WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Detectives are currently investigating a fatal shooting in Wyandotte County.

On Wednesday evening, police were dispatched to a shooting in the 4900 block of Steele Road, according to a media release.

First responders discovered a man outside a home, the victim of apparent gunshot wounds. He was pronounced deceased on scene. Two adult victims were transported to an area hospital with serious, but non-life threatening injuries, not caused by gunfire.

This incident is under investigation by the KCKPD Major Case Unit.&nbsp;This is the 13th homicide of the year in Kansas City, Kansas.

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Detectives are currently investigating a fatal shooting in Wyandotte County.On Wednesday evening, police were dispatched to a shooting in the 4900 block of Steele Road, according to a media release.First responders discovered a man outside a home, the victim of apparent gunshot wounds. He was pronounced deceased on scene. Two adult victims were transported to an area hospital with serious, but non-life threatening injuries, not caused by gunfire.This incident is under investigation by the KCKPD Major Case Unit.&nbsp;This is the 13th homicide of the year in Kansas City, Kansas.

Homicide: 1 dead, 2 hospitalized after Kansas shooting

Washington, D.C. -&nbsp;U.S. Senator Roger Marshall and Senator Michael Bennet of Colorado joined&nbsp;Special Report&nbsp;on Fox News in a ‘common ground’ segment highlighting bipartisanship and shared interest in addressing the historic drought sweeping the high plains and the importance of the Farm Bill to our nation's producers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Senators, who lead the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agriculture.senate.gov/hearings/hearing-on-the-high-plains-combating-drought-with-innovation">Agriculture Subcommittee on Conservation, Climate, Forestry, and Natural Resources&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;hosted a bipartisan field hearing on the importance of combating the drought with innovation.

Kansas and Colorado water conservation officials, policy advisors, meteorologists and others will participate in the solutions-based hearing.&nbsp;

Highlights from Senator Marshall’s interview include:&nbsp;

On the effects of the drought for Kansas water conservation:&nbsp;

MARSHALL:&nbsp;We've shared the same drought for 10 of the last 15 years, then we have this aquifer underneath us, this aquifer of water…So we're trying to figure out, how do we conserve this water? Because of the drought, we're using the water faster than we can replenish it. We use this water to grow our crops as well as to nourish our animals. So we're trying to pick out the best conservation practices.

MARSHALL:&nbsp;As we put the final touches on the farm bill, we want to make sure we're spending that money wisely, and capture what's working good and get rid of the bad.

BENNET:&nbsp;It is a major issue, and I've been very pleased to have the opportunity to work with Senator Marshall across the political aisle now for years on legislation that recognizes that nobody's making any more water…I think as Senator Marshall said, there's not a lot that divides us on these issues.&nbsp;

BENNET:&nbsp;You know, this border between Kansas and Colorado – drought does not recognize that border, wildfires do not recognize our borders. It's critical for us to find ways to work together to support farmers and ranchers, by the way, just like we did years and years ago, when the heart of this part of our country was subjected to the Dust Bowl. We’ve got to deal with it as seriously as people dealt with it back then.

On Threat of Chinese ownership of U.S. farmland:&nbsp;

MARSHALL:&nbsp;Food security is national security. We take it for granted as Americans, but it is vitally important to our security. That's why we want to elevate the Secretary of Agriculture onto the CFIUS Committee, which evaluates foreign investments, and it goes way beyond the land and agriculture.

MARSHALL:&nbsp;I'm probably more concerned about the food production. China owns about a fourth of our pork production, Brazil about a fourth of our beef production as well, the processing part of that food chain. So it goes way beyond just the land. Very concerned about all this –&nbsp;food security is national security.

BENNET:&nbsp;I have deep concern about it, both in terms of its proximity to military bases, but also its integration into our economy as well, as a member of the Intelligence Committee. This is something that we're focused on and worried about, and I think we're going to find Republicans and Democrats who can support this effort together, and make sure that the American people at least understand the degree to which Beijing is trying to own our land in a strategic way that helps them, but may not help us.

Washington, D.C. -&nbsp;U.S. Senator Roger Marshall and Senator Michael Bennet of Colorado joined&nbsp;Special Report&nbsp;on Fox News in a ‘common ground’ segment highlighting bipartisanship and shared interest in addressing the historic drought sweeping the high plains and the importance of the Farm Bill to our nation's producers.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6c4MGZ2jdyM?si=bN6uN8xwRnai8LKa" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>The Senators, who lead the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agriculture.senate.gov/hearings/hearing-on-the-high-plains-combating-drought-with-innovation">Agriculture Subcommittee on Conservation, Climate, Forestry, and Natural Resources&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;hosted a bipartisan field hearing on the importance of combating the drought with innovation. Kansas and Colorado water conservation officials, policy advisors, meteorologists and others will participate in the solutions-based hearing.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719493361623.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Highlights from Senator Marshall’s interview include:&nbsp;On the effects of the drought for Kansas water conservation:&nbsp;MARSHALL:&nbsp;We've shared the same drought for 10 of the last 15 years, then we have this aquifer underneath us, this aquifer of water…So we're trying to figure out, how do we conserve this water? Because of the drought, we're using the water faster than we can replenish it. We use this water to grow our crops as well as to nourish our animals. So we're trying to pick out the best conservation practices.MARSHALL:&nbsp;As we put the final touches on the farm bill, we want to make sure we're spending that money wisely, and capture what's working good and get rid of the bad.BENNET:&nbsp;It is a major issue, and I've been very pleased to have the opportunity to work with Senator Marshall across the political aisle now for years on legislation that recognizes that nobody's making any more water…I think as Senator Marshall said, there's not a lot that divides us on these issues.&nbsp;BENNET:&nbsp;You know, this border between Kansas and Colorado – drought does not recognize that border, wildfires do not recognize our borders. It's critical for us to find ways to work together to support farmers and ranchers, by the way, just like we did years and years ago, when the heart of this part of our country was subjected to the Dust Bowl. We’ve got to deal with it as seriously as people dealt with it back then.On Threat of Chinese ownership of U.S. farmland:&nbsp;MARSHALL:&nbsp;Food security is national security. We take it for granted as Americans, but it is vitally important to our security. That's why we want to elevate the Secretary of Agriculture onto the CFIUS Committee, which evaluates foreign investments, and it goes way beyond the land and agriculture.MARSHALL:&nbsp;I'm probably more concerned about the food production. China owns about a fourth of our pork production, Brazil about a fourth of our beef production as well, the processing part of that food chain. So it goes way beyond just the land. Very concerned about all this –&nbsp;food security is national security.BENNET:&nbsp;I have deep concern about it, both in terms of its proximity to military bases, but also its integration into our economy as well, as a member of the Intelligence Committee. This is something that we're focused on and worried about, and I think we're going to find Republicans and Democrats who can support this effort together, and make sure that the American people at least understand the degree to which Beijing is trying to own our land in a strategic way that helps them, but may not help us.

🎥U.S. Senators from Kan., Colo. work to address historic drought

KANSAS CITY—Authorities are investigating a drowning at a lake near where Interstate 29 and Interstate 635 meet approximately ten miles north of Kansas City.

Just before 8:30p.m. Wednesday, the Kansas City Fire Department was dispatched on a mutual aid response to Houston Lake in Platte County on an apparent drowning, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

First responders discovered the body of a man floating in the water not far from a small dock. The man appeared to have been fishing off the dock.&nbsp; Nobody saw him enter the water and investigators do not know how or why he ended up in the water. 

