears to believe that partisan judges are likely to side with them on certain issues regardless of the rule of law,” Woody said. “They’re trying to change the rules of the game to be more favorable to those special interests and not to the general citizens of Kansas.”Meanwhile, Kobach said he was pleased to be with AFP-Kansas to kick off of the campaign to gain voter approval for the judicial selection amendment. The amendment was endorsed by two-thirds majorities of the House and Senate. To be added to the state constitution, a simple majority of people casting votes on the August 2026 issue would resolve whether the amendment was added or discarded.“People, not only lawyers in smoke-filled back rooms, should have a voice in selecting Kansas Supreme Court justices,” Kobach said.In the past, Kobach said, adoption of the constitutional amendment would enable Kansans to reclaim the right to vote for justices.“Polling shows that Kansans overwhelmingly prefer voting on Supreme Court justices to the status quo,” Kobach said. “Seventy-four percent support the direct election of Supreme Court justices, while only 20% like the current attorney-controlled system.”In Kansas, the merit-based selection process used to fill the seven seats on the Supreme Court relied on work of a nominating commission. It has nine members, with five elected by attorneys who passed the state bar exam. The four nonlawyers are appointed by the governor.Commission interviews with candidates and the voting by commission members are open to the public and livestreamed on the internet. On Thursday, Gov. Laura Kelly selected a new justice to the Supreme Court by choosing from among three finalists nominated by the commission. She could have rejected all three nominees, which would have returned it to the nominating commission for a redo.“It’s an ultra-rigorous vetting process. I’ve been through it myself,” said Beier, who was appointed to the Kansas Court of Appeals by Republican Gov. Bill Graves and to the Supreme Court by Democratic Gov. Kathleen Sebelius.Appellate judges and justices in Kansas must stand every six years for retention elections by Kansas voters.In 2013, GOP Gov. Sam Brownback and the Legislature agreed to alter state law to replace the merit-based process for vacancies on the Court of Appeals with a system of appointment by the governor subject to confirmation by the Kansas Senate. Kelly has voluntarily made use of merit selection as she submitted Court of Appeals nominees to the Senate.Brownback couldn’t use statute to amend the selection method for the Supreme Court because the structure was embedded in the Constitution.Woody said rural voters ought to be wary of the proposed constitutional amendment because a majority vote would be applied to candidates for the Supreme Court. Kelly won reelection as governor in 2022 by winning fewer than 10 of the state’s 105 counties. That outcome suggested a cluster of urban centers — perhaps Johnson, Douglas, Wyandotte, Sedgwick and Riley counties — could dictate who sat on the Supreme Court.Beier said legislative and executive branch politicians by their nature were expected to declare policy preferences and allow voters to hold accountable to their personal pledges and the platforms of political parties.She said judges and justices should operate in a manner that concentrated on facts in evidence, weighed issues raised by participants and took into account laws enacted by government.“Nowhere in that did you hear judges should worry about their popularity,” Beier said.

Rivals launch fight over Kansas constitutional amendment to elect Supreme Court justices

DOUGLAS COUNTY–&nbsp;A motorcyclist died in an accident that occurred just after 4p.m. Friday in Lawrence.

According to Lawrence Police spokesperson Laura McCabe, a car was westbound on 21 Street.&nbsp; The motorcycle was northbound on Naismith Drive.&nbsp; The two collided.&nbsp;

Officers immediately blocked traffic heading north on Naismith while paramedics worked to assess the driver of the motorcycle.&nbsp; Medics from Lawrence Douglas County Fire Medical pronounced the motorcyclist dead at the scene.

 A helicopter, which was set to respond, was cancelled once it was obvious the motorcycle driver did not survive.  He was wearing a helmet. The driver of the car had minor physical injuries and cooperated fully with the investigation.

Responding officers interviewed several witnesses who saw the crash happen. LKPD’s Accident Investigations Unit responded and is working to determine the exact cause of the crash.&nbsp; Police have not released the name of the man who died.

DOUGLAS COUNTY–&nbsp;A motorcyclist died in an accident that occurred just after 4p.m. Friday in Lawrence.According to Lawrence Police spokesperson Laura McCabe, a car was westbound on 21 Street.&nbsp; The motorcycle was northbound on Naismith Drive.&nbsp; The two collided.&nbsp;Officers immediately blocked traffic heading north on Naismith while paramedics worked to assess the driver of the motorcycle.&nbsp; Medics from Lawrence Douglas County Fire Medical pronounced the motorcyclist dead at the scene. A helicopter, which was set to respond, was cancelled once it was obvious the motorcycle driver did not survive. He was wearing a helmet. The driver of the car had minor physical injuries and cooperated fully with the investigation.Responding officers interviewed several witnesses who saw the crash happen. LKPD’s Accident Investigations Unit responded and is working to determine the exact cause of the crash.&nbsp; Police have not released the name of the man who died.

Motorcyclist dies in 2-vehicle Kansas crash

KANSAS CITY, Kan.&nbsp;– The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred Friday afternoon in Kansas City, Kansas.

Preliminary information indicates that at 2:49 p.m., a male subject, later identified as Paul Beasley Jr., 24, of Kansas City, Kansas, entered a business at 8301 State Avene and pointed a firearm at the cashier, according to a media release from the KBI. Beasley demanded that the cashier call 911 and indicate the store was being robbed.

At approximately 2:50 p.m., a KCKPD officer entered the store and was confronted by Beasley. The officer observed the suspect was holding a firearm, and retreated outside. Beasley followed the officer out of the store, where police had gathered, and a shooting occurred. Five officers fired during the shooting, striking the suspect.

Officers rendered aid until EMS arrived and transported Beasley to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased. No law enforcement officers were injured during the incident.

This independent investigation aims to discover all events leading up to the officer-involved shooting. In police use of force cases, the KBI releases details to the public as soon as possible. This information is preliminary in nature, and is based on evidence collected and early statements of the parties involved, witnesses, medical personnel and others. It does not represent final or thorough findings which take several weeks to complete.

When this investigation concludes case findings will be presented to the Wyandotte County District Attorney for determination of charges. The investigation is ongoing.

KANSAS CITY, Kan.&nbsp;– The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred Friday afternoon in Kansas City, Kansas.Preliminary information indicates that at 2:49 p.m., a male subject, later identified as Paul Beasley Jr., 24, of Kansas City, Kansas, entered a business at 8301 State Avene and pointed a firearm at the cashier, according to a media release from the KBI. Beasley demanded that the cashier call 911 and indicate the store was being robbed.At approximately 2:50 p.m., a KCKPD officer entered the store and was confronted by Beasley. The officer observed the suspect was holding a firearm, and retreated outside. Beasley followed the officer out of the store, where police had gathered, and a shooting occurred. Five officers fired during the shooting, striking the suspect.Officers rendered aid until EMS arrived and transported Beasley to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased. No law enforcement officers were injured during the incident.This independent investigation aims to discover all events leading up to the officer-involved shooting. In police use of force cases, the KBI releases details to the public as soon as possible. This information is preliminary in nature, and is based on evidence collected and early statements of the parties involved, witnesses, medical personnel and others. It does not represent final or thorough findings which take several weeks to complete.When this investigation concludes case findings will be presented to the Wyandotte County District Attorney for determination of charges. The investigation is ongoing.

