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

WASHINGTON —&nbsp; The 2025-26 form to apply for federal student aid is now available to all students and families, the&nbsp;<a href="https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa" target="_blank">U.S. Department of Education</a>&nbsp;said Thursday.

The department&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-department-education-begins-testing-new-fafsa-form" target="_blank">used a staggered approach</a>&nbsp;to launch the 2025-26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid — better known as FAFSA — to address any issues before the form became available to everyone at a later date.

Though the department beat its Dec. 1 full launch deadline by 10 days, the form is fully available roughly two months later than the typical Oct. 1 date.

The department gradually ramped up the number of people able to complete the form since early October through four testing rounds that have featured more than 167,000 FAFSA submissions.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-house-passes-bill-move-annual-fafsa-release-deadline" target="_blank">a bill to ensure the federal student aid form</a>&nbsp;is available by Oct. 1 annually has passed both the House and Senate with sweeping bipartisan support. It’s now up to President Joe Biden to sign the measure into law.

The White House did not respond to a request for comment on the bill.

Senior department officials said they do not have a position on the legislation but reiterated that they are on track to launch the 2026-27 FAFSA by Oct. 1, 2025.

The decision for a phased rollout came after the 2024-25 form — which got a makeover after Congress passed the FAFSA Simplification Act in December 2020 — witnessed its fair share of glitches and errors, which prompted processing delays and left students and families feeling frustrated and confused.

The department worked to fix these errors as well as issues that prevented parents without Social Security numbers from completing the form.

“We recognize that the FAFSA challenge required an overhaul at the (Office of) Federal Student Aid, so we got to work,” U.S. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said on a call with reporters Thursday.

“We made key changes at FSA, including better accountability and an increase in outside technical expertise — we held listening sessions, engaging 300 organizations, and we incorporated the feedback from our students, from parents, schools, software vendors, state agencies and other partners,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1727807641728.png" alt=" A sign reminding people to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid — better known as FAFSA — appears on a bus near Union Station in Washington, D.C. (Shauneen Miranda/States Newsroom)" />
 <figcaption> A sign reminding people to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid — better known as FAFSA — appears on a bus near Union Station in Washington, D.C. (Shauneen Miranda/States Newsroom)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/shauneen-miranda/">SHAUNEEN MIRANDA</a>WASHINGTON —&nbsp; The 2025-26 form to apply for federal student aid is now available to all students and families, the&nbsp;<a href="https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa" target="_blank">U.S. Department of Education</a>&nbsp;said Thursday.The department&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-department-education-begins-testing-new-fafsa-form" target="_blank">used a staggered approach</a>&nbsp;to launch the 2025-26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid — better known as FAFSA — to address any issues before the form became available to everyone at a later date.Though the department beat its Dec. 1 full launch deadline by 10 days, the form is fully available roughly two months later than the typical Oct. 1 date.The department gradually ramped up the number of people able to complete the form since early October through four testing rounds that have featured more than 167,000 FAFSA submissions.Meanwhile,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-house-passes-bill-move-annual-fafsa-release-deadline" target="_blank">a bill to ensure the federal student aid form</a>&nbsp;is available by Oct. 1 annually has passed both the House and Senate with sweeping bipartisan support. It’s now up to President Joe Biden to sign the measure into law.The White House did not respond to a request for comment on the bill.Senior department officials said they do not have a position on the legislation but reiterated that they are on track to launch the 2026-27 FAFSA by Oct. 1, 2025.<h2>2024-25 FAFSA mishaps</h2>The decision for a phased rollout came after the 2024-25 form — which got a makeover after Congress passed the FAFSA Simplification Act in December 2020 — witnessed its fair share of glitches and errors, which prompted processing delays and left students and families feeling frustrated and confused.The department worked to fix these errors as well as issues that prevented parents without Social Security numbers from completing the form.“We recognize that the FAFSA challenge required an overhaul at the (Office of) Federal Student Aid, so we got to work,” U.S. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said on a call with reporters Thursday.“We made key changes at FSA, including better accountability and an increase in outside technical expertise — we held listening sessions, engaging 300 organizations, and we incorporated the feedback from our students, from parents, schools, software vendors, state agencies and other partners,” he said.

Feds roll out 2025-26 college financial aid form ahead of planned date

&nbsp;WYANDOTTE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 9p.m. Friday in Wyandotte County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported 2022 Yamaha motorcycle driven by Jessica Diana&nbsp;Adams, 34, Blue Springs, Missouri, was&nbsp;westbound on Interstate 70 near Washington Avenue to Eastbound Interstate 70 at a high rate of speed. 

The motorcycle struck and rode the bridge wall. The driver was ejected and struck the ground approximately 60 feet below Interstate 70.

Adams was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to First Call. She was wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.

&nbsp;WYANDOTTE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 9p.m. Friday in Wyandotte County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported 2022 Yamaha motorcycle driven by Jessica Diana&nbsp;Adams, 34, Blue Springs, Missouri, was&nbsp;westbound on Interstate 70 near Washington Avenue to Eastbound Interstate 70 at a high rate of speed. The motorcycle struck and rode the bridge wall. The driver was ejected and struck the ground approximately 60 feet below Interstate 70.Adams was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to First Call. She was wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.

Motorcyclist dies after falling 60 feet off I-70 bridge 

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced Friday that she granted pardons to two individuals who show strong signs of rehabilitation. The decision to grant the pardons was made following independent reviews by the Prison Review Board, the Kansas Department of Administration, and the Governor’s legal team.&nbsp;

“The decision to grant these pardons comes after a meticulous and thorough review process,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“One of the largest factors taken into consideration is a person’s commitment to rehabilitation, making amends, and positively contributing to society. Granting these pardons will give a second chance to two individuals who have taken responsibility for their actions and are working to move on with their lives."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Governor Kelly took into consideration numerous factors to determine if the pardons were warranted, including but not limited to: the nature of the offense, impact of the crime on victims or survivors, demonstration of rehabilitation, criminal history, absence of disciplinary issues in prison, positive achievements and growth while incarcerated, and the ability to contribute to society.&nbsp;

Article 1, Section 7 of the Kansas Constitution and K.S.A. § 22-3701 grants the governor’s authority to grant clemency. 

The two individuals receiving pardons are&nbsp;Anthony Mitchell who was serving time for drug convictions and Richard McMichael, 29, who had two previous drug convictions and another for&nbsp;Aggravated Battery - Bodily Harm with a Deadly Weapon/Manner, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections. He was released from prison on March 13.