Two members of KCFD's Rescue entered the water to recover the body. Not knowing how long the individual had been in the water crews on scene performed CPR on the victim once he was removed and transported to him local hospital, where he was pronounced dead, according to Hopkins.

 The cause of the apparent drowning is under investigation by Platte County authorities.&nbsp; His name has not been released.

KANSAS CITY—Authorities are investigating a drowning at a lake near where Interstate 29 and Interstate 635 meet approximately ten miles north of Kansas City.Just before 8:30p.m. Wednesday, the Kansas City Fire Department was dispatched on a mutual aid response to Houston Lake in Platte County on an apparent drowning, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.First responders discovered the body of a man floating in the water not far from a small dock. The man appeared to have been fishing off the dock.&nbsp; Nobody saw him enter the water and investigators do not know how or why he ended up in the water. Two members of KCFD's Rescue entered the water to recover the body. Not knowing how long the individual had been in the water crews on scene performed CPR on the victim once he was removed and transported to him local hospital, where he was pronounced dead, according to Hopkins. The cause of the apparent drowning is under investigation by Platte County authorities.&nbsp; His name has not been released.

Fisherman drowns in lake near Kansas City

CLAY COUNTY —Law enforcement and child welfare officials are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations after an incident at a lake north of Kansas City.

On the afternoon of June 24, two callers to the Clay County Sheriff's office reported about a vehicle pulled onto the shoulder of the W Highway bridge near Smithville Lake, according to a media release.

The callers reported a man standing over and possibly assaulting someone. When deputies got there, they found the car with some doors open but no one in sight except a toddler strapped into his car seat. 

The child was red and sweating profusely. Deputies reported their in-car thermometers said the temperature was 100 to 102 degrees at the time. 

Deputies&nbsp; quickly took the boy into one of their air-conditioned vehicles and tried to offer him water while waiting for an ambulance. Other deputies started searching the area, following a trail down to the lake. 

There they saw a man and woman passed out on a blanket with an infant asleep between them. The baby appeared pale and lethargic. The deputies roused the suspects, who appeared and smelled intoxicated.&nbsp; Deputies took the baby into an air-conditioned vehicle, then they asked the suspects if they knew where the toddler was.&nbsp; They did not know.

Deputies later located a large amount of alcoholic drinks in possession of the suspects.

 The children were transported to the hospital, and the Missouri Children’s Division took them into their custody. The woman suspect also was transported to the hospital for dehydration. 

Charges are pending against the suspects following some lab results.&nbsp;

CLAY COUNTY —Law enforcement and child welfare officials are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations after an incident at a lake north of Kansas City.On the afternoon of June 24, two callers to the Clay County Sheriff's office reported about a vehicle pulled onto the shoulder of the W Highway bridge near Smithville Lake, according to a media release.The callers reported a man standing over and possibly assaulting someone. When deputies got there, they found the car with some doors open but no one in sight except a toddler strapped into his car seat. The child was red and sweating profusely. Deputies reported their in-car thermometers said the temperature was 100 to 102 degrees at the time. Deputies&nbsp; quickly took the boy into one of their air-conditioned vehicles and tried to offer him water while waiting for an ambulance. Other deputies started searching the area, following a trail down to the lake. There they saw a man and woman passed out on a blanket with an infant asleep between them. The baby appeared pale and lethargic. The deputies roused the suspects, who appeared and smelled intoxicated.&nbsp; Deputies took the baby into an air-conditioned vehicle, then they asked the suspects if they knew where the toddler was.&nbsp; They did not know.Deputies later located a large amount of alcoholic drinks in possession of the suspects. The children were transported to the hospital, and the Missouri Children’s Division took them into their custody. The woman suspect also was transported to the hospital for dehydration. Charges are pending against the suspects following some lab results.&nbsp;

Sheriff: Toddler, baby left unattended in triple-digit heat 

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Police have not reported an arrest and continue asking the public for help to find a Kansas man accused in a deadly gunfight on Father's Day.

On Wednesday, the Wichita Police reported no new update on missing 33-year-old Eric Gonzalez-Gutierrez, who is wanted for violating his pre-trial restrictions.&nbsp;On Friday, he cut his ankle monitor, according to Wichita Police.

On June 16, police arrested Gonzalez-Gutierrez on requested charges including first-degree murder and felon in possession of a firearm in connection with the fatal shooting of 28-year-old Aron Lara.

Just after 8:30p.m. on Father's Day, police responded to a shooting incident in the 1900 block of N. Jackson Street in Wichita, according to Police spokesman Andrew Ford.

While working to gather further information, the 911 dispatcher could hear gunfire in the background, prompting an immediate upgraded dispatch of officers to the scene.

First responders discovered Lara suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Sedgwick County EMS provided initial critical care at the scene before transporting him to a nearby hospital where he died.

Another victim, a 22-year-old Hispanic man, sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot to the arm and was privately transported to St. Francis Hospital.

The incident occurred during a neighborhood barbecue in observance of Father's Day. According to preliminary reports, Lara, was involved in a verbal altercation with the Gonzales-Gutierrez earlier in the evening.&nbsp; Gonzales-Gutierrez allegedly returned home, retrieved a rifle, and fired upon the victim, who was unarmed at the time of the shooting.

It is believed that two men accompanying Lara returned fire, resulting in injuries to the second victim.

If you have any information on Gonzalez-Gutierrez whereabouts, please call 911 or WPD Detectives at 316-268-4407. To provide anonymous tips call 316-267-2111 or scan the code above.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718711572362.png" alt="GONZALES-GUTIERREZ-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>GONZALES-GUTIERREZ-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Police have not reported an arrest and continue asking the public for help to find a Kansas man accused in a deadly gunfight on Father's Day.On Wednesday, the Wichita Police reported no new update on missing 33-year-old Eric Gonzalez-Gutierrez, who is wanted for violating his pre-trial restrictions.&nbsp;On Friday, he cut his ankle monitor, according to Wichita Police.On June 16, police arrested Gonzalez-Gutierrez on requested charges including first-degree murder and felon in possession of a firearm in connection with the fatal shooting of 28-year-old Aron Lara.Just after 8:30p.m. on Father's Day, police responded to a shooting incident in the 1900 block of N. Jackson Street in Wichita, according to Police spokesman Andrew Ford.While working to gather further information, the 911 dispatcher could hear gunfire in the background, prompting an immediate upgraded dispatch of officers to the scene.First responders discovered Lara suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Sedgwick County EMS provided initial critical care at the scene before transporting him to a nearby hospital where he died.Another victim, a 22-year-old Hispanic man, sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot to the arm and was privately transported to St. Francis Hospital.The incident occurred during a neighborhood barbecue in observance of Father's Day. According to preliminary reports, Lara, was involved in a verbal altercation with the Gonzales-Gutierrez earlier in the evening.&nbsp; Gonzales-Gutierrez allegedly returned home, retrieved a rifle, and fired upon the victim, who was unarmed at the time of the shooting.It is believed that two men accompanying Lara returned fire, resulting in injuries to the second victim.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719431407839.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>If you have any information on Gonzalez-Gutierrez whereabouts, please call 911 or WPD Detectives at 316-268-4407. To provide anonymous tips call 316-267-2111 or scan the code above.

