FORT LAUDERDALE, Florida (AP) — An estimated $1.04 billion Powerball jackpot will be up for grabs Monday night, tempting players to spend a couple dollars on a long shot at instant riches.

The prize is the world's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lottery-jackpot-mega-millions-powerball-b77dd9c7de3f0ab09545a01113b1f111">ninth-largest lottery prize</a>&nbsp;behind earlier drawings of Powerball and Mega Millions, the other&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-alabama-alaska-lotteries-business-86424cf8e2b7cccf8ae9d06f6652d559">nearly nationwide lottery game</a>. The jackpot is the fourth-largest in the history of Powerball.

“If I could win it, I’d be the happiest person in the world,” said Chevy Johnson, who was buying Powerball tickets Monday at Bob's News &amp; Book Store in Fort Lauderdale.

The prize has grown so massive because no one has matched all five white balls and the Powerball to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-jackpot-winner-california-9f0e98a47c96c2b3087a68b33195dd50">win the jackpot</a>&nbsp;in 32 consecutive drawings, dating back to July 19.

That losing streak reflects the stunningly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-america-lottery-us-news-ap-top-news-ia-state-wire-b5572da1e5d74f6e974bea45c707b5cb">long odds of winning</a>&nbsp;the jackpot, at 1 in 292.2 million.

Hector Griffith, another customer at Bob's News, said that if he won, his priority would be taking care of his family.

“It would change my life, completely change my life,” Griffith said. “I can’t wait to win it.”

Donnie Ross, a clerk at a BP gasoline station in New Hope, Minnesota, said when the prize grew so large for a recent jackpot that topped $1 billion, some customers spent hundreds of dollars on tickets.

“We had a huge bunch of people coming in right at the last minute to buy all their tickets before the drawing happened,” Ross said.

The $1.04 billion jackpot is for a sole winner who chooses to receive the winnings&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-jackpot-annuity-vs-cash-0e741f164106c0f4dba89707c5763c99">through an annuity</a>, paid annually over 30 years. Winners nearly always pick the cash option, which for Monday night's drawing would be an estimated $478.2 million.

A Powerball ticket costs $2 in most states and players can pick their own numbers or have a computer make the selection.

Powerball is played in 45 states as well as Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Florida (AP) — An estimated $1.04 billion Powerball jackpot will be up for grabs Monday night, tempting players to spend a couple dollars on a long shot at instant riches.The prize is the world's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lottery-jackpot-mega-millions-powerball-b77dd9c7de3f0ab09545a01113b1f111">ninth-largest lottery prize</a>&nbsp;behind earlier drawings of Powerball and Mega Millions, the other&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-alabama-alaska-lotteries-business-86424cf8e2b7cccf8ae9d06f6652d559">nearly nationwide lottery game</a>. The jackpot is the fourth-largest in the history of Powerball.“If I could win it, I’d be the happiest person in the world,” said Chevy Johnson, who was buying Powerball tickets Monday at Bob's News &amp; Book Store in Fort Lauderdale.The prize has grown so massive because no one has matched all five white balls and the Powerball to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-jackpot-winner-california-9f0e98a47c96c2b3087a68b33195dd50">win the jackpot</a>&nbsp;in 32 consecutive drawings, dating back to July 19.That losing streak reflects the stunningly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-america-lottery-us-news-ap-top-news-ia-state-wire-b5572da1e5d74f6e974bea45c707b5cb">long odds of winning</a>&nbsp;the jackpot, at 1 in 292.2 million.Hector Griffith, another customer at Bob's News, said that if he won, his priority would be taking care of his family.“It would change my life, completely change my life,” Griffith said. “I can’t wait to win it.”Donnie Ross, a clerk at a BP gasoline station in New Hope, Minnesota, said when the prize grew so large for a recent jackpot that topped $1 billion, some customers spent hundreds of dollars on tickets.“We had a huge bunch of people coming in right at the last minute to buy all their tickets before the drawing happened,” Ross said.The $1.04 billion jackpot is for a sole winner who chooses to receive the winnings&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-jackpot-annuity-vs-cash-0e741f164106c0f4dba89707c5763c99">through an annuity</a>, paid annually over 30 years. Winners nearly always pick the cash option, which for Monday night's drawing would be an estimated $478.2 million.A Powerball ticket costs $2 in most states and players can pick their own numbers or have a computer make the selection.Powerball is played in 45 states as well as Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

$1.04 billion Powerball jackpot tempts players to brave long odds

SEDGWICK COUNTY — A Kansas man is going to prison for the rape of a runaway girl.

Gerardo Aguero-Hernandez, 26, Wichita, was sentenced to life with without parole eligibility for 25 years plus an additional 184 months, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp;

On May 22, 2020, police responded to a rape report in the 1800 block of W. Pine Avenue in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp;

A minor female who ran to that location and reported to a citizen that she had been sexually assaulted. The investigation revealed that the juvenile ran from her foster home earlier in the day around noon.&nbsp;

A suspect identified as Aguero-Hernandez contacted her as she walked along North Broadway and offered her a ride.&nbsp; She accepted, but instead of being taken to the agreed-upon location, Aguero-Hernandez drove her to an area near Arthur B. Sim Park.&nbsp; While in the vehicle, Aguero-Hernandez sexually assaulted and battered the girl, according to Davidson. She was able to escape the vehicle and ran to contact a citizen who called 911.&nbsp; Through further investigation, Aguero-Hernandez was identified subsequently arrested&nbsp;from a residence in the 2400 block of N. Woodland in Wichita.

A jury convicted Aguero-Hernandez of rape, aggravated kidnapping and two counts of aggravated battery. The jury acquitted him of attempted first-degree murder, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590769800736.png" alt="Aguero-Hernandez-Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Aguero-Hernandez-Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — A Kansas man is going to prison for the rape of a runaway girl.Gerardo Aguero-Hernandez, 26, Wichita, was sentenced to life with without parole eligibility for 25 years plus an additional 184 months, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp;On May 22, 2020, police responded to a rape report in the 1800 block of W. Pine Avenue in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp;A minor female who ran to that location and reported to a citizen that she had been sexually assaulted. The investigation revealed that the juvenile ran from her foster home earlier in the day around noon.&nbsp;A suspect identified as Aguero-Hernandez contacted her as she walked along North Broadway and offered her a ride.&nbsp; She accepted, but instead of being taken to the agreed-upon location, Aguero-Hernandez drove her to an area near Arthur B. Sim Park.&nbsp; While in the vehicle, Aguero-Hernandez sexually assaulted and battered the girl, according to Davidson. She was able to escape the vehicle and ran to contact a citizen who called 911.&nbsp; Through further investigation, Aguero-Hernandez was identified subsequently arrested&nbsp;from a residence in the 2400 block of N. Woodland in Wichita.A jury convicted Aguero-Hernandez of rape, aggravated kidnapping and two counts of aggravated battery. The jury acquitted him of attempted first-degree murder, according to the district attorney's office.

Kan. man sentenced for kidnapping, rape of runaway from foster home

KANSAS CITY —The search for an escapee from a Missouri county jail ended Sunday afternoon west of Kansas. After a pursuit with law enforcement in Ray County, Missouri, 33-year-old Jonathan Eugene Schmidt O 'Dell was located just west of Kansas City and taken into custody just after 5 p.m.,&nbsp; according to a social media report from the FBI. The stolen vehicle from Phelps County was also recovered.

O'Dell is facing federal charges. According to a federal indictment O'Dell planned to travel to Texas to shoot at illegal immigrants who crossed into the U.S. from Mexico. The indictment also alleges he planned to murder officers and employees of U.S. Border Patrol who attempted to stop him.

PHELPS COUNTY—Inmates Steven Timothy Scott and Jonathan Eugene Schmidt O'Dell both managed to escape from the jail in Phelps County, according to the FBI in Kansas City. Scott later turning himself to authorities.

Law enforcement continue to search for 33-year-old Schmidt O'Dell. He is described as a white male, 6-feet-1 inches tall and weighs approximately 200 pounds with brown hair, blue eyes and a full beard at the time of his booking.

He may have shaved his beard to disguise his identity. He was last seen wearing a maroon-colored shirt with a Phelps County logo and brown slacks with a tan stripe.

Just after 11p.m. Friday two inmates at the Phelps County Jail escaped by comprising the structural integrity of the cell and exiting the building.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696203010807.png" alt="O'Dell-after his arrest on Sunday-photo Phelps Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>O'Dell-after his arrest on Sunday-photo Phelps Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —The search for an escapee from a Missouri county jail ended Sunday afternoon west of Kansas. After a pursuit with law enforcement in Ray County, Missouri, 33-year-old Jonathan Eugene Schmidt O 'Dell was located just west of Kansas City and taken into custody just after 5 p.m.,&nbsp; according to a social media report from the FBI. The stolen vehicle from Phelps County was also recovered.O'Dell is facing federal charges. According to a federal indictment O'Dell planned to travel to Texas to shoot at illegal immigrants who crossed into the U.S. from Mexico. The indictment also alleges he planned to murder officers and employees of U.S. Border Patrol who attempted to stop him.----------PHELPS COUNTY—Inmates Steven Timothy Scott and Jonathan Eugene Schmidt O'Dell both managed to escape from the jail in Phelps County, according to the FBI in Kansas City. Scott later turning himself to authorities.Law enforcement continue to search for 33-year-old Schmidt O'Dell. He is described as a white male, 6-feet-1 inches tall and weighs approximately 200 pounds with brown hair, blue eyes and a full beard at the time of his booking.He may have shaved his beard to disguise his identity. He was last seen wearing a maroon-colored shirt with a Phelps County logo and brown slacks with a tan stripe.Just after 11p.m. Friday two inmates at the Phelps County Jail escaped by comprising the structural integrity of the cell and exiting the building.