KBI: Man dead after Kansas officer shooting

WICHITA, KAN, – A Kansas businessman pleaded guilty to various charges related to defrauding clients of his accounting firm by falsely claiming money he had stolen was being used to pay business expenses, according to the United State's Attorney.

According to court documents, Quintin Flanagin, 45, of Colby pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud, one count of bank fraud, one count of false statements, and one count of money laundering.

Flanagin, a certified public accountant (CPA), used his status as a signatory on the accounts of his clients’ business, Diamond M. Farms, to make unauthorized transactions between December 2021 and August 2022. He wrote multiple checks and initiated wire transfers totaling approximately $409,710 to Middle Finger Ranch under the guise of being payments for farm operations. 

Middle Finger Ranch is a fictitious business name that Flanagin connected to his personal bank account. Flanagin actually used the illegally obtained funds to pay for the construction on his new home.

Flanagin is scheduled to be sentenced on October 30, 2025. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714043354777.png" alt="Flanagin from his booking in Sedgwick County in April 2024" />
 <figcaption>Flanagin from his booking in Sedgwick County in April 2024</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, KAN, – A Kansas businessman pleaded guilty to various charges related to defrauding clients of his accounting firm by falsely claiming money he had stolen was being used to pay business expenses, according to the United State's Attorney.According to court documents, Quintin Flanagin, 45, of Colby pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud, one count of bank fraud, one count of false statements, and one count of money laundering.Flanagin, a certified public accountant (CPA), used his status as a signatory on the accounts of his clients’ business, Diamond M. Farms, to make unauthorized transactions between December 2021 and August 2022. He wrote multiple checks and initiated wire transfers totaling approximately $409,710 to Middle Finger Ranch under the guise of being payments for farm operations. Middle Finger Ranch is a fictitious business name that Flanagin connected to his personal bank account. Flanagin actually used the illegally obtained funds to pay for the construction on his new home.Flanagin is scheduled to be sentenced on October 30, 2025. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the case.

Kan. CPA, creator of ‘Middle Finger Ranch,’ admits fraud scheme

OSAGE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on drug allegations. Just before 7a.m. August 5, a sheriff's deputy&nbsp;conducted a narcotic search warrant in the 1100 block of Laing Street in Osage City, according to Sheriff Chris Wells.

John C. Neu, 42, of Osage City was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of&nbsp;Possession of methamphetamine and Possession of drug paraphernalia

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754409688637.png" alt="Neu photo Osage County" />
 <figcaption>Neu photo Osage County</figcaption>
 </figure>OSAGE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on drug allegations. Just before 7a.m. August 5, a sheriff's deputy&nbsp;conducted a narcotic search warrant in the 1100 block of Laing Street in Osage City, according to Sheriff Chris Wells.John C. Neu, 42, of Osage City was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of&nbsp;Possession of methamphetamine and Possession of drug paraphernalia

Kansas man accused of meth possession after drug bust

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨 <a href="https://t.co/ClTl6TjL0S">pic.twitter.com/ClTl6TjL0S</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1953940364290572777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;The highly anticipated meeting between myself, as President of the United States of America, and President Vladimir Putin, of Russia, will take place next Friday, August 15, 2025, in the Great State of Alaska. Further details to follow. Thank you for your attention to this… <a href="https://t.co/SI3twRJayp">pic.twitter.com/SI3twRJayp</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1953945651857052106?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

President Trump confirms when, where he will meet Putin

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754675842988.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Great to spend time <a href="https://twitter.com/USDA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USDA</a>&#39;s Great American Farmers Market on the National Mall with <a href="https://twitter.com/SecRollins?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecRollins</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/EDSecMcMahon?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EDSecMcMahon</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/howardlutnick?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@howardlutnick</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MonicaCrowley?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MonicaCrowley</a> to celebrate America 250. If you missed this year&#39;s market, don&#39;t worry because next year&#39;s will be even better! <a href="https://t.co/xw1SljgozN">pic.twitter.com/xw1SljgozN</a>&mdash; Lee Zeldin (@epaleezeldin) <a href="https://twitter.com/epaleezeldin/status/1953850346406588462?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;The farmers, ranchers, and producers at the Great American Farmers Market not only represent the legacy of American agriculture but also the future of an industry defined by faith, determination, and hospitality.&quot; Check out <a href="https://twitter.com/SecRollins?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecRollins</a>&#39; latest op-ed featured in <a href="https://twitter.com/dcexaminer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DCExaminer</a> ➡️… <a href="https://t.co/0lCWwE41Fo">pic.twitter.com/0lCWwE41Fo</a>&mdash; Dept. of Agriculture (@USDA) <a href="https://twitter.com/USDA/status/1953551226735669744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Day 4 of the Great American Farmers Market was dedicated to our fantastic Foresters &amp; Firefighters! 🇺🇸 Honored to join <a href="https://twitter.com/EDSecMcMahon?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EDSecMcMahon</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/howardlutnick?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@howardlutnick</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/epaleezeldin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@epaleezeldin</a>, and <a href="https://twitter.com/MonicaCrowley?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MonicaCrowley</a> in celebrating our amazing forest firefighters, raising wildfire awareness, and wishing… <a href="https://t.co/l6O1uRhSRT">pic.twitter.com/l6O1uRhSRT</a>&mdash; Secretary Brooke Rollins (@SecRollins) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecRollins/status/1953438074496569663?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I had a great time at <a href="https://twitter.com/USDA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USDA</a>’s Great American Farmers Market! My fellow cabinet members <a href="https://twitter.com/SecRollins?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecRollins</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/howardlutnick?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@howardlutnick</a> , and <a href="https://twitter.com/epaleezeldin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@epaleezeldin</a> and I celebrated firefighters, promoted wildfire awareness, and of course honored Smokey Bear’s 81st birthday. <a href="https://t.co/c2WNBeEGd1">pic.twitter.com/c2WNBeEGd1</a>&mdash; Secretary Linda McMahon (@EDSecMcMahon) <a href="https://twitter.com/EDSecMcMahon/status/1953251587784360190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">America’s Golden Age under <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>’ leadership is so strong even our tractors are turning gold. <a href="https://t.co/v6UzgjBBvv">pic.twitter.com/v6UzgjBBvv</a>&mdash; Scott Turner (@SecretaryTurner) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecretaryTurner/status/1952910028261741027?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Kan. represented during Great American Farmer's Market on National Mall

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement in Saline County are investigating a fatal&nbsp; crash that occurred just after 5:30a.m. Friday and have made an arrest.

According to Saline County Sheriff's Captain Jim Hughes, a Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by&nbsp;32-year-old Kayla Errebo of Lorraine was westbound on Kansas 140 at South Reese Road in rural Saline County. The Jeep entered the eastbound lanes and struck a&nbsp;Chevrolet truck driven by&nbsp;61-year-old Mark Sommerfeld of Brookville head-on.

A passenger in the Chevy identified as 55-year-old Deanna Sommerfeld from Brookville was pronounced deceased on scene. 

EMS transported a Mark Sommerfield to Salina Regional Health Center Both were properly restrained, according to Hughes.