Search continues for suspect in deadly Kan. BBQ gunfight 

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/jacob-fischler/">JACOB FISCHLER</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/09/21/kansas-board-of-regents-sculpts-plan-for-boosting-state-aid-to-public-higher-education/?emci=78717300-c858-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;emdi=fc107f78-2659-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump will get a crucial opportunity to reach undecided voters and set the terms for the 2024 presidential campaign at Thursday night’s debate in Atlanta.

Partisans on either side have already made up their minds about which candidate they’ll support. And with this year’s race serving as a rematch of 2020, many Americans have already formed strong and possibly unchangeable opinions about the candidates.

Yet there is a sizable group of voters who haven’t decided who they’ll support in November, Christopher Stout, a professor of political science at Oregon State University, said in an interview with States Newsroom.

“On one hand, opinions about Joe Biden and Donald Trump are baked in,” Stout said. “On the other hand, there’s a lot of people who aren’t paying any attention to politics and this is their first time thinking about the 2024 election.”

For Biden, a major objective will be to show voters the 81-year-old incumbent can be energetic and forceful, Stout and political strategists said.

Trump, 78, may focus on appealing to voters in the ideological middle and wavering Republicans who want a conservative candidate but are turned off by the former president’s antics.

On policy, each candidate has issues they will capitalize on as strengths. Trump will probably press Biden on immigration and inflation, while Biden undoubtedly will be eager to criticize Trump on reproductive rights.

The debate, sponsored by CNN, will be moderated by the network’s Jake Tapper and Dana Bash and begin at 9 p.m. Eastern, with no studio audience. It is set to last for 90 minutes and will air live on CNN with simulcast available for other cable and broadcast networks.

Each candidate’s microphone will be muted while the other is speaking. No props are allowed but each man will be given a pen, pad and bottle of water,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/06/25/politics/how-to-watch-cnn-debate/index.html" target="_blank">CNN said.</a>

Trump could gain ground with moderate and independent voters by appearing steady.

After winning the presidency in 2016, Trump lost to Biden in 2020 amid a sense that Republican-leaning voters were weary of his unorthodox style and tendency to create scandal.

“If he’s boring and he looks like a typical politician, that’s going to be a big plus for him,” Stout said. “If he looks like a typical politician and he seems more moderate, then there’s the opportunity to bring back a set of voters who were once Republican who have now left the party.”

At the same time, there’s likely not too much down side for Trump if he does go off-script, as voters have come to expect outlandish comments and behavior, Republican strategist Doug Heye said.

“Donald Trump is gonna say something crazy,” Heye said. “That is all factored in and that’s not changing anybody’s mind.”

Heye cited recent remarks Trump has made about shark attacks, electrocution from oversized batteries and taking his shirt off to reveal psychic wounds inflicted by political opponents.

In a move reminiscent of his reality-show past, Trump has teased a possible announcement of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/calm-conservative-confident-what-gop-senators-want-trumps-vice-presidential-pick" target="_blank">his vice presidential pick</a>&nbsp;at the debate.

But even if voters expect some degree of eccentricity from Trump, that will not help him win over the undecided voters who will decide the election, said Rodell Mollineau, a co-founder and partner at the Washington-based strategy firm ROKK Solutions and a veteran of Democratic campaigns.

“If you’re actually trying to reach voters, I’m not sure how Trump ranting and raving, talking about delusional conspiracy theories, helps him win independent voters,” Mollineau said.

Trump will face an additional unique challenge if he tries to look like a traditional presidential candidate: his&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-found-guilty-34-felony-counts-ny-hush-money-trial-10" target="_blank">34 felony convictions</a>&nbsp;in New York last month and the three other felony prosecutions against him pending, including two related to his efforts to overturn his loss in the 2020 election that led to the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection.

“I’m watching to see how he talks about or doesn’t talk about his many court dalliances and the conviction and whatever else he has hanging over his head,” Mollineau said.

Biden faces different questions he must answer.

Voters have doubts about the incumbent’s ability, due in part to his age, inclination for misspeaking and a concerted effort by Republicans and GOP-aligned media to portray Biden as past his prime.

“I think Biden in part is going to be trying to overcome the image that Trump and Republicans in general have been very successful in creating,” University of Georgia political science professor Charles Bullock said.&nbsp; “They’ve been working on this now for at least five years, and that is the image of Biden being too old, being not up to it physically or mentally to continue to serve as president for another four years.”

Biden countered that narrative — at least temporarily — with an exuberant performance at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/biden-warns-freedom-and-democracy-are-under-attack-fierce-state-union-address" target="_blank">the State of the Union address</a>&nbsp;this year, several observers said.

Matching that energy will help him have a positive debate, they said.

But Heye noted that despite rave reviews from Democrats, the president’s State of the Union performance did not improve his standing in polls.

“The reaction from Democrats was: game changer,” Heye said. “And if we look at the polling, the game didn’t change at all.”

Biden would also benefit by reminding voters of his policy record, and contrasting it with Trump’s, Stout and Mollineau said.

“It will advantage him if he can talk about policy,” Stout said. “People don’t know the things he has done and so there’s hope maybe to inform people and sway the electorate.”

Biden should target left-leaning voters by reminding them of his achievements on climate and the environment and his administration’s efforts to create jobs, Stout said.

Mollineau added that Biden must remind voters of Trump’s tumultuous time in office and Biden’s achievements thus far, while balancing that message with an acknowledgment that many Americans are unsatisfied.

The debate, which will be broadcast from CNN’s Georgia headquarters, comes much earlier in the election cycle than usual, even before the party conventions that typically symbolize the start of the general election.

The candidates agreed to the unusual schedule after rejecting a proposal from the Commission on Presidential Debates, a nonpartisan organization that has organized the events for decades, typically with three meetings between presidential candidates and one between would-be vice presidents.

This year’s June schedule could give the candidates a chance to frame the race moving forward, as many voters will be tuning in to the contest for the first time.

But the nearly 19 weeks remaining until Election Day could also mean a candidate with a weak performance has time to recover, or that a strong performance could diminish.

“I do not believe anyone is going to either win or lose the election this week,” Mollineau said.

Bullock, the Georgia professor, differed.

Because of the unpopularity of both candidates, and the sense that voters will be choosing the one they view as “the least of two evils,” either could provide a voter’s “final straw,” he said.

“They may hear something coming out of the mouths of one of these and say, ‘Yeah, that’s it,’” Bullock said. “‘That’s the final straw. I can’t support that one. It helps me make up my mind to go with the other person.’”