FBI: Escaped inmate captured near Kansas City

KANSAS CITY—Three people died in an accident just before 1a.m. Sunday in Kansas City.

According to Police Captain Corey Carlisle,&nbsp; a black Ford Taurus was northbound on Emanual Cleaver, at a very high rate of speed.

 Just before East 45th Terrace, the driver lost control and the vehicle left the roadway to the right and struck a tree. The driver and two passengers in the vehicle were pronounced dead at the scene, according to Carlisle.

Police did not release the names of the victims. The accident remains under investigation.

KANSAS CITY—Three people died in an accident just before 1a.m. Sunday in Kansas City.According to Police Captain Corey Carlisle,&nbsp; a black Ford Taurus was northbound on Emanual Cleaver, at a very high rate of speed. Just before East 45th Terrace, the driver lost control and the vehicle left the roadway to the right and struck a tree. The driver and two passengers in the vehicle were pronounced dead at the scene, according to Carlisle.Police did not release the names of the victims. The accident remains under investigation.

Kansas City Police: 3 dead after SUV crash into tree

WASHINGTON (AP) — The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court">Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;agreed Friday to decide whether state laws that seek to regulate Facebook, TikTok, X and other social media platforms violate the Constitution.

The justices will review&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-technology-texas-amy-coney-barrett-da10a0389ea3a89e507e8ddf969bff6a">laws enacted</a>&nbsp;by Republican-dominated legislatures and signed by Republican governors in Florida and Texas. While the details vary, both laws aim to prevent the social media companies from censoring users based on their viewpoints.

The court's announcement, three days before the start of its new term, comes as the justices continue to grapple with how laws written at the dawn of the digital age, or earlier, apply to the online world.

The justices had already agreed to decide whether public officials can block critics from commenting on their social media accounts, an issue that previously came up in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-dimisses-case-trump-twitter-critics-bcdfcc37052e9c737ac5a1318b02a71c">a case involving then-President Donald Trump</a>. The court dismissed the Trump case when his presidential term ended in January 2021.

Separately, the high court also could consider a lower-court order limiting executive branch officials’ communications with social media companies about controversial online posts.

The new case follows conflicting rulings by two appeals courts, one of which upheld the Texas law, while the other struck down Florida's statute. By a 5-4 vote, the justices kept the Texas law on hold while litigation over it continues.

But the alignment was unusual. Chief Justice John Roberts and Justices Stephen Breyer, Sonia Sotomayor, Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett voted to grant the emergency request from two technology industry groups that challenged the law in federal court.

Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Elena Kagan and Neil Gorsuch would have allowed the law to remain in effect. In dissent, Alito wrote, “Social media platforms have transformed the way people communicate with each other and obtain news.”

Proponents of the laws, including Republican elected officials in several states that have similar measures, have sought to portray social media companies as generally liberal in outlook and hostile to ideas outside of that viewpoint, especially from the political right.

The tech sector warned that the laws would prevent platforms from removing extremism and hate speech.

Without offering any explanation, the justices had put off consideration of the case even though both sides agreed the high court should step in.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court">Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;agreed Friday to decide whether state laws that seek to regulate Facebook, TikTok, X and other social media platforms violate the Constitution.The justices will review&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-technology-texas-amy-coney-barrett-da10a0389ea3a89e507e8ddf969bff6a">laws enacted</a>&nbsp;by Republican-dominated legislatures and signed by Republican governors in Florida and Texas. While the details vary, both laws aim to prevent the social media companies from censoring users based on their viewpoints.The court's announcement, three days before the start of its new term, comes as the justices continue to grapple with how laws written at the dawn of the digital age, or earlier, apply to the online world.The justices had already agreed to decide whether public officials can block critics from commenting on their social media accounts, an issue that previously came up in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-dimisses-case-trump-twitter-critics-bcdfcc37052e9c737ac5a1318b02a71c">a case involving then-President Donald Trump</a>. The court dismissed the Trump case when his presidential term ended in January 2021.Separately, the high court also could consider a lower-court order limiting executive branch officials’ communications with social media companies about controversial online posts.The new case follows conflicting rulings by two appeals courts, one of which upheld the Texas law, while the other struck down Florida's statute. By a 5-4 vote, the justices kept the Texas law on hold while litigation over it continues.But the alignment was unusual. Chief Justice John Roberts and Justices Stephen Breyer, Sonia Sotomayor, Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett voted to grant the emergency request from two technology industry groups that challenged the law in federal court.Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Elena Kagan and Neil Gorsuch would have allowed the law to remain in effect. In dissent, Alito wrote, “Social media platforms have transformed the way people communicate with each other and obtain news.”Proponents of the laws, including Republican elected officials in several states that have similar measures, have sought to portray social media companies as generally liberal in outlook and hostile to ideas outside of that viewpoint, especially from the political right.The tech sector warned that the laws would prevent platforms from removing extremism and hate speech.Without offering any explanation, the justices had put off consideration of the case even though both sides agreed the high court should step in.

High Court will decide if laws limiting social media platforms violate Constitution

Kansas officials say Medicaid expansion would have protected some from dismissal

TOPEKA — Kansas administrators of the Medicaid program estimate 12,000 adults or children eligible for the health coverage program were stripped of benefits due to problems with processing renewals.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said more than two-dozen states, including Kansas, failed to conduct renewal assessments properly and consequently disenrolled too many people. About 500,000 in the United States should have been allowed to maintain coverage, but were excluded by states and territories as a result of the eligibility review shortcomings.

The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services sounded an alarm Aug. 30 that some state computer systems were inappropriately disenrolling people, even when the state had information indicating the person remained eligible.

Christine Osterlund, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s deputy secretary for agency integration and&nbsp;Medicaid, said the issue involved up to 12,000 lower-income or disabled individuals among 81,000 removed from Medicaid this year in Kansas. During the COVID-19 pandemic, states were authorized to suspend eligibility assessments. The process of recalibrating who could stay in state-federal health coverage program has been referred to as unwinding.

KDHE paused discontinuances in August and September to make certain corrective actions were effective, Osterlund said.

Problems in Kansas and other states arose because auto-renewals were performed across entire households, instead of addressing individual eligibility of each person in a household. One consequence was children were disenrolled because a parent no longer qualified.

“The state of Kansas is working on a remedy to meet the newly stated requirements,” Osterlund said. “System and manual workarounds have been implemented to address CMS’ concerns until a permanent solution can be implemented.”

HHS released a 50-state report last week showing Kansas’ disenrollment problem involved 10,000 to 49,000 adults or children. KDHE officials said the report was “misleading” because it applied a numerical range to those mistakenly disenrolled when the number was approximately 12,000.

Medicaid enrollment losses have been significant in 10 states, including Kansas, that declined to expand eligibility for the program. Gov. Laura Kelly, a Democrat, has sought to broaden access to Medicaid, but Republican leaders in the Kansas Legislature have undermined expansion efforts for a decade. Each of Kansas’ neighboring states — Colorado, Nebraska, Missouri, Oklahoma — have taken the step to expand Medicaid.

“If Kansas were a&nbsp;Medicaid&nbsp;expansion state, more individuals would have coverage reinstated as our eligibility standards would be higher,” Osterlund said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690891865443.png" alt="-Christine Osterlund, Kansas Department of Health and Environment's deputy secretary for Medicaid, said computer system woes caused 12,000 adults and children to be mistakenly dropped from Medicaid this year during the process of reviewing eligibility in aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>-Christine Osterlund, Kansas Department of Health and Environment's deputy secretary for Medicaid, said computer system woes caused 12,000 adults and children to be mistakenly dropped from Medicaid this year during the process of reviewing eligibility in aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Kansas officials say Medicaid expansion would have protected some from dismissal</h2>TOPEKA — Kansas administrators of the Medicaid program estimate 12,000 adults or children eligible for the health coverage program were stripped of benefits due to problems with processing renewals.The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said more than two-dozen states, including Kansas, failed to conduct renewal assessments properly and consequently disenrolled too many people. About 500,000 in the United States should have been allowed to maintain coverage, but were excluded by states and territories as a result of the eligibility review shortcomings.The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services sounded an alarm Aug. 30 that some state computer systems were inappropriately disenrolling people, even when the state had information indicating the person remained eligible.Christine Osterlund, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s deputy secretary for agency integration and&nbsp;Medicaid, said the issue involved up to 12,000 lower-income or disabled individuals among 81,000 removed from Medicaid this year in Kansas. During the COVID-19 pandemic, states were authorized to suspend eligibility assessments. The process of recalibrating who could stay in state-federal health coverage program has been referred to as unwinding.KDHE paused discontinuances in August and September to make certain corrective actions were effective, Osterlund said.Problems in Kansas and other states arose because auto-renewals were performed across entire households, instead of addressing individual eligibility of each person in a household. One consequence was children were disenrolled because a parent no longer qualified.“The state of Kansas is working on a remedy to meet the newly stated requirements,” Osterlund said. “System and manual workarounds have been implemented to address CMS’ concerns until a permanent solution can be implemented.”HHS released a 50-state report last week showing Kansas’ disenrollment problem involved 10,000 to 49,000 adults or children. KDHE officials said the report was “misleading” because it applied a numerical range to those mistakenly disenrolled when the number was approximately 12,000.Medicaid enrollment losses have been significant in 10 states, including Kansas, that declined to expand eligibility for the program. Gov. Laura Kelly, a Democrat, has sought to broaden access to Medicaid, but Republican leaders in the Kansas Legislature have undermined expansion efforts for a decade. Each of Kansas’ neighboring states — Colorado, Nebraska, Missouri, Oklahoma — have taken the step to expand Medicaid.“If Kansas were a&nbsp;Medicaid&nbsp;expansion state, more individuals would have coverage reinstated as our eligibility standards would be higher,” Osterlund said.