Errebo was not at the scene of the crash. Deputies located her just before 8:30a.m. at an address in Ellsworth.&nbsp; She had minor&nbsp;injuries that did not require medical treatment. Errebo was taken into custody and booked into the Saline County Jail on requested charges of Murder in&nbsp; the second degree, Failure to report an injury accident, Circumvention of ignition interlock device and Probation violation

The Saline County Sheriffs Office is actively investigating the incident and encourages anyone with information to contact out office at 785-826-6500.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754697774905.png" alt="Kayla Errebo had a previous arrest for alleged DUI in June of 2024. She was also accused of DUI in January of 2024, according to online jail records. photo Saline Co. Jail" />
 <figcaption>Kayla Errebo had a previous arrest for alleged DUI in June of 2024. She was also accused of DUI in January of 2024, according to online jail records. photo Saline Co. Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement in Saline County are investigating a fatal&nbsp; crash that occurred just after 5:30a.m. Friday and have made an arrest.According to Saline County Sheriff's Captain Jim Hughes, a Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by&nbsp;32-year-old Kayla Errebo of Lorraine was westbound on Kansas 140 at South Reese Road in rural Saline County. The Jeep entered the eastbound lanes and struck a&nbsp;Chevrolet truck driven by&nbsp;61-year-old Mark Sommerfeld of Brookville head-on.A passenger in the Chevy identified as 55-year-old Deanna Sommerfeld from Brookville was pronounced deceased on scene. EMS transported a Mark Sommerfield to Salina Regional Health Center Both were properly restrained, according to Hughes.Errebo was not at the scene of the crash. Deputies located her just before 8:30a.m. at an address in Ellsworth.&nbsp; She had minor&nbsp;injuries that did not require medical treatment. Errebo was taken into custody and booked into the Saline County Jail on requested charges of Murder in&nbsp; the second degree, Failure to report an injury accident, Circumvention of ignition interlock device and Probation violationThe Saline County Sheriffs Office is actively investigating the incident and encourages anyone with information to contact out office at 785-826-6500.

Driver arrested after head-on crash that killed Kansas woman

The following is a statement from acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy on the passing of famed Apollo astronaut Jim Lovell. He passed away Aug. 7, in Lake Forest, Illinois. He was 97 years old.

“NASA sends its condolences to the family of Capt. Jim Lovell, whose life and work inspired millions of people across the decades. Jim’s character and steadfast courage helped our nation reach the Moon and turned a potential tragedy into a success from which we learned an enormous amount. We mourn his passing even as we celebrate his achievements.

“From a pair of pioneering Gemini missions to the successes of Apollo, Jim helped our nation forge a historic path in space that carries us forward to upcoming Artemis missions to the Moon and beyond.

“As the Command Module Pilot for Apollo 8, Jim and his crewmates became the first to lift off on a Saturn V rocket and orbit the Moon, proving that the lunar landing was within our reach. As commander of the Apollo 13 mission, his calm strength under pressure helped return the crew safely to Earth and demonstrated the quick thinking and innovation that informed future NASA missions.

“Known for his wit, this unforgettable astronaut was nicknamed Smilin’ Jim by his fellow astronauts because he was quick with a grin when he had a particularly funny comeback.

“Jim also served our country in the military, and the Navy has lost a proud academy graduate and test pilot. Jim Lovell embodied the bold resolve and optimism of both past and future explorers, and we will remember him always.”

For more information about Lovell’s NASA career, and his agency biography, visit:

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We are saddened by the passing of Jim Lovell, commander of Apollo 13 and a four-time spaceflight veteran. Lovell&#39;s life and work inspired millions. His courage under pressure helped forge our path to the Moon and beyond—a journey that continues today. <a href="https://t.co/AjT8qmxsZI">https://t.co/AjT8qmxsZI</a> <a href="https://t.co/jBlxzgrmSk">pic.twitter.com/jBlxzgrmSk</a>&mdash; NASA (@NASA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA/status/1953893398995243332?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The following is a statement from acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy on the passing of famed Apollo astronaut Jim Lovell. He passed away Aug. 7, in Lake Forest, Illinois. He was 97 years old.“NASA sends its condolences to the family of Capt. Jim Lovell, whose life and work inspired millions of people across the decades. Jim’s character and steadfast courage helped our nation reach the Moon and turned a potential tragedy into a success from which we learned an enormous amount. We mourn his passing even as we celebrate his achievements.“From a pair of pioneering Gemini missions to the successes of Apollo, Jim helped our nation forge a historic path in space that carries us forward to upcoming Artemis missions to the Moon and beyond.“As the Command Module Pilot for Apollo 8, Jim and his crewmates became the first to lift off on a Saturn V rocket and orbit the Moon, proving that the lunar landing was within our reach. As commander of the Apollo 13 mission, his calm strength under pressure helped return the crew safely to Earth and demonstrated the quick thinking and innovation that informed future NASA missions.“Known for his wit, this unforgettable astronaut was nicknamed Smilin’ Jim by his fellow astronauts because he was quick with a grin when he had a particularly funny comeback.“Jim also served our country in the military, and the Navy has lost a proud academy graduate and test pilot. Jim Lovell embodied the bold resolve and optimism of both past and future explorers, and we will remember him always.”For more information about Lovell’s NASA career, and his agency biography, visit:

Astronaut Jim Lovell, famed Apollo 13 commander, dies at 97

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansas reported no new measles cases for the third week in a row Wednesday, and health officials are encouraging parents to vaccinate their children as they return to school next week to keep that trend going.&nbsp;

The lack of new cases puts Kansas about halfway through the 42 days required for a measles outbreak to be considered over, which is two incubation periods of 21 days each, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.&nbsp;

Close proximity in classrooms creates the ideal environment for the spread of measles, considered the most contagious vaccine-preventable disease, said Karen Winkelman, public health director for the Barton County Health Department.&nbsp;

She said county health officials maintain a strong working relationship with schools, which helps speed communications if there is a measles case.

“With measles, it’s going to be quick action, quick notification,” she said, adding that they’re also encouraging schools to adopt and teach strong hygiene practices.

Handwashing, good practices when sneezing and coughing, and encouraging parents to keep their children home when they have symptoms are among the practices Winkelman highlighted.

“Also review immunization records, making sure they are properly and appropriately vaccinated, and also just being honest, up front,” she said. “We’re not going to force vaccination, but we want you to know what the consequences are if there would happen to be an exposure.”

With a 21-day incubation period, an unvaccinated child who has been exposed may not be able to attend school for that time period.

School vaccination data from 2025 isn’t available yet, but many Kansas school districts last year reported&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/04/02/vaccination-rates-down-in-most-kansas-counties-where-measles-cases-occurring/">decreased vaccination rates</a>, according to Kansas State Department of Education data. For instance, the Gray County kindergarten vaccination rate dropped from 76% in the 2022-23 school year to 66% in 2023-24. Stevens County dropped from 98% to 83% in the same time period.

Ninety cases of measles have been reported in 12 Kansas counties since January, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/2314/Measles-Outbreak-Data" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health and Environment data</a>. Most of the cases, 87, are related to an outbreak, which occurs when three or more cases are linked to each other.&nbsp;

The last new Kansas measles cases were reported during the week of July 6.&nbsp;

“Certainly we can hope that the current outbreak situation is improved and nearly ending,” said Dana Hawkinson, medical director of infection prevention and control at the University of Kansas Health System.