Review of clemency applications by the Governor is ongoing, and there is no set timeline for review. By law, clemency applications in Kansas must be submitted to the Prisoner Review Board and notice of an individual’s application for clemency must be published in the county newspaper where the crime was committed. The Board reviews all applications before forwarding them for further review. Additional information about the process can be found at the Board’s website:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.doc.ks.gov%2Fprb/1/01010193558b34dd-3ec09504-e403-4522-b3d0-54d4757dc546-000000/wV4_KQF6jrnMKeoHFrlajkPyo8xFiteGYr7JxwYt31I=380">https://www.doc.ks.gov/prb</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Governor’s Office encourages victims and survivors to reach out to the Office of Victim Services, which provides confidential support and information to victims, survivors, or witnesses of a crime. Information can be found&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.doc.ks.gov%252Fvictim-services%26data=05%257C02%257CAna.Nixon%2540ks.gov%257C54a18c945bc94c7cef9908dcccec3705%257Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%257C0%257C0%257C638610562106773667%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=U8P6Gp2OXirlUshsbmG9dMZipun41jt6bVsZ%252BBaNpWQ%253D%26reserved=0/1/010101930398843c-81bda5a1-97ce-4c26-8db0-0cab921a3c6a-000000/g7dMgAYoHSriIhKRASAhNHNkYXj0zlXgaBSh8_RcUts=378">here</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 866-404-6732.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732311722319.png" alt="McMichael-photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>McMichael-photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced Friday that she granted pardons to two individuals who show strong signs of rehabilitation. The decision to grant the pardons was made following independent reviews by the Prison Review Board, the Kansas Department of Administration, and the Governor’s legal team.&nbsp;“The decision to grant these pardons comes after a meticulous and thorough review process,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“One of the largest factors taken into consideration is a person’s commitment to rehabilitation, making amends, and positively contributing to society. Granting these pardons will give a second chance to two individuals who have taken responsibility for their actions and are working to move on with their lives."&nbsp;&nbsp;Governor Kelly took into consideration numerous factors to determine if the pardons were warranted, including but not limited to: the nature of the offense, impact of the crime on victims or survivors, demonstration of rehabilitation, criminal history, absence of disciplinary issues in prison, positive achievements and growth while incarcerated, and the ability to contribute to society.&nbsp;Article 1, Section 7 of the Kansas Constitution and K.S.A. § 22-3701 grants the governor’s authority to grant clemency. The two individuals receiving pardons are&nbsp;Anthony Mitchell who was serving time for drug convictions and Richard McMichael, 29, who had two previous drug convictions and another for&nbsp;Aggravated Battery - Bodily Harm with a Deadly Weapon/Manner, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections. He was released from prison on March 13.Review of clemency applications by the Governor is ongoing, and there is no set timeline for review. By law, clemency applications in Kansas must be submitted to the Prisoner Review Board and notice of an individual’s application for clemency must be published in the county newspaper where the crime was committed. The Board reviews all applications before forwarding them for further review. Additional information about the process can be found at the Board’s website:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.doc.ks.gov%2Fprb/1/01010193558b34dd-3ec09504-e403-4522-b3d0-54d4757dc546-000000/wV4_KQF6jrnMKeoHFrlajkPyo8xFiteGYr7JxwYt31I=380">https://www.doc.ks.gov/prb</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The Governor’s Office encourages victims and survivors to reach out to the Office of Victim Services, which provides confidential support and information to victims, survivors, or witnesses of a crime. Information can be found&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.doc.ks.gov%252Fvictim-services%26data=05%257C02%257CAna.Nixon%2540ks.gov%257C54a18c945bc94c7cef9908dcccec3705%257Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%257C0%257C0%257C638610562106773667%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=U8P6Gp2OXirlUshsbmG9dMZipun41jt6bVsZ%252BBaNpWQ%253D%26reserved=0/1/010101930398843c-81bda5a1-97ce-4c26-8db0-0cab921a3c6a-000000/g7dMgAYoHSriIhKRASAhNHNkYXj0zlXgaBSh8_RcUts=378">here</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 866-404-6732.

Kansas governor pardons two just before the holidays

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement observed a&nbsp;very expired "WINNER" license plate on a truck at about 12:30 a.m. Thursday, according to a social media report from the Clay County, Missouri Sheriff.

The deputies stopped the driver who gave a fake name. The deputy also learned the truck was stolen and the driver had&nbsp; meth in the seat beside him.

Deputies figured out the driver's real identification and continue to investigate.&nbsp; The sheriff's office did not report an arrest or possible charges.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732279201584.png" alt="Photo Clay County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Clay County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement observed a&nbsp;very expired "WINNER" license plate on a truck at about 12:30 a.m. Thursday, according to a social media report from the Clay County, Missouri Sheriff.The deputies stopped the driver who gave a fake name. The deputy also learned the truck was stolen and the driver had&nbsp; meth in the seat beside him.Deputies figured out the driver's real identification and continue to investigate.&nbsp; The sheriff's office did not report an arrest or possible charges.

KC area suspect with expired 'WINNER' license plate caught with meth 

SHAWNEE COUNTY—A former <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/07/01/gop-candidate-in-2nd-district-fighting-for-enrichment-of-american-exceptionalism/">candidate for</a> Kansas 2nd District congressional seat in 2024 is in jail on multiple allegations following an investigation into interference with the judicial process.

On November 21, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division received information that a male subject in Topeka had engaged in the harassment of a Shawnee County District Court Official on multiple occasions, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

Deputies arrested 44-year-old Michael A. Ogle of Topeka and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges, interference with the judicial process and Harassment by telecommunications device.

This incident is still under investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732310160246.png" alt="Ogle photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Ogle photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—A former <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/07/01/gop-candidate-in-2nd-district-fighting-for-enrichment-of-american-exceptionalism/">candidate for</a> Kansas 2nd District congressional seat in 2024 is in jail on multiple allegations following an investigation into interference with the judicial process.On November 21, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division received information that a male subject in Topeka had engaged in the harassment of a Shawnee County District Court Official on multiple occasions, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.Deputies arrested 44-year-old Michael A. Ogle of Topeka and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges, interference with the judicial process and Harassment by telecommunications device.This incident is still under investigation.

Kan. man who ran for Congress accused of phone harassment of court official

KANSAS CITY —A small fire did not ruin the holiday activities on Friday at Union Station in Kansas City.

Just before 8a.m. Friday, crews responded to a reported building fire at 30 W. Pershing Road, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

&nbsp;The calling party stated black smoke from the lower levels and out of the HVAC system.

Companies were able to find, isolate and extinguish a fire in an air handling unit. Companies remained on scene attempting to evacuate the smoke. Maintenance shut down the air handling system to prevent further smoke movement. The fire was in a unit on the roof of Science City.&nbsp;

KCFD continued working to remove smoke from Union Station. Due to the size of the structure this is an enormous undertaking, according to Hopkins.&nbsp; Building maintenance has removed a window on an upper floor and was using high powered fans to create positive pressure and remove the smoke.&nbsp; There were no injuries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732307786791.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A small fire did not ruin the holiday activities on Friday at Union Station in Kansas City.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Important Update: Extreme Screen showtimes of Christmas Vacation at 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm today have been canceled to allow for the Extreme Screen&#39;s interior lobby and back-of-house areas to be cleared from a small and unexpected water intrusion. Our current plan is to reopen in… <a href="https://t.co/sZHkRFBZqY">https://t.co/sZHkRFBZqY</a>&mdash; Union Station KC (@UnionStationKC) <a href="https://twitter.com/UnionStationKC/status/1860021776350134425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div> Just before 8a.m. Friday, crews responded to a reported building fire at 30 W. Pershing Road, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.&nbsp;The calling party stated black smoke from the lower levels and out of the HVAC system.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732307499074.png" alt="Fire crews inside Union Station on Friday photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Fire crews inside Union Station on Friday photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>Companies were able to find, isolate and extinguish a fire in an air handling unit. Companies remained on scene attempting to evacuate the smoke. Maintenance shut down the air handling system to prevent further smoke movement. The fire was in a unit on the roof of Science City.&nbsp;KCFD continued working to remove smoke from Union Station. Due to the size of the structure this is an enormous undertaking, according to Hopkins.&nbsp; Building maintenance has removed a window on an upper floor and was using high powered fans to create positive pressure and remove the smoke.&nbsp; There were no injuries.