Ross Williams contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719402433185.png" alt="The McCamish Pavilion at Georgia Tech in Atlanta on Tuesday, June 25, 2024. It is the site of the press center for media covering the CNN debate between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump on Thursday (Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder)." />
 <figcaption>The McCamish Pavilion at Georgia Tech in Atlanta on Tuesday, June 25, 2024. It is the site of the press center for media covering the CNN debate between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump on Thursday (Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder).</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/jacob-fischler/">JACOB FISCHLER</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/09/21/kansas-board-of-regents-sculpts-plan-for-boosting-state-aid-to-public-higher-education/?emci=78717300-c858-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;emdi=fc107f78-2659-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump will get a crucial opportunity to reach undecided voters and set the terms for the 2024 presidential campaign at Thursday night’s debate in Atlanta.Partisans on either side have already made up their minds about which candidate they’ll support. And with this year’s race serving as a rematch of 2020, many Americans have already formed strong and possibly unchangeable opinions about the candidates.Yet there is a sizable group of voters who haven’t decided who they’ll support in November, Christopher Stout, a professor of political science at Oregon State University, said in an interview with States Newsroom.“On one hand, opinions about Joe Biden and Donald Trump are baked in,” Stout said. “On the other hand, there’s a lot of people who aren’t paying any attention to politics and this is their first time thinking about the 2024 election.”For Biden, a major objective will be to show voters the 81-year-old incumbent can be energetic and forceful, Stout and political strategists said.Trump, 78, may focus on appealing to voters in the ideological middle and wavering Republicans who want a conservative candidate but are turned off by the former president’s antics.On policy, each candidate has issues they will capitalize on as strengths. Trump will probably press Biden on immigration and inflation, while Biden undoubtedly will be eager to criticize Trump on reproductive rights.The debate, sponsored by CNN, will be moderated by the network’s Jake Tapper and Dana Bash and begin at 9 p.m. Eastern, with no studio audience. It is set to last for 90 minutes and will air live on CNN with simulcast available for other cable and broadcast networks.Each candidate’s microphone will be muted while the other is speaking. No props are allowed but each man will be given a pen, pad and bottle of water,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/06/25/politics/how-to-watch-cnn-debate/index.html" target="_blank">CNN said.</a><h2>Can Trump be boring?</h2>Trump could gain ground with moderate and independent voters by appearing steady.After winning the presidency in 2016, Trump lost to Biden in 2020 amid a sense that Republican-leaning voters were weary of his unorthodox style and tendency to create scandal.“If he’s boring and he looks like a typical politician, that’s going to be a big plus for him,” Stout said. “If he looks like a typical politician and he seems more moderate, then there’s the opportunity to bring back a set of voters who were once Republican who have now left the party.”At the same time, there’s likely not too much down side for Trump if he does go off-script, as voters have come to expect outlandish comments and behavior, Republican strategist Doug Heye said.“Donald Trump is gonna say something crazy,” Heye said. “That is all factored in and that’s not changing anybody’s mind.”Heye cited recent remarks Trump has made about shark attacks, electrocution from oversized batteries and taking his shirt off to reveal psychic wounds inflicted by political opponents.In a move reminiscent of his reality-show past, Trump has teased a possible announcement of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/calm-conservative-confident-what-gop-senators-want-trumps-vice-presidential-pick" target="_blank">his vice presidential pick</a>&nbsp;at the debate.But even if voters expect some degree of eccentricity from Trump, that will not help him win over the undecided voters who will decide the election, said Rodell Mollineau, a co-founder and partner at the Washington-based strategy firm ROKK Solutions and a veteran of Democratic campaigns.“If you’re actually trying to reach voters, I’m not sure how Trump ranting and raving, talking about delusional conspiracy theories, helps him win independent voters,” Mollineau said.Trump will face an additional unique challenge if he tries to look like a traditional presidential candidate: his&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-found-guilty-34-felony-counts-ny-hush-money-trial-10" target="_blank">34 felony convictions</a>&nbsp;in New York last month and the three other felony prosecutions against him pending, including two related to his efforts to overturn his loss in the 2020 election that led to the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection.“I’m watching to see how he talks about or doesn’t talk about his many court dalliances and the conviction and whatever else he has hanging over his head,” Mollineau said.<h2>Can Biden be forceful?</h2>Biden faces different questions he must answer.Voters have doubts about the incumbent’s ability, due in part to his age, inclination for misspeaking and a concerted effort by Republicans and GOP-aligned media to portray Biden as past his prime.“I think Biden in part is going to be trying to overcome the image that Trump and Republicans in general have been very successful in creating,” University of Georgia political science professor Charles Bullock said.&nbsp; “They’ve been working on this now for at least five years, and that is the image of Biden being too old, being not up to it physically or mentally to continue to serve as president for another four years.”Biden countered that narrative — at least temporarily — with an exuberant performance at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/biden-warns-freedom-and-democracy-are-under-attack-fierce-state-union-address" target="_blank">the State of the Union address</a>&nbsp;this year, several observers said.Matching that energy will help him have a positive debate, they said.But Heye noted that despite rave reviews from Democrats, the president’s State of the Union performance did not improve his standing in polls.“The reaction from Democrats was: game changer,” Heye said. “And if we look at the polling, the game didn’t change at all.”Biden would also benefit by reminding voters of his policy record, and contrasting it with Trump’s, Stout and Mollineau said.“It will advantage him if he can talk about policy,” Stout said. “People don’t know the things he has done and so there’s hope maybe to inform people and sway the electorate.”Biden should target left-leaning voters by reminding them of his achievements on climate and the environment and his administration’s efforts to create jobs, Stout said.Mollineau added that Biden must remind voters of Trump’s tumultuous time in office and Biden’s achievements thus far, while balancing that message with an acknowledgment that many Americans are unsatisfied.<h2>An early debate</h2>The debate, which will be broadcast from CNN’s Georgia headquarters, comes much earlier in the election cycle than usual, even before the party conventions that typically symbolize the start of the general election.The candidates agreed to the unusual schedule after rejecting a proposal from the Commission on Presidential Debates, a nonpartisan organization that has organized the events for decades, typically with three meetings between presidential candidates and one between would-be vice presidents.All debates are usually in the fall.This year’s June schedule could give the candidates a chance to frame the race moving forward, as many voters will be tuning in to the contest for the first time.But the nearly 19 weeks remaining until Election Day could also mean a candidate with a weak performance has time to recover, or that a strong performance could diminish.“I do not believe anyone is going to either win or lose the election this week,” Mollineau said.Bullock, the Georgia professor, differed.Because of the unpopularity of both candidates, and the sense that voters will be choosing the one they view as “the least of two evils,” either could provide a voter’s “final straw,” he said.“They may hear something coming out of the mouths of one of these and say, ‘Yeah, that’s it,’” Bullock said. “‘That’s the final straw. I can’t support that one. It helps me make up my mind to go with the other person.’”Ross Williams contributed to this report.

Undecided voters are the prize for Biden and Trump in presidential debate

Join me in congratulating the tremendous accomplishment for this graduated high school senior Chase Schumacher, as he received not only his high school diploma, but his college diploma at the same time. He worked hard on improving himself in order to be eligible to graduate with his associates degree from Wichita State University of Applied Science &amp; Technology, Wichita, KS.

This young man persevered and stayed strong through some tough and unfortunate challenges during his years of high school. Enduring the tough losses of loved ones and going through a difficult journey of self-alignment, he decided he didn’t want life’s lemons like everyone else, he wants the whole damn tree.

Chase took it upon himself to search the state and find the most affordable classes that he could take in order to be qualified for an associate’s degree in Financial Administration. Nitpicking every individual class through-out all the community colleges in the state of Kansas to find the most cost-effective avenue to become the first senior in the history of Victoria High School, USD #432 to graduate high school and college at the same time.

All the trials and tribulations could’ve easily tipped the scales of life, leaving Chase to go down a dark path, yet he persevered and set an example for his peers. Encountering an unknown territory and creating a trail for the students who want more from life to follow.

Shortly before graduation Chase solely created and copyrighted “The Guided Growth Program." This program intends to help struggling and misunderstood students to find a better path and to live a better life. After seeking help and obtaining knowledge from a Masters of Social Work graduate of The University of Kansas, Chase created this program to aid all students involved and to help the struggling education system. The system is student autonomous and includes a situation-based balance system if ever in the need of guidance.