But Hawkinson said measles cases continue to increase at the national level. The CDC reported 1,356 confirmed cases of measles as of Wednesday.

Communicating about the importance of vaccines continues to be important, he said. Many people still quote information that has been thoroughly researched and debunked, Hawkinson said.

“There have continued to be publications which continue to support the safety and benefits of vaccines, but especially the (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine,” he said. “There continue to be new, updated, well-done studies that show the safety of these vaccines.”

Hawkinson referenced&nbsp;<a href="https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/ANNALS-25-00997" target="_blank">a recent Denmark study</a>&nbsp;of 1.2 million children born between 1997 and 2018 that found no association between minute amounts of aluminum in vaccines and long-term health impacts.

“I think we have to continue to promote honest science and transparency, and it is a battle against disinformation, which has persisted and really grown in the past few decades,” he said.

Hawkinson said vaccine information has become intertwined with political and societal views.

“When we’re talking about our mechanic or our lawyer or our electrician, we will listen to them and take their advice,” he said. “But when it comes to the most important thing, we are finding it harder and harder, as a society, to take the advice of those people and those experts who are dedicating their lives and their training and their every day to giving accurate information and trying to keep individuals and communities healthy.”

Hawkinson said it’s important for parents to make informed decisions about their children’s health, and to also consider that an illness like measles can have an economic impact in terms of missed work and medical costs.

Before the measles vaccine was available in the 1960s, most people were infected with the measles virus, with about 400 to 500 people dying each year; 48,000 being hospitalized; and 1,000 suffering from encephalitis, or brain swelling, the CDC website said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743085628490.png" alt="Photo by Tatiana Lanzieri Centers for Disease Control and Prevention" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tatiana Lanzieri Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansas reported no new measles cases for the third week in a row Wednesday, and health officials are encouraging parents to vaccinate their children as they return to school next week to keep that trend going.&nbsp;The lack of new cases puts Kansas about halfway through the 42 days required for a measles outbreak to be considered over, which is two incubation periods of 21 days each, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.&nbsp;Close proximity in classrooms creates the ideal environment for the spread of measles, considered the most contagious vaccine-preventable disease, said Karen Winkelman, public health director for the Barton County Health Department.&nbsp;She said county health officials maintain a strong working relationship with schools, which helps speed communications if there is a measles case.“With measles, it’s going to be quick action, quick notification,” she said, adding that they’re also encouraging schools to adopt and teach strong hygiene practices.Handwashing, good practices when sneezing and coughing, and encouraging parents to keep their children home when they have symptoms are among the practices Winkelman highlighted.“Also review immunization records, making sure they are properly and appropriately vaccinated, and also just being honest, up front,” she said. “We’re not going to force vaccination, but we want you to know what the consequences are if there would happen to be an exposure.”With a 21-day incubation period, an unvaccinated child who has been exposed may not be able to attend school for that time period.School vaccination data from 2025 isn’t available yet, but many Kansas school districts last year reported&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/04/02/vaccination-rates-down-in-most-kansas-counties-where-measles-cases-occurring/">decreased vaccination rates</a>, according to Kansas State Department of Education data. For instance, the Gray County kindergarten vaccination rate dropped from 76% in the 2022-23 school year to 66% in 2023-24. Stevens County dropped from 98% to 83% in the same time period.Ninety cases of measles have been reported in 12 Kansas counties since January, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/2314/Measles-Outbreak-Data" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health and Environment data</a>. Most of the cases, 87, are related to an outbreak, which occurs when three or more cases are linked to each other.&nbsp;The last new Kansas measles cases were reported during the week of July 6.&nbsp;“Certainly we can hope that the current outbreak situation is improved and nearly ending,” said Dana Hawkinson, medical director of infection prevention and control at the University of Kansas Health System.But Hawkinson said measles cases continue to increase at the national level. The CDC reported 1,356 confirmed cases of measles as of Wednesday.Communicating about the importance of vaccines continues to be important, he said. Many people still quote information that has been thoroughly researched and debunked, Hawkinson said.“There have continued to be publications which continue to support the safety and benefits of vaccines, but especially the (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine,” he said. “There continue to be new, updated, well-done studies that show the safety of these vaccines.”Hawkinson referenced&nbsp;<a href="https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/ANNALS-25-00997" target="_blank">a recent Denmark study</a>&nbsp;of 1.2 million children born between 1997 and 2018 that found no association between minute amounts of aluminum in vaccines and long-term health impacts.“I think we have to continue to promote honest science and transparency, and it is a battle against disinformation, which has persisted and really grown in the past few decades,” he said.Hawkinson said vaccine information has become intertwined with political and societal views.“When we’re talking about our mechanic or our lawyer or our electrician, we will listen to them and take their advice,” he said. “But when it comes to the most important thing, we are finding it harder and harder, as a society, to take the advice of those people and those experts who are dedicating their lives and their training and their every day to giving accurate information and trying to keep individuals and communities healthy.”Hawkinson said it’s important for parents to make informed decisions about their children’s health, and to also consider that an illness like measles can have an economic impact in terms of missed work and medical costs.Before the measles vaccine was available in the 1960s, most people were infected with the measles virus, with about 400 to 500 people dying each year; 48,000 being hospitalized; and 1,000 suffering from encephalitis, or brain swelling, the CDC website said.

Kansas reports no new measles cases in three weeks as cases increase nationally

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement&nbsp; investigating a homicide in Topeka have identified the victim as 42-year-old Drew Davis, according to Topeka Police Lt. Ronnie Connell.

Just after 11:15 p.m., Wednesday, police responded to a shooting in the 100 block of NW Kendall Avenue in Topeka.&nbsp; As officers arrived in the area, they located Davis suffering from life-threatening injuries. While on the scene, medical personnel pronounced him deceased.&nbsp;

This is the city’s 14th homicide investigation of 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754568656602.png" alt="Photo by Cole Hermesch courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cole Hermesch courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement&nbsp; investigating a homicide in Topeka have identified the victim as 42-year-old Drew Davis, according to Topeka Police Lt. Ronnie Connell.Just after 11:15 p.m., Wednesday, police responded to a shooting in the 100 block of NW Kendall Avenue in Topeka.&nbsp; As officers arrived in the area, they located Davis suffering from life-threatening injuries. While on the scene, medical personnel pronounced him deceased.&nbsp;This is the city’s 14th homicide investigation of 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Police ID 42-year-old Kansas homicide victim

The Department of State and the Department of Justice are announcing a reward offer increase of up to $50 million under the Narcotics Rewards Program (NRP) for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of Nicolás Maduro for violating U.S. narcotics laws, according to a statement from agency.