Estimated 12,000 Kansans mistakenly kicked off Medicaid 

MARION (AP) —The police chief who led a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marion-kansas-newspaper-raid-aca057365ea3925328a69acd615c9893">highly criticized</a>&nbsp;raid of a small Kansas newspaper has been suspended, the mayor confirmed to The Associated Press on Saturday.

Marion Mayor Dave Mayfield in a text said he suspended Chief Gideon Cody on Thursday. He declined to discuss his decision further and did not say whether Cody was still being paid.

Voice messages and emails from the AP seeking comment from Cody's lawyers were not immediately returned Saturday.

The Aug. 11 searches of the Marion County Record’s office and the homes of its publisher and a City Council member have been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marion-kansas-newspaper-raid-aca057365ea3925328a69acd615c9893">sharply criticized,</a>&nbsp;putting Marion at the center of a debate over the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-newspaper-raid-marion-county-record-bead3f49d323c784d40154067141dc7c">press protections</a>&nbsp;offered by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Cody's suspension is a reversal for the mayor, who previously said he would wait for results from a state police investigation before taking action.

Vice-Mayor Ruth Herbel, whose home was also raided Aug. 11, praised Cody's suspension as “the best thing that can happen to Marion right now” as the central Kansas town of about 1,900 people struggles to move forward under the national spotlight.

“We can't duck our heads until it goes away, because it’s not going to go away until we do something about it,” Herbel said.

Cody has said little publicly since the raids other than posting a defense of them on the police department’s Facebook page. In&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/newspaper-raid-kansas-affidavit-07d9c856894892bff13cb014248ec866">court documents</a>&nbsp;he filed to get the search warrants, he argued that he had probable cause to believe the newspaper and Herbel, whose home was also raided, had violated state laws against identity theft or computer crimes.

The raids came after a local restaurant owner accused the newspaper of illegally accessing information about her. A spokesman for the agency that maintains those records has said the newspaper’s online search that a reporter did was likely legal even though the reporter needed personal information about the restaurant owner that a tipster provided to look up her driving record.

The newspaper’s publisher Eric Meyer has said the identity theft allegations simply provided a convenient excuse for the search after his reporters had been digging for background information on Cody, who was appointed this summer.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-newspaper-raid-marion-county-record-bead3f49d323c784d40154067141dc7c">Legal experts believe</a>&nbsp;the raid on the newspaper violated a federal privacy law or a state law shielding journalists from having to identify sources or turn over unpublished material to law enforcement.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-newspaper-mother-raid-video-4427af3241da82767deb76028836cffd">Video of the raid</a>&nbsp;on the home of publisher Eric Meyer shows how distraught his 98-year-old mother became as officers searched through their belongings. Meyer said he believes that stress contributed to the death of his mother, Joan Meyer, a day later.

Another reporter last month&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-newspaper-raid-reporter-lawsuit-12f03fbd2821630b6d531d6b743047c9">filed a federal lawsuit</a>&nbsp;against the police chief over the raid.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692219843330.png" alt="The suspension is a reversal for the mayor, who previously said he would wait for results from a state police investigation before taking action.-photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>The suspension is a reversal for the mayor, who previously said he would wait for results from a state police investigation before taking action.-photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>MARION (AP) —The police chief who led a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marion-kansas-newspaper-raid-aca057365ea3925328a69acd615c9893">highly criticized</a>&nbsp;raid of a small Kansas newspaper has been suspended, the mayor confirmed to The Associated Press on Saturday.Marion Mayor Dave Mayfield in a text said he suspended Chief Gideon Cody on Thursday. He declined to discuss his decision further and did not say whether Cody was still being paid.Voice messages and emails from the AP seeking comment from Cody's lawyers were not immediately returned Saturday.The Aug. 11 searches of the Marion County Record’s office and the homes of its publisher and a City Council member have been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marion-kansas-newspaper-raid-aca057365ea3925328a69acd615c9893">sharply criticized,</a>&nbsp;putting Marion at the center of a debate over the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-newspaper-raid-marion-county-record-bead3f49d323c784d40154067141dc7c">press protections</a>&nbsp;offered by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.Cody's suspension is a reversal for the mayor, who previously said he would wait for results from a state police investigation before taking action.Vice-Mayor Ruth Herbel, whose home was also raided Aug. 11, praised Cody's suspension as “the best thing that can happen to Marion right now” as the central Kansas town of about 1,900 people struggles to move forward under the national spotlight.“We can't duck our heads until it goes away, because it’s not going to go away until we do something about it,” Herbel said.Cody has said little publicly since the raids other than posting a defense of them on the police department’s Facebook page. In&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/newspaper-raid-kansas-affidavit-07d9c856894892bff13cb014248ec866">court documents</a>&nbsp;he filed to get the search warrants, he argued that he had probable cause to believe the newspaper and Herbel, whose home was also raided, had violated state laws against identity theft or computer crimes.The raids came after a local restaurant owner accused the newspaper of illegally accessing information about her. A spokesman for the agency that maintains those records has said the newspaper’s online search that a reporter did was likely legal even though the reporter needed personal information about the restaurant owner that a tipster provided to look up her driving record.The newspaper’s publisher Eric Meyer has said the identity theft allegations simply provided a convenient excuse for the search after his reporters had been digging for background information on Cody, who was appointed this summer.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-newspaper-raid-marion-county-record-bead3f49d323c784d40154067141dc7c">Legal experts believe</a>&nbsp;the raid on the newspaper violated a federal privacy law or a state law shielding journalists from having to identify sources or turn over unpublished material to law enforcement.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-newspaper-mother-raid-video-4427af3241da82767deb76028836cffd">Video of the raid</a>&nbsp;on the home of publisher Eric Meyer shows how distraught his 98-year-old mother became as officers searched through their belongings. Meyer said he believes that stress contributed to the death of his mother, Joan Meyer, a day later.Another reporter last month&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-newspaper-raid-reporter-lawsuit-12f03fbd2821630b6d531d6b743047c9">filed a federal lawsuit</a>&nbsp;against the police chief over the raid.

Mayor suspends police chief who led a raid of Kansas newspaper 

KANSAS CITY (AP) —A federal agency has sued the restaurant chain Chipotle, accusing it of religious harassment and retaliation after a manager at a Kansas location forcibly removed an employee's hijab, a headscarf worn by some Muslim women.

In a lawsuit filed Wednesday, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission alleged that in 2021, an assistant manager at a Chipotle in Lenexa, Kansas, repeatedly harassed the employee by asking her to show him her hair, despite her refusal. After several weeks, the harassment culminated in him grabbing and partially removing her hijab, according to the complaint.

The manager's “offensive and incessant requests” that she remove her hijab, and his attempt to physically take it off, were “unwelcome, intentional, severe, based on religion, and created a hostile working environment based on religion," the complaint alleged.

Chipotle's chief corporate affairs officer, Laurie Schalow, said the company encourages employees to report concerns, including through an anonymous hotline.

"We have a zero tolerance policy for discrimination of any kind and we have terminated the employee in question,” she said in an emailed statement.

The harassment began in July 2021, when the manager began asking the employee, who was 19 at the time, to remove her hijab because he wanted to see her hair. According to the complaint, he demanded to see her hair at least 10 times over the course of one month. She refused on every occasion, saying she wore it because of her religious beliefs.

The employee complained to another supervisor that the incidents made her uncomfortable, but no further action was taken against the manager, the complaint said. One night during closing in August 2021, the manager allegedly reached out and pulled her hijab partially off her head.

The following day, the employee gave her two weeks' notice. Chipotle didn't schedule her for any shifts during those two weeks even though other non-Muslim employees who submitted their notice continued to be scheduled for work during that time, the complaint alleged.

The lawsuit claims that Chipotle violated federal civil rights law protecting employees and job applicants from discrimination based on religion, race, ethnicity, sex and national origin.

In its suit, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission said it wants Chipotle to institute policies that provide equal employment opportunities for employees of all religions and pay damages to the employee.

KANSAS CITY (AP) —A federal agency has sued the restaurant chain Chipotle, accusing it of religious harassment and retaliation after a manager at a Kansas location forcibly removed an employee's hijab, a headscarf worn by some Muslim women.In a lawsuit filed Wednesday, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission alleged that in 2021, an assistant manager at a Chipotle in Lenexa, Kansas, repeatedly harassed the employee by asking her to show him her hair, despite her refusal. After several weeks, the harassment culminated in him grabbing and partially removing her hijab, according to the complaint.The manager's “offensive and incessant requests” that she remove her hijab, and his attempt to physically take it off, were “unwelcome, intentional, severe, based on religion, and created a hostile working environment based on religion," the complaint alleged.Chipotle's chief corporate affairs officer, Laurie Schalow, said the company encourages employees to report concerns, including through an anonymous hotline."We have a zero tolerance policy for discrimination of any kind and we have terminated the employee in question,” she said in an emailed statement.The harassment began in July 2021, when the manager began asking the employee, who was 19 at the time, to remove her hijab because he wanted to see her hair. According to the complaint, he demanded to see her hair at least 10 times over the course of one month. She refused on every occasion, saying she wore it because of her religious beliefs.The employee complained to another supervisor that the incidents made her uncomfortable, but no further action was taken against the manager, the complaint said. One night during closing in August 2021, the manager allegedly reached out and pulled her hijab partially off her head.The following day, the employee gave her two weeks' notice. Chipotle didn't schedule her for any shifts during those two weeks even though other non-Muslim employees who submitted their notice continued to be scheduled for work during that time, the complaint alleged.The lawsuit claims that Chipotle violated federal civil rights law protecting employees and job applicants from discrimination based on religion, race, ethnicity, sex and national origin.In its suit, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission said it wants Chipotle to institute policies that provide equal employment opportunities for employees of all religions and pay damages to the employee.