KCFD crews cleared smoke from Union Station after fire at Science City

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a wanted suspect on new allegations after a 2-hour standoff.

Just&nbsp;before 7:30 a.m. Thursday, police responded to a home in the 1900 block of SE Adams in Topeka after report of domestic disturbance, according to Police Lt. Matt Danielson. 

The suspect in the case, later identified as Benjamin Alfano, 38, of Topeka, was wanted on a previous case of Aggravated Domestic Battery. 

At approximately 9:30 a.m., officers were able to deescalate the situation and take the Alfano into custody on requested charges of&nbsp;Aggravated Domestic Battery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732221236351.png" alt="Alfano photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Alfano photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a wanted suspect on new allegations after a 2-hour standoff.Just&nbsp;before 7:30 a.m. Thursday, police responded to a home in the 1900 block of SE Adams in Topeka after report of domestic disturbance, according to Police Lt. Matt Danielson. The suspect in the case, later identified as Benjamin Alfano, 38, of Topeka, was wanted on a previous case of Aggravated Domestic Battery. At approximately 9:30 a.m., officers were able to deescalate the situation and take the Alfano into custody on requested charges of&nbsp;Aggravated Domestic Battery.

Police capture suspect wanted for violence at Kansas home

RAY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating two illegal immigrants from Venezuela on multiple allegations involving an ATM skimming theft ring. 

Just after 4p.m. November 15,&nbsp; Venezuelan Nationals, Darwin G. Moreno-Conde, 24, and Yorbin Y. Allen-Hernandez, 44, were arrested in Kirkwood, Missouri after a large area search spanning from the Kansas City Metro area to the St. Louis Metro area for the duo, according to a media release from the Richmond Police Department.

 Both were subsequently booked into the Ray County Jail on a twenty-four (24) hour investigative hold. On November 13, the Richmond Police Department investigated an incident in which a skimming device had been placed on a local Automated Teller Machine (ATM) resulting in a large number of accounts being compromised. 

As a result of the investigative efforts of the Richmond Police Department, the use of Flock cameras and the collaborative efforts of&nbsp; Metro Area law enforcement, MOCIC, MIAC, and the Kirkwood Police Department, the suspects were identified and apprehended in less than fifty-four (54) hours after the reported commission of the crime.

On Saturday, November 16, 2024, Venezuelan Nationals, Darwin G. Moreno-Conde and Yorbin Y. Allen-Hernandez were each charged in the 8th Judicial Circuit of Ray County, Missouri, with one felony count of 1st Degree Property Damage and one felony count of Stealing.Currently, both individuals remain in the Ray County Jail on $250,000 cash only bonds.  The investigation is on-going and further charges are expected in the near future.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732241624193.png" alt="Allen-Hernandez-photo Richmond PD" />
 <figcaption>Allen-Hernandez-photo Richmond PD</figcaption>
 </figure>RAY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating two illegal immigrants from Venezuela on multiple allegations involving an ATM skimming theft ring. Just after 4p.m. November 15,&nbsp; Venezuelan Nationals, Darwin G. Moreno-Conde, 24, and Yorbin Y. Allen-Hernandez, 44, were arrested in Kirkwood, Missouri after a large area search spanning from the Kansas City Metro area to the St. Louis Metro area for the duo, according to a media release from the Richmond Police Department.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732241561839.png" alt="Conde photo Richmond PD" />
 <figcaption>Conde photo Richmond PD</figcaption>
 </figure> Both were subsequently booked into the Ray County Jail on a twenty-four (24) hour investigative hold. On November 13, the Richmond Police Department investigated an incident in which a skimming device had been placed on a local Automated Teller Machine (ATM) resulting in a large number of accounts being compromised. As a result of the investigative efforts of the Richmond Police Department, the use of Flock cameras and the collaborative efforts of&nbsp; Metro Area law enforcement, MOCIC, MIAC, and the Kirkwood Police Department, the suspects were identified and apprehended in less than fifty-four (54) hours after the reported commission of the crime.On Saturday, November 16, 2024, Venezuelan Nationals, Darwin G. Moreno-Conde and Yorbin Y. Allen-Hernandez were each charged in the 8th Judicial Circuit of Ray County, Missouri, with one felony count of 1st Degree Property Damage and one felony count of Stealing.Currently, both individuals remain in the Ray County Jail on $250,000 cash only bonds. The investigation is on-going and further charges are expected in the near future.

Illegal immigrants jailed for ATM skimming in Missouri, Kansas

WASHINGTON— Tons of ground beef have been recalled due to possible E. coli contamination,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/wolverine-packing-co--recalls-ground-beef-products-due-possible-e--coli-o157h7">according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture</a>&nbsp;(USDA).

Wolverine Packing Co., a Detroit, Mich. establishment, is recalling approximately 167,277 pounds of ground beef products that may be contaminated with&nbsp;E. coli&nbsp;O157:H7, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced Thursday. The product was shipped to restaurants across the nation.

The fresh products have a “use by” date of 11/14/2024 and the frozen products are labeled with production date 10 22 24. Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media_file/documents/Recall-031-2024-Product-List.pdf">here to view full product list</a>&nbsp;or <a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/sites/default/files/food_label_pdf/2024-11/Recall-031-2024-Labels.pdf">Click here to view labels</a>.

The products subject to recall bear establishment number “EST. 2574B” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped to restaurant locations nationwide.&nbsp;

The problem was discovered when FSIS was notified by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture of a group of ill persons who had reported that they consumed ground beef prior to their illness.

FSIS was notified of illnesses on November 13, 2024, and working in conjunction with Minnesota Departments of Agriculture and Health, FSIS determined that there was a link between the ground beef products from Wolverine Packing Co. and this illness cluster. On November 20, 2024, a ground beef sample collected by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture as part of an outbreak investigation tested positive for&nbsp;E. coli&nbsp;O157. To date, 15 case-patients have been identified in one state with illness onset dates ranging from November 2, 2024, to November 10, 2024. FSIS continues to work with the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture and Health on this investigation.

Anyone concerned about an illness should contact a healthcare provider.&nbsp;E. coli&nbsp;O157:H7 is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause dehydration, bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps 2–8 days (3–4 days, on average) after exposure the organism. While most people recover within a week, some develop a type of kidney failure called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). This condition can occur among persons of any age but is most common in children under 5-years old and older adults. It is marked by easy bruising, pallor, and decreased urine output. Persons who experience these symptoms should seek emergency medical care immediately.