Watch out for this young man, as he continues to make a greater difference and making everything he touches better, for himself and those around him.

SubmittedJoin me in congratulating the tremendous accomplishment for this graduated high school senior Chase Schumacher, as he received not only his high school diploma, but his college diploma at the same time. He worked hard on improving himself in order to be eligible to graduate with his associates degree from Wichita State University of Applied Science &amp; Technology, Wichita, KS.This young man persevered and stayed strong through some tough and unfortunate challenges during his years of high school. Enduring the tough losses of loved ones and going through a difficult journey of self-alignment, he decided he didn’t want life’s lemons like everyone else, he wants the whole damn tree.Chase took it upon himself to search the state and find the most affordable classes that he could take in order to be qualified for an associate’s degree in Financial Administration. Nitpicking every individual class through-out all the community colleges in the state of Kansas to find the most cost-effective avenue to become the first senior in the history of Victoria High School, USD #432 to graduate high school and college at the same time.All the trials and tribulations could’ve easily tipped the scales of life, leaving Chase to go down a dark path, yet he persevered and set an example for his peers. Encountering an unknown territory and creating a trail for the students who want more from life to follow.Shortly before graduation Chase solely created and copyrighted “The Guided Growth Program." This program intends to help struggling and misunderstood students to find a better path and to live a better life. After seeking help and obtaining knowledge from a Masters of Social Work graduate of The University of Kansas, Chase created this program to aid all students involved and to help the struggling education system. The system is student autonomous and includes a situation-based balance system if ever in the need of guidance.Watch out for this young man, as he continues to make a greater difference and making everything he touches better, for himself and those around him.

Victoria student graduates high school, college in same semester

By NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post

Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas notes that the period that includes Independence Day will be quite busy for travelers this year.

"We're projecting nearly 71 million people are going to travel sometime during that period. 685,000 or so Kansans will travel," Steward said. "About 85% will be driving. 60.6 million people nationwide and about 585,000 Kansans will be driving to their destinations during the holiday."

There are also more people flying these days.

"TSA has been seeing record numbers," Steward said.&nbsp; "In fact, this past Sunday was the most that TSA has ever screened before. 2.99 million went through airports and they're expecting more than 3 million. So another record this Friday, the 28th. So air travel is extremely popular and extremely busy right now."

The busy times with traffic are the ones you would expect.

"When people getting off work mixes with holiday travel, those are usually the main times to avoid," Steward said. "Those are going to be the busiest times, especially if your travel takes you through metro areas. So we're talking about Wednesday afternoon and evening of July 3rd, and then a lot of people will be returning on Sunday, July 7th. Those are two times that could be especially busy, especially in larger metro areas."

Travel numbers are back to pre-pandemic levels, if not a little more across the country.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719401539327.png" alt="2024 Independence Day-from AAA" />
 <figcaption>2024 Independence Day-from AAA</figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostShawn Steward with AAA Kansas notes that the period that includes Independence Day will be quite busy for travelers this year."We're projecting nearly 71 million people are going to travel sometime during that period. 685,000 or so Kansans will travel," Steward said. "About 85% will be driving. 60.6 million people nationwide and about 585,000 Kansans will be driving to their destinations during the holiday."There are also more people flying these days."TSA has been seeing record numbers," Steward said.&nbsp; "In fact, this past Sunday was the most that TSA has ever screened before. 2.99 million went through airports and they're expecting more than 3 million. So another record this Friday, the 28th. So air travel is extremely popular and extremely busy right now."The busy times with traffic are the ones you would expect."When people getting off work mixes with holiday travel, those are usually the main times to avoid," Steward said. "Those are going to be the busiest times, especially if your travel takes you through metro areas. So we're talking about Wednesday afternoon and evening of July 3rd, and then a lot of people will be returning on Sunday, July 7th. Those are two times that could be especially busy, especially in larger metro areas."Travel numbers are back to pre-pandemic levels, if not a little more across the country.

AAA: Fourth of July travel period will be busy

LAWRENCE COUNTY, Mo. —One person died in an accident just before 3p.m. Wednesday in Lawrence County, Missouri.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Nissan Juke driven by Jennifer A. Ross, 48, Monett, Missouri, was eastbound on U.S. 60 at FR 1160 in Verona.

The SUV crossed the center line and collided with a westbound 2023 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Chad S. Steinert, 57, Wichita. Ross was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Lakin Funeral home in Pierce City. Steinert was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

LAWRENCE COUNTY, Mo. —One person died in an accident just before 3p.m. Wednesday in Lawrence County, Missouri.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Nissan Juke driven by Jennifer A. Ross, 48, Monett, Missouri, was eastbound on U.S. 60 at FR 1160 in Verona.The SUV crossed the center line and collided with a westbound 2023 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Chad S. Steinert, 57, Wichita. Ross was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Lakin Funeral home in Pierce City. Steinert was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Woman dies after crash with a Kansas semi driver

FORD COUNTY —A Kansas man is going to prison for two violent murders.&nbsp;

On Monday, Ford County District Judge Andrew M. Stein sentenced 33-year-old Michael Peterson to two consecutive life sentences for the 2022 murders of his girlfriend Kayla Vasquez and her 4-year-old daughter Aalilyah Vasquez, according to&nbsp;Ford County Attorney Kevin B. Salzman.

On June 15, 2022, Peterson placed a 911 call claiming he was attacked in his home and that his girlfriend and daughter were missing. An investigation involving the Spearville Police Department, Ford County Sheriff’s Office, and Kansas Bureau of Investigation soon led investigators to the bodies of both Kayla and Aalilyah.

Kayla was discovered in a field in rural Ford County, ratchet strapped to a ladder and wrapped in trash bags. An autopsy later revealed Kayla had blunt force trauma and over 70 stab wounds to her head, neck, and back.

Aalilyah’s body was discovered wrapped in a blanket in a dumpster behind a business in Kinsley, Kansas.&nbsp; She had been strangled to death

Using data from Peterson’s and Vasquez’s vehicle, investigators were able to trace the movements of the vehicle in the early morning hours of June 15, 2022. 

Combined with video surveillance footage, investigators observed Peterson driving the couple’s vehicle to several businesses, including WalMart and Sutherlands. On video, investigators observed Peterson purchase trash bags, ratchet straps, and a ladder consistent with the items found with Kayla’s body. 

Surveillance from the Kinsley business showed Peterson driving the vehicle to the location and dumping Aalilyah’s body in the dumpster in which she was found.&nbsp; 

Peterson was thereafter charged with Capital Murder for the killing of both Aalilyah and Kayla Vasquez.

In February 2024, the parties entered a plea agreement and Peterson pled guilty to two counts of First-Degree Felony Murder and two counts of Aggravated Kidnapping.

At sentencing on Monday, witnesses for the State of Kansas and family members of Kayla and Aalilyah presented evidence and statements for the court’s consideration in sentencing Peterson. 

The State urged the court to run all sentences consecutive to one another, which would have prohibited Peterson from applying for parole until he had served approximately 70 years in prison.Family members of Peterson and Peterson himself made statements to the court, asking for mercy. The defense requested the court run all sentences concurrently, which would have allowed Peterson to be eligible for parole after serving only 25 years.