Federal agency sues Chipotle after Kan. manager allegedly ripped off employee's hijab

WASHINGTON (AP) — The threat of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-congress-biden-trump-mccarthy-f1b06964cf549b09977677e5f70bf9ff" target="_blank">federal government shutdown</a>&nbsp;suddenly lifted late Saturday as President Joe Biden signed a temporary funding bill to keep agencies open with little time to spare after Congress rushed to approve the bipartisan deal.

The package drops&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zelenskyy-biden-washington-visit-congress-ukraine-war-1d20574fb3ea4fb5efcc7db5458a33a3#:~:text=WASHINGTON%20(AP)%20%E2%80%94%20President%20Volodymyr,troops%20in%20the%20fight%20against" target="_blank">aid to Ukraine</a>, a White House priority opposed by a growing number of GOP lawmakers, but increases&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfire-hurricane-flooding-fema-disaster-relief-budget-365fc3acd6a12c1f8e67b4926c8dc8b2" target="_blank">federal disaster assistance by $16 billion,</a>&nbsp;meeting Biden’s full request. The bill funds government until Nov. 17.

After chaotic days of turmoil in the House, Speaker Kevin McCarthy abruptly abandoned demands for steep spending cuts from his right flank and instead relied on Democrats to pass the bill, at risk to his own job. The Senate followed with final passage closing a whirlwind day at the Capitol.

“This is good news for the American people,” Biden said in a statement.

He also said the United States “cannot under any circumstances allow American support for Ukraine to be interrupted” and expected McCarthy “will keep his commitment to the people of Ukraine and secure passage of the support needed to help Ukraine at this critical moment.”

It’s been a sudden head-spinning turn of events in Congress ahead of the midnight funding deadline after grueling days in the House pushed the government to the brink of a disruptive federal shutdown.

The outcome ends, for now, the threat of a shutdown, but the reprieve may be short-lived. Congress will again need to fund the government in coming weeks risking a crisis as views are hardening, particularly among the right-flank lawmakers whose demands were ultimately swept aside this time in favor of a more bipartisan approach.

“We’re going to do our job,” McCarthy, R-Calif., said before the House vote. “We’re going to be adults in the room. And we’re going to keep government open.”

If no deal was in place before Sunday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-gop-federal-workers-congress-government-5978a4c7411eba06261d16c3aff3dfc5" target="_blank">federal workers would have faced furloughs</a>, more than 2 million active-duty and reserve military troops would have had to work without pay and programs and services that Americans rely on from coast to coast would have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-snap-benefits-loans-travel-97b3a3b30624704da6eb204837a9135c" target="_blank">begun to face shutdown disruptions</a>.

“It has been a day full of twists and turns, but the American people can breathe a sigh of relief: There will be no government shutdown,” said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y.

The package funds government at current 2023 levels until mid-November, and also extends other provisions, including for the Federal Aviation Administration. The package was approved by the House 335-91, with most Republicans and almost all Democrats supporting. Senate passage came by an 88-9 vote.&nbsp;Kansas Senator Jerry Moran voted in favor of the measure along with Missouri Senators Josh Hawley and Eric Schmitt and Nebraska Senators Deb Fischer and Pete Ricketts. Kansas Senator Roger Marshall voted against the bill.

But the loss of Ukraine aid was devastating for lawmakers of both parties vowing to support President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zelenskyy-biden-washington-visit-congress-ukraine-war-1d20574fb3ea4fb5efcc7db5458a33a3" target="_blank">Volodymyr Zelenskyy</a>&nbsp;after his recent Washington visit. The Senate bill included $6 billion for Ukraine, and both chambers came to a standstill Saturday as lawmakers assessed their options.

“The American people deserve better,” said House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York, warning in a lengthy floor speech that “extreme” Republicans were risking a shutdown.

For the House package to be approved, McCarthy was forced to rely on Democrats because the speaker’s hard-right flank has said it will oppose any short-term funding measure, denying him the votes needed from his slim majority. It’s a move that is sure to intensify calls for his ouster.

After leaving the conservative holdouts behind, McCarthy is almost certain to be facing a motion to try to remove him from office, though it is not at all certain there would be enough votes to topple the speaker. Most Republicans voted for the package Saturday while 90 opposed.

“If somebody wants to remove me because I want to be the adult in the room, go ahead and try,” McCarthy said of the threat to oust him. “But I think this country is too important.”

The White House was tracking the developments on Capitol Hill and aides were briefing the president, who was spending the weekend in Washington.

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell, who has championed Ukraine aid despite resistance from his own ranks, is expected to keep pursuing U.S. support for Kyiv in the fight against Russia.

“I have agreed to keep fighting for more economic and security aid for Ukraine,” McConnell, R-Ky., said before the vote.

Late at night, the Senate stalled when Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo., held up the vote, seeking assurances Ukraine funds would be reconsidered.

“I know important moments are like this, for the United States, to lead the rest of the world,” Bennet said, noting his mother was born in Poland in 1938 and survived the Holocaust. “We can’t fail.”

The House’s quick pivot comes after the collapse Friday of McCarthy’s earlier plan to pass a Republican-only bill with steep spending cuts up to 30% to most government agencies and strict border provisions that the White House and Democrats rejected as too extreme. A faction of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-votes-mccarthy-gop-caucus-gaetz-585c82607c00c2cfc45768faff6e1cda" target="_blank">21 hard-right Republican holdouts</a>&nbsp;opposed it.

“Our options are slipping away every minute,” said one senior Republican, Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart of Florida.

The federal government had been heading&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-congress-biden-trump-mccarthy-f1b06964cf549b09977677e5f70bf9ff" target="_blank">straight into a shutdown</a>&nbsp;that posed grave uncertainty for federal workers in states all across America and the people who depend on them — from troops to border control agents to office workers, scientists and others.

Families that rely on Head Start for children, food benefits and countless other programs large and small were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-snap-benefits-loans-travel-97b3a3b30624704da6eb204837a9135c" target="_blank">confronting potential interruptions or outright closures</a>. At the airports, Transportation Security Administration officers and air traffic controllers had been expected to work without pay, but travelers could have faced delays in updating their U.S. passports or other travel documents.

The White House has brushed aside McCarthy’s overtures to meet with Biden after the speaker walked away from the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-debt-ceiling-budget-signing-f78a000d83cf85ffbaa2d08637844053#:~:text=Washington%20News-,Biden%20signs%20debt%20ceiling%20bill%20that%20pulls,from%20brink%20of%20unprecedented%20default&amp;text=WASHINGTON%20(AP)%20%E2%80%94%20With%20just,on%20the%20federal%20government's%20debt." target="_blank">debt deal</a>&nbsp;they brokered earlier this year that set budget levels.

Catering to his hard-right flank, McCarthy had made multiple concessions including returning to the spending limits the conservatives demanded back in January as part of the deal-making to help him&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-united-states-house-of-representatives-kevin-mccarthy-us-republican-party-0938c7358f41c83759246f8949ac7c15" target="_blank">become the House speaker</a>.

But it was not enough as the conservatives insisted the House follow regular rules, and debate and approve each of the 12 separate spending bills needed to fund the government agencies, typically a months-long process. In the Senate, all the no votes against the package came from Republicans.

McCarthy’s chief Republican critic, Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida, has warned he will file a motion calling a vote to oust the speaker.

Some of the Republican holdouts, including Gaetz, are allies of former President Donald Trump, who is Biden’s chief rival in the 2024 race. Trump has been encouraging the Republicans to fight hard for their priorities and even to “shut it down.”

At an early closed-door meeting at the Capitol, several House Republicans, particularly those facing tough reelections next year, urged their colleagues to find a way to prevent a shutdown.

“All of us have a responsibility to lead and to govern,” said Republican Rep. Mike Lawler of New York.