For over a decade, Maduro has been a leader of Cartel de los Soles, which is responsible for trafficking drugs into the United States.&nbsp; On July 25, 2025, the U.S. Department of the Treasury designated Cartel de Los Soles as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT).&nbsp;

Since 2020, Maduro has strangled democracy and grasped at power in Venezuela.&nbsp; Maduro claimed to have won Venezuela’s July 28, 2024, presidential election but failed to present any evidence that he had prevailed.&nbsp; The United States has refused to recognize Maduro as the winner of 2024 election and does not recognize him as the President of Venezuela.&nbsp;

Today’s reward offer is authorized by the Secretary under the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.state.gov/releases-bureau-of-international-narcotics-and-law-enforcement-affairs?results=30&amp;currpage=2&amp;totalpages=2&amp;coll_filter_year&amp;coll_filter_month&amp;coll_filter_speaker&amp;coll_filter_country&amp;coll_filter_release_type=1438&amp;coll_filter_bureau&amp;coll_filter_program&amp;coll_filter_profession" target="_blank">NRP</a>, which supports law enforcement efforts to disrupt transnational crime globally and bring fugitives to justice as a key pillar of President Trump’s “America First” priorities.&nbsp; If you have information, please contact the DEA by phone (voice, WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram, or text) at +1-202-681-8187, or by&nbsp;<a href="mailto:CartelSolesTips@dea.gov">email</a>.&nbsp; If you are located outside the United States, you may also visit the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.&nbsp; If you are in the United States, you can also contact the local DEA field office.

ALL IDENTITIES ARE KEPT STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL.&nbsp; Government officials and employees are not eligible for rewards.

The Department of State and the Department of Justice are announcing a reward offer increase of up to $50 million under the Narcotics Rewards Program (NRP) for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of Nicolás Maduro for violating U.S. narcotics laws, according to a statement from agency.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Today, <a href="https://twitter.com/TheJusticeDept?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheJusticeDept</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/StateDept?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StateDept</a> are announcing a $50 MILLION REWARD for information leading to the arrest of Nicolás Maduro. <a href="https://t.co/D8LNqjS9yk">pic.twitter.com/D8LNqjS9yk</a>&mdash; Attorney General Pamela Bondi (@AGPamBondi) <a href="https://twitter.com/AGPamBondi/status/1953583017353466306?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>For over a decade, Maduro has been a leader of Cartel de los Soles, which is responsible for trafficking drugs into the United States.&nbsp; On July 25, 2025, the U.S. Department of the Treasury designated Cartel de Los Soles as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT).&nbsp;Since 2020, Maduro has strangled democracy and grasped at power in Venezuela.&nbsp; Maduro claimed to have won Venezuela’s July 28, 2024, presidential election but failed to present any evidence that he had prevailed.&nbsp; The United States has refused to recognize Maduro as the winner of 2024 election and does not recognize him as the President of Venezuela.&nbsp;Today’s reward offer is authorized by the Secretary under the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.state.gov/releases-bureau-of-international-narcotics-and-law-enforcement-affairs?results=30&amp;currpage=2&amp;totalpages=2&amp;coll_filter_year&amp;coll_filter_month&amp;coll_filter_speaker&amp;coll_filter_country&amp;coll_filter_release_type=1438&amp;coll_filter_bureau&amp;coll_filter_program&amp;coll_filter_profession" target="_blank">NRP</a>, which supports law enforcement efforts to disrupt transnational crime globally and bring fugitives to justice as a key pillar of President Trump’s “America First” priorities.&nbsp; If you have information, please contact the DEA by phone (voice, WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram, or text) at +1-202-681-8187, or by&nbsp;<a href="mailto:CartelSolesTips@dea.gov">email</a>.&nbsp; If you are located outside the United States, you may also visit the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.&nbsp; If you are in the United States, you can also contact the local DEA field office.ALL IDENTITIES ARE KEPT STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL.&nbsp; Government officials and employees are not eligible for rewards.

🎥U.S. offers $50M reward for arrest of Venezuelan President 

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement a investigating another homicide in Kansas City have identified the victim as 42-year-old&nbsp;Braisen Cain, according to KCKPD Captain Jake Becchina.

Just after 7:30p.m. Wednesday, police were dispatched to report of a shooting in the 4000 Block of Morrell in Kansas City, Missouri, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Police found Cain who had been shot and was unresponsive in front of a residence there. Officers called for EMS who responded and declared her deceased at the scene. Homicide detectives responded and are investigating this case as a homicide.&nbsp;Detectives made progress identifying a subject of interest and they are working with prosecutors on presenting evidence for charges and to ensure that subject is taken into custody.

This was the 99th homicide of the year in Kansas City, Missouri, compared with 91 at this time a year ago.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754563530575.png" alt="Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'" />
 <figcaption>Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement a investigating another homicide in Kansas City have identified the victim as 42-year-old&nbsp;Braisen Cain, according to KCKPD Captain Jake Becchina.Just after 7:30p.m. Wednesday, police were dispatched to report of a shooting in the 4000 Block of Morrell in Kansas City, Missouri, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Police found Cain who had been shot and was unresponsive in front of a residence there. Officers called for EMS who responded and declared her deceased at the scene. Homicide detectives responded and are investigating this case as a homicide.&nbsp;Detectives made progress identifying a subject of interest and they are working with prosecutors on presenting evidence for charges and to ensure that subject is taken into custody.This was the 99th homicide of the year in Kansas City, Missouri, compared with 91 at this time a year ago.

Homicide: Police ID woman found dead in front of KC home

EXPANDING INVESTMENT CHOICES FOR 401(K) PLANS:&nbsp;Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to allow 401(k) investors to access alternative assets for better returns and diversification, according to a statement from the White House.

PROMOTING RETIREMENT SECURITY THROUGH DIVERSIFIED INVESTMENTS:&nbsp;President Trump wants to give American workers more investment options in order to attain stronger and more financially secure retirement outcomes.

BUILDING WEALTH AND SECURING RETIREMENT FOR ALL AMERICANS:&nbsp;&nbsp;President Trump is delivering on his promise to enhance financial opportunities and retirement security for all Americans, ensuring they can build wealth and thrive.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620732850317.jpg" alt="Image Pixaby" />
 <figcaption>Image Pixaby</figcaption>
 </figure>EXPANDING INVESTMENT CHOICES FOR 401(K) PLANS:&nbsp;Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to allow 401(k) investors to access alternative assets for better returns and diversification, according to a statement from the White House.<ul>
 <li>The Order directs the Secretary of Labor to reexamine the Department of Labor’s guidance on a fiduciary’s duties regarding alternative asset investments in ERISA-governed 401(k) and other defined-contribution plans.</li><li>The Order instructs the Secretary of Labor to clarify the Department of Labor’s position on alternative assets and the appropriate fiduciary process associated with offering asset allocation funds containing investments in alternative assets.</li><li>The Order directs the Secretary of Labor to consult with the Secretary of the Treasury, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and other federal regulators to determine whether parallel regulatory changes should be made at those agencies to give effect to the purpose of the Order.</li><li>The Order directs the Securities and Exchange Commission to facilitate access to alternative assets for participant-directed defined-contribution retirement savings plans by revising applicable regulations and guidance.</li>
 </ul>PROMOTING RETIREMENT SECURITY THROUGH DIVERSIFIED INVESTMENTS:&nbsp;President Trump wants to give American workers more investment options in order to attain stronger and more financially secure retirement outcomes.<ul>
 <li>More than 90 million Americans participate in employer-sponsored defined-contribution plans, and most of those are currently restricted from investing in alternative assets, unlike wealthy investors and retirement plans for government workers.</li><li>Alternative assets, such as private equity, real estate, and digital assets, offer competitive returns and diversification benefits.</li><li>Regulatory overreach and litigation risks have limited ERISA-governed plan fiduciaries from including alternative assets in their investment portfolios, hindering workers’ retirement growth.</li><li>President Trump is expanding access to these assets to ensure a dignified and comfortable retirement for all Americans.</li>
 </ul>BUILDING WEALTH AND SECURING RETIREMENT FOR ALL AMERICANS:&nbsp;&nbsp;President Trump is delivering on his promise to enhance financial opportunities and retirement security for all Americans, ensuring they can build wealth and thrive.<ul>
 <li>President Trump’s Department of Labor has already rescinded guidance put place by the Biden Administration regarding digital assets.</li><li>President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill delivers on his promise to ensure retirees can keep more of their hard-earned benefits.</li><li>President Trump promised to make the United States the “crypto capital of the world,” emphasizing the need to embrace digital assets to drive economic growth and technological leadership.</li><li>Through tax cuts and deregulation, President Trump is delivering on his promise to Make America Wealthy Again, empowering workers to save and invest more for their retirement.</li>
 </ul>