FSIS is concerned that some product may be in restaurant refrigerators or freezers. Restaurants are urged not to serve these products. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.

FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their&nbsp;customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers.

FSIS advises all consumers to safely prepare their raw meat products, including fresh and frozen, and only consume ground beef that has been cooked to a temperature of 160 F. The only way to confirm that ground beef is cooked to a temperature high enough to kill harmful bacteria is to use a food thermometer that measures internal temperature,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/safetempchart">https://www.fsis.usda.gov/safetempchart</a>.

Consumers and members of the media with questions about the recall can contact Don Tanner, company representative at 248-762-1533.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732280999875.png" alt="USDA image" />
 <figcaption>USDA image</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON— Tons of ground beef have been recalled due to possible E. coli contamination,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/wolverine-packing-co--recalls-ground-beef-products-due-possible-e--coli-o157h7">according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture</a>&nbsp;(USDA).Wolverine Packing Co., a Detroit, Mich. establishment, is recalling approximately 167,277 pounds of ground beef products that may be contaminated with&nbsp;E. coli&nbsp;O157:H7, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced Thursday. The product was shipped to restaurants across the nation.The fresh products have a “use by” date of 11/14/2024 and the frozen products are labeled with production date 10 22 24. Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media_file/documents/Recall-031-2024-Product-List.pdf">here to view full product list</a>&nbsp;or <a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/sites/default/files/food_label_pdf/2024-11/Recall-031-2024-Labels.pdf">Click here to view labels</a>.The products subject to recall bear establishment number “EST. 2574B” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped to restaurant locations nationwide.&nbsp;The problem was discovered when FSIS was notified by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture of a group of ill persons who had reported that they consumed ground beef prior to their illness.FSIS was notified of illnesses on November 13, 2024, and working in conjunction with Minnesota Departments of Agriculture and Health, FSIS determined that there was a link between the ground beef products from Wolverine Packing Co. and this illness cluster. On November 20, 2024, a ground beef sample collected by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture as part of an outbreak investigation tested positive for&nbsp;E. coli&nbsp;O157. To date, 15 case-patients have been identified in one state with illness onset dates ranging from November 2, 2024, to November 10, 2024. FSIS continues to work with the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture and Health on this investigation.Anyone concerned about an illness should contact a healthcare provider.&nbsp;E. coli&nbsp;O157:H7 is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause dehydration, bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps 2–8 days (3–4 days, on average) after exposure the organism. While most people recover within a week, some develop a type of kidney failure called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). This condition can occur among persons of any age but is most common in children under 5-years old and older adults. It is marked by easy bruising, pallor, and decreased urine output. Persons who experience these symptoms should seek emergency medical care immediately.FSIS is concerned that some product may be in restaurant refrigerators or freezers. Restaurants are urged not to serve these products. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their&nbsp;customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers.FSIS advises all consumers to safely prepare their raw meat products, including fresh and frozen, and only consume ground beef that has been cooked to a temperature of 160 F. The only way to confirm that ground beef is cooked to a temperature high enough to kill harmful bacteria is to use a food thermometer that measures internal temperature,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/safetempchart">https://www.fsis.usda.gov/safetempchart</a>.Consumers and members of the media with questions about the recall can contact Don Tanner, company representative at 248-762-1533.

USDA: 160,000 pounds of ground beef recalled due to E. coli risk

The Missouri State Tax Commission sought a court order to force Jackson County to roll back property assessment hikes, but a judge dismissed the case Wednesday

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

State officials’ hopes of rolling back Jackson County property assessment increases are floundering after a circuit court judge dismissed a lawsuit by the State Tax Commission on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The commission in August ordered Jackson County to reverse most of its 2023 property valuations, arguing they had been performed illegally and resulted in huge increases in property values.

Jackson County officials&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/12/jackson-county-claims-property-tax-order-was-meant-to-shield-missouri-ag-from-deposition/">called the State Tax Commission’s August order “unconstitutional”</a>&nbsp;and “unprecedented” and said it only took action to cover for&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/tag/andrew-bailey/">Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey</a>’s failures in his own efforts to undo the property assessments.

The State Tax Commission then sought a court order to force the county to cap property assessments to a 15% increase since the last assessment —&nbsp;unless new construction or building improvements increased the value. That effort was dismissed Wednesday.

Jackson County Executive Frank White Jr. thanked county residents in a statement Wednesday “for their patience and understanding as we’ve worked to address problems that have been decades in the making.”&nbsp;

“Our goal remains ensuring that every property owner is treated fairly under the law,” White said.&nbsp;

Gregory Allsberry, chief counsel for the State Tax Commission, said in an email that the judge did not find the commission’s order invalid.

“The commission’s order is still a valid order, despite Jackson County’s refusal to comply, and the Commission will continue to do all within its power to enforce the order,” Allsberry said. “It will also do everything within its power to ensure that Jackson county’s assessing officials don’t commit the violations of state law in 2025 that they did during the 2023 reassessment cycle.”&nbsp;

Neither Bailey’s office nor the State Tax Commission immediately returned requests for comment.

Jackson County’s property valuation process has been in near-constant litigation since Bailey and the State Tax Commission first sued the county in December.&nbsp;

According to that lawsuit, the county’s 2023 reassessment process resulted in an average 30% increase in value across hundreds of thousands of properties in the county. The lawsuit says more than 90% of residential properties saw an increase in value, and values increased by at least 15% for three-quarters of properties in the county.

The increase in property values means an increase in property taxes for some owners.&nbsp;

Bailey and the State Tax Commission accused Jackson County of failing to follow proper procedures in the valuation process, including performing physical inspections, before increasing property values by more than 15%.&nbsp;

During the litigation, Bailey and a deputy came&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/07/25/judge-hears-arguments-over-whether-missouri-ag-andrew-bailey-should-be-questioned-under-oath/">under fire for meeting with a Jackson County official</a>&nbsp;without notifying the county’s attorneys. Under Missouri Supreme Court rules, attorneys are not to communicate about a lawsuit with individuals represented in the case by another lawyer without the consent of the other lawyer.

Bailey maintained that his meeting with the official, Sean Smith, was nothing more than a campaign meeting. At the time, Smith, a member of the Jackson County Legislature, was running for the U.S. House of Representatives against incumbent U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, II, who won with 60% of the vote earlier this month.

Jackson County’s attorneys were granted permission by the judge in the case to question Bailey under oath about his meetings with Smith. But in August, a day before Bailey was scheduled to sit for the deposition, the State Tax Commission issued its order and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/07/missouri-attorney-general-asks-to-dismiss-lawsuit-a-day-before-scheduled-deposition/">Bailey’s office had the case dismissed</a>.

At the time, Bailey’s spokeswoman, Madeline Sieren, said the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/judge-dismisses-lawsuit-before-missouri-attorney-general-could-be-questioned-under-oath/">state dismissed the lawsuit because of the State Tax Commission’s order</a>.