The lone House Democrat to vote against the package, Rep. Mike Quigley of Illinois, the co-chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus, said, “Protecting Ukraine is in our national interest.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696162456881.png" alt="White House photo" />
 <figcaption>White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The threat of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-congress-biden-trump-mccarthy-f1b06964cf549b09977677e5f70bf9ff" target="_blank">federal government shutdown</a>&nbsp;suddenly lifted late Saturday as President Joe Biden signed a temporary funding bill to keep agencies open with little time to spare after Congress rushed to approve the bipartisan deal.The package drops&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zelenskyy-biden-washington-visit-congress-ukraine-war-1d20574fb3ea4fb5efcc7db5458a33a3#:~:text=WASHINGTON%20(AP)%20%E2%80%94%20President%20Volodymyr,troops%20in%20the%20fight%20against" target="_blank">aid to Ukraine</a>, a White House priority opposed by a growing number of GOP lawmakers, but increases&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfire-hurricane-flooding-fema-disaster-relief-budget-365fc3acd6a12c1f8e67b4926c8dc8b2" target="_blank">federal disaster assistance by $16 billion,</a>&nbsp;meeting Biden’s full request. The bill funds government until Nov. 17.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Tonight, Congress voted to keep the government open, preventing an unnecessary crisis that would have inflicted needless pain on millions of hardworking Americans. This is good news, but I want to be clear: we should never have been in this position in the first place. <a href="https://t.co/U28kaX11Rq">pic.twitter.com/U28kaX11Rq</a>&mdash; President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1708290185505419283?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>After chaotic days of turmoil in the House, Speaker Kevin McCarthy abruptly abandoned demands for steep spending cuts from his right flank and instead relied on Democrats to pass the bill, at risk to his own job. The Senate followed with final passage closing a whirlwind day at the Capitol.“This is good news for the American people,” Biden said in a statement.He also said the United States “cannot under any circumstances allow American support for Ukraine to be interrupted” and expected McCarthy “will keep his commitment to the people of Ukraine and secure passage of the support needed to help Ukraine at this critical moment.”It’s been a sudden head-spinning turn of events in Congress ahead of the midnight funding deadline after grueling days in the House pushed the government to the brink of a disruptive federal shutdown.The outcome ends, for now, the threat of a shutdown, but the reprieve may be short-lived. Congress will again need to fund the government in coming weeks risking a crisis as views are hardening, particularly among the right-flank lawmakers whose demands were ultimately swept aside this time in favor of a more bipartisan approach.“We’re going to do our job,” McCarthy, R-Calif., said before the House vote. “We’re going to be adults in the room. And we’re going to keep government open.”If no deal was in place before Sunday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-gop-federal-workers-congress-government-5978a4c7411eba06261d16c3aff3dfc5" target="_blank">federal workers would have faced furloughs</a>, more than 2 million active-duty and reserve military troops would have had to work without pay and programs and services that Americans rely on from coast to coast would have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-snap-benefits-loans-travel-97b3a3b30624704da6eb204837a9135c" target="_blank">begun to face shutdown disruptions</a>.“It has been a day full of twists and turns, but the American people can breathe a sigh of relief: There will be no government shutdown,” said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y.The package funds government at current 2023 levels until mid-November, and also extends other provisions, including for the Federal Aviation Administration. The package was approved by the House 335-91, with most Republicans and almost all Democrats supporting. Senate passage came by an 88-9 vote.&nbsp;Kansas Senator Jerry Moran voted in favor of the measure along with Missouri Senators Josh Hawley and Eric Schmitt and Nebraska Senators Deb Fischer and Pete Ricketts. Kansas Senator Roger Marshall voted against the bill.But the loss of Ukraine aid was devastating for lawmakers of both parties vowing to support President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zelenskyy-biden-washington-visit-congress-ukraine-war-1d20574fb3ea4fb5efcc7db5458a33a3" target="_blank">Volodymyr Zelenskyy</a>&nbsp;after his recent Washington visit. The Senate bill included $6 billion for Ukraine, and both chambers came to a standstill Saturday as lawmakers assessed their options.“The American people deserve better,” said House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York, warning in a lengthy floor speech that “extreme” Republicans were risking a shutdown.For the House package to be approved, McCarthy was forced to rely on Democrats because the speaker’s hard-right flank has said it will oppose any short-term funding measure, denying him the votes needed from his slim majority. It’s a move that is sure to intensify calls for his ouster.After leaving the conservative holdouts behind, McCarthy is almost certain to be facing a motion to try to remove him from office, though it is not at all certain there would be enough votes to topple the speaker. Most Republicans voted for the package Saturday while 90 opposed.“If somebody wants to remove me because I want to be the adult in the room, go ahead and try,” McCarthy said of the threat to oust him. “But I think this country is too important.”The White House was tracking the developments on Capitol Hill and aides were briefing the president, who was spending the weekend in Washington.Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell, who has championed Ukraine aid despite resistance from his own ranks, is expected to keep pursuing U.S. support for Kyiv in the fight against Russia.“I have agreed to keep fighting for more economic and security aid for Ukraine,” McConnell, R-Ky., said before the vote.Late at night, the Senate stalled when Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo., held up the vote, seeking assurances Ukraine funds would be reconsidered.“I know important moments are like this, for the United States, to lead the rest of the world,” Bennet said, noting his mother was born in Poland in 1938 and survived the Holocaust. “We can’t fail.”The House’s quick pivot comes after the collapse Friday of McCarthy’s earlier plan to pass a Republican-only bill with steep spending cuts up to 30% to most government agencies and strict border provisions that the White House and Democrats rejected as too extreme. A faction of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-votes-mccarthy-gop-caucus-gaetz-585c82607c00c2cfc45768faff6e1cda" target="_blank">21 hard-right Republican holdouts</a>&nbsp;opposed it.“Our options are slipping away every minute,” said one senior Republican, Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart of Florida.The federal government had been heading&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-congress-biden-trump-mccarthy-f1b06964cf549b09977677e5f70bf9ff" target="_blank">straight into a shutdown</a>&nbsp;that posed grave uncertainty for federal workers in states all across America and the people who depend on them — from troops to border control agents to office workers, scientists and others.Families that rely on Head Start for children, food benefits and countless other programs large and small were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-snap-benefits-loans-travel-97b3a3b30624704da6eb204837a9135c" target="_blank">confronting potential interruptions or outright closures</a>. At the airports, Transportation Security Administration officers and air traffic controllers had been expected to work without pay, but travelers could have faced delays in updating their U.S. passports or other travel documents.The White House has brushed aside McCarthy’s overtures to meet with Biden after the speaker walked away from the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-debt-ceiling-budget-signing-f78a000d83cf85ffbaa2d08637844053#:~:text=Washington%20News-,Biden%20signs%20debt%20ceiling%20bill%20that%20pulls,from%20brink%20of%20unprecedented%20default&amp;text=WASHINGTON%20(AP)%20%E2%80%94%20With%20just,on%20the%20federal%20government's%20debt." target="_blank">debt deal</a>&nbsp;they brokered earlier this year that set budget levels.Catering to his hard-right flank, McCarthy had made multiple concessions including returning to the spending limits the conservatives demanded back in January as part of the deal-making to help him&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-united-states-house-of-representatives-kevin-mccarthy-us-republican-party-0938c7358f41c83759246f8949ac7c15" target="_blank">become the House speaker</a>.But it was not enough as the conservatives insisted the House follow regular rules, and debate and approve each of the 12 separate spending bills needed to fund the government agencies, typically a months-long process. In the Senate, all the no votes against the package came from Republicans.McCarthy’s chief Republican critic, Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida, has warned he will file a motion calling a vote to oust the speaker.Some of the Republican holdouts, including Gaetz, are allies of former President Donald Trump, who is Biden’s chief rival in the 2024 race. Trump has been encouraging the Republicans to fight hard for their priorities and even to “shut it down.”At an early closed-door meeting at the Capitol, several House Republicans, particularly those facing tough reelections next year, urged their colleagues to find a way to prevent a shutdown.“All of us have a responsibility to lead and to govern,” said Republican Rep. Mike Lawler of New York.The lone House Democrat to vote against the package, Rep. Mike Quigley of Illinois, the co-chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus, said, “Protecting Ukraine is in our national interest.”<h2>___</h2>

Biden signs bill to keep government funded through Nov. 17

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a deadly shooting have identified the victim as 50-year-old Philip Croft, according to Police Captain Corey Carlisle.

Just before 6a.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to a reported shooting the 2000 block of Wheeling in Kansas CIty on a reported shooting.

First responders located Croft lying in the parking lot of the apartment complex suffering from apparent gunshot wounds.&nbsp; Officers administered life saving measures until EMS arrived on scene. EMS declared Croft deceased on scene.

The circumstances leading up to the homicide are unknown.&nbsp; No one is in custody at this time.&nbsp;

Homicide detectives and Crime Scene Personnel responded and were processing the scene to recover any evidence and speaking to any potential witnesses.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696107414650.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy Sheriff Darryl Forte'" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy Sheriff Darryl Forte'</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a deadly shooting have identified the victim as 50-year-old Philip Croft, according to Police Captain Corey Carlisle.Just before 6a.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to a reported shooting the 2000 block of Wheeling in Kansas CIty on a reported shooting.First responders located Croft lying in the parking lot of the apartment complex suffering from apparent gunshot wounds.&nbsp; Officers administered life saving measures until EMS arrived on scene. EMS declared Croft deceased on scene.The circumstances leading up to the homicide are unknown.&nbsp; No one is in custody at this time.&nbsp;Homicide detectives and Crime Scene Personnel responded and were processing the scene to recover any evidence and speaking to any potential witnesses.

Homicide: Man found dead in KC apartment complex parking lot

WASHINGTON (AP) — The threat of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-congress-biden-trump-mccarthy-f1b06964cf549b09977677e5f70bf9ff">federal government shutdown</a>&nbsp;suddenly lifted late Saturday hours before a midnight deadline as Congress approved a temporary funding bill to keep agencies open and sent the measure to President Joe Biden to become law.

The rushed package drops&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zelenskyy-biden-washington-visit-congress-ukraine-war-1d20574fb3ea4fb5efcc7db5458a33a3#:~:text=WASHINGTON%20(AP)%20%E2%80%94%20President%20Volodymyr,troops%20in%20the%20fight%20against">aid to Ukraine</a>, a White House priority opposed by a growing number of GOP lawmakers, but increases&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfire-hurricane-flooding-fema-disaster-relief-budget-365fc3acd6a12c1f8e67b4926c8dc8b2">federal disaster assistance by $16 billion,</a>&nbsp;meeting Biden’s full request. The bill funds government until Nov. 17.

He also said the United States “cannot under any circumstances allow American support for Ukraine to be interrupted" and expected McCarthy "will keep his commitment to the people of Ukraine and secure passage of the support needed to help Ukraine at this critical moment."

It’s been a sudden head-spinning turn of events in Congress after days of House chaos pushed the government to the brink of a disruptive federal shutdown.

The outcome ends, for now, the threat of a shutdown, but the reprieve may be short lived. Congress will again need to fund the government in coming weeks risking a crisis as views are hardening, particularly among the right-flank lawmakers whose demands were ultimately swept aside this time in favor of a more bipartisan approach.

If no deal was in place before Sunday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-gop-federal-workers-congress-government-5978a4c7411eba06261d16c3aff3dfc5">federal workers would have faced furloughs</a>, more than 2 million active-duty and reserve military troops would have had to work without pay and programs and services that Americans rely on from coast to coast would have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-snap-benefits-loans-travel-97b3a3b30624704da6eb204837a9135c">begun to face shutdown disruptions</a>.

“It has been a day full of twists and turns, but the American people can breathe a sigh of relief: There will be no government shutdown," said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y.

But the loss of Ukraine aid was devastating for lawmakers of both parties vowing to support President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zelenskyy-biden-washington-visit-congress-ukraine-war-1d20574fb3ea4fb5efcc7db5458a33a3">Volodymyr Zelenskyy</a>&nbsp;after his recent Washington visit. The Senate bill included $6 billion for Ukraine, and both chambers came to a standstill Saturday as lawmakers assessed their options.

