JERUSALEM— The U.S. Navy continues to face threats in the Red Sea. Between 2 and 2:20 a.m. Wednesday United States Central Command successfully engaged and destroyed four long-range unmanned aerial systems (UAS) launched by Iranian-backed Houthi terrorists in Yemen, according to a statement from the agency.

 These UAS were aimed at a U.S. warship and engaged in self-defense over the Red Sea. There were no injuries or damage reported to U.S. or coalition ships. The U.S. Central Command did not identify which warship was targeted.


It was determined these weapons presented an imminent threat to merchant vessels and U.S. Navy ships in the region. These actions are taken to protect freedom of navigation and make international waters safer and more secure for U.S. Navy and merchant vessels.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;&nbsp;Republican U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham wants the Biden administration and Congress to allow Israel to militarily defeat all remaining Hamas fighters in the southern Gaza city of Rafah — which is overflowing with more than a million displaced civilians. Israel says there are thousands of Hamas militants in that area.

Defeating Hamas in Rafah is “non-negotiable,” Graham told reporters in Jerusalem on Wednesday. “I urge the Biden administration, the Congress to make sure that Israel has the time and space to achieve victory over Hamas militarily.”

The U.S. Department of Defense wants Israel to protect civilians and secure the delivery of aid into Gaza during any military operation into Rafah, where over half of Gaza’s 2.3 million people have fled to escape fighting in other areas and are packed into rudimentary tent camps and U.N.-run shelters.

Israel was meant to send a delegation to Washington to discuss plans for defeating Hamas in Rafah. However, Israel cancelled the visit after the U.S. allowed the U.N. Security Council to pass a resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza and the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, without linking the two.

The cancelled meeting was the strongest public clash between Israel and the U.S. since the war began.

Graham said he understood Israel’s opposition to the U.N. resolution, saying the wording created doubt. But he hoped for a "breakthrough” that would bring Israel and the U.S. “back together talking about the way forward.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709685344452.png" alt="photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>JERUSALEM— The U.S. Navy continues to face threats in the Red Sea. Between 2 and 2:20 a.m. Wednesday United States Central Command successfully engaged and destroyed four long-range unmanned aerial systems (UAS) launched by Iranian-backed Houthi terrorists in Yemen, according to a statement from the agency. These UAS were aimed at a U.S. warship and engaged in self-defense over the Red Sea. There were no injuries or damage reported to U.S. or coalition ships. The U.S. Central Command did not identify which warship was targeted.
It was determined these weapons presented an imminent threat to merchant vessels and U.S. Navy ships in the region. These actions are taken to protect freedom of navigation and make international waters safer and more secure for U.S. Navy and merchant vessels.Meanwhile,&nbsp;&nbsp;Republican U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham wants the Biden administration and Congress to allow Israel to militarily defeat all remaining Hamas fighters in the southern Gaza city of Rafah — which is overflowing with more than a million displaced civilians. Israel says there are thousands of Hamas militants in that area.Defeating Hamas in Rafah is “non-negotiable,” Graham told reporters in Jerusalem on Wednesday. “I urge the Biden administration, the Congress to make sure that Israel has the time and space to achieve victory over Hamas militarily.”The U.S. Department of Defense wants Israel to protect civilians and secure the delivery of aid into Gaza during any military operation into Rafah, where over half of Gaza’s 2.3 million people have fled to escape fighting in other areas and are packed into rudimentary tent camps and U.N.-run shelters.Israel was meant to send a delegation to Washington to discuss plans for defeating Hamas in Rafah. However, Israel cancelled the visit after the U.S. allowed the U.N. Security Council to pass a resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza and the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, without linking the two.The cancelled meeting was the strongest public clash between Israel and the U.S. since the war began.Graham said he understood Israel’s opposition to the U.N. resolution, saying the wording created doubt. But he hoped for a "breakthrough” that would bring Israel and the U.S. “back together talking about the way forward.”

Navy downs 4 drones aimed at U.S. warship in the Red Sea

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a shooting that sent a man to the hospital on March 21, report 50-year-old Lyle W. Garrett died of his injuries.

Just before 1p.m. Thursday, police responded to a request for medical attention in the 200 Block of Southwest Boulevard in Kansas City, Kansas, according to a media release.

First responders found Garrett with a gunshot wound. EMS transported him to a hospital in critical condition. He died the following day.

The Kansas City, Kansas Police Department's Major Case unit is in charge of the investigation. Police have not reported an arrest or possible suspect information.

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a shooting that sent a man to the hospital on March 21, report 50-year-old Lyle W. Garrett died of his injuries.Just before 1p.m. Thursday, police responded to a request for medical attention in the 200 Block of Southwest Boulevard in Kansas City, Kansas, according to a media release.First responders found Garrett with a gunshot wound. EMS transported him to a hospital in critical condition. He died the following day.The Kansas City, Kansas Police Department's Major Case unit is in charge of the investigation. Police have not reported an arrest or possible suspect information.

50-year-old Kansas man injured in shooting has died

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The Powerball jackpot increased to an estimated $935 million after no one matched the six numbers drawn Wednesday night.

The numbers selected were: 37, 46, 57, 60, 66 and the Powerball 8.

The drawing came a day after a player in New Jersey won a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lottery-mega-millions-jackpot-2ca3af2378b56cb272877f2c0a674cd5">$1.13 billion Mega Millions prize</a>&nbsp;after 30 straight drawings without a winner.

The Powerball jackpot has been growing for months, since the last winner on New Year’s Day. There now have been 37 consecutive drawings without anyone hitting the top prize.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-mega-millions-winning-odds-numbers-a3e5a8e8e7ed15d7500c1d6acdab6785">The game’s odds</a>&nbsp;of 1 in 292.2 million are designed to create big jackpots that will grab attention and increase sales.

The $935 million prize for the next drawing Saturday night is for a sole winner who is paid over 30 years&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-jackpot-annuity-vs-cash-0e741f164106c0f4dba89707c5763c99">through an annuity</a>. Winners usually opt for a cash payout, which for the next drawing would be an estimated $449.7 million.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The Powerball jackpot increased to an estimated $935 million after no one matched the six numbers drawn Wednesday night.The numbers selected were: 37, 46, 57, 60, 66 and the Powerball 8.The drawing came a day after a player in New Jersey won a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lottery-mega-millions-jackpot-2ca3af2378b56cb272877f2c0a674cd5">$1.13 billion Mega Millions prize</a>&nbsp;after 30 straight drawings without a winner.The Powerball jackpot has been growing for months, since the last winner on New Year’s Day. There now have been 37 consecutive drawings without anyone hitting the top prize.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-mega-millions-winning-odds-numbers-a3e5a8e8e7ed15d7500c1d6acdab6785">The game’s odds</a>&nbsp;of 1 in 292.2 million are designed to create big jackpots that will grab attention and increase sales.The $935 million prize for the next drawing Saturday night is for a sole winner who is paid over 30 years&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-jackpot-annuity-vs-cash-0e741f164106c0f4dba89707c5763c99">through an annuity</a>. Winners usually opt for a cash payout, which for the next drawing would be an estimated $449.7 million.

Powerball jackpot increases to $935 million after no one wins the top prize

JOHNSON COUNTY —A Kansas teen who admitted his role in a 2022 robbery and murder at a business in Shawnee, Kansas is going to prison.

Last week, a Johnson County judged sentenced 19-year-old Fernando Reyes-Lara to 400 months in prison.

On January 17, Reyes-Lara pleaded guilty to Second Degree Murder and Aggravated Robbery in the death of Jarod Rogers, according to the Johnson County District Attorney's office.

On Nov. 30, 2022, police made a welfare check on a business in Shawnee and found Rogers with a gunshot wound. He was transported to an area hospital and died two days later.

Reyes-Lara is among five teens including 17-year-old Sabrina Clark; 17-year-old Kyleigh Guzman; 17-year-old Roger Hernandez and 17-year-old Fernando Gonzalez-Prado accused in the killing.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705590509354.png" alt="Reyes Lara-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Reyes Lara-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —A Kansas teen who admitted his role in a 2022 robbery and murder at a business in Shawnee, Kansas is going to prison.Last week, a Johnson County judged sentenced 19-year-old Fernando Reyes-Lara to 400 months in prison.On January 17, Reyes-Lara pleaded guilty to Second Degree Murder and Aggravated Robbery in the death of Jarod Rogers, according to the Johnson County District Attorney's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705591026073.png" alt="Clark-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Clark-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>On Nov. 30, 2022, police made a welfare check on a business in Shawnee and found Rogers with a gunshot wound. He was transported to an area hospital and died two days later.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705591117825.png" alt="Guzman -photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Guzman -photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705591194088.png" alt="Hernandez-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Hernandez-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705591381040.png" alt="Gonzalez-Prado-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Gonzalez-Prado-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Reyes-Lara is among five teens including 17-year-old Sabrina Clark; 17-year-old Kyleigh Guzman; 17-year-old Roger Hernandez and 17-year-old Fernando Gonzalez-Prado accused in the killing.&nbsp;

Teen sentenced for robbery, killing at Kansas business

FINNEY COUNTY —Two people were injured in an&nbsp; oil field accident just before 11:30a.m.&nbsp;Wednesday, in southwest Kansas.