“Pushing the lawsuit forward could have jeopardized the much needed relief offered in the Tax Commission’s order and would be counterproductive for Jackson County taxpayers,” Sieren said in an August email.

The county said at the time that the State Tax Commission was “being used as a shield for…Bailey, who is trying to escape accountability after lying and realizing he was losing the case.”&nbsp;

When the county didn’t comply with the August order, the State Tax Commission sought a court order to force the issue.

In response, the county said in a filing that the State Tax Commission was attempting to bring the same legal claims a second time. That was impermissible, the county argued, because the original lawsuit was dismissed “with prejudice,” meaning the case couldn’t be brought again.

Senior Judge Jacqueline Cook, who handled the case because the circuit judges in Jackson County recused themselves, dismissed the case with prejudice Wednesday.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732279575729.png" alt="Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey, right, testifies to the House Budget Committee in February. Bailey sued Jackson County over its property assessment process but had the case dismissed. Now a court has also dismissed the State Tax Commission's attempt to enforce its order against Jackson County. (Rudi Keller/MIssouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey, right, testifies to the House Budget Committee in February. Bailey sued Jackson County over its property assessment process but had the case dismissed. Now a court has also dismissed the State Tax Commission's attempt to enforce its order against Jackson County. (Rudi Keller/MIssouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The Missouri State Tax Commission sought a court order to force Jackson County to roll back property assessment hikes, but a judge dismissed the case Wednesday</h2>By ALLISON KITE&nbsp; <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>State officials’ hopes of rolling back Jackson County property assessment increases are floundering after a circuit court judge dismissed a lawsuit by the State Tax Commission on Wednesday.&nbsp;The commission in August ordered Jackson County to reverse most of its 2023 property valuations, arguing they had been performed illegally and resulted in huge increases in property values.But the county didn’t comply.Jackson County officials&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/12/jackson-county-claims-property-tax-order-was-meant-to-shield-missouri-ag-from-deposition/">called the State Tax Commission’s August order “unconstitutional”</a>&nbsp;and “unprecedented” and said it only took action to cover for&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/tag/andrew-bailey/">Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey</a>’s failures in his own efforts to undo the property assessments.The State Tax Commission then sought a court order to force the county to cap property assessments to a 15% increase since the last assessment —&nbsp;unless new construction or building improvements increased the value. That effort was dismissed Wednesday.Jackson County Executive Frank White Jr. thanked county residents in a statement Wednesday “for their patience and understanding as we’ve worked to address problems that have been decades in the making.”&nbsp;“Our goal remains ensuring that every property owner is treated fairly under the law,” White said.&nbsp;Gregory Allsberry, chief counsel for the State Tax Commission, said in an email that the judge did not find the commission’s order invalid.“The commission’s order is still a valid order, despite Jackson County’s refusal to comply, and the Commission will continue to do all within its power to enforce the order,” Allsberry said. “It will also do everything within its power to ensure that Jackson county’s assessing officials don’t commit the violations of state law in 2025 that they did during the 2023 reassessment cycle.”&nbsp;Neither Bailey’s office nor the State Tax Commission immediately returned requests for comment.Jackson County’s property valuation process has been in near-constant litigation since Bailey and the State Tax Commission first sued the county in December.&nbsp;According to that lawsuit, the county’s 2023 reassessment process resulted in an average 30% increase in value across hundreds of thousands of properties in the county. The lawsuit says more than 90% of residential properties saw an increase in value, and values increased by at least 15% for three-quarters of properties in the county.The increase in property values means an increase in property taxes for some owners.&nbsp;Bailey and the State Tax Commission accused Jackson County of failing to follow proper procedures in the valuation process, including performing physical inspections, before increasing property values by more than 15%.&nbsp;During the litigation, Bailey and a deputy came&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/07/25/judge-hears-arguments-over-whether-missouri-ag-andrew-bailey-should-be-questioned-under-oath/">under fire for meeting with a Jackson County official</a>&nbsp;without notifying the county’s attorneys. Under Missouri Supreme Court rules, attorneys are not to communicate about a lawsuit with individuals represented in the case by another lawyer without the consent of the other lawyer.Bailey maintained that his meeting with the official, Sean Smith, was nothing more than a campaign meeting. At the time, Smith, a member of the Jackson County Legislature, was running for the U.S. House of Representatives against incumbent U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, II, who won with 60% of the vote earlier this month.Jackson County’s attorneys were granted permission by the judge in the case to question Bailey under oath about his meetings with Smith. But in August, a day before Bailey was scheduled to sit for the deposition, the State Tax Commission issued its order and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/07/missouri-attorney-general-asks-to-dismiss-lawsuit-a-day-before-scheduled-deposition/">Bailey’s office had the case dismissed</a>.At the time, Bailey’s spokeswoman, Madeline Sieren, said the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/judge-dismisses-lawsuit-before-missouri-attorney-general-could-be-questioned-under-oath/">state dismissed the lawsuit because of the State Tax Commission’s order</a>.“Pushing the lawsuit forward could have jeopardized the much needed relief offered in the Tax Commission’s order and would be counterproductive for Jackson County taxpayers,” Sieren said in an August email.The county said at the time that the State Tax Commission was “being used as a shield for…Bailey, who is trying to escape accountability after lying and realizing he was losing the case.”&nbsp;When the county didn’t comply with the August order, the State Tax Commission sought a court order to force the issue.In response, the county said in a filing that the State Tax Commission was attempting to bring the same legal claims a second time. That was impermissible, the county argued, because the original lawsuit was dismissed “with prejudice,” meaning the case couldn’t be brought again.Senior Judge Jacqueline Cook, who handled the case because the circuit judges in Jackson County recused themselves, dismissed the case with prejudice Wednesday.&nbsp;

Missouri AG’s efforts to undo Jackson Co. property assessments dealt another blow

KANSAS CITY —Investigators are working to determine the cause of a Thursday afternoon fire at a carriage house in the Kansas City area.

Just after 2p.m. crews responded to a fire in a carriage house in the 7800 block of 67th Street, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

The fire was spotted by a KCFD company returning to their fire station from another call. The fire quickly spread through the small house. Multiple handlines were used to get the fire under control. The fire was contained to the carriage house and did not spread to the main house. Searches of the structure came back all clear. No injuries were reported at this incident, according to Hopins.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732227435950.png" alt="Photos KCFD" />
 <figcaption>Photos KCFD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Investigators are working to determine the cause of a Thursday afternoon fire at a carriage house in the Kansas City area.Just after 2p.m. crews responded to a fire in a carriage house in the 7800 block of 67th Street, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732227417053.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The fire was spotted by a KCFD company returning to their fire station from another call. The fire quickly spread through the small house. Multiple handlines were used to get the fire under control. The fire was contained to the carriage house and did not spread to the main house. Searches of the structure came back all clear. No injuries were reported at this incident, according to Hopins.

Cause of Kansas City area carriage house fire under investigation

OSAGE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.

Just after 2:30p.m.&nbsp;November 18, a Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit conducted a traffic stop on U.S. 75 Highway for a traffic violation, according to Osage County Sheriff Chris Wells. During the stop, illegal narcotics were located.