"The American people deserve better," said House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York, warning in a lengthy floor speech that “extreme" Republicans were risking a shutdown.

For the House package to be approved, McCarthy, R-Calif., was forced to rely on Democrats because the speaker's hard-right flank has said it will oppose any short-term funding measure, denying him the votes needed from his slim majority. It's a move that risks his job amid calls for his ouster.

After leaving his the conservative holdouts behind, McCarthy is almost certain to be facing a motion to try to remove from office, though it is not at all certain there would be enough votes to topple the speaker. Most Republicans voted for the package Saturday while 90 opposed.

"If somebody wants to remove me because I want to be the adult in the room, go ahead and try,” McCarthy said of the threat to oust him. “But I think this country is too important.”

"I have agreed to keep fighting for more economic and security aid for Ukraine,” McConnell, R-Ky., said before the vote.

Late at night, the Senate came to a standstill when Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo., held up the vote, seeking assurances Ukraine funds would be reconsidered.

The House's quick pivot comes after the collapse Friday of McCarthy's earlier plan to pass a Republican-only bill with steep spending cuts up to 30% to most government agencies that the White House and Democrats rejected as too extreme.

"Our options are slipping away every minute,” said one senior Republican, Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart of Florida.

The federal government was heading&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-congress-biden-trump-mccarthy-f1b06964cf549b09977677e5f70bf9ff">straight into a shutdown</a>&nbsp;that posed grave uncertainty for federal workers in states all across America and the people who depend on them — from troops to border control agents to office workers, scientists and others.

Families that rely on Head Start for children, food benefits and countless other programs large and small were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-snap-benefits-loans-travel-97b3a3b30624704da6eb204837a9135c">confronting potential interruptions or outright closures</a>. At the airports, Transportation Security Administration officers and air traffic controllers are expected to work without pay, but travelers could face delays in updating their U.S. passports or other travel documents.

An earlier McCarthy plan to keep the government open collapsed Friday due to opposition from a faction of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-votes-mccarthy-gop-caucus-gaetz-585c82607c00c2cfc45768faff6e1cda">21 hard-right holdouts</a>&nbsp;despite steep spending cuts of nearly 30% to many agencies and severe border security provisions.

The White House has brushed aside McCarthy's overtures to meet with Biden after the speaker walked away from the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-debt-ceiling-budget-signing-f78a000d83cf85ffbaa2d08637844053#:~:text=Washington%20News-,Biden%20signs%20debt%20ceiling%20bill%20that%20pulls,from%20brink%20of%20unprecedented%20default&amp;text=WASHINGTON%20(AP)%20%E2%80%94%20With%20just,on%20the%20federal%20government's%20debt.">debt deal</a>&nbsp;they brokered earlier this year that set budget levels.

Catering to his hard-right flank, McCarthy had made multiple concessions including returning to the spending limits the conservatives demanded back in January as part of the deal-making to help him&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-united-states-house-of-representatives-kevin-mccarthy-us-republican-party-0938c7358f41c83759246f8949ac7c15">become the House speaker</a>.

But it was not enough as the right flank insisted the House follow regular rules, and debate and approve each of the 12 separate spending bills needed to fund the government agencies, typically a months-long process.

Some of the Republican holdouts, including Gaetz, are allies of former President Donald Trump, who is Biden's chief rival in the 2024 race. Trump has been encouraging the Republicans to fight hard for their priorities and even to “shut it down.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696122590629.png" alt="“We’re going to do our job,” House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., said before the House vote. “We’re going to be adults in the room. And we’re going to keep government open.” photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>“We’re going to do our job,” House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., said before the House vote. “We’re going to be adults in the room. And we’re going to keep government open.” photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The threat of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-congress-biden-trump-mccarthy-f1b06964cf549b09977677e5f70bf9ff">federal government shutdown</a>&nbsp;suddenly lifted late Saturday hours before a midnight deadline as Congress approved a temporary funding bill to keep agencies open and sent the measure to President Joe Biden to become law.The rushed package drops&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zelenskyy-biden-washington-visit-congress-ukraine-war-1d20574fb3ea4fb5efcc7db5458a33a3#:~:text=WASHINGTON%20(AP)%20%E2%80%94%20President%20Volodymyr,troops%20in%20the%20fight%20against">aid to Ukraine</a>, a White House priority opposed by a growing number of GOP lawmakers, but increases&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfire-hurricane-flooding-fema-disaster-relief-budget-365fc3acd6a12c1f8e67b4926c8dc8b2">federal disaster assistance by $16 billion,</a>&nbsp;meeting Biden’s full request. The bill funds government until Nov. 17.After chaotic days of turmoil in the House, Speaker Kevin McCarthy abruptly abandoned demands for steep spending cuts from his right flank and instead relied on Democrats to pass the bill, at risk to his own job. The Senate followed with final passage closing a whirlwind day at the Capitol.“This is good news for the American people,” Biden said in a statement.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Tonight, Congress voted to keep the government open, preventing an unnecessary crisis that would have inflicted needless pain on millions of hardworking Americans. This is good news, but I want to be clear: we should never have been in this position in the first place. <a href="https://t.co/U28kaX11Rq">pic.twitter.com/U28kaX11Rq</a>&mdash; President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1708290185505419283?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>He also said the United States “cannot under any circumstances allow American support for Ukraine to be interrupted" and expected McCarthy "will keep his commitment to the people of Ukraine and secure passage of the support needed to help Ukraine at this critical moment."It’s been a sudden head-spinning turn of events in Congress after days of House chaos pushed the government to the brink of a disruptive federal shutdown.The outcome ends, for now, the threat of a shutdown, but the reprieve may be short lived. Congress will again need to fund the government in coming weeks risking a crisis as views are hardening, particularly among the right-flank lawmakers whose demands were ultimately swept aside this time in favor of a more bipartisan approach.“We’re going to do our job,” McCarthy, R-Calif., said before the House vote. “We’re going to be adults in the room. And we’re going to keep government open.”If no deal was in place before Sunday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-gop-federal-workers-congress-government-5978a4c7411eba06261d16c3aff3dfc5">federal workers would have faced furloughs</a>, more than 2 million active-duty and reserve military troops would have had to work without pay and programs and services that Americans rely on from coast to coast would have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-snap-benefits-loans-travel-97b3a3b30624704da6eb204837a9135c">begun to face shutdown disruptions</a>.“It has been a day full of twists and turns, but the American people can breathe a sigh of relief: There will be no government shutdown," said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y.The package funds government at current 2023 levels until mid-November, and also extends other provisions, including for the Federal Aviation Administration. The package was approved by the House 335-91, with most Republicans and almost all Democrats supporting. Senate passage came by an 88-9 vote.&nbsp;Kansas Senator Jerry Moran voted in favor of the measure along with Missouri Senators Josh Hawley and Eric Schmitt and Nebraska Senators Deb Fischer and Pete Ricketts. Kansas Senator Roger Marshall voted against the bill.But the loss of Ukraine aid was devastating for lawmakers of both parties vowing to support President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zelenskyy-biden-washington-visit-congress-ukraine-war-1d20574fb3ea4fb5efcc7db5458a33a3">Volodymyr Zelenskyy</a>&nbsp;after his recent Washington visit. The Senate bill included $6 billion for Ukraine, and both chambers came to a standstill Saturday as lawmakers assessed their options."The American people deserve better," said House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York, warning in a lengthy floor speech that “extreme" Republicans were risking a shutdown.For the House package to be approved, McCarthy, R-Calif., was forced to rely on Democrats because the speaker's hard-right flank has said it will oppose any short-term funding measure, denying him the votes needed from his slim majority. It's a move that risks his job amid calls for his ouster.After leaving his the conservative holdouts behind, McCarthy is almost certain to be facing a motion to try to remove from office, though it is not at all certain there would be enough votes to topple the speaker. Most Republicans voted for the package Saturday while 90 opposed."If somebody wants to remove me because I want to be the adult in the room, go ahead and try,” McCarthy said of the threat to oust him. “But I think this country is too important.”The White House was tracking the developments on Capitol Hill and aides were briefing the president, who was spending the weekend in Washington.Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell, who has championed Ukraine aid despite resistance from his own ranks, is expected to keep pursuing U.S. support for Kyiv in the fight against Russia."I have agreed to keep fighting for more economic and security aid for Ukraine,” McConnell, R-Ky., said before the vote.Late at night, the Senate came to a standstill when Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo., held up the vote, seeking assurances Ukraine funds would be reconsidered.“I know important moments are like this, for the United States, to lead the rest of the world,” Bennet said, noting his mother was born in Poland in 1938 and survived the Holocaust. “We can’t fail.”The House's quick pivot comes after the collapse Friday of McCarthy's earlier plan to pass a Republican-only bill with steep spending cuts up to 30% to most government agencies that the White House and Democrats rejected as too extreme."Our options are slipping away every minute,” said one senior Republican, Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart of Florida.The federal government was heading&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-congress-biden-trump-mccarthy-f1b06964cf549b09977677e5f70bf9ff">straight into a shutdown</a>&nbsp;that posed grave uncertainty for federal workers in states all across America and the people who depend on them — from troops to border control agents to office workers, scientists and others.Families that rely on Head Start for children, food benefits and countless other programs large and small were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-snap-benefits-loans-travel-97b3a3b30624704da6eb204837a9135c">confronting potential interruptions or outright closures</a>. At the airports, Transportation Security Administration officers and air traffic controllers are expected to work without pay, but travelers could face delays in updating their U.S. passports or other travel documents.An earlier McCarthy plan to keep the government open collapsed Friday due to opposition from a faction of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-votes-mccarthy-gop-caucus-gaetz-585c82607c00c2cfc45768faff6e1cda">21 hard-right holdouts</a>&nbsp;despite steep spending cuts of nearly 30% to many agencies and severe border security provisions.The White House has brushed aside McCarthy's overtures to meet with Biden after the speaker walked away from the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-debt-ceiling-budget-signing-f78a000d83cf85ffbaa2d08637844053#:~:text=Washington%20News-,Biden%20signs%20debt%20ceiling%20bill%20that%20pulls,from%20brink%20of%20unprecedented%20default&amp;text=WASHINGTON%20(AP)%20%E2%80%94%20With%20just,on%20the%20federal%20government's%20debt.">debt deal</a>&nbsp;they brokered earlier this year that set budget levels.Catering to his hard-right flank, McCarthy had made multiple concessions including returning to the spending limits the conservatives demanded back in January as part of the deal-making to help him&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-united-states-house-of-representatives-kevin-mccarthy-us-republican-party-0938c7358f41c83759246f8949ac7c15">become the House speaker</a>.But it was not enough as the right flank insisted the House follow regular rules, and debate and approve each of the 12 separate spending bills needed to fund the government agencies, typically a months-long process.McCarthy’s chief Republican critic, Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida, has warned he will file a motion calling a vote to oust the speaker.Some of the Republican holdouts, including Gaetz, are allies of former President Donald Trump, who is Biden's chief rival in the 2024 race. Trump has been encouraging the Republicans to fight hard for their priorities and even to “shut it down.”At an early closed-door meeting at the Capitol, several House Republicans, particularly those facing tough reelections next year, urged their colleagues to find a way to prevent a shutdown.“All of us have a responsibility to lead and to govern,” said Republican Rep. Mike Lawler of New York.The lone House Democrat to vote against the package, Rep. Mike Quigley of Illinois, the co-chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus, said, “Protecting Ukraine is in our national interest.”