The Garden City Fire Department responded to the report of an industrial accident, explosion in the area of 3300 West Annie Scheer Road in Finney County, according to a media release.

Fire crews found two victims with significant burns and quickly began lifesaving efforts until the arrival of Finney County Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Both victims were loaded into ambulances and care was transferred to EMS.

Following the transportation of the victims, fire personnel began firefighting operations on a small fire that was contained to an oil field tank battery. The fire was called under control at 12:08 p.m.

Mutual aid on scene was provided by Finney County EMS, Finney County Sheriff Department, Finney County Emergency Management, Kansas Highway Patrol, Holcomb Volunteer Fire Department, and Holcomb Police Department.&nbsp; Officials released no additional details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711584563036.png" alt="Location of the tank battery explosion southwest of Garden City" />
 <figcaption>Location of the tank battery explosion southwest of Garden City</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY —Two people were injured in an&nbsp; oil field accident just before 11:30a.m.&nbsp;Wednesday, in southwest Kansas.The Garden City Fire Department responded to the report of an industrial accident, explosion in the area of 3300 West Annie Scheer Road in Finney County, according to a media release.Fire crews found two victims with significant burns and quickly began lifesaving efforts until the arrival of Finney County Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Both victims were loaded into ambulances and care was transferred to EMS.Following the transportation of the victims, fire personnel began firefighting operations on a small fire that was contained to an oil field tank battery. The fire was called under control at 12:08 p.m.Mutual aid on scene was provided by Finney County EMS, Finney County Sheriff Department, Finney County Emergency Management, Kansas Highway Patrol, Holcomb Volunteer Fire Department, and Holcomb Police Department.&nbsp; Officials released no additional details.

2 with significant burns after Kan. oil field tank battery explosion

FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating&nbsp;three individuals for their involvement in an alleged aggravated assault.

On March 24, police were dispatched to J&amp;J Mobile Mechanic,&nbsp;917 Herald Avenue in Garden City for a possible aggravated assault, according to a media release.

The investigation revealed that four juveniles attempted to pull a prank on an employee. After the prank, the employee and two other staff allegedly confronted the juveniles with firearms, took them into the business and held them at gunpoint. 

The employees also allegedly took personal belongings of the juveniles and made several threats before letting them go. Through further investigation&nbsp;Jazmin Loya, 25,&nbsp; Jesus Loya, 24 and Jose Bricullett, 24, all of Garden City were identified as suspects.

On&nbsp; March 25, Jazmin Loya and Bricullett were arrested and booked into the Finney County Jail on requested charges of Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Kidnapping, Aggravated Robbery, Criminal Threat, and Aggravated Battery. 

On Tuesday, Jesus Loya was arrested and booked into the Finney County Jail on requested charges&nbsp; Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Kidnapping, Aggravated Robbery, Criminal Threat, Aggravated Battery, and Aggravated Intimidation of a Witness or Victim.

There were no injuries from the incident, according to police.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711552818945.png" alt="Bricullett-photo Finney Co." />
 <figcaption>Bricullett-photo Finney Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating&nbsp;three individuals for their involvement in an alleged aggravated assault.On March 24, police were dispatched to J&amp;J Mobile Mechanic,&nbsp;917 Herald Avenue in Garden City for a possible aggravated assault, according to a media release.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711552727653.png" alt="Loya-photo Finney Co." />
 <figcaption>Loya-photo Finney Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The investigation revealed that four juveniles attempted to pull a prank on an employee. After the prank, the employee and two other staff allegedly confronted the juveniles with firearms, took them into the business and held them at gunpoint. The employees also allegedly took personal belongings of the juveniles and made several threats before letting them go. Through further investigation&nbsp;Jazmin Loya, 25,&nbsp; Jesus Loya, 24 and Jose Bricullett, 24, all of Garden City were identified as suspects.On&nbsp; March 25, Jazmin Loya and Bricullett were arrested and booked into the Finney County Jail on requested charges of Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Kidnapping, Aggravated Robbery, Criminal Threat, and Aggravated Battery. On Tuesday, Jesus Loya was arrested and booked into the Finney County Jail on requested charges&nbsp; Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Kidnapping, Aggravated Robbery, Criminal Threat, Aggravated Battery, and Aggravated Intimidation of a Witness or Victim.There were no injuries from the incident, according to police.

3 jailed in Kansas after juvenile attempts alleged prank

RENO COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a woman on multiple allegations after a violent knife attack in Hutchinson.

Just before 7:30p.m. Tuesday, Sheriff's Deputies responded to a stabbing in at 5300 W 43rd Avenue Unit A in Hutchinson, according to a media release.&nbsp;

Deputies observed heavy smoke coming from the front door. The victim, a 65-year-old man of Hutchinson, was located outside near the residence with multiple stab wounds to his chest. He appeared to be in stable condition at that time and was able to communicate that the suspect, 52-year-old Amy Rowland of Hutchinson had set his house on fire, stabbed him, and had walked away from the scene.

As Deputies began to search the area for her, a 911 call came in from across the street at 5300 W Nickerson Blvd. A 59-year-old man of Hutchinson reported a woman had entered his residence and attempted to set his house on fire. Deputies proceeded to this location and took Amy Rowland into custody.

Reno County Fire District 3 &amp; 4 responded and put out the structure fire.

The house had extensive damage. The victim was treated and transported by Reno County EMS to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries. A search warrant was conducted on the residence once the fire was extinguished.

Amy Rowland was booked into the Reno County Correctional Facility on a $516,500 bond on requested charges of Attempted Homicide in the first degree, Attempted Aggravated Arson, Arson, and Criminal Threat.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711569864672.png" alt="Rowland-photo Reno Co." />
 <figcaption>Rowland-photo Reno Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a woman on multiple allegations after a violent knife attack in Hutchinson.Just before 7:30p.m. Tuesday, Sheriff's Deputies responded to a stabbing in at 5300 W 43rd Avenue Unit A in Hutchinson, according to a media release.&nbsp;Deputies observed heavy smoke coming from the front door. The victim, a 65-year-old man of Hutchinson, was located outside near the residence with multiple stab wounds to his chest. He appeared to be in stable condition at that time and was able to communicate that the suspect, 52-year-old Amy Rowland of Hutchinson had set his house on fire, stabbed him, and had walked away from the scene.As Deputies began to search the area for her, a 911 call came in from across the street at 5300 W Nickerson Blvd. A 59-year-old man of Hutchinson reported a woman had entered his residence and attempted to set his house on fire. Deputies proceeded to this location and took Amy Rowland into custody.Reno County Fire District 3 &amp; 4 responded and put out the structure fire.The house had extensive damage. The victim was treated and transported by Reno County EMS to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries. A search warrant was conducted on the residence once the fire was extinguished.Amy Rowland was booked into the Reno County Correctional Facility on a $516,500 bond on requested charges of Attempted Homicide in the first degree, Attempted Aggravated Arson, Arson, and Criminal Threat.

Woman accused of knife attack, setting fire at Kansas home

NEW YORK (AP) — Former U.S. Sen.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-lieberman">Joe Lieberman</a>&nbsp;of Connecticut, who nearly won the vice presidency on the Democratic ticket with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/al-gore">Al Gore</a>&nbsp;in the disputed 2000 election and who almost became Republican John McCain's running mate eight years later, has died, according to a statement issued by his family.

Lieberman died in New York City on Wednesday due to complications from a fall, the statement said. He was 82.

The Democrat-turned-independent was never shy about veering from the party line.

Lieberman's independent streak and especially his needling of Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama during the 2008 presidential contest rankled many Democrats, the party he aligned with in the Senate. Yet his support for gay rights, civil rights, abortion rights and environmental causes at times won him the praise of many liberals over the years.

Lieberman came tantalizingly close to winning the vice presidency in the contentious 2000 presidential contest that was decided by a 537-vote margin victory for George W. Bush in Florida after a drawn-out recount, legal challenges and a Supreme Court decision. He was the first Jewish candidate on a major party’s presidential ticket and would have been the first Jewish vice president.

He was also the first national Democrat to publicly criticize President Bill Clinton for his extramarital affair with a White House intern.

Lieberman sought the Democratic presidential nomination in 2004 but dropped out after a weak showing in the early primaries. Four years later, he was an independent who was nearly chosen to be McCain’s running mate. He and McCain were close pals who shared hawkish views on military and national security matters.

McCain was leaning strongly toward choosing Lieberman for the ticket as the 2008 GOP convention neared, but he chose Sarah Palin at the last minute after “ferocious” blowback from conservatives over Lieberman’s liberal record, according to Steve Schmidt, who managed McCain’s campaign.

Lieberman generated controversy in 1998 when he scolded Clinton, his friend of many years, for “disgraceful behavior” in an explosive speech on the Senate floor during the height of the scandal over his relationship with Monica Lewinsky. Yet Lieberman later voted against the impeachment of Clinton.

He defended his partisan switches as a matter of conscience, saying he always had the best interests of Connecticut voters at heart. Critics accused him of pursuing narrow self-interest and political expediency.

In announcing his retirement from the Senate in 2013, Lieberman acknowledged that he did “not always fit comfortably into conventional political boxes” and felt his first responsibility was to serve his constituents, state and country, not his political party. He had a tortured relationship with Democrats.