The court also sentenced Peterson to 155 months on each of the two Aggravated Kidnapping charges, but ordered those sentences run concurrently with the life sentences imposed.

Peterson’s two consecutive life sentences means that he will remain incarcerated and is not eligible to apply for release until he has served a minimum of 50 years in custody.Peterson is presently housed in the Ford County Detention Center awaiting transportation to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655398104068.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FORD COUNTY —A Kansas man is going to prison for two violent murders.&nbsp;On Monday, Ford County District Judge Andrew M. Stein sentenced 33-year-old Michael Peterson to two consecutive life sentences for the 2022 murders of his girlfriend Kayla Vasquez and her 4-year-old daughter Aalilyah Vasquez, according to&nbsp;Ford County Attorney Kevin B. Salzman.On June 15, 2022, Peterson placed a 911 call claiming he was attacked in his home and that his girlfriend and daughter were missing. An investigation involving the Spearville Police Department, Ford County Sheriff’s Office, and Kansas Bureau of Investigation soon led investigators to the bodies of both Kayla and Aalilyah.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655373990456.png" alt="Kayla and Aalilyah Vasquez-photo Ford Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Kayla and Aalilyah Vasquez-photo Ford Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>Kayla was discovered in a field in rural Ford County, ratchet strapped to a ladder and wrapped in trash bags. An autopsy later revealed Kayla had blunt force trauma and over 70 stab wounds to her head, neck, and back.Aalilyah’s body was discovered wrapped in a blanket in a dumpster behind a business in Kinsley, Kansas.&nbsp; She had been strangled to deathUsing data from Peterson’s and Vasquez’s vehicle, investigators were able to trace the movements of the vehicle in the early morning hours of June 15, 2022. Combined with video surveillance footage, investigators observed Peterson driving the couple’s vehicle to several businesses, including WalMart and Sutherlands. On video, investigators observed Peterson purchase trash bags, ratchet straps, and a ladder consistent with the items found with Kayla’s body. Surveillance from the Kinsley business showed Peterson driving the vehicle to the location and dumping Aalilyah’s body in the dumpster in which she was found.&nbsp; Peterson was thereafter charged with Capital Murder for the killing of both Aalilyah and Kayla Vasquez.In February 2024, the parties entered a plea agreement and Peterson pled guilty to two counts of First-Degree Felony Murder and two counts of Aggravated Kidnapping.At sentencing on Monday, witnesses for the State of Kansas and family members of Kayla and Aalilyah presented evidence and statements for the court’s consideration in sentencing Peterson. The State urged the court to run all sentences consecutive to one another, which would have prohibited Peterson from applying for parole until he had served approximately 70 years in prison.Family members of Peterson and Peterson himself made statements to the court, asking for mercy. The defense requested the court run all sentences concurrently, which would have allowed Peterson to be eligible for parole after serving only 25 years.The court also sentenced Peterson to 155 months on each of the two Aggravated Kidnapping charges, but ordered those sentences run concurrently with the life sentences imposed.Peterson’s two consecutive life sentences means that he will remain incarcerated and is not eligible to apply for release until he has served a minimum of 50 years in custody.Peterson is presently housed in the Ford County Detention Center awaiting transportation to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Man admits brutal killing of SW Kan. girlfriend, her daughter

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Yet another civil lawsuit filed Wednesday against a Missouri Christian boarding school by a former student accuses staffers of forced child labor, physical abuse and tactics aimed at hiding mistreatment from authorities.

The lawsuit, filed in Missouri’s Western U.S. District Court, alleges fraud and negligence by five former employees of the now-closed Agape Boarding School.

More than a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/boarding-school-missouri-abuse-lawsuits-settlement-e004668160605c5fbd2239e191292296">dozen</a>&nbsp;other former students have settled lawsuits alleging they were abused at the southwest Missouri school.

When it shut down in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-stockton-missouri-education-6d4bc69348f4349249e49b3ec7c29172">2023</a>, it was the fourth and last unlicensed Christian boarding school to close in Cedar County since September 2020. The school’s former director, Bryan Clemensen, said the school, whose enrollment had tumbled, closed because it did not have the funding to continue.

Several people affiliated with those schools are facing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/christian-boarding-school-arrests-missouri-3a2d40a39b5c04e38df7064f763b3272">criminal charges</a>.

Advocates for victims of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-religion-sexual-abuse-by-clergy-education-af080895d108aa6dc0db533c60be2ebc">abuse at Missouri boarding schools</a>&nbsp;in May and again on Wednesday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-boarding-schools-advocacy-group-23fb495871041047659b0311f26d47e6">urged</a>&nbsp;the state’s attorney general to launch an investigation, work with local prosecutors and take other steps aimed at stemming the tide of abuse.

An attorney general spokesperson did not immediately respond to an Associated Press request for comment Wednesday. But previously, Attorney General Andrew Bailey’s spokesperson, Madeline Sieren, has said that the attorney general’s office does not have jurisdiction to prosecute criminal cases, except when appointed as special prosecutor by the governor or a court.

The latest lawsuit claims that Agape “ran a ‘school’ akin to a concentration camp or torture colony cloaked in the guise of religion.”

Lawyers for three of the named defendants did not immediately return AP requests for comment. Attorneys were not immediately listed in online court records for the remaining two defendants.

The former student who is suing is now 20 years old and is identified in court filings only as John Doe.

Punishments given by staffers at Agape included forcing children to work out until they vomited and stay still in painful positions for hours at a time, the lawsuit states.

“There was a restraint room below the cafeteria. Students were often taken there and restrained; they could be heard screaming,” according to the lawsuit. “This went on for hours.”

Doe claims in his lawsuit that the staffers limited students' phone use and their letters to home in an attempt to conceal conditions at the school from their parents and “actively concealed from the Children’s Division abuses that were occurring.”

Doe, who first went to Agape at age 15, said staff also “brainwashed” him and others to make it easier to commit abuse.

The lawsuit claimed workers “prevented the children from receiving letters or care packages sent to them by their parents causing the children to believe they had been abandoned thereby emotionally coercing them into silence in order to conceal their abuses.”

Doe asked the judge for a jury trial and money from the defendants.

Other former Agape students came forward with abuse allegations in 2020. One former student said he was raped at Agape and called “seizure boy” because of his epilepsy. Others said they suffered permanent injuries from being disciplined or forced to work long hours of manual labor.