Daniel L. Bigenwalt, 59, of Topeka was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of&nbsp;Distribution of methamphetamine, Possession of marijuana, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Driving while license suspended and an Osage County arrest warrant.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732118647317.png" alt="Bigenwalt photo Osage Co." />
 <figcaption>Bigenwalt photo Osage Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>OSAGE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.Just after 2:30p.m.&nbsp;November 18, a Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit conducted a traffic stop on U.S. 75 Highway for a traffic violation, according to Osage County Sheriff Chris Wells. During the stop, illegal narcotics were located.Daniel L. Bigenwalt, 59, of Topeka was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of&nbsp;Distribution of methamphetamine, Possession of marijuana, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Driving while license suspended and an Osage County arrest warrant.

Sheriff: Kansas man accused of selling meth

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an alleged fentanyl overdose death and have made an arrest.

Just after noon Wednesday police arrested 23-year-old Caziah Self of Ellsworth in the 1000 block of S. Seth Child Road in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

The arrested is in connection with an incident that occurred in June of 2023 where law enforcement officers investigated the overdose death of a 25-year-old individual in Manhattan.

Self is being held on a $100,000 bond on requested charges of&nbsp; distribution of a controlled substance causing death, use of a communication facility in the commission of a felony drug violation, and distribution of opiate/opium/stimulant/heroin dosage &lt; 10 units.

Self has four previous drug convictions and another for criminal possession of a weapon, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Anyone with relevant information on this case is urged to come forward, according to the RCPD. The investigation into this and all other Fentanyl-related overdoses remain active and ongoing. Any individuals possessing pertinent information are urged to come forward and assist law enforcement authorities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732204540054.png" alt="Self -photo Kansas Department of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Self -photo Kansas Department of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an alleged fentanyl overdose death and have made an arrest.Just after noon Wednesday police arrested 23-year-old Caziah Self of Ellsworth in the 1000 block of S. Seth Child Road in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.The arrested is in connection with an incident that occurred in June of 2023 where law enforcement officers investigated the overdose death of a 25-year-old individual in Manhattan.Self is being held on a $100,000 bond on requested charges of&nbsp; distribution of a controlled substance causing death, use of a communication facility in the commission of a felony drug violation, and distribution of opiate/opium/stimulant/heroin dosage &lt; 10 units.Self has four previous drug convictions and another for criminal possession of a weapon, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.Anyone with relevant information on this case is urged to come forward, according to the RCPD. The investigation into this and all other Fentanyl-related overdoses remain active and ongoing. Any individuals possessing pertinent information are urged to come forward and assist law enforcement authorities.

Kan. felon jailed in connection with fentanyl overdose death

HARVEY COUNTY —Newton Fire crews were on the scene of a large chicken barn fire in the 1400 Block of N West Road after an explosion was reported on Thursday afternoon, according to a social media report from Newton Fire and EMS.

Water tenders from surrounding communities are responding to provide water supply for firefighting operations.&nbsp; Authorities said the fire was caused by a propane explosion.&nbsp;

There was one person in the chicken barn at the time of the explosion who was not injured. Unfortunately, the barn was at or near capacity with 20,000 chickens. The entire structure collapsed. Fire crews will remain on scene throughout the afternoon and evening.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732226605754.png" alt="Photos Newton Fire and EMS" />
 <figcaption>Photos Newton Fire and EMS</figcaption>
 </figure>HARVEY COUNTY —Newton Fire crews were on the scene of a large chicken barn fire in the 1400 Block of N West Road after an explosion was reported on Thursday afternoon, according to a social media report from Newton Fire and EMS.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732227048818.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Water tenders from surrounding communities are responding to provide water supply for firefighting operations.&nbsp; Authorities said the fire was caused by a propane explosion.&nbsp;There was one person in the chicken barn at the time of the explosion who was not injured. Unfortunately, the barn was at or near capacity with 20,000 chickens. The entire structure collapsed. Fire crews will remain on scene throughout the afternoon and evening.

20,000 chicken in Kansas barn at time of propane explosion

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">JENNIFER SHUTT</a>&nbsp;AND&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">ARIANA FIGUEROA</a>

WASHINGTON — Former Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz announced Thursday he’s withdrawing as President-elect Donald Trump’s planned nominee for attorney general days after securing the appointment.

Gaetz’s path to Senate confirmation was highly unlikely following years of investigations about alleged drug usage and payments for sex, including with an underage girl. He submitted his resignation to Congress last week.

“While the momentum was strong, it is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction to the critical work of the Trump/Vance Transition,” Gaetz wrote in&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/mattgaetz/status/1859649045553402285" target="_blank">a social media post.</a>&nbsp;“There is no time to waste on a needlessly protracted Washington scuffle, thus I’ll be withdrawing my name from consideration to serve as Attorney General. Trump’s DOJ must be in place and ready on Day 1.”&nbsp;

Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/113522181118234752" target="_blank">posted on social media</a>&nbsp;afterward that he “greatly” appreciated “the recent efforts of Matt Gaetz in seeking approval to be Attorney General.”

“He was doing very well but, at the same time, did not want to be a distraction for the Administration, for which he has much respect,” Trump wrote. “Matt has a wonderful future, and I look forward to watching all of the great things he will do!”

The House Ethics Committee&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-house-ethics-panel-republicans-vote-against-disclosure-gaetz-report" target="_blank">voted along party lines</a>&nbsp;Wednesday not to release its report on Gaetz, following more than three years of investigation. Gaetz has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing, including the allegations that he had sex with a minor.

Trump’s running mate, Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, spent Wednesday shuffling Gaetz between meetings with Republicans on the Senate Judiciary Committee, which would have held his confirmation hearing. Republicans will control the Senate in the new session of Congress beginning in January.

Gaetz’s future is unclear, given that he resigned from the U.S. House last week and notified the chamber he didn’t plan to take the oath of office for the upcoming 119th Congress.&nbsp;

He first joined the House in January 2017 and led efforts to remove former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy from that role last year, setting off a month-long stalemate within the House Republican Conference over who should lead the party.