During his final Senate speech, Lieberman urged Congress to look beyond party lines and partisan rancor to break Washington gridlock.

“It requires reaching across the aisle and finding partners from the opposite party,” said Lieberman. “That is what is desperately needed in Washington now.”

Harry Reid, who served as Senate Democratic leader, once said that while he didn’t always agree with the independent-minded Lieberman, he respected him.

“Regardless of our differences, I have never doubted Joe Lieberman’s principles or his patriotism,” Reid said. “And I respect his independent streak, as it stems from strong convictions.”

Privately, some Democrats were often less charitable about Lieberman’s forays across party lines, which they saw as disloyal. He bolted his party and turned independent after a 2006 Senate primary loss in Connecticut.

Lieberman’s strong support of the Iraq War hurt his statewide popularity. Democrats rejected Lieberman and handed the 2006 primary to a political newcomer and an anti-war candidate, Ned Lamont.

Defying Democratic leaders and friends, Lieberman ran successfully for reelection as an independent and drew support from some Republican allies. Lieberman won praise from the White House and fundraising help from prominent Republicans, such as then-New York Mayor Mike Bloomberg, who himself later ran as an independent.

Lieberman made his Senate experience and congressional clout a strong selling point, saying he’d fight hard for the state’s defense jobs and its fair share of federal largesse. The strategy paid off.

Lieberman won reelection to a fourth term, even though many of his Democratic allies and longtime friends, including former Sen. Chris Dodd, supported Lamont. Lieberman was candid about what he considered a betrayal by old pals such as Dodd, but the two men later reconciled.

After his rebound reelection in 2006, Lieberman decided to caucus with Democrats in the Senate, who let him head a committee in return because they needed his vote to help keep control of the closely divided chamber. But it wasn’t long until Lieberman was showing his independent streak and ruffling his Democratic caucus colleagues.

Despite the decision of Democrats to let him join their caucus as an independent, Lieberman was an enthusiastic backer of McCain in the 2008 presidential contest.

Lieberman’s speech at the 2008 GOP presidential nominating convention criticizing Obama, the Democratic presidential nominee, struck a deep nerve with many Democrats.

Lieberman cast Obama as a political show horse, a lightweight with a thin record of accomplishment in the Senate despite his soaring eloquence as a speaker.

“In the Senate, during the 3 1/2 years that Sen. Obama has been a member, he has not reached across party lines to ... accomplish anything significant, nor has he been willing to take on powerful interest groups in the Democratic Party to get something done,” Lieberman said at the convention.

“Eloquence is no substitute for a record,” he said.

Lieberman campaigned heartily across the country for McCain. Many Democrats considered it a betrayal to Obama and his former party colleagues.

“Joe Lieberman has said things that are totally irresponsible when it comes to Barack Obama,” House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi of California said in a radio interview during the 2008 race.

After the election, there was speculation Senate Democrats might strip Lieberman of his chairmanship of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee as payback. Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., chair of the Judiciary Committee, was among those who said Lieberman should lose his chairmanship. Leahy branded Lieberman’s attacks on Obama as “beyond the pale.”

But at Obama’s urging, Senate Democrats decided not to punish Lieberman for supporting McCain and the GOP ticket. Obama was eager to strike a bipartisan tone for his presidency and giving Lieberman a pass helped reinforce that message.

Yet Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent and staunch liberal, called it a “slap in the face” for millions of Americans who backed Obama.

Lieberman was known in the Senate for his hawkish foreign policy views, his pro-defense bent and his strong support for environmental causes.

Five weeks after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, he became one of the first politicians to call for the ouster of Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein and later voted in favor of the military invasion of Iraq. His vocal support for the war would later help doom his candidacy in the 2006 Connecticut Democratic primary.

Lieberman tended to vote with Democrats on most issues and was a longtime supporter of abortion rights, a stance that would have proved problematic with conservatives had McCain chosen him as his running mate in 2008.

He played a key role in the legislation that created the Department of Homeland Security.

Lieberman grew up in Stamford, Connecticut, where his father ran a liquor store. Lieberman graduated from Yale University and Yale Law School in New Haven As Connecticut’s attorney general from 1983 to 1988, he was a strong consumer and environmental advocate. Lieberman vaulted into the Senate by defeating moderate Republican incumbent Lowell Weicker in 1988.

After leaving the Senate in 2013, Lieberman joined a New York City law firm.

Lieberman and his wife, Hadassah, have four children.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711578550385.png" alt="Joe Lieberman during an interview in December of 2021-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Joe Lieberman during an interview in December of 2021-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Former U.S. Sen.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-lieberman">Joe Lieberman</a>&nbsp;of Connecticut, who nearly won the vice presidency on the Democratic ticket with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/al-gore">Al Gore</a>&nbsp;in the disputed 2000 election and who almost became Republican John McCain's running mate eight years later, has died, according to a statement issued by his family.Lieberman died in New York City on Wednesday due to complications from a fall, the statement said. He was 82.The Democrat-turned-independent was never shy about veering from the party line.Lieberman's independent streak and especially his needling of Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama during the 2008 presidential contest rankled many Democrats, the party he aligned with in the Senate. Yet his support for gay rights, civil rights, abortion rights and environmental causes at times won him the praise of many liberals over the years.Lieberman came tantalizingly close to winning the vice presidency in the contentious 2000 presidential contest that was decided by a 537-vote margin victory for George W. Bush in Florida after a drawn-out recount, legal challenges and a Supreme Court decision. He was the first Jewish candidate on a major party’s presidential ticket and would have been the first Jewish vice president.He was also the first national Democrat to publicly criticize President Bill Clinton for his extramarital affair with a White House intern.Lieberman sought the Democratic presidential nomination in 2004 but dropped out after a weak showing in the early primaries. Four years later, he was an independent who was nearly chosen to be McCain’s running mate. He and McCain were close pals who shared hawkish views on military and national security matters.McCain was leaning strongly toward choosing Lieberman for the ticket as the 2008 GOP convention neared, but he chose Sarah Palin at the last minute after “ferocious” blowback from conservatives over Lieberman’s liberal record, according to Steve Schmidt, who managed McCain’s campaign.Lieberman generated controversy in 1998 when he scolded Clinton, his friend of many years, for “disgraceful behavior” in an explosive speech on the Senate floor during the height of the scandal over his relationship with Monica Lewinsky. Yet Lieberman later voted against the impeachment of Clinton.He defended his partisan switches as a matter of conscience, saying he always had the best interests of Connecticut voters at heart. Critics accused him of pursuing narrow self-interest and political expediency.In announcing his retirement from the Senate in 2013, Lieberman acknowledged that he did “not always fit comfortably into conventional political boxes” and felt his first responsibility was to serve his constituents, state and country, not his political party. He had a tortured relationship with Democrats.During his final Senate speech, Lieberman urged Congress to look beyond party lines and partisan rancor to break Washington gridlock.“It requires reaching across the aisle and finding partners from the opposite party,” said Lieberman. “That is what is desperately needed in Washington now.”Harry Reid, who served as Senate Democratic leader, once said that while he didn’t always agree with the independent-minded Lieberman, he respected him.“Regardless of our differences, I have never doubted Joe Lieberman’s principles or his patriotism,” Reid said. “And I respect his independent streak, as it stems from strong convictions.”Privately, some Democrats were often less charitable about Lieberman’s forays across party lines, which they saw as disloyal. He bolted his party and turned independent after a 2006 Senate primary loss in Connecticut.Lieberman’s strong support of the Iraq War hurt his statewide popularity. Democrats rejected Lieberman and handed the 2006 primary to a political newcomer and an anti-war candidate, Ned Lamont.Defying Democratic leaders and friends, Lieberman ran successfully for reelection as an independent and drew support from some Republican allies. Lieberman won praise from the White House and fundraising help from prominent Republicans, such as then-New York Mayor Mike Bloomberg, who himself later ran as an independent.Lieberman made his Senate experience and congressional clout a strong selling point, saying he’d fight hard for the state’s defense jobs and its fair share of federal largesse. The strategy paid off.Lieberman won reelection to a fourth term, even though many of his Democratic allies and longtime friends, including former Sen. Chris Dodd, supported Lamont. Lieberman was candid about what he considered a betrayal by old pals such as Dodd, but the two men later reconciled.After his rebound reelection in 2006, Lieberman decided to caucus with Democrats in the Senate, who let him head a committee in return because they needed his vote to help keep control of the closely divided chamber. But it wasn’t long until Lieberman was showing his independent streak and ruffling his Democratic caucus colleagues.Despite the decision of Democrats to let him join their caucus as an independent, Lieberman was an enthusiastic backer of McCain in the 2008 presidential contest.Lieberman’s speech at the 2008 GOP presidential nominating convention criticizing Obama, the Democratic presidential nominee, struck a deep nerve with many Democrats.Lieberman cast Obama as a political show horse, a lightweight with a thin record of accomplishment in the Senate despite his soaring eloquence as a speaker.“In the Senate, during the 3 1/2 years that Sen. Obama has been a member, he has not reached across party lines to ... accomplish anything significant, nor has he been willing to take on powerful interest groups in the Democratic Party to get something done,” Lieberman said at the convention.“Eloquence is no substitute for a record,” he said.Lieberman campaigned heartily across the country for McCain. Many Democrats considered it a betrayal to Obama and his former party colleagues.“Joe Lieberman has said things that are totally irresponsible when it comes to Barack Obama,” House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi of California said in a radio interview during the 2008 race.After the election, there was speculation Senate Democrats might strip Lieberman of his chairmanship of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee as payback. Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., chair of the Judiciary Committee, was among those who said Lieberman should lose his chairmanship. Leahy branded Lieberman’s attacks on Obama as “beyond the pale.”But at Obama’s urging, Senate Democrats decided not to punish Lieberman for supporting McCain and the GOP ticket. Obama was eager to strike a bipartisan tone for his presidency and giving Lieberman a pass helped reinforce that message.Yet Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent and staunch liberal, called it a “slap in the face” for millions of Americans who backed Obama.Lieberman was known in the Senate for his hawkish foreign policy views, his pro-defense bent and his strong support for environmental causes.Five weeks after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, he became one of the first politicians to call for the ouster of Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein and later voted in favor of the military invasion of Iraq. His vocal support for the war would later help doom his candidacy in the 2006 Connecticut Democratic primary.Lieberman tended to vote with Democrats on most issues and was a longtime supporter of abortion rights, a stance that would have proved problematic with conservatives had McCain chosen him as his running mate in 2008.He played a key role in the legislation that created the Department of Homeland Security.Lieberman grew up in Stamford, Connecticut, where his father ran a liquor store. Lieberman graduated from Yale University and Yale Law School in New Haven As Connecticut’s attorney general from 1983 to 1988, he was a strong consumer and environmental advocate. Lieberman vaulted into the Senate by defeating moderate Republican incumbent Lowell Weicker in 1988.After leaving the Senate in 2013, Lieberman joined a New York City law firm.Lieberman and his wife, Hadassah, have four children.___