Trump signs order providing new options for your 401(k)

CRAWFORD COUNTY —A Missouri man drowned just after 3p.m. Wednesday on the Meramec River at the Onondaga State Park.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 65-year-old O'Fallon man suffered a medical incident, fell out a canoe near the Vilander Buff in the Meramec RIver in Onondaga State Park. He was not wearing a life jacket, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754649765695.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CRAWFORD COUNTY —A Missouri man drowned just after 3p.m. Wednesday on the Meramec River at the Onondaga State Park.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 65-year-old O'Fallon man suffered a medical incident, fell out a canoe near the Vilander Buff in the Meramec RIver in Onondaga State Park. He was not wearing a life jacket, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Missouri man drowns after fall from canoe at Onondaga State Park

HARVEY COUNTY—&nbsp;Matthew Ratzlaff, 38, of Burrton, entered guilty pleas Wednesday in Harvey County District Court to Kidnapping and 2 counts of Aggravated Indecent Solicitation of a Child involving sexual crimes against a child under the age of 10, according to&nbsp; Harvey County Attorney Heather L. Figger.

At the time of the offenses, Ratzlaff was on post-release supervision. His guilty pleas mark a significant step toward justice for the victim and community.

Sentencing is scheduled to take place before Judge Nancy Parrish on October 8. 

Ratzlaff faces a potential prison sentence of 283 to 315 months in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections, followed by lifetime post-release supervision. He will also be subject to lifetime registration as a sex offender.

“This case is a painful reminder of the seriousness of crimes against children,” said County Attorney Heather L. Figger. “We are committed to holding offenders accountable and pursuing justice for the most vulnerable members of our community.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754597878549.png" alt="Ratzlaff photo Harvey County" />
 <figcaption>Ratzlaff photo Harvey County</figcaption>
 </figure>HARVEY COUNTY—&nbsp;Matthew Ratzlaff, 38, of Burrton, entered guilty pleas Wednesday in Harvey County District Court to Kidnapping and 2 counts of Aggravated Indecent Solicitation of a Child involving sexual crimes against a child under the age of 10, according to&nbsp; Harvey County Attorney Heather L. Figger.At the time of the offenses, Ratzlaff was on post-release supervision. His guilty pleas mark a significant step toward justice for the victim and community.Sentencing is scheduled to take place before Judge Nancy Parrish on October 8. Ratzlaff faces a potential prison sentence of 283 to 315 months in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections, followed by lifetime post-release supervision. He will also be subject to lifetime registration as a sex offender.“This case is a painful reminder of the seriousness of crimes against children,” said County Attorney Heather L. Figger. “We are committed to holding offenders accountable and pursuing justice for the most vulnerable members of our community.”

Kan. felon on parole admits to sex crimes with child under age 10

JACKSON COUNTY– Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas man on multiple allegations after a high-speed chase.

Just after 2a.m. on August, 5, a Sheriff’s Deputy attempted to stop a 2018 Chevy Silverado heading north on U.S. Highway 75 near 134th Road for allegedly committing traffic infractions, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 The vehicle failed to stop and a pursuit ensued northbound on U.S. Hwy 75. The suspect vehicle allegedly exceeded over 100mph.  At one point, a Jackson County Deputy performed a tactical vehicle intervention which temporarily disabled the suspect vehicle. The suspect allegedly ran motorists off the road way during the pursuit. The suspect vehicle eventually came to a stop near 278th Road on U.S. Hwy 75. 

 The driver, 35-year-old Michael Andrew Richardson of Topeka was arrested and taken into custody.  Richardson was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges that include two counts of aggravated battery on law enforcement, two counts of aggravated assault on law enforcement, two counts battery on law enforcement, battery on a corrections officer, one count of aggravated assault, felony criminal damage to property, flee and eluding law enforcement by reckless driving, driving under the influence and felony interference with law enforcement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754506700869.png" alt="Richardson-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Richardson-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY– Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas man on multiple allegations after a high-speed chase.Just after 2a.m. on August, 5, a Sheriff’s Deputy attempted to stop a 2018 Chevy Silverado heading north on U.S. Highway 75 near 134th Road for allegedly committing traffic infractions, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. The vehicle failed to stop and a pursuit ensued northbound on U.S. Hwy 75. The suspect vehicle allegedly exceeded over 100mph. At one point, a Jackson County Deputy performed a tactical vehicle intervention which temporarily disabled the suspect vehicle. The suspect allegedly ran motorists off the road way during the pursuit. The suspect vehicle eventually came to a stop near 278th Road on U.S. Hwy 75. The driver, 35-year-old Michael Andrew Richardson of Topeka was arrested and taken into custody. Richardson was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges that include two counts of aggravated battery on law enforcement, two counts of aggravated assault on law enforcement, two counts battery on law enforcement, battery on a corrections officer, one count of aggravated assault, felony criminal damage to property, flee and eluding law enforcement by reckless driving, driving under the influence and felony interference with law enforcement.

Sheriff: Kansas driver ran vehicles off the road during 100mph chase

By: NICOLAS FIERRO Salina Post

OTTAWA COUNTY - The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is currently reviewing a proposed sow farm/facility that is potentially looking to be established in Ottawa County, KS.

On January 2025, the KDHE received a notice from <a href="https://www.schwartzfarms.com/">Schwartz Farms</a> (Minnesota Hog &amp; Pork Producer, family-owned company that specializes in pork production) for the establishment of a<a href="https://exafan.com/en/swine-farms/sow-farm">&nbsp;breeding sow farm </a>(female pig giving birth to at least one litter of piglets) 'Smoky Hills Pork' to be installed in Ottawa County.

That following month in February, both Schwartz Farms and Ottawa County members signed&nbsp;habitable structure separation agreements and was then submitted to the KDHE.

On March 4th, Schwartz Farms submitted a permit application to KDHE for the potential installation of Smoky Hills Pork. Then on March 13th, certified mail was distributed, which notified Ottawa County Commissioners and owners of habitable structures within a mile of the proposed farm of the forthcoming public notice.

Then on the 20th that same month, a&nbsp;public notice was sent out to inform the public that a permit was submitted and published in the <a href="https://www.theminneapolismessenger.com/">Minneapolis Messenger</a> (official Ottawa County paper).