This is a developing report that will be updated.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731531518225.png" alt="Matt Gaetz-photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Matt Gaetz-photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">JENNIFER SHUTT</a>&nbsp;AND&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">ARIANA FIGUEROA</a>WASHINGTON — Former Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz announced Thursday he’s withdrawing as President-elect Donald Trump’s planned nominee for attorney general days after securing the appointment.Gaetz’s path to Senate confirmation was highly unlikely following years of investigations about alleged drug usage and payments for sex, including with an underage girl. He submitted his resignation to Congress last week.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732211535033.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“While the momentum was strong, it is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction to the critical work of the Trump/Vance Transition,” Gaetz wrote in&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/mattgaetz/status/1859649045553402285" target="_blank">a social media post.</a>&nbsp;“There is no time to waste on a needlessly protracted Washington scuffle, thus I’ll be withdrawing my name from consideration to serve as Attorney General. Trump’s DOJ must be in place and ready on Day 1.”&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/113522181118234752" target="_blank">posted on social media</a>&nbsp;afterward that he “greatly” appreciated “the recent efforts of Matt Gaetz in seeking approval to be Attorney General.”“He was doing very well but, at the same time, did not want to be a distraction for the Administration, for which he has much respect,” Trump wrote. “Matt has a wonderful future, and I look forward to watching all of the great things he will do!”The House Ethics Committee&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-house-ethics-panel-republicans-vote-against-disclosure-gaetz-report" target="_blank">voted along party lines</a>&nbsp;Wednesday not to release its report on Gaetz, following more than three years of investigation. Gaetz has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing, including the allegations that he had sex with a minor.Trump’s running mate, Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, spent Wednesday shuffling Gaetz between meetings with Republicans on the Senate Judiciary Committee, which would have held his confirmation hearing. Republicans will control the Senate in the new session of Congress beginning in January.Gaetz’s future is unclear, given that he resigned from the U.S. House last week and notified the chamber he didn’t plan to take the oath of office for the upcoming 119th Congress.&nbsp;He first joined the House in January 2017 and led efforts to remove former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy from that role last year, setting off a month-long stalemate within the House Republican Conference over who should lead the party.This is a developing report that will be updated.

Matt Gaetz bows out as Trump’s pick for attorney general

NEWTON COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 8:30a.m. Wednesday in Newton County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a Peterbilt dump truck driven by a 62-year-old Joplin, Missouri, man was westbound on Lime Kiln Drive, a private road, near Hector Lane five miles north of Neosho.

The truck traveled onto the railroad track. A Kansas City Southern trains struck the vehicle. Newton County ambulance transported the truck driver to Freeman West where he was pronounced deceased.&nbsp; The crossing is marked with a stop sign and railroad crossing sign, according to the MSHP.

NEWTON COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 8:30a.m. Wednesday in Newton County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a Peterbilt dump truck driven by a 62-year-old Joplin, Missouri, man was westbound on Lime Kiln Drive, a private road, near Hector Lane five miles north of Neosho.The truck traveled onto the railroad track. A Kansas City Southern trains struck the vehicle. Newton County ambulance transported the truck driver to Freeman West where he was pronounced deceased.&nbsp; The crossing is marked with a stop sign and railroad crossing sign, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man dies after train, dump truck crash

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a sexual assault and theft that occurred Tuesday morning at a home in Overland Park have a suspect in custody.

The incident occurred&nbsp; just after 2:30a.m. in a home near W. 97th Street and Reeder in Overland Park, according to Overland Park Police Officer John Lacy.

The victim did not know the suspect but was able to provide a description as a stocky build, clean-shaven, late twenties to early thirties man. He was last seen wearing a black jacket with a black beanie-style cap.

EMS transported the victim to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The Overland Park Police Department, with the assistance of the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department, made the arrest and the suspect is being held in Johnson County Central Booking Facility in Olathe.

Police turned the case over to the Johnson County District Attorney’s Office.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732041800750.png" alt="Photo Overland Park Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Overland Park Police</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a sexual assault and theft that occurred Tuesday morning at a home in Overland Park have a suspect in custody.The incident occurred&nbsp; just after 2:30a.m. in a home near W. 97th Street and Reeder in Overland Park, according to Overland Park Police Officer John Lacy.The victim did not know the suspect but was able to provide a description as a stocky build, clean-shaven, late twenties to early thirties man. He was last seen wearing a black jacket with a black beanie-style cap.EMS transported the victim to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.The Overland Park Police Department, with the assistance of the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department, made the arrest and the suspect is being held in Johnson County Central Booking Facility in Olathe.Police turned the case over to the Johnson County District Attorney’s Office.&nbsp;----------

Police capture suspect in sex assault, theft at Kansas home

KANSAS CITY —Police are investigating a fatal crash that occurred just after 10:30p.m. Thursday in Kansas City.

A&nbsp; Chevy Cruze was southbound on U.S. 49 Highway just before the Red Bridge exit merging towards the right shoulder to yield to a Fire Truck, running with emergency lights and siren, according to KCPD&nbsp;Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

The driver of the Chevy did not see a man in a wheelchair who was crossing the highway from the east to the west.

The right front of his vehicle struck the wheelchair. EMS transported the man&nbsp; to an area hospital where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The driver of the Chevy Cruze was not injured in the collision. This is fatality #84 in Kansas City, Missouri for 2024, according to DiMartino.&nbsp; Police released no additional details.

KANSAS CITY —Police are investigating a fatal crash that occurred just after 10:30p.m. Thursday in Kansas City.A&nbsp; Chevy Cruze was southbound on U.S. 49 Highway just before the Red Bridge exit merging towards the right shoulder to yield to a Fire Truck, running with emergency lights and siren, according to KCPD&nbsp;Sergeant Phil DiMartino.The driver of the Chevy did not see a man in a wheelchair who was crossing the highway from the east to the west.The right front of his vehicle struck the wheelchair. EMS transported the man&nbsp; to an area hospital where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The driver of the Chevy Cruze was not injured in the collision. This is fatality #84 in Kansas City, Missouri for 2024, according to DiMartino.&nbsp; Police released no additional details.

KCPD: Car struck and killed man in a wheelchair on highway

SEWARD COUNTY – The former city manager of Liberal, Russell “Rusty” Varnado is under investigation on sex crime allegations, according&nbsp; to a media release from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.

In August, the Liberal Police Department asked the KBI for assistance investigating when allegations arose. The crimes occurred between March and August of 2024, when Varnado was city manager. Following the allegations, Varnado was fired from his position.

At 4 p.m. Wednesday, deputies of the Seward County Sheriff’s Office arrested Varnado, 37, on a KBI warrant for rape, sexual battery, and lewd and lascivious. Varnado was booked into the Seward County Jail.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732145460059.png" alt="Varnado photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>Varnado photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>SEWARD COUNTY – The former city manager of Liberal, Russell “Rusty” Varnado is under investigation on sex crime allegations, according&nbsp; to a media release from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.In August, the Liberal Police Department asked the KBI for assistance investigating when allegations arose. The crimes occurred between March and August of 2024, when Varnado was city manager. Following the allegations, Varnado was fired from his position.At 4 p.m. Wednesday, deputies of the Seward County Sheriff’s Office arrested Varnado, 37, on a KBI warrant for rape, sexual battery, and lewd and lascivious. Varnado was booked into the Seward County Jail.&nbsp;

Former city manager in Kansas accused of sex crimes

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a fatal pedestrian accident in Topeka.

Just after 6p.m. Wednesday, police responded to a reported injury accident involving a vehicle and pedestrian near the 1900 Block of SE Adams, according to Police LT Jason Schumacher.

American Medical Response transported the victim to a local hospital where he was later pronounced deceased.

All involved individuals have been accounted for. Police have not released the name of the&nbsp; victim or additional details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732158195188.png" alt="photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a fatal pedestrian accident in Topeka.Just after 6p.m. Wednesday, police responded to a reported injury accident involving a vehicle and pedestrian near the 1900 Block of SE Adams, according to Police LT Jason Schumacher.American Medical Response transported the victim to a local hospital where he was later pronounced deceased.All involved individuals have been accounted for. Police have not released the name of the&nbsp; victim or additional details.