Joe Lieberman, 2000 vice presidential nominee, dies at 82

By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina Post

In a packed room at the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://salina.ksu.edu/">Kansas State University Salina Aerospace and Technology</a>&nbsp;College Center, attendees anxiously waited for U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran to visit the podium and make a hearty announcement — $33 million is coming to the Salina campus.

The series of federal grants would jumpstart the long-awaited vision of K-State Salina's staff to put their town and campus on the international aviation stage.

K-State Salina Dean and CEO Alysia Starkey first excitedly greeted the audience about the upcoming announcement.&nbsp;

"We are here this afternoon to celebrate a significant milestone in supporting the university and the campus's strategic vision," Starkey said. "Which also benefits the workforce, the students, and most importantly, our student experience here."

Once Starkey finished her remarks, she introduced Moran to make the then-unknown announcement. Moran spoke about Salina Campus's history, how it began as the Kansas Technical Institute and its involvement with federal agencies like NASA and the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.noaa.gov/">National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration</a>, or NOAA.&nbsp;

Moran serves on four committees in Washington, D.C., and he said his position on three of those, the Senate Appropriations, Intelligence and Commerce, Science and Transportation Committees, has aided the push for federal funding at K-State Salina.

"We've tried to use all three of those positions not only for Salina to have commercial air service, which is important, but to see if we can get defense, NASA and the private sector interested in doing work and training their employees at K-State Salina," Moran said. "If we only educate and train our children and our students at K-State Salina, but they have no future in Kansas, we only modestly change the future of our state."

The most significant portion of the $33 million is a $28 million grant for the Aerospace Education Hub that would provide a central and accessible location for many K-State Salina facilities and programs.&nbsp;

"This investment marks the next phase in K-State Salina's continuous growth," said Alysia Starkey, CEO and dean of K-State Salina. "As we develop this new, state-of-the-art space for our uncrewed aircraft systems, composites and aviation maintenance programs, we are also establishing the future of aerospace education."

Another $5.5 million grant will fund new aviation training equipment for the school's pilot training partnership with NOAA.

"Somehow, NOAA is looking for training pilots to hunt hurricanes," Moran said. "We're working to get NOAA all the tools to train their workforce in Salina, Kansas... and they chose us because of the capabilities of K-State Salina, the dean, the faculty and the students."

In October 2022, General Atomics gifted the K-State Salina Campus $10 million for the <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/1a79300c-4439-4e81-993f-ed045a45e324">General Atomics Aerospace Innovation Ramp</a> as the first phase of the school's revitalization plan for portions of what used to be Schilling Air Force Base.

The new Aerospace Education Hub is part of the second revitalization phase and would complement the Aerospace Innovation Ramp.

Three new facilities would be part of the education hub, including the Kansas AAM Flight Test and Training Center, the Advanced Composites Laboratory and the Aviation Maintenance Training Center.

"This partnership actually extends out to what's needed to create the space and the facilities at the Salina Regional Airport that will accommodate future employers that will locate here because of this excellent investment," said Tim Rogers, executive director of the Salina Airport Authority.

A piece of equipment the grants would fund to build is a full-motion flight simulator to help train students for future careers in organizations like the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.omao.noaa.gov/noaa-corps/about-noaa-corps">NOAA Commissioned Officer Corps</a>.

Rogers, Starkey and KSU President Richard Linton all referenced the deep connections between Salina and Moran's work with aviation. The announcement on Tuesday only added to Moran's continued vision for the city and region.&nbsp;

Moran and Rogers shared a mentor, former State Sen. Ben Vidricksen, early in their respective careers, so they met while Moran was still a state senator for nearby western Kansas.

"I remember this very clearly — he just said, 'I'm Jerry Moran,' reached out his hand and asked, 'How can I help?' and you [Moran] have lived up to that," Rogers said. "Your support has been essential to make this a successful day."

K-State Salina faculty anticipates construction on campus to begin within the next five to 10 years, with the beginning phases including planning and schematics.

"We often say that what's good for Kansas State is good for Kansas — what's good for Kansas is good for Kansas State," Linton said. "When you power research, innovation and discovery and connect it directly to a critical industry like this one, [aerospace] you not only lift up our state on a national stage, but more importantly, you take care of our people. That's what the land grant university is all about."

K-State Salina published a press release with additional details about each new facility planned with the grant cash.

• K-State Salina's&nbsp;Applied Aerospace Research Center&nbsp;is nationally recognized for its work in promoting the commercialization of uncrewed aircraft systems. In addition to its current work, the new facility allows the center to expand its scope to include emerging aerospace technologies in advanced air mobility and commercial space applications. The new&nbsp;Kansas AAM Flight Test and Training Center&nbsp;will focus on providing regional air mobility and autonomous vehicle usage in the air transport of passengers and goods.

• When completed, the new&nbsp;Advanced Composites Laboratory&nbsp;will be an innovative educational facility that delivers holistic education on composite materials, including immersive and industry-driven learning experiences for learners and valuable research and knowledge for industry partners.