In 2021,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-missouri-springfield-89eb20fc1edcba8cf5963abdc69e48c8">Agape’s longtime doctor, David Smock</a>, was charged with child sex crimes and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-education-child-abuse-kansas-missouri-a97fcf244d041a1468945b10af5f5f76">five employees were charged</a>&nbsp;with low-level abuse counts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632608030678.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Yet another civil lawsuit filed Wednesday against a Missouri Christian boarding school by a former student accuses staffers of forced child labor, physical abuse and tactics aimed at hiding mistreatment from authorities.The lawsuit, filed in Missouri’s Western U.S. District Court, alleges fraud and negligence by five former employees of the now-closed Agape Boarding School.More than a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/boarding-school-missouri-abuse-lawsuits-settlement-e004668160605c5fbd2239e191292296">dozen</a>&nbsp;other former students have settled lawsuits alleging they were abused at the southwest Missouri school.When it shut down in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-stockton-missouri-education-6d4bc69348f4349249e49b3ec7c29172">2023</a>, it was the fourth and last unlicensed Christian boarding school to close in Cedar County since September 2020. The school’s former director, Bryan Clemensen, said the school, whose enrollment had tumbled, closed because it did not have the funding to continue.Several people affiliated with those schools are facing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/christian-boarding-school-arrests-missouri-3a2d40a39b5c04e38df7064f763b3272">criminal charges</a>.Advocates for victims of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-religion-sexual-abuse-by-clergy-education-af080895d108aa6dc0db533c60be2ebc">abuse at Missouri boarding schools</a>&nbsp;in May and again on Wednesday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-boarding-schools-advocacy-group-23fb495871041047659b0311f26d47e6">urged</a>&nbsp;the state’s attorney general to launch an investigation, work with local prosecutors and take other steps aimed at stemming the tide of abuse.An attorney general spokesperson did not immediately respond to an Associated Press request for comment Wednesday. But previously, Attorney General Andrew Bailey’s spokesperson, Madeline Sieren, has said that the attorney general’s office does not have jurisdiction to prosecute criminal cases, except when appointed as special prosecutor by the governor or a court.The latest lawsuit claims that Agape “ran a ‘school’ akin to a concentration camp or torture colony cloaked in the guise of religion.”Lawyers for three of the named defendants did not immediately return AP requests for comment. Attorneys were not immediately listed in online court records for the remaining two defendants.The former student who is suing is now 20 years old and is identified in court filings only as John Doe.Punishments given by staffers at Agape included forcing children to work out until they vomited and stay still in painful positions for hours at a time, the lawsuit states.“There was a restraint room below the cafeteria. Students were often taken there and restrained; they could be heard screaming,” according to the lawsuit. “This went on for hours.”Doe claims in his lawsuit that the staffers limited students' phone use and their letters to home in an attempt to conceal conditions at the school from their parents and “actively concealed from the Children’s Division abuses that were occurring.”Doe, who first went to Agape at age 15, said staff also “brainwashed” him and others to make it easier to commit abuse.The lawsuit claimed workers “prevented the children from receiving letters or care packages sent to them by their parents causing the children to believe they had been abandoned thereby emotionally coercing them into silence in order to conceal their abuses.”Doe asked the judge for a jury trial and money from the defendants.Other former Agape students came forward with abuse allegations in 2020. One former student said he was raped at Agape and called “seizure boy” because of his epilepsy. Others said they suffered permanent injuries from being disciplined or forced to work long hours of manual labor.In 2021,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-missouri-springfield-89eb20fc1edcba8cf5963abdc69e48c8">Agape’s longtime doctor, David Smock</a>, was charged with child sex crimes and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-education-child-abuse-kansas-missouri-a97fcf244d041a1468945b10af5f5f76">five employees were charged</a>&nbsp;with low-level abuse counts.

Former staffers at Christian boarding school face civil lawsuit alleging abuse

WASHINGTON (AP) — President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;pardoned potentially thousands of former U.S. service members convicted of violating a now-repealed military ban on consensual gay sex, saying Wednesday that he is “righting an historic wrong" to clear the way for them to regain lost benefits.

Biden's action grants a pardon to service members who were convicted under the Uniform Code of Military Justice's former Article 125, which criminalized sodomy. The law, which has been on the books since 1951, was rewritten in 2013 to prohibit only forcible acts.

Those covered by the pardon will be able to apply to receive proof that their conviction has been erased, petition to have their discharges from the military upgraded and move to recover lost pay and benefits.

“Today, I am righting an historic wrong by using my clemency authority to pardon many former service members who were convicted simply for being themselves,” Biden said in a statement. “We have a sacred obligation to all of our service members –- including our brave LGBTQI+ service members: to properly prepare and equip them when they are sent into harm’s way, and to care for them and their families when they return home. Today we are making progress in that pursuit.”

The president’s use of his pardon powers is occurring during Pride Month and his action comes just days before he is set to hold a high-profile fundraiser with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/lgbtq-people">LGBTQ</a>&nbsp;donors in New York on Friday. Biden is trying to rally support within the Democratic-leaning community ahead of the presidential election.

Administration officials declined to say why Biden did not act on the pardons sooner.

This is the third categorial pardon by Biden — using his clemency powers to cover a broad group of people convicted of particular crimes — after moves in 2022 and 2023 to pardon those convicted federally for possessing marijuana.

The White House estimates that several thousand service members will be covered — the majority convicted before the military instituted the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy in 1993 that eased the way for LGBTQ troops to serve if they didn’t disclose their sexual orientation. That policy was repealed in 2011, when Congress allowed for their open service in the military.

Service members convicted of nonconsensual acts are not covered by Biden's pardon action. And those convicted under other articles of the military justice code, which may have been used as pretext to punish or force-out LGBTQ troops, would need to request clemency through the normal Department of Justice pardon process.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719435671887.png" alt=" Sailors decorate the mess decks in observance of Pride month aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham in the Atlantic Ocean on June 16, 2022 (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Theoplis Stewart II)." />
 <figcaption> Sailors decorate the mess decks in observance of Pride month aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham in the Atlantic Ocean on June 16, 2022 (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Theoplis Stewart II).</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;pardoned potentially thousands of former U.S. service members convicted of violating a now-repealed military ban on consensual gay sex, saying Wednesday that he is “righting an historic wrong" to clear the way for them to regain lost benefits.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Despite courage and sacrifice, thousands of LGBTQI+ service members were forced out of the military because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. I&#39;m using my clemency authority to pardon certain former service members who were convicted simply for being themselves. <a href="https://t.co/KquoMizp1V">pic.twitter.com/KquoMizp1V</a>&mdash; President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1805973047184130093?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Biden's action grants a pardon to service members who were convicted under the Uniform Code of Military Justice's former Article 125, which criminalized sodomy. The law, which has been on the books since 1951, was rewritten in 2013 to prohibit only forcible acts.Those covered by the pardon will be able to apply to receive proof that their conviction has been erased, petition to have their discharges from the military upgraded and move to recover lost pay and benefits.“Today, I am righting an historic wrong by using my clemency authority to pardon many former service members who were convicted simply for being themselves,” Biden said in a statement. “We have a sacred obligation to all of our service members –- including our brave LGBTQI+ service members: to properly prepare and equip them when they are sent into harm’s way, and to care for them and their families when they return home. Today we are making progress in that pursuit.”The president’s use of his pardon powers is occurring during Pride Month and his action comes just days before he is set to hold a high-profile fundraiser with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/lgbtq-people">LGBTQ</a>&nbsp;donors in New York on Friday. Biden is trying to rally support within the Democratic-leaning community ahead of the presidential election.Administration officials declined to say why Biden did not act on the pardons sooner.This is the third categorial pardon by Biden — using his clemency powers to cover a broad group of people convicted of particular crimes — after moves in 2022 and 2023 to pardon those convicted federally for possessing marijuana.The White House estimates that several thousand service members will be covered — the majority convicted before the military instituted the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy in 1993 that eased the way for LGBTQ troops to serve if they didn’t disclose their sexual orientation. That policy was repealed in 2011, when Congress allowed for their open service in the military.Service members convicted of nonconsensual acts are not covered by Biden's pardon action. And those convicted under other articles of the military justice code, which may have been used as pretext to punish or force-out LGBTQ troops, would need to request clemency through the normal Department of Justice pardon process.

Biden pardons vets discharged for same-sex relationships

KANSAS CITY —Police investigating a Monday homicide in Kansas City are still working to identify the victim.