Police: Kansas man dies in pedestrian accident

OSAGE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect from Texas on drug allegations.

Just after 3:30p.m. November 17, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on U.S. 75 Highway for a traffic violation, according to Sheriff Chris Wells.

During the stop, a narcotics detecting K-9 was deployed and illegal narcotics were located. Maria D.L. Vidal Cruz, 51, of Mount Pleasant, TX was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of Possession of methamphetamine

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732118411121.png" alt="Cruz photo Osage Co." />
 <figcaption>Cruz photo Osage Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>OSAGE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect from Texas on drug allegations.Just after 3:30p.m. November 17, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on U.S. 75 Highway for a traffic violation, according to Sheriff Chris Wells.During the stop, a narcotics detecting K-9 was deployed and illegal narcotics were located. Maria D.L. Vidal Cruz, 51, of Mount Pleasant, TX was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of Possession of methamphetamine

Sheriff: Texas woman was transporting meth in Kansas 

JOHNSON COUNTY —A man accused in connection with a crash that left a 9-year-old Kansas boy dead has entered a plea in the case.

On Friday, 25-year-old&nbsp;&nbsp;Matthew Jacobo, 25,&nbsp; Kansas City, Kansas, pleaded guilty to reckless second degree murder and leaving the scene of a crash resulting in death, according to the Johnson County District Attorney's office.

He was originally charged with second degree murder, leaving the scene of an accident and possession of a firearm while driving under the influence, according to the Johnson County District Attorney's office.

Just before 7p.m. on December 1, 2023, police responded to a crash involving a white truck and a black sedan near Johnson Drive and Bell Road in Shawnee, Kansas, according to a media release.&nbsp; EMS transported nine-year-old Nolan Davidson of Lenexa to Children's Mercy in critical condition. He died December 7, according to a GoFundMe page for the family.

The driver of the truck later identified as Jacobo left the scene.&nbsp; Police tracked him down and made an arrest the night of the crash.

Nolan and his family were on their way from one basketball game to another when they were involved in the crash. The collision, impacted the rear passenger side where Nolan was seated.

Jacobo is scheduled for sentencing on January 7, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702397009027.png" alt="Jacobo-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Jacobo-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —A man accused in connection with a crash that left a 9-year-old Kansas boy dead has entered a plea in the case.On Friday, 25-year-old&nbsp;&nbsp;Matthew Jacobo, 25,&nbsp; Kansas City, Kansas, pleaded guilty to reckless second degree murder and leaving the scene of a crash resulting in death, according to the Johnson County District Attorney's office.He was originally charged with second degree murder, leaving the scene of an accident and possession of a firearm while driving under the influence, according to the Johnson County District Attorney's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702398123562.png" alt="Davidson photo GoFundMe" />
 <figcaption>Davidson photo GoFundMe</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 7p.m. on December 1, 2023, police responded to a crash involving a white truck and a black sedan near Johnson Drive and Bell Road in Shawnee, Kansas, according to a media release.&nbsp; EMS transported nine-year-old Nolan Davidson of Lenexa to Children's Mercy in critical condition. He died December 7, according to a GoFundMe page for the family.The driver of the truck later identified as Jacobo left the scene.&nbsp; Police tracked him down and made an arrest the night of the crash.Nolan and his family were on their way from one basketball game to another when they were involved in the crash. The collision, impacted the rear passenger side where Nolan was seated.Jacobo is scheduled for sentencing on January 7, according to the district attorney's office.

Man enters plea in crash that killed 9-year-old Kansas boy

The emergency shelter shuttered unexpectedly in September after providing thousands of children with a temporary home over nearly four decades

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/anniegoldman/">ANNIE GOLDMAN</a>&nbsp;AND&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspidel/">ANNA SPIDEL</a>

As the community grapples with the closure of the Rainbow House Children’s Emergency Shelter, questions remain about what led to the shutdown of the only shelter of its kind in mid-Missouri.

Allegations of misuse of funds have been raised by both community members and Rainbow House’s board of directors, and much of the blame has been placed on the organization’s former executive director, Melissa Faurot. But Faurot, who confirmed that she was terminated in August, said they’ve got it all wrong.

The emergency shelter&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/local/rainbow-house-closes-its-doors-community-reacts/article_33ce2644-7c53-11ef-81bd-a7b2863dd272.html" target="_blank">shuttered its doors</a>&nbsp;unexpectedly in September after providing thousands of children with a temporary home over nearly four decades, Rainbow House founder Kathy Hughes said.

In a matter of months, the nonprofit organization went from asking for millions of dollars for a significant renovation to being the subject of a state investigation.

“It was a complete shock to me,” Hughes said. She has not been significantly involved in Rainbow House’s operations for the past several years.

Rainbow House’s nearly 1.5-acre property in north Columbia is also pending a sale, hindering hopes that operations can return to normal.

As the community wrestles with the disappearance of what advocates considered a valuable resource to children and families in 11 Missouri counties, questions persist: What happened to Rainbow House?

And, what happened to the $1.2 million raised for the facility’s planned expansion, $1.1 million of which came from the Veterans United Foundation?

In the past few months, Melissa Faurot’s name has consistently been included in online chatter about Rainbow House’s collapse.

Faurot, an attorney who was previously a board member and was part of the organization for over a decade, was the executive director of Rainbow House from August 2021 to August 2024.

“I’ve been silent for many months, and I’ve had the mud thrown at me … I’m not really interested in sitting back and being quiet anymore,” she said.

Faurot was terminated unexpectedly on Aug. 14 by the board of directors, she said. Faurot said she was not given a reason as to why she was terminated, but she speculates it had to do with disagreement between her and the board on how to handle the ongoing renovation, and the subsequent issues of fundraising.

She alleged that Rainbow House’s board of directors is misleading the community about who authorized the construction’s commencement, what happened to the money, why the emergency shelter was shut down and how the property ended up in the hands of the contracted construction company.

“I saw the writing on the wall. I knew that the blame was going to be placed on me because, well, somebody wanted a scapegoat,” she said.

Faurot also confirmed that the ongoing state investigation of Rainbow House is being facilitated by the Missouri Department of Social Services.

Kathy Hughes founded Rainbow House in 1986. As an experienced foster parent and pediatric nurse, Hughes saw the need to provide children in short-term foster care with more stability.

Her family was fostering one child in particular who had been placed in emergency foster care and was being moved from house to house. After the child had been placed in her fifth school in three weeks, Hughes realized that the system was not serving children in the way that it should have upon initial intake.

“The system (was) doing her more harm than her father beating her did,” Hughes said. “The bruises were starting to heal, but we were making her feel like it was her fault and that she was being punished.”

Hughes started dreaming of a place where children who had experienced abuse or neglect could stay more permanently until the legal system reached a verdict on their futures, whether that’s returning home or being placed into long-term foster care.

She consulted different local government entities but settled on the reality that her vision of a physical home-like space devoted to this mission had to be established independently. Hughes found a “big old farmhouse” in Columbia with the capacity for up to 12 children, and with a loan, she purchased the property.