• An expanded&nbsp;Aviation Maintenance Training Center&nbsp;doubles the current space allocated for K-State Salina's aviation maintenance training program. The center provides educational opportunities at all levels, from technical certification to bachelor's degree credentials.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711572124069.jpeg" alt="U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran speaks to the crowd during an announcement of $33 million in grant funds slated for Kansas State University Salina on Tuesday, March 26, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran speaks to the crowd during an announcement of $33 million in grant funds slated for Kansas State University Salina on Tuesday, March 26, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostIn a packed room at the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://salina.ksu.edu/">Kansas State University Salina Aerospace and Technology</a>&nbsp;College Center, attendees anxiously waited for U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran to visit the podium and make a hearty announcement — $33 million is coming to the Salina campus.The series of federal grants would jumpstart the long-awaited vision of K-State Salina's staff to put their town and campus on the international aviation stage.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711572203834.jpeg" alt="Kansas State University Salina Aviation and Technology Campus Dean Alysia Starkey shakes hands with U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran on Tuesday, March 26, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State University Salina Aviation and Technology Campus Dean Alysia Starkey shakes hands with U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran on Tuesday, March 26, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>K-State Salina Dean and CEO Alysia Starkey first excitedly greeted the audience about the upcoming announcement.&nbsp;"We are here this afternoon to celebrate a significant milestone in supporting the university and the campus's strategic vision," Starkey said. "Which also benefits the workforce, the students, and most importantly, our student experience here."Once Starkey finished her remarks, she introduced Moran to make the then-unknown announcement. Moran spoke about Salina Campus's history, how it began as the Kansas Technical Institute and its involvement with federal agencies like NASA and the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.noaa.gov/">National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration</a>, or NOAA.&nbsp;Moran serves on four committees in Washington, D.C., and he said his position on three of those, the Senate Appropriations, Intelligence and Commerce, Science and Transportation Committees, has aided the push for federal funding at K-State Salina.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711572297516.jpeg" alt="Kansas State University President Richard Linton, left, U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, middle left, Salina Airport Authority Executive Director Tim Rogers, middle right, and K-State Salina Dean Alysia Starkey hold up the Power Cat symbol on Tuesday, March 26, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State University President Richard Linton, left, U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, middle left, Salina Airport Authority Executive Director Tim Rogers, middle right, and K-State Salina Dean Alysia Starkey hold up the Power Cat symbol on Tuesday, March 26, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>"We've tried to use all three of those positions not only for Salina to have commercial air service, which is important, but to see if we can get defense, NASA and the private sector interested in doing work and training their employees at K-State Salina," Moran said. "If we only educate and train our children and our students at K-State Salina, but they have no future in Kansas, we only modestly change the future of our state."The most significant portion of the $33 million is a $28 million grant for the Aerospace Education Hub that would provide a central and accessible location for many K-State Salina facilities and programs.&nbsp;"This investment marks the next phase in K-State Salina's continuous growth," said Alysia Starkey, CEO and dean of K-State Salina. "As we develop this new, state-of-the-art space for our uncrewed aircraft systems, composites and aviation maintenance programs, we are also establishing the future of aerospace education."Another $5.5 million grant will fund new aviation training equipment for the school's pilot training partnership with NOAA.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711572390765.jpeg" alt="U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran speaks with the crowd on Tuesday, March 26, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran speaks with the crowd on Tuesday, March 26, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>"Somehow, NOAA is looking for training pilots to hunt hurricanes," Moran said. "We're working to get NOAA all the tools to train their workforce in Salina, Kansas... and they chose us because of the capabilities of K-State Salina, the dean, the faculty and the students."In October 2022, General Atomics gifted the K-State Salina Campus $10 million for the <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/1a79300c-4439-4e81-993f-ed045a45e324">General Atomics Aerospace Innovation Ramp</a> as the first phase of the school's revitalization plan for portions of what used to be Schilling Air Force Base.The new Aerospace Education Hub is part of the second revitalization phase and would complement the Aerospace Innovation Ramp.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711572509282.jpeg" alt="Salina Airport Authority Executive Director Tim Rogers speaks to the crowd at Kansas State University Salina Aviation and Technical Campus about U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran's announcement of $33 million in grants slated for the school on Tuesday, March 26, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Salina Airport Authority Executive Director Tim Rogers speaks to the crowd at Kansas State University Salina Aviation and Technical Campus about U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran's announcement of $33 million in grants slated for the school on Tuesday, March 26, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Three new facilities would be part of the education hub, including the Kansas AAM Flight Test and Training Center, the Advanced Composites Laboratory and the Aviation Maintenance Training Center."This partnership actually extends out to what's needed to create the space and the facilities at the Salina Regional Airport that will accommodate future employers that will locate here because of this excellent investment," said Tim Rogers, executive director of the Salina Airport Authority.A piece of equipment the grants would fund to build is a full-motion flight simulator to help train students for future careers in organizations like the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.omao.noaa.gov/noaa-corps/about-noaa-corps">NOAA Commissioned Officer Corps</a>.Rogers, Starkey and KSU President Richard Linton all referenced the deep connections between Salina and Moran's work with aviation. The announcement on Tuesday only added to Moran's continued vision for the city and region.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711572651677.jpeg" alt="Kansas State University President Richard Linton speaks to the crowd at K-State Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus on Tuesday, March 26, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State University President Richard Linton speaks to the crowd at K-State Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus on Tuesday, March 26, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Moran and Rogers shared a mentor, former State Sen. Ben Vidricksen, early in their respective careers, so they met while Moran was still a state senator for nearby western Kansas."I remember this very clearly — he just said, 'I'm Jerry Moran,' reached out his hand and asked, 'How can I help?' and you [Moran] have lived up to that," Rogers said. "Your support has been essential to make this a successful day."K-State Salina faculty anticipates construction on campus to begin within the next five to 10 years, with the beginning phases including planning and schematics."We often say that what's good for Kansas State is good for Kansas — what's good for Kansas is good for Kansas State," Linton said. "When you power research, innovation and discovery and connect it directly to a critical industry like this one, [aerospace] you not only lift up our state on a national stage, but more importantly, you take care of our people. That's what the land grant university is all about."K-State Salina published a press release with additional details about each new facility planned with the grant cash.• K-State Salina's&nbsp;Applied Aerospace Research Center&nbsp;is nationally recognized for its work in promoting the commercialization of uncrewed aircraft systems. In addition to its current work, the new facility allows the center to expand its scope to include emerging aerospace technologies in advanced air mobility and commercial space applications. The new&nbsp;Kansas AAM Flight Test and Training Center&nbsp;will focus on providing regional air mobility and autonomous vehicle usage in the air transport of passengers and goods.• When completed, the new&nbsp;Advanced Composites Laboratory&nbsp;will be an innovative educational facility that delivers holistic education on composite materials, including immersive and industry-driven learning experiences for learners and valuable research and knowledge for industry partners.• An expanded&nbsp;Aviation Maintenance Training Center&nbsp;doubles the current space allocated for K-State Salina's aviation maintenance training program. The center provides educational opportunities at all levels, from technical certification to bachelor's degree credentials.

Senator Moran announces $33 million investment for K-State Salina

WRIGHT COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 8p.m. Wednesday in Wright County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Nissan Pathfinder driven by Jamie L. Holloway, 29, Mountain Grove, was eastbound on Highway AM a quarter mile east of Mountain Grove.

The SUV rear-ended a 2014 Peterbilt semi stopped in the road while the operation was working on or nearby.

Holloway was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Craig-Hurtt Funeral Home. Mercy ambulance transported a 4-year-old male passenger in the SUV to Mercy Springfield.&nbsp; Holloway was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

WRIGHT COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 8p.m. Wednesday in Wright County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Nissan Pathfinder driven by Jamie L. Holloway, 29, Mountain Grove, was eastbound on Highway AM a quarter mile east of Mountain Grove.The SUV rear-ended a 2014 Peterbilt semi stopped in the road while the operation was working on or nearby.Holloway was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Craig-Hurtt Funeral Home. Mercy ambulance transported a 4-year-old male passenger in the SUV to Mercy Springfield.&nbsp; Holloway was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman dead, 4-year-old injured after rear-end crash

Bill trims income tax rates, lowers property tax for schools, ends food sales tax early

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

TOPEKA — Kansas House Democrats and Republicans joined forces Wednesday to unanimously approve a bipartisan bill slicing hundreds of millions annually in state income, sales and property taxes with an eye toward dodging a veto by Gov. Laura Kelly.

During debate on the package Tuesday evening, lawmakers affirmed reductions in income tax rates paid by earners in three brackets — a deliberate avoidance of the Kansas Senate GOP’s preference for a single-rate, flat-tax plan opposed by the Democratic governor. Kansans earning less than $7,000 would no longer pay state income tax, while people making $7,000 to $30,000 would see rates fall from 5.25% to 5.2% and those taking in more $30,000 would have their rate cut from 5.7% to 5.65%.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/supp_note_sb300_02_0000.pdf">Under Senate Bill 300</a>, the standard deduction on state income taxes would be raised 3% and tied to changes in the annual rate of inflation. Personal exemptions to state income tax would be elevated and linked to inflation, but with a two-year sunset to allow for adjustment if the economy faltered.

The state income tax on Social Security benefits would be eliminated starting in the 2024 tax year rather than phased out over four years per the original House bill. An amendment to the House bill would terminate the state’s 2% sales tax on food on July 1 instead of Jan. 1.

The legislation would lower the state’s property tax for K-12 public education from 20 mills to 18 mills. In addition, the residential exemption on this piece of state property tax would be raised from $40,000 to $100,000. The original version of the bill would have doubled that exemption to $80,000.

The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/vote_view/je_20240327104202_791888/">bill endorsed 123-o by the House</a>&nbsp;moves to the Kansas Senate, where its fate was uncertain. House Speaker Dan Hawkins, R-Wichita, urged Kelly to sign the bill if it reached her desk.

“I don’t know if you all are having the same feeling I am,” Hawkins said. “But I gotta tell you, I am really proud of the House of Representatives. Really amazing what happens when everybody works together. I don’t have any other words to say, except, thank you. You guys are awesome.”

A Democrat’s amendment layering on a series of tax reforms — including retention of a 3.1% income tax rate for the lowest earners and implementation of a child tax credit — was defeated in the GOP-led House. Likewise, Republican-sponsored amendments seeking to lower property taxes on all-terrain vehicles and to exempt taxes on the sale of gold and silver were rejected.

Before amendments were added to make the bill more costly to the state treasury, the package recommended by Weskan GOP Rep. Adam Smith, chairman of the House Taxation Committee, would have reduced state revenue by $412 million in the first year, $404 million in the second year and $452 million in the third year of implementation.

For example, ending the state’s 2% sales tax on groceries six months earlier than current state law required would cost the state an estimated $70 million.

“This comprehensive tax relief proposal provides responsible, sustainable tax relief to Kansas taxpayers,” said Smith, who acknowledged individual members might have preferred to shift a few tax chess pieces. “I consider it a good compromise when everybody walks away equally frustrated.”

Rep. Blake Carpenter, R-Derby, said he would “sincerely hope” the governor signed onto the House tax legislation because it “puts more mney back into the pockets of Kansas.”

House Minority Leader Vic Miller, the Topeka Democrat, urged House negotiators to dig in against likely Senate opposition to the bill. The House bill could be viewed as a dual-rate state income tax model. The single-rate state income tax bill vetoed early in the 2024 legislative session by Kelly was a creation of Senate conservatives who might insist on returning to that framework.