Afterwards, the public was given until&nbsp;April 20th to provide comments towards the KDHE on how they feel about the potential establishment of Smoky Hills Pork.&nbsp;

Furthermore, on May 29, the KDHE notified public of the intent to issue a draft permit. From there, the public was given until June 9th to give their comments towards the agency.

Then on July 9th, KDHE assembled a public hearing with members of Ottawa County at the Minneapolis Jr/Sr High School gym regarding the proposed sow farm/facility. The public had the opportunity to voice their opinion on where they stood about the proposed permit, as they were given a total 3 minutes to speak.&nbsp;

The majority of the public who spoke were 'against' the permit, but many other members of Ottawa County who attended were 'for' it. Those who were against the permit voiced concerns about 'water contamination, the volume of animals, wastewater, lagoon liners, health and the location of the proposed facility.

Views of those who are 'against' the sow farm

“Its a bad location because it is (proposed) in a sensitive groundwater area,” said Ottawa County resident, Kathy Scharplaz. "According to Schwartz' permit application, the facility is proposed in a sensitive groundwater area and some of these export fields are apart of that as well."

According to Scharplaz, sensitive groundwater areas 'designate areas where it is fairly easy for contaminants to get into the groundwater.'

Cassie Roth,&nbsp;one of the leading advocates that is fighting against this permit said she first heard about the proposed sow farm, when a farmer (who owns land on the location of the proposed facility) drove to her house and told both Cassie and her husband about it. She commented she 'had no idea about the proposed sow farm' and is concerned since she lives a mile away from the proposed facility.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753897064268.jpg" alt="Photo Pixaby" />
 <figcaption>Photo Pixaby</figcaption>
 </figure>By: NICOLAS FIERRO Salina PostOTTAWA COUNTY - The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is currently reviewing a proposed sow farm/facility that is potentially looking to be established in Ottawa County, KS.<h2>Timeline of proposal</h2>On January 2025, the KDHE received a notice from <a href="https://www.schwartzfarms.com/">Schwartz Farms</a> (Minnesota Hog &amp; Pork Producer, family-owned company that specializes in pork production) for the establishment of a<a href="https://exafan.com/en/swine-farms/sow-farm">&nbsp;breeding sow farm </a>(female pig giving birth to at least one litter of piglets) 'Smoky Hills Pork' to be installed in Ottawa County.That following month in February, both Schwartz Farms and Ottawa County members signed&nbsp;habitable structure separation agreements and was then submitted to the KDHE.On March 4th, Schwartz Farms submitted a permit application to KDHE for the potential installation of Smoky Hills Pork. Then on March 13th, certified mail was distributed, which notified Ottawa County Commissioners and owners of habitable structures within a mile of the proposed farm of the forthcoming public notice.Then on the 20th that same month, a&nbsp;public notice was sent out to inform the public that a permit was submitted and published in the <a href="https://www.theminneapolismessenger.com/">Minneapolis Messenger</a> (official Ottawa County paper).Afterwards, the public was given until&nbsp;April 20th to provide comments towards the KDHE on how they feel about the potential establishment of Smoky Hills Pork.&nbsp;Furthermore, on May 29, the KDHE notified public of the intent to issue a draft permit. From there, the public was given until June 9th to give their comments towards the agency.Then on July 9th, KDHE assembled a public hearing with members of Ottawa County at the Minneapolis Jr/Sr High School gym regarding the proposed sow farm/facility. The public had the opportunity to voice their opinion on where they stood about the proposed permit, as they were given a total 3 minutes to speak.&nbsp;The majority of the public who spoke were 'against' the permit, but many other members of Ottawa County who attended were 'for' it. Those who were against the permit voiced concerns about 'water contamination, the volume of animals, wastewater, lagoon liners, health and the location of the proposed facility.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753898008322.jpeg" alt="Ottawa County residents gathered for a public hearing conducted by the KDHE on July 9th regarding the proposed 10,000 amount sow farm" />
 <figcaption>Ottawa County residents gathered for a public hearing conducted by the KDHE on July 9th regarding the proposed 10,000 amount sow farm</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Views of those who are 'against' the sow farm</h2>“Its a bad location because it is (proposed) in a sensitive groundwater area,” said Ottawa County resident, Kathy Scharplaz. "According to Schwartz' permit application, the facility is proposed in a sensitive groundwater area and some of these export fields are apart of that as well."According to Scharplaz, sensitive groundwater areas 'designate areas where it is fairly easy for contaminants to get into the groundwater.'Cassie Roth,&nbsp;one of the leading advocates that is fighting against this permit said she first heard about the proposed sow farm, when a farmer (who owns land on the location of the proposed facility) drove to her house and told both Cassie and her husband about it. She commented she 'had no idea about the proposed sow farm' and is concerned since she lives a mile away from the proposed facility.Roth stated that she and her husband were concerned about their quality of water and started to speak about the proposed sow farm with other surrounding neighbors. Roth and her husband then thought to start a petition to potentially stop the permit.&nbsp;Roth and other Ottawa County residents also received letters from the KDHE about what Schwartz Farms wanted to do as far as installing the sow farm.&nbsp;In the meantime, Roth got in touch with Scharplaz to talk about the proposed sow farm. “She (Scharplaz) did a whole research paper on <a href="https://www.epa.gov/npdes/animal-feeding-operations-afos">CAFO</a>. She is very passionate about this,” said Roth.Roth stated that a presentation was then put together on June 30th to show how the facility could negatively affect the community.According to the KDHE, the permit for Smoky Hills Pork is a maximum capacity facility of 14,976 head (5990.4 animal units) of swine weighing more than 55 pounds each and 30,583 (3,058.3 animal units) of swine weighing less than 55 pounds, for a total of 9,048.7 animal units. The farm is proposed to be located in the Southeast quarter in Ottawa County.&nbsp;Ottawa County resident, Kyrsten Rodenbeek stated the process of the proposal has 'moved forward with very little public notification or community engagement.'"It appears the process has moved forward with very little public notification or community engagement," she said. "Many of us only learned about it recently, well after initial steps had already been taken, and we’re concerned that it’s being pushed through before the broader public has a chance to weigh in."<h2>Views of those who are 'for' the sow farm</h2>Despite many residents wanting to not go forward with the permit, other Ottawa County members have voiced their opinion on how they feel about the <a href="https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/environmental/cafo.htm">CAFO</a>.David Kiser thinks there are 'alot of positives' when it comes to Schwartz Farms' "Smoky Hills Pork.""This facility will bring economic growth of the area," said Kiser. "The county has been stagnant and we need to get something going so we can provide more jobs. In my opinion there are alot of positives with this.”Though there are several concerns with the overall quality of water in Ottawa County, Kiser believes there will be 'no effect' on the groundwater if this sow farm were to be installed. He also commented that the proposed lagoon which would be set, would be difficult to experience an overflow.“There will be no effect on the groundwater and the plants will take up the nitrates," he said, "I just don't see a possibility of that happening.&nbsp;We are going to have to get 10-15 feet of rain for the lagoon to overflow."Though Kiser is on the other side of the public's perspective, he is still open to hearing their opinion and not making enemies with those who are 'against' the permit.“We are all still neighbors at the end of the day."Another Ottawa County resident Beau Cline, described that his wife used to manage a hog farm and did not mention of her experiencing any health issues. He disagrees the smell that would come from the proposed facility would affect people's health.“I think they are over exaggerating about the smell," Cline said.<h2>Schwartz Farms comments</h2><a href="https://www.schwartzfarms.com/">Schwartz Farms Inc.