Congress averts government shutdown passing short-term funding bill

ST. CLAIR, Mo. (AP) — A Missouri high school teacher says she has been placed on leave after officials discovered that she was performing on a pornography website to supplement her salary.

Brianna Coppage, 28, who taught English at St. Clair High School, says her teaching days are probably over, but she acknowledged she knew the risks.

Coppage&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/education/missouri-teacher-on-leave-after-school-district-discovers-her-onlyfans-porn-page/article_92ef5c4a-5e2e-11ee-b8be-d716acce2ff8.html#tracking-source=home-top-story">told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch</a>&nbsp;that she was put on leave on Wednesday after being interviewed by two administrators. Her access to school email and other software was suspended while the district investigates, she said.

“It was kind of always like this cloud hanging over my head, like I never knew when I would be discovered,” Coppage said in an interview. “Then, about two weeks ago, my husband and I were told that people were finding out about it. So I knew this day was coming.”

Superintendent Kyle Kruse said in a statement that the district was “recently notified that an employee may have posted inappropriate media on one or more internet sites.”

“The district has engaged legal counsel to conduct a comprehensive investigation into this matter,” Kruse wrote. “Actions taken as a result of the investigation will be in accordance with board policy and with guidance from legal counsel.”

St. Clair is about 55 miles southwest of St. Louis. The high school has about 750 students.

Coppage said she joined the OnlyFans website over the summer to supplement her salary as a second-year teacher. She taught English to freshmen and sophomores and made about $42,000 last year, according to the newspaper's public pay database. She said she’s earned an additional $8,000 to $10,000 per month performing on OnlyFans.

Coppage said she chose the site because its content is available only to subscribers and she thought it would help protect her identity. She said she didn't know how the district learned of her account. She insisted no content was filmed or posted while she was on school grounds.

“I’m very aware that I am probably never going to teach again, but that was kind of the risk I knew I was taking. I am sad about that. I do miss my students,” she said.

But Coppage said her account has gained about 100 new subscribers since word began to surface. She has more than doubled her subscription price and plans to continue posting on the site.

“I do not regret joining OnlyFans. I know it can be taboo, or some people may believe that it is shameful, but I don’t think sex work has to be shameful,” Coppage said. “I do just wish things just happened in a different way.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696082330307.png" alt="Brianna Coppage- photo courtesy&nbsp;St. Clair School District" />
 <figcaption>Brianna Coppage- photo courtesy&nbsp;St. Clair School District</figcaption>
 </figure>ST. CLAIR, Mo. (AP) — A Missouri high school teacher says she has been placed on leave after officials discovered that she was performing on a pornography website to supplement her salary.Brianna Coppage, 28, who taught English at St. Clair High School, says her teaching days are probably over, but she acknowledged she knew the risks.Coppage&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/education/missouri-teacher-on-leave-after-school-district-discovers-her-onlyfans-porn-page/article_92ef5c4a-5e2e-11ee-b8be-d716acce2ff8.html#tracking-source=home-top-story">told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch</a>&nbsp;that she was put on leave on Wednesday after being interviewed by two administrators. Her access to school email and other software was suspended while the district investigates, she said.“It was kind of always like this cloud hanging over my head, like I never knew when I would be discovered,” Coppage said in an interview. “Then, about two weeks ago, my husband and I were told that people were finding out about it. So I knew this day was coming.”Superintendent Kyle Kruse said in a statement that the district was “recently notified that an employee may have posted inappropriate media on one or more internet sites.”“The district has engaged legal counsel to conduct a comprehensive investigation into this matter,” Kruse wrote. “Actions taken as a result of the investigation will be in accordance with board policy and with guidance from legal counsel.”St. Clair is about 55 miles southwest of St. Louis. The high school has about 750 students.Coppage said she joined the OnlyFans website over the summer to supplement her salary as a second-year teacher. She taught English to freshmen and sophomores and made about $42,000 last year, according to the newspaper's public pay database. She said she’s earned an additional $8,000 to $10,000 per month performing on OnlyFans.Coppage said she chose the site because its content is available only to subscribers and she thought it would help protect her identity. She said she didn't know how the district learned of her account. She insisted no content was filmed or posted while she was on school grounds.“I’m very aware that I am probably never going to teach again, but that was kind of the risk I knew I was taking. I am sad about that. I do miss my students,” she said.But Coppage said her account has gained about 100 new subscribers since word began to surface. She has more than doubled her subscription price and plans to continue posting on the site.“I do not regret joining OnlyFans. I know it can be taboo, or some people may believe that it is shameful, but I don’t think sex work has to be shameful,” Coppage said. “I do just wish things just happened in a different way.”

Mo. teacher put on leave after school discovers her page on porn site

KANSAS CITY—One person died in an accident Saturday in Kansas City.

According to KC Police Captain Corey Carlisle, a man on a small motorbike was riding across the park at North Indiana and East 55th Street. There was a deep ditch that the driver apparently did not see. 

The motorbike traveled into the ditch and the driver was ejected, striking his head. He was not wearing a helmet. He was pronounced dead at the scene, according to Carlisle. The exact time of the crash is unknown.&nbsp; Police did not release the man's name.

KANSAS CITY—One person died in an accident Saturday in Kansas City.According to KC Police Captain Corey Carlisle, a man on a small motorbike was riding across the park at North Indiana and East 55th Street. There was a deep ditch that the driver apparently did not see. The motorbike traveled into the ditch and the driver was ejected, striking his head. He was not wearing a helmet. He was pronounced dead at the scene, according to Carlisle. The exact time of the crash is unknown.&nbsp; Police did not release the man's name.

KC man dies after ejected when motorbike travels into ditch

PHELPS COUNTY —Inmates Steven Timothy Scott and Jonathan Eugene Schmidt O'Dell both managed to escape from the jail in Phelps County, according to the FBI in Kansas City. Scott later turning himself to authorities. 

Law enforcement continue to search for33-year-old Schmidt O'Dell. He is described as a white male, 6-feet-1 inches tall and weighs approximately 200 pounds with brown hair, blue eyes and a full beard at the time of his booking. 

Just after 11p.m. Friday the two inmates at the Phelps County Jail escaped by comprising the structural integrity of the cell and exiting the building. 

As a reminder, anyone who aids a wanted fugitive could be subject to serious charges.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Jonathan O'Dell is asked to call 9-1-1 as soon as possible.  For non-emergency tips, please call our command post at (573) 426-3886.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696102076107.png" alt="What escaped Phelps County Jail inmate O'Dell looked like without his beard. Call 911 is you see him." />
 <figcaption>What escaped Phelps County Jail inmate O'Dell looked like without his beard. Call 911 is you see him.</figcaption>
 </figure>PHELPS COUNTY —Inmates Steven Timothy Scott and Jonathan Eugene Schmidt O'Dell both managed to escape from the jail in Phelps County, according to the FBI in Kansas City. Scott later turning himself to authorities. Law enforcement continue to search for33-year-old Schmidt O'Dell. He is described as a white male, 6-feet-1 inches tall and weighs approximately 200 pounds with brown hair, blue eyes and a full beard at the time of his booking. He may have shaved his beard to disguise his identity. He was last seen wearing a maroon-colored shirt with a Phelps County logo and brown slacks with a tan stripe.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696102787994.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 11p.m. Friday the two inmates at the Phelps County Jail escaped by comprising the structural integrity of the cell and exiting the building. O'Dell is facing federal charges. According to a federal indictment O'Dell planned to travel to Texas to shoot at illegal immigrants who crossed into the U.S. from Mexico. The indictment also alleges he planned to murder officers and employees of U.S. Border Patrol who attempted to stop him.As a reminder, anyone who aids a wanted fugitive could be subject to serious charges.Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Jonathan O'Dell is asked to call 9-1-1 as soon as possible. For non-emergency tips, please call our command post at (573) 426-3886.