Important pieces of the bill could be transformed during House and Senate negotiations of a six-member conference committee, which could peel off votes necessary for ratification of a deal in both chambers.

“Do not let the other side mess with this package,” said Miller, referencing Senate negotiators. “I think this may be what people out across the state have been looking for. Hang tight if this goes to conference.”

The state has a projected budget surplus of about $3 billion. The cash piled up during the past few years as the House, Senate and Kelly struggled to find common ground on tax policy. In January on the first day of the 2024 legislative session, the governor introduced a bipartisan tax package offering about $1 billion in tax savings over three years.

She subsequently vetoed House Bill 2284, a more costly plan pushed by House and Senate GOP leaders and required transition to a single-rate state income tax that targeted tax relief at the wealthiest Kansans. In February, the House failed to secure a two-thirds majority necessary to override the governor.

“I will not let legislators leave Topeka this year without meaningfully and responsibly cutting taxes for middle-class families,” Kelly said at that time. “I will call a special session if I have to — anything to ensure Kansans see tax relief, immediately.”

During debate on the House tax plan, Rep. Tom Sawyer, D-Wichita, reminded colleagues about financial devastation caused by adoption in 2012 of a bill designed to start the state on a path to elimination of the state income tax.

The bill signed by GOP Gov. Sam Brownback aggressively lowered state income taxes, but didn’t modify spending to correspond with loss of revenue. When tax receipts crashed, the budget had to be relentlessly cut. The tax plan, which Brownback considered an experiment in state taxation, was repealed by the GOP-led Legislature in 2017.

Supporters of the single-rate income tax favored previously by Senate President Ty Masterson as well as House Speaker Hawkins, maintain a presence in the Legislature. Rep. Susan Humphries, R-Wichita, expressed regret the single-rate strategy could be slipping through their hands. Nine of her House colleagues concurred with her commentary.

“Better is possible,” Humphries said. “We could have and should have passed a single-rate tax plan that lowered every Kansans’ taxes and been harder to raise in the future. For smaller-government, growth-oriented conservatives, let us continue to work together toward a path to economic growth that would send a signal to retirees, businesses and investors that Kansas wants to compete and we want to match our hard-working, honest and faith-built values with better policy. If this is the best we can do today, we’ll take it.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711569107137.png" alt="Rep. Adam Smith, a Weskan Republican and chairman of the House Taxation Committee, lauded the bipartisan package of state income, property and sales tax cuts approved Wednesday. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Adam Smith, a Weskan Republican and chairman of the House Taxation Committee, lauded the bipartisan package of state income, property and sales tax cuts approved Wednesday. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Bill trims income tax rates, lowers property tax for schools, ends food sales tax early</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansas House Democrats and Republicans joined forces Wednesday to unanimously approve a bipartisan bill slicing hundreds of millions annually in state income, sales and property taxes with an eye toward dodging a veto by Gov. Laura Kelly.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Republican-led House of Representatives unanimously passed substantial property, income, and Social Security tax relief for the people of Kansas by a vote of 123 to 0. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ksleg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ksleg</a> <a href="https://t.co/ymTrXbQnVI">pic.twitter.com/ymTrXbQnVI</a>&mdash; Dan Hawkins (@DanHawkinsKS) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanHawkinsKS/status/1773017584075456959?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>During debate on the package Tuesday evening, lawmakers affirmed reductions in income tax rates paid by earners in three brackets — a deliberate avoidance of the Kansas Senate GOP’s preference for a single-rate, flat-tax plan opposed by the Democratic governor. Kansans earning less than $7,000 would no longer pay state income tax, while people making $7,000 to $30,000 would see rates fall from 5.25% to 5.2% and those taking in more $30,000 would have their rate cut from 5.7% to 5.65%.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/supp_note_sb300_02_0000.pdf">Under Senate Bill 300</a>, the standard deduction on state income taxes would be raised 3% and tied to changes in the annual rate of inflation. Personal exemptions to state income tax would be elevated and linked to inflation, but with a two-year sunset to allow for adjustment if the economy faltered.The state income tax on Social Security benefits would be eliminated starting in the 2024 tax year rather than phased out over four years per the original House bill. An amendment to the House bill would terminate the state’s 2% sales tax on food on July 1 instead of Jan. 1.The legislation would lower the state’s property tax for K-12 public education from 20 mills to 18 mills. In addition, the residential exemption on this piece of state property tax would be raised from $40,000 to $100,000. The original version of the bill would have doubled that exemption to $80,000.The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/vote_view/je_20240327104202_791888/">bill endorsed 123-o by the House</a>&nbsp;moves to the Kansas Senate, where its fate was uncertain. House Speaker Dan Hawkins, R-Wichita, urged Kelly to sign the bill if it reached her desk.“I don’t know if you all are having the same feeling I am,” Hawkins said. “But I gotta tell you, I am really proud of the House of Representatives. Really amazing what happens when everybody works together. I don’t have any other words to say, except, thank you. You guys are awesome.”<h2>‘Responsible, sustainable’</h2>A Democrat’s amendment layering on a series of tax reforms — including retention of a 3.1% income tax rate for the lowest earners and implementation of a child tax credit — was defeated in the GOP-led House. Likewise, Republican-sponsored amendments seeking to lower property taxes on all-terrain vehicles and to exempt taxes on the sale of gold and silver were rejected.Before amendments were added to make the bill more costly to the state treasury, the package recommended by Weskan GOP Rep. Adam Smith, chairman of the House Taxation Committee, would have reduced state revenue by $412 million in the first year, $404 million in the second year and $452 million in the third year of implementation.For example, ending the state’s 2% sales tax on groceries six months earlier than current state law required would cost the state an estimated $70 million.“This comprehensive tax relief proposal provides responsible, sustainable tax relief to Kansas taxpayers,” said Smith, who acknowledged individual members might have preferred to shift a few tax chess pieces. “I consider it a good compromise when everybody walks away equally frustrated.”Rep. Blake Carpenter, R-Derby, said he would “sincerely hope” the governor signed onto the House tax legislation because it “puts more mney back into the pockets of Kansas.”<h2>Hang on to hat</h2>House Minority Leader Vic Miller, the Topeka Democrat, urged House negotiators to dig in against likely Senate opposition to the bill. The House bill could be viewed as a dual-rate state income tax model. The single-rate state income tax bill vetoed early in the 2024 legislative session by Kelly was a creation of Senate conservatives who might insist on returning to that framework.Important pieces of the bill could be transformed during House and Senate negotiations of a six-member conference committee, which could peel off votes necessary for ratification of a deal in both chambers.“Do not let the other side mess with this package,” said Miller, referencing Senate negotiators. “I think this may be what people out across the state have been looking for. Hang tight if this goes to conference.”The state has a projected budget surplus of about $3 billion. The cash piled up during the past few years as the House, Senate and Kelly struggled to find common ground on tax policy. In January on the first day of the 2024 legislative session, the governor introduced a bipartisan tax package offering about $1 billion in tax savings over three years.She subsequently vetoed House Bill 2284, a more costly plan pushed by House and Senate GOP leaders and required transition to a single-rate state income tax that targeted tax relief at the wealthiest Kansans. In February, the House failed to secure a two-thirds majority necessary to override the governor.“I will not let legislators leave Topeka this year without meaningfully and responsibly cutting taxes for middle-class families,” Kelly said at that time. “I will call a special session if I have to — anything to ensure Kansans see tax relief, immediately.”<h2>That single-rate idea</h2>During debate on the House tax plan, Rep. Tom Sawyer, D-Wichita, reminded colleagues about financial devastation caused by adoption in 2012 of a bill designed to start the state on a path to elimination of the state income tax.The bill signed by GOP Gov. Sam Brownback aggressively lowered state income taxes, but didn’t modify spending to correspond with loss of revenue. When tax receipts crashed, the budget had to be relentlessly cut. The tax plan, which Brownback considered an experiment in state taxation, was repealed by the GOP-led Legislature in 2017.Supporters of the single-rate income tax favored previously by Senate President Ty Masterson as well as House Speaker Hawkins, maintain a presence in the Legislature. Rep. Susan Humphries, R-Wichita, expressed regret the single-rate strategy could be slipping through their hands. Nine of her House colleagues concurred with her commentary.“Better is possible,” Humphries said. “We could have and should have passed a single-rate tax plan that lowered every Kansans’ taxes and been harder to raise in the future. For smaller-government, growth-oriented conservatives, let us continue to work together toward a path to economic growth that would send a signal to retirees, businesses and investors that Kansas wants to compete and we want to match our hard-working, honest and faith-built values with better policy. If this is the best we can do today, we’ll take it.”

Kan. House unanimously adopts bipartisan bill cutting property, income and sales tax burden

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

Anyone who procrastinated on filing for political office will get another chance to enter the Aug. 6 primary in a handful of contests.

Late withdrawals from four congressional races, four state House races and the lieutenant governor contest means filing for those offices will resume on Tuesday, Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft’s office announced. Filing will close for those offices on April 5.