</a> is a 2nd generation family-farm company that has been in operation for 50 years. With their primary operation being in the pork industry,&nbsp;Schwartz Farms employs over 550 full-time individuals and owns sows in the upper Midwest, predominantly in Minnesota, Kansas, Iowa, South Dakota and Nebraska.Schwartz Farms told Salina Post, they are very ‘grateful’ for those who are 'for' the permit, but are also aware of the comments who are 'against' it.“The concerns that the public brings forth are also things we also care very deeply about, whether that is safeguarding the environment, providing a safe and positive working environment for our people, caring for our animals, protecting the groundwater and just in general supporting the communities we are proud to call home,” said Owner, Tim Schwartz.Tim noted that they work with teams of engineers to design the farm, along with the installation of the lagoon liner.“We make sure what we construct meets the standards of the KDHE and we will do just that.," said Tim. "We have to do testing in advance of the permit to establish whether the ground is suitable, and there are technical standards we must meet. The engineers were very satisfied with the clay soil that is present on the site to meet and exceed the technical requirements for the lagoon liner.”Schwartz Farms has two other farms in Kansas and are set ‘in close proximity of the other two.'Though Schwartz is based outside of Kansas, the family-owned company promises to still provide 'philanthropic efforts' to the local communities they base their facilities in. Schwartz commented on how they are excited about potentially working with Ottawa County and the economic activity it will create. According to Schwartz, the company donates around $120,000 to the local communities they 'call home.'Members of the public have voiced concerns about the 'lack of accountability' there would be, in the event if 'anything were to go wrong' from the sow farm. Furthermore, that the 'county and residents alone would have to deal with the consequences.'Schwartz Farms stated 'there are clear consequences for non-compliance,' and they 'take that seriously.'"In the rare event of a catastrophic issue, we are required to activate emergency response plans, notify the appropriate regulatory agencies and take immediate action to address and remediate the situation—under their direct oversight," said Owner, Tim Schwartz. "Our long-standing track record of environmental compliance and good standing in the communities, we have farms reflects our commitment to doing the right thing."<h2>KSA Statutes</h2>According to CAFO statutes from the KDHE, swine facilities are required to follow specific various guidelines. Most of those guidelines include:<h2>Protection from pollution</h2>As per<a href="https://ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch65/065_001_0071d.html">&nbsp;KSA 65-171d</a>:"Protect the soil and waters of the state from pollution resulting from underground storage of liquid petroleum gas and hydrocarbons, other than underground porosity storage of natural gas;&nbsp;“control the disposal, discharge or escape of sewage (as defined in KSA 65-164)"Pollution in this context means: "Such contamination or other alteration of the physical, chemical or biological properties of any waters of the state as will or is likely to create a nuisance or render such waters harmful, detrimental or injurious to public health, safety or welfare, or to the plant, animal or aquatic life of the state or to other designated uses; or (B) such discharge as will or is likely to exceed state effluent standards predicated upon technologically based effluent limitations."<h2>Public notification</h2>Once the KDHE has received an application for a permit for construction of a new swine facility, the KDHE is required to a per <a href="https://ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch65/065_001_0179.html">KSA 65-1,179</a>:"Publish in the Kansas register ( official state newspaper, serving as a publication for various public notices, including proposed and adopted administrative regulations, new state laws, bond sales, open meeting notices, and state contracts) a notice of receipt of the application"<h2>Required distances from water</h2><a href="https://ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch65/065_001_0180.html">KSA 65-1,180</a> provides information on the “required distances from water” for a swine facility.<h2>Lagoon standards and the monitorization of water wells</h2><a href="https://ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch65/065_001_0181.html">KSA 65-1,181</a>:“The facility shall maintain a log of removal of the manure or wastewater from the facility and such log shall contain the following:” "The facility shall provide to the hauler of the removed manure or wastewater the most recent manure nutrient analysis conducted pursuant to subsection (c) of <a href="https://ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch65/065_001_0182.html">K.S.A. 65-1,182</a> and amendments thereto, if the removed manure or wastewater are to be land applied.”"The sides and bottom of such lagoon or pond shall be lined with:(i) A compacted soil liner with a minimum depth of one foot and maximum seepage rate of 1/8 inch per day; or(ii) an impermeable liner on top of a compacted soil liner with a minimum depth of one foot and maximum seepage rate of 1/4 inch per day.&nbsp;In&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch65/065_001_0180.html">KSA 65-1,180</a>&nbsp;there is more information about 'odor control’ and ‘dead animal handling.’&nbsp;<h2>Investigations, services and orders; fees</h2><a href="https://ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch65/065_001_0066a.html">KSA 65- 166a&nbsp;</a>(a) "The secretary of health and environment is authorized and directed to establish by duly adopted rules or regulations a schedule of fees to defray all or any part of the costs of administering the water pollution control permit system established by K.S.A.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch65/065_001_0065.html" target="_blank">65-165</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch65/065_001_0066.html" target="_blank">65-166</a>,"<a href="https://ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch65/065_001_0071e.html">KSA 65-171e</a>"All investigations, services and orders rendered, issued or promulgated under the provisions of K.S.A.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch65/065_001_0071d.html" target="_blank">65-171d</a>, and amendments thereto, shall be made by such agency, section or division of the department of health and environment, or any of them, as may be designated by the secretary of health and environment, and all fees collected shall be remitted by the secretary to the state treasurer in accordance with the provisions of K.S.A.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch75/075_042_0015.html" target="_blank">75-4215</a>, and amendments thereto. Upon receipt of each such remittance, the state treasurer shall deposit the entire amount in the state treasury to the credit of the state general fund.<a href="https://ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch02/002_033_0018.html">KSA 2-3318</a>:"Regardless of whether irrigation water is added, whenever swine waste is applied to crops or land, the secretary of health and environment is authorized to investigate, inspect or conduct any manner of examination or review of the application of swine waste. No swine waste shall be applied to crops or land in excess of agronomic application rates.""Failure of the operator of a swine confined feeding facility to implement a nutrient utilization plan approved by the secretary of health and environment shall be considered a violation of the Kansas chemigation safety law for which the secretary may suspend a permit pursuant to K.S.A.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch02/002_033_0010.html" target="_blank">2-3310</a>, and amendments thereto, or may impose a civil penalty pursuant to K.S.A.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch02/002_033_0017.html" target="_blank">2-3317</a>, and amendments thereto, or both."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754584935583.jpeg" alt="courtesy photo of Schwartz Farms" />
 <figcaption>courtesy photo of Schwartz Farms</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Awaiting a decision</h2>According Kansas statute <a href="https://ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch17/017_059_0008.html">KSA 17-5908</a>: County Commissioners can independently permit or deny the CAFO.&nbsp;Ottawa County commissioners have currently not made a decision and chose not to comment about Smoky Hills Pork.Ottawa County Commissioner Duane Morris, told Salina Post they will make no comment at this time, as per their attorney.Salina Post will provide any updates and information once received as far the decision on the permit.