FBI: 2 inmates escape from county jail in Missouri

Appellate court upholds trial court rulings, financial penalties of $178,000

BY: TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The Kansas Court of Appeals rejected arguments of a Kansas hog producer who challenged trespassing and nuisance verdicts as well as $178,000 in damage awards against him for defiantly installing without permission 2 miles of underground pipe in the right-of-way of his neighbors’ property.

A Phillips County District Court jury and judge found farmer Terry Nelson, who has a history of contesting environmental orders of state regulators, built the pipeline despite objections of property owners, the sheriff and a county attorney. The pipes were installed by Nelson to move effluent generated at confined feeding facilities to farm fields where it would be applied as a fertilizer with a pivot irrigation system.

Plaintiff Rodney Ross said that when he confronted Nelson in 2017 about the yet-unfinished pipeline, Nelson made it clear he wouldn’t be deterred. Ross said Nelson scolded him: “I have done this before. I will do this again. And, you can’t stop me.”

Nelson began using his pipeline in 2019. In certain wind conditions, sewage pumped through irrigation gear would drift to the Ross home and leave the exterior covered with flies. It made the house’s inside so foul smelling it was uninhabitable. In response to a lawsuit filed by Ross and the second lead plaintiff Laura Field, Nelson allegedly increased the amount of hog waste applied to fields via the pipeline.

After a seven-day trial in 2021, the district court ordered Nelson to pay Ross and Field $63,360 each for trespassing on their property to install the pipe. Ross separately sought relief under state nuisance law in response to Nelson allowing watered-down animal feces to infiltrate his property. Ross was awarded $2,000 in actual damages and $50,000 in punitive damages due to errant spraying of sewage.

“After carefully reviewing the record and the parties’ arguments, we find that Nelson has not shown any error in the proceedings before the district court,” said Kansas Court of Appeals Judge Sarah Warner, who wrote for Judges Angela Coble, Rachel Pickering and herself. “We thus affirm the judgment against the defendants.”

The three-judge appellate panel, all appointees of Gov. Laura Kelly, issued a 40-page opinion in August affirming the district court’s findings and rejecting the entirety of Nelson’s legal arguments. Nelson ceased using the pipes to get rid of liquified hog manure.

Nelson, who filed a countersuit seeking $75,000, sought reversal of the district court through the Court of Appeals. His attorneys claimed District Court Judge Preston Pratt incorrectly interpretated a series of state laws. In part, Nelson’s counsel alleged the judge improperly assessed the intersection of property rights, criminal statute and the Kansas Right to Farm Act.

In 2022, Kansas House members and agriculture lobbying groups were unsuccessful in an attempt to build support for legislation that would have helped farmers such as Nelson who sought installation of pipelines in right-of-way of property owned by someone else.

Advocates of the reform bill said the district court decision threatened application of the Right to Farm law enacted decades ago to limit the reach of agricultural lawsuits.

Meanwhile, Nelson has been a known commodity to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. The agency wrestled with Nelson after he built hog feeding facilities in Norton and Phillips counties without state permits and ignored cease-and-desist orders to pause work until properly authorized. In 2018, Nelson managed to negotiate the original $147,000 fine issued by KDHE down to $34,000.

In the hog-waste legal dispute, the district and appellate courts concluded evidence showed Nelson didn’t follow county permitting practices on installation of a pipeline. The courts said neither Ross or Field nor government officials gave Nelson approval to lay pipe on that right-of-way.

Nelson also admitted the pipe he put in the ground didn’t comply with thickness requirements adopted in 1999, the Court of Appeals said.

The Court of Appeals didn’t endorse Nelson’s claim he had a legitimate public purpose for accessing right-of-way to bury pipe on property owned by neighbors. Nelson contended the public benefit was that he raised pigs that would eventually be sold to the public as pork products.

Of significance to farmers across Kansas, Nelson lost arguments in both courts that the Right to Farm Act should have derailed the suit brought by Ross and Field. The law was designed to immunize agricultural activities initiated prior to encroachment by urban and suburban populations into traditionally rural areas. However, Ross lived on his property for many years before the pipeline was constructed.

The courts said legal protection under the Right to Far Act sought by Nelson didn’t apply when farming practices in question failed to meet federal, state or local laws, rules and regulations. In the Nelson case, the district court concluded Nelson broke state law.

“The district court’s decision accurately and ably synthesized the caselaw on trespass,” the Court of Appeals said. “If a private person wants to install a pipeline in the right-of-way of a public highway, that pipeline must serve a public purpose — like providing a utility to the community.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1562343189353.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;The Kansas Court of Appeals affirmed a lower-court decision that hog farmer Terry Nelson violated trespass and nuisance laws by using the right-of-way on neighbors' property to build a pipeline to transport swine waste for distribution on farm fields. The appellate court also let stand $178,000 in actual and punitive damages against Nelson- file photo" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;The Kansas Court of Appeals affirmed a lower-court decision that hog farmer Terry Nelson violated trespass and nuisance laws by using the right-of-way on neighbors' property to build a pipeline to transport swine waste for distribution on farm fields. The appellate court also let stand $178,000 in actual and punitive damages against Nelson- file photo</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Appellate court upholds trial court rulings, financial penalties of $178,000</h2>BY: TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The Kansas Court of Appeals rejected arguments of a Kansas hog producer who challenged trespassing and nuisance verdicts as well as $178,000 in damage awards against him for defiantly installing without permission 2 miles of underground pipe in the right-of-way of his neighbors’ property.A Phillips County District Court jury and judge found farmer Terry Nelson, who has a history of contesting environmental orders of state regulators, built the pipeline despite objections of property owners, the sheriff and a county attorney. The pipes were installed by Nelson to move effluent generated at confined feeding facilities to farm fields where it would be applied as a fertilizer with a pivot irrigation system.Plaintiff Rodney Ross said that when he confronted Nelson in 2017 about the yet-unfinished pipeline, Nelson made it clear he wouldn’t be deterred. Ross said Nelson scolded him: “I have done this before. I will do this again. And, you can’t stop me.”Nelson began using his pipeline in 2019. In certain wind conditions, sewage pumped through irrigation gear would drift to the Ross home and leave the exterior covered with flies. It made the house’s inside so foul smelling it was uninhabitable. In response to a lawsuit filed by Ross and the second lead plaintiff Laura Field, Nelson allegedly increased the amount of hog waste applied to fields via the pipeline.After a seven-day trial in 2021, the district court ordered Nelson to pay Ross and Field $63,360 each for trespassing on their property to install the pipe. Ross separately sought relief under state nuisance law in response to Nelson allowing watered-down animal feces to infiltrate his property. Ross was awarded $2,000 in actual damages and $50,000 in punitive damages due to errant spraying of sewage.“After carefully reviewing the record and the parties’ arguments, we find that Nelson has not shown any error in the proceedings before the district court,” said Kansas Court of Appeals Judge Sarah Warner, who wrote for Judges Angela Coble, Rachel Pickering and herself. “We thus affirm the judgment against the defendants.”<h2>Broad considerations</h2>The three-judge appellate panel, all appointees of Gov. Laura Kelly, issued a 40-page opinion in August affirming the district court’s findings and rejecting the entirety of Nelson’s legal arguments. Nelson ceased using the pipes to get rid of liquified hog manure.Nelson, who filed a countersuit seeking $75,000, sought reversal of the district court through the Court of Appeals. His attorneys claimed District Court Judge Preston Pratt incorrectly interpretated a series of state laws. In part, Nelson’s counsel alleged the judge improperly assessed the intersection of property rights, criminal statute and the Kansas Right to Farm Act.In 2022, Kansas House members and agriculture lobbying groups were unsuccessful in an attempt to build support for legislation that would have helped farmers such as Nelson who sought installation of pipelines in right-of-way of property owned by someone else.Advocates of the reform bill said the district court decision threatened application of the Right to Farm law enacted decades ago to limit the reach of agricultural lawsuits.Meanwhile, Nelson has been a known commodity to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. The agency wrestled with Nelson after he built hog feeding facilities in Norton and Phillips counties without state permits and ignored cease-and-desist orders to pause work until properly authorized. In 2018, Nelson managed to negotiate the original $147,000 fine issued by KDHE down to $34,000.<h2>Ross, Field v. Nelson</h2>In the hog-waste legal dispute, the district and appellate courts concluded evidence showed Nelson didn’t follow county permitting practices on installation of a pipeline. The courts said neither Ross or Field nor government officials gave Nelson approval to lay pipe on that right-of-way.Nelson also admitted the pipe he put in the ground didn’t comply with thickness requirements adopted in 1999, the Court of Appeals said.The Court of Appeals didn’t endorse Nelson’s claim he had a legitimate public purpose for accessing right-of-way to bury pipe on property owned by neighbors. Nelson contended the public benefit was that he raised pigs that would eventually be sold to the public as pork products.Of significance to farmers across Kansas, Nelson lost arguments in both courts that the Right to Farm Act should have derailed the suit brought by Ross and Field. The law was designed to immunize agricultural activities initiated prior to encroachment by urban and suburban populations into traditionally rural areas. However, Ross lived on his property for many years before the pipeline was constructed.The courts said legal protection under the Right to Far Act sought by Nelson didn’t apply when farming practices in question failed to meet federal, state or local laws, rules and regulations. In the Nelson case, the district court concluded Nelson broke state law.“The district court’s decision accurately and ably synthesized the caselaw on trespass,” the Court of Appeals said. “If a private person wants to install a pipeline in the right-of-way of a public highway, that pipeline must serve a public purpose — like providing a utility to the community.”“Without a public purpose, the person must have permission to install the pipeline,” the appellate judges said. “Depending on the nature of the installation and the property, this permission may be granted by the abutting landowners or the Legislature. Nelson installed pipes for a private purpose and had no permission from the landowners or the Legislature.”In addition, the Court of Appeals said the lower court’s assessment of $50,000 in punitive damages against Nelson on Ross’ nuisance claim “was not inappropriate or constitutionally excessive.”