Under&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=115.361&amp;bid=35777&amp;hl=">Missouri law</a>, when candidates withdraw within two days of the close of filing, a special filing period opens for four days in the following week.&nbsp;

Filing for all parties will open for the 82nd, 84th and 154th Missouri House Districts, the 3rd, 5th and 6th congressional districts in addition to lieutenant governor.

The highest profile late withdrawals were by House Speaker Dean Plocher, who exited the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/embattled-missouri-house-speaker-switches-races-now-running-for-secretary-of-state/">Republican primary for lieutenant governor</a>&nbsp;and entered the race for secretary of state, and state Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman, who dropped out of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/republican-senator-leaves-congressional-race-to-run-for-missouri-secretary-of-state/">Republican primary in the 3rd Congressional District</a>&nbsp;and also filed for secretary of state.

Plocher’s departure leaves six Republicans, two Democrats and a Libertarian in the race for lieutenant governor. After Coleman’s withdrawal in the 3rd District, there are eight Republicans, two Democrats and a Libertarian running to replace retiring U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer.

Filing for those offices will occur during business hours and will open at 8 a.m. on Tuesday and close at 5 p.m. on April 5 at the Secretary of State’s office in Jefferson City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711568789365.png" alt=" Missouri candidates wait to file for office Feb. 27 at the Secretary of State’s office in Jefferson City. Late withdrawals mean filing will reopen Tuesday in a handful of districts (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> Missouri candidates wait to file for office Feb. 27 at the Secretary of State’s office in Jefferson City. Late withdrawals mean filing will reopen Tuesday in a handful of districts (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>By RUDI KELLER,&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>Anyone who procrastinated on filing for political office will get another chance to enter the Aug. 6 primary in a handful of contests.Late withdrawals from four congressional races, four state House races and the lieutenant governor contest means filing for those offices will resume on Tuesday, Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft’s office announced. Filing will close for those offices on April 5.Under&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=115.361&amp;bid=35777&amp;hl=">Missouri law</a>, when candidates withdraw within two days of the close of filing, a special filing period opens for four days in the following week.&nbsp;Filing for all parties will open for the 82nd, 84th and 154th Missouri House Districts, the 3rd, 5th and 6th congressional districts in addition to lieutenant governor.The highest profile late withdrawals were by House Speaker Dean Plocher, who exited the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/embattled-missouri-house-speaker-switches-races-now-running-for-secretary-of-state/">Republican primary for lieutenant governor</a>&nbsp;and entered the race for secretary of state, and state Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman, who dropped out of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/republican-senator-leaves-congressional-race-to-run-for-missouri-secretary-of-state/">Republican primary in the 3rd Congressional District</a>&nbsp;and also filed for secretary of state.Plocher’s departure leaves six Republicans, two Democrats and a Libertarian in the race for lieutenant governor. After Coleman’s withdrawal in the 3rd District, there are eight Republicans, two Democrats and a Libertarian running to replace retiring U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer.In the other races:<ul>
 <li>The 82nd District, a south St. Louis city seat currently held by term-limited state Rep. Donna Baringer, Republican candidate Richard Cowell withdrew, leaving a Republican and a Democrat in the race.</li><li>The 84th District, a west St. Louis city seat, where Republican candidate Robert Vroman withdrew from a race against incumbent state Rep. Del Taylor, a Democrat. Cowell filed in the 84th District and he will run against Taylor.</li><li>The 154th District, which covers most of Howell County, where incumbent Republican state Rep. David Evans withdrew. There are three other Republicans and a Democrat already filed.</li><li>The 2nd Congressional District, which covers Franklin County and portions of St. Louis, St. Charles and Warren counties, where Democratic candidate John Kiehne withdrew. There are two Republicans, including incumbent U.S. Rep. Ann Wagner, two Democrats and a Libertarian filed for the office.&nbsp;</li><li>The 5th Congressional District, which covers most of Kansas City, where Republican Teresa Murphy withdrew from the primary for the nomination to face incumbent U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver. One Republican, Cleaver and a Libertarian are filed.</li><li>The 6th Congressional District, which covers much of the state north of the Missouri River. Democratic candidate Erik Richardson withdrew, leaving four Republicans, including incumbent U.S. Rep. Sam Graves, two other Democrats and a Libertarian on the ballot.</li>
 </ul>Filing for those offices will occur during business hours and will open at 8 a.m. on Tuesday and close at 5 p.m. on April 5 at the Secretary of State’s office in Jefferson City.

Late withdrawals mean more time to file for lieutenant governor, other Missouri offices

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Republican legislators gave final approval Tuesday to a bill that would require Kansas abortion providers to ask their patients why they want to terminate their pregnancies and then report the answers to the state.

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/vote_view/je_20240326114818_605225/">The Senate approved the bill</a>&nbsp;27-13 after the House approved it earlier this month, sending the measure to Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly. She is a strong abortion rights supporter and is expected to veto the bill, but supporters appear to have exactly the two-thirds majorities in both chambers they would need to override a veto.

At least eight states require similar reporting, but none of them has had a statewide vote on abortion rights as Kansas did in August 2022. In the first state ballot question on abortion after the U.S. Supreme Court’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">Dobbs decision</a>, voters&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-primary-elections-kansas-abortion-b6d62a852c2ce4617f2c03589fbb523e">decisively protected abortion rights</a>&nbsp;under the state constitution.

Democrats are frustrated because Republicans and anti-abortion groups have pursued&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-medication-reversal-kansas-01304fcbe7b014ec46f818633faf28a7">new rules for abortion providers</a>&nbsp;despite the 2022 vote. But supporters of the reporting bill say it would give the state better data that would help legislators make policy decisions.

The bill would require providers to ask patients 11 questions about their reasons for terminating a pregnancy, including that they can’t afford another child, raising a child would hinder their education or careers, or a spouse or partner wanted her to have an abortion. A woman would not be required to answer, however.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Republican legislators gave final approval Tuesday to a bill that would require Kansas abortion providers to ask their patients why they want to terminate their pregnancies and then report the answers to the state.<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/vote_view/je_20240326114818_605225/">The Senate approved the bill</a>&nbsp;27-13 after the House approved it earlier this month, sending the measure to Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly. She is a strong abortion rights supporter and is expected to veto the bill, but supporters appear to have exactly the two-thirds majorities in both chambers they would need to override a veto.At least eight states require similar reporting, but none of them has had a statewide vote on abortion rights as Kansas did in August 2022. In the first state ballot question on abortion after the U.S. Supreme Court’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">Dobbs decision</a>, voters&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-primary-elections-kansas-abortion-b6d62a852c2ce4617f2c03589fbb523e">decisively protected abortion rights</a>&nbsp;under the state constitution.Democrats are frustrated because Republicans and anti-abortion groups have pursued&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-medication-reversal-kansas-01304fcbe7b014ec46f818633faf28a7">new rules for abortion providers</a>&nbsp;despite the 2022 vote. But supporters of the reporting bill say it would give the state better data that would help legislators make policy decisions.The bill would require providers to ask patients 11 questions about their reasons for terminating a pregnancy, including that they can’t afford another child, raising a child would hinder their education or careers, or a spouse or partner wanted her to have an abortion. A woman would not be required to answer, however.

Will Kan. gov. sign bill requiring providers ask patients why they want abortion?

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple drug allegations.

On March 21, members of the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit served search warrants in 3300 Block of SW Mayo Avenue in Topeka related to an ongoing investigation, according to Police Lt. Ronnie Connell.

While conducting the search warrant, officers located fentanyl, cocaine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia and firearms.

As a result police arrested 33-year-old Donald Davis and 54-year-old Anna Garza both of Topeka.

Davis was booked on requested charges of&nbsp; Distribution of fentanyl, Distribution of a cocaine, Distribution of marijuana, Possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to distribute, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Unlawful use of a telecommunication facility, Felon in possession of a firearm, Drug tax stamp., Unlawful to acquire proceeds from drug transaction,&nbsp; Battery on a law enforcement officer, Interference with law enforcement and Driving on a suspended driver's license.

Garza was booked on requested charges of Distribution of fentanyl,&nbsp;&nbsp;Distribution of a cocaine,&nbsp;Distribution of marijuana,&nbsp;&nbsp;Possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to distribute, Possession of drug paraphernalia,&nbsp; Drug tax stamp and Possession of marijuana.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711200254777.png" alt="Davis-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Davis-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple drug allegations.On March 21, members of the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit served search warrants in 3300 Block of SW Mayo Avenue in Topeka related to an ongoing investigation, according to Police Lt. Ronnie Connell.While conducting the search warrant, officers located fentanyl, cocaine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia and firearms.As a result police arrested 33-year-old Donald Davis and 54-year-old Anna Garza both of Topeka.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711200190986.png" alt="Garza-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Garza-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Davis was booked on requested charges of&nbsp; Distribution of fentanyl, Distribution of a cocaine, Distribution of marijuana, Possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to distribute, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Unlawful use of a telecommunication facility, Felon in possession of a firearm, Drug tax stamp., Unlawful to acquire proceeds from drug transaction,&nbsp; Battery on a law enforcement officer, Interference with law enforcement and Driving on a suspended driver's license.Garza was booked on requested charges of Distribution of fentanyl,&nbsp;&nbsp;Distribution of a cocaine,&nbsp;Distribution of marijuana,&nbsp;&nbsp;Possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to distribute, Possession of drug paraphernalia,&nbsp; Drug tax stamp and Possession of marijuana.

Two accused of selling fentanyl and cocaine from Kan. home

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —A 'Kansas resident' recently showed up at the Kansas City, Kansas Police department requesting a ride-along, according to a social media post from police.

"We were considering it, until he asked if he could hang his head out the window and honk at cars."&nbsp;

The Department reminded residents "if you would like to participate in a ride-along, as well as some other cool activities designed to increase your knowledge of the KCKPD, we suggest you apply today for our free Citizens Academy."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711462703182.png" alt="photo KCK Police" />
 <figcaption>photo KCK Police</figcaption>
 </figure>WYANDOTTE COUNTY —A 'Kansas resident' recently showed up at the Kansas City, Kansas Police department requesting a ride-along, according to a social media post from police."We were considering it, until he asked if he could hang his head out the window and honk at cars."&nbsp;The Department reminded residents "if you would like to participate in a ride-along, as well as some other cool activities designed to increase your knowledge of the KCKPD, we suggest you apply today for our free Citizens Academy."

'Kansas resident' rejected for police ride-along program

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal March 22 crash in Kansas City, Kansas have identified the victims as 59-year-old Jay M. Franklin of Overland Park, Kansas and&nbsp; 59-year-old Rodney Chmidling of Kansas City, Missouri.

According to Kansas City, Kansas police, just after 6:30p.m. Friday, two vehicles were involved in the crash in the 1000 Block of Southwest Boulevard.&nbsp; Franklin and Chmidling were pronounced deceased at the scene. EMS transported two other men to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The accident remains under investigation. Police reported no additional details.

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal March 22 crash in Kansas City, Kansas have identified the victims as 59-year-old Jay M. Franklin of Overland Park, Kansas and&nbsp; 59-year-old Rodney Chmidling of Kansas City, Missouri.According to Kansas City, Kansas police, just after 6:30p.m. Friday, two vehicles were involved in the crash in the 1000 Block of Southwest Boulevard.&nbsp; Franklin and Chmidling were pronounced deceased at the scene. EMS transported two other men to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.The accident remains under investigation. Police reported no additional details.

Police ID two men who died after 2-vehicle Kansas crash

NEW YORK (AP) — Former President Donald Trump is now <a href="https://godblesstheusabible.com/">selling Bibles</a> as he runs to return to the White House.

Trump, who became the presumptive Republican nominee earlier this month, released a video on his Truth Social platform on Tuesday urging his supporters to buy the “God Bless the USA Bible,” which is inspired by country singer Lee Greenwood’s patriotic ballad. Trump takes the stage to the song at each of his rallies and has appeared with Greenwood at events.

“Happy Holy Week! Let’s Make America Pray Again. As we lead into Good Friday and Easter, I encourage you to get a copy of the God Bless the USA Bible,” Trump wrote, directing his supporters<a href="https://godblesstheusabible.com/"> to a website</a> selling the book for $59.99.

The effort comes as Trump has faced a serious money crunch amid mounting legal bills while he fights four criminal indictments along with a series of civil charges. Trump was given a reprieve Monday when a New York appeals court agreed to hold off on collecting the more than $454 million he owes following a civil fraud judgment if he puts up $175 million within 10 days. Trump has already posted a $92 million bond in connection with defamation cases brought by the writer E. Jean Carroll, who accused Trump of sexual assault.

“All Americans need a Bible in their home, and I have many. It’s my favorite book,” Trump said in the video posted on Truth Social. “I’m proud to endorse and encourage you to get this Bible. We must make America pray again.”

Billing itself as “the only Bible endorsed by President Trump!” the new venture’s website calls it “Easy-to-read” with “large print” and a “slim design” that “invites you to explore God’s Word anywhere, any time.”

Besides a King James Version translation, it includes copies of the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights, the Declaration of Independence and the Pledge of Allegiance, as well as a handwritten chorus of the famous Greenwood song.

The Bible is just the latest commercial venture that Trump has pursued while campaigning.

Last month, he debuted a new line of Trump-branded sneakers, including $399 gold “Never Surrender High-Tops,” at Sneaker Con in Philadelphia. The venture behind the shoes, 45Footwear, also sells other Trump-branded footwear, cologne and perfume.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711546280758.png" alt="Image from the&nbsp;<a href="https://godblesstheusabible.com/">GodBlessTheUSABible.com</a>&nbsp;web site" />
 <figcaption>Image from the&nbsp;<a href="https://godblesstheusabible.com/">GodBlessTheUSABible.com</a>&nbsp;web site</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Former President Donald Trump is now <a href="https://godblesstheusabible.com/">selling Bibles</a> as he runs to return to the White House.Trump, who became the presumptive Republican nominee earlier this month, released a video on his Truth Social platform on Tuesday urging his supporters to buy the “God Bless the USA Bible,” which is inspired by country singer Lee Greenwood’s patriotic ballad. Trump takes the stage to the song at each of his rallies and has appeared with Greenwood at events.“Happy Holy Week! Let’s Make America Pray Again. As we lead into Good Friday and Easter, I encourage you to get a copy of the God Bless the USA Bible,” Trump wrote, directing his supporters<a href="https://godblesstheusabible.com/"> to a website</a> selling the book for $59.99.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591061208159.png" alt="FILE – President Donald Trump holds a Bible as he visits outside St. John’s Church across Lafayette Park from the White House, June 1, 2020, (File)Photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>FILE – President Donald Trump holds a Bible as he visits outside St. John’s Church across Lafayette Park from the White House, June 1, 2020, (File)Photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>The effort comes as Trump has faced a serious money crunch amid mounting legal bills while he fights four criminal indictments along with a series of civil charges. Trump was given a reprieve Monday when a New York appeals court agreed to hold off on collecting the more than $454 million he owes following a civil fraud judgment if he puts up $175 million within 10 days. Trump has already posted a $92 million bond in connection with defamation cases brought by the writer E. Jean Carroll, who accused Trump of sexual assault.“All Americans need a Bible in their home, and I have many. It’s my favorite book,” Trump said in the video posted on Truth Social. “I’m proud to endorse and encourage you to get this Bible. We must make America pray again.”Billing itself as “the only Bible endorsed by President Trump!” the new venture’s website calls it “Easy-to-read” with “large print” and a “slim design” that “invites you to explore God’s Word anywhere, any time.”Besides a King James Version translation, it includes copies of the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights, the Declaration of Independence and the Pledge of Allegiance, as well as a handwritten chorus of the famous Greenwood song.The Bible is just the latest commercial venture that Trump has pursued while campaigning.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708263707417.png" alt="Photo by Margo Martin, Donald Trump for President Deputy Director of Communications" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Margo Martin, Donald Trump for President Deputy Director of Communications</figcaption>
 </figure>Last month, he debuted a new line of Trump-branded sneakers, including $399 gold “Never Surrender High-Tops,” at Sneaker Con in Philadelphia. The venture behind the shoes, 45Footwear, also sells other Trump-branded footwear, cologne and perfume.Trump has also dabbled in NFTs, or nonfungible tokens, and last year reported earning between $100,000 and $1 million from a series of digital trading cards that portrayed him in cartoon-like images, including as an astronaut, a cowboy and a superhero.He has also released books featuring photos of his time in office and letters written to him through the years.<a href="https://godblesstheusabible.com/">The Bible’s website</a> states the product “is not political and has nothing to do with any political campaign.”“<a href="https://godblesstheusabible.com/">GodBlessTheUSABible.com</a> is not owned, managed or controlled by Donald J. Trump, The Trump Organization, CIC Ventures LLC or any of their respective principals or affiliates,” it says.Instead, it says, “<a href="https://godblesstheusabible.com/">GodBlessTheUSABible.com</a> uses Donald J. Trump’s name, likeness and image under paid license from CIC Ventures LLC, which license may be terminated or revoked according to its terms.”CIC Ventures LLC, a company that Trump reported owning in his 2023 financial disclosure, has a similar arrangement with 45Footwear, which also says it uses Trump’s “name, likeness and image under paid license from CIC Ventures LLC, which license may be terminated or revoked according to its terms.”A Trump spokesperson and God Bless the USA Bible did not immediately respond to questions about how much Trump was paid for the licensing deal or stands to make from each book sale.Trump remains deeply popular with white evangelical Christians, who are among his most ardent supporters, even though the thrice-married former reality TV star has a long history of behavior that often seemed at odds with teachings espoused by Christ in the Gospels.When he was running in 2016, Trump raised eyebrows when he cited “Two Corinthians” at Liberty University, instead of the standard “Second Corinthians.”When asked to share his favorite Bible verse in an interview with Bloomberg Politics in 2015, he demurred.“I wouldn’t want to get into it. Because to me, that’s very personal,” he said. “The Bible means a lot to me, but I don’t want to get into specifics.”When he was president, law enforcement officers aggressively removed racial justice protesters from a park near the White House, allowing Trump to walk to nearby St. John’s Church, where he stood alone and raised a Bible. The scene was condemned at the time by the bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington.Before he ran for office, Trump famously hawked everything from frozen steaks to vodka to a venture named Trump University, which was later sued for fraud.