Just before 9:30a.m. Monday, police were dispatched to report of a dead body in church parking lot of&nbsp;Dayspring Pentecostal Church at Bannister and Raytown Road, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.

First responders found a victim suffering from an apparent gunshot wound.&nbsp;&nbsp;He was pronounced dead at the scene. A passerby saw the victim in the parking lot and called police.&nbsp;

The victim is described as a juvenile black male, 14-17-years-old with braces and black rubber bands. He has a natural hairstyle that is 1-inch long and tapered at the sides, according to police. The victim also has a scar above his left eye, a vertical scar in the center of the back of his left hand and a circular scar on his left hip.&nbsp;

When he was found, the victim was wearing 'bone colored' Adidas Yeezy 700 MNVN shoes.

Anyone with information on what happened is asked to contact the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS or the KCPD homicide.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719251646778.png" alt="Photos Sheriff Daryl Forte'" />
 <figcaption>Photos Sheriff Daryl Forte'</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Police investigating a Monday homicide in Kansas City are still working to identify the victim.Just before 9:30a.m. Monday, police were dispatched to report of a dead body in church parking lot of&nbsp;Dayspring Pentecostal Church at Bannister and Raytown Road, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.First responders found a victim suffering from an apparent gunshot wound.&nbsp;&nbsp;He was pronounced dead at the scene. A passerby saw the victim in the parking lot and called police.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719251670898.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The victim is described as a juvenile black male, 14-17-years-old with braces and black rubber bands. He has a natural hairstyle that is 1-inch long and tapered at the sides, according to police. The victim also has a scar above his left eye, a vertical scar in the center of the back of his left hand and a circular scar on his left hip.&nbsp;When he was found, the victim was wearing 'bone colored' Adidas Yeezy 700 MNVN shoes.Anyone with information on what happened is asked to contact the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS or the KCPD homicide.

KCPD working to ID teen found dead in church parking lot

Totally Cool, Inc. of Owings Mills, Maryland is recalling multiple brands of ice cream products, because they have the potential to be contaminated with&nbsp;Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems, according to a media release from the FDA.

<a href="https://www.fda.gov/media/179567/download?attachment">Click here to view</a>&nbsp;the complete list of recalled products

Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea,&nbsp;Listeria&nbsp;infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

Products were distributed nationwide, and available in retail locations and direct delivery.

Product can be identified by comparing the date and plant information on the product. Example photographs of the impacted product are provided below.

Totally Cool, Inc. has ceased the production and distribution of the affected products due to FDA sampling which discovered the presence of&nbsp;Listeria monocytogenes. The company continues its investigation and is taking preventive actions. No other products produced by Totally Cool, Inc. are impacted by this recall.

Consumers who have recalled product in their possession are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Totally Cool, Inc. at 410-363- 7801 and&nbsp;<a href="mailto:regulatory@totallycoolicecream.com">regulatory@totallycoolicecream.com</a>, between 8am and 4pm eastern, Monday to Friday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719415576254.png" alt="Image courtesy FDA" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy FDA</figcaption>
 </figure>Totally Cool, Inc. of Owings Mills, Maryland is recalling multiple brands of ice cream products, because they have the potential to be contaminated with&nbsp;Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems, according to a media release from the FDA.<a href="https://www.fda.gov/media/179567/download?attachment">Click here to view</a>&nbsp;the complete list of recalled productsAlthough healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea,&nbsp;Listeria&nbsp;infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.Products were distributed nationwide, and available in retail locations and direct delivery.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719415555369.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Product can be identified by comparing the date and plant information on the product. Example photographs of the impacted product are provided below.No illnesses have been reported to date.Totally Cool, Inc. has ceased the production and distribution of the affected products due to FDA sampling which discovered the presence of&nbsp;Listeria monocytogenes. The company continues its investigation and is taking preventive actions. No other products produced by Totally Cool, Inc. are impacted by this recall.Consumers who have recalled product in their possession are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Totally Cool, Inc. at 410-363- 7801 and&nbsp;<a href="mailto:regulatory@totallycoolicecream.com">regulatory@totallycoolicecream.com</a>, between 8am and 4pm eastern, Monday to Friday.

Ice cream products from major brands recalled for listeria risk

As Americans prepare to travel for Independence Day, gas prices are actually looking very good for us here in the center part of the country. 

"In Kansas, the average gas price today is $3.06 a gallon," Shawn Steward with AAA said Tuesday. "That's almost 20 cents less than where we were a year ago, and that puts us sixth lowest in the nation. So nothing to complain about there. We have seen a downturn in prices over the last few weeks. We did see an uptick here in the last day or so. There may be a little bit more of a rise to go in the summer as more people start traveling here in the peak of summer travel season, but overall here locally and at the national level, prices are down from where we were a year ago today."

Local county averages are on either side of the state average.

"Even in the past couple of summers when gas prices were higher than they are today, there was no lack of travel," Steward said. "People still want to get out on the road and take a summer vacation, and so they'll make decisions. They may stay at a less expensive hotel or look for a less expensive or free activities and attractions at their destination. So there's definitely ways to save money if you are paying more for gas, but this year, luckily, gas prices are very moderate."

Colorado is the most expensive of the neighboring states to Kansas at an average of $3.30 a gallon. The national average as of Tuesday is $3.47 a gallon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631897543449.jpeg" alt="CHS Refinery-McPherson-Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>CHS Refinery-McPherson-Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostAs Americans prepare to travel for Independence Day, gas prices are actually looking very good for us here in the center part of the country. "In Kansas, the average gas price today is $3.06 a gallon," Shawn Steward with AAA said Tuesday. "That's almost 20 cents less than where we were a year ago, and that puts us sixth lowest in the nation. So nothing to complain about there. We have seen a downturn in prices over the last few weeks. We did see an uptick here in the last day or so. There may be a little bit more of a rise to go in the summer as more people start traveling here in the peak of summer travel season, but overall here locally and at the national level, prices are down from where we were a year ago today."Local county averages are on either side of the state average.Reno: $2.92McPherson: $2.99Harvey: $3.05Sedgwick: $3.10Kingman: $3.21Pratt: $3.13Stafford: $3.10Rice: $3.13"Even in the past couple of summers when gas prices were higher than they are today, there was no lack of travel," Steward said. "People still want to get out on the road and take a summer vacation, and so they'll make decisions. They may stay at a less expensive hotel or look for a less expensive or free activities and attractions at their destination. So there's definitely ways to save money if you are paying more for gas, but this year, luckily, gas prices are very moderate."Colorado is the most expensive of the neighboring states to Kansas at an average of $3.30 a gallon. The national average as of Tuesday is $3.47 a gallon.

Gas prices still around $3 a gallon headed into holiday

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

If a Hays water line starts leaking, it may take up to 30 days for city water meter readers to detect it. During that time, a lot of water can be wasted.

"Currently, we have four staff members who walk Mondays and touch each of the city's 8,500 water meters once a month using a handheld computer to take a reading," said Collin Bielser, deputy city manager.

City staff is proposing replacing the metering system with advanced metering infrastructure that will automatically read the system via radio frequency signals every 15 minutes.

"This new technology enables two-way radio frequency communication between the meters and the utility building office, which would eliminate this task," Bielser said.

The four employees would be reassigned to other Department of Water Resources areas.

Out of 10 vetted proposals, the recommended bid is $4.44 million for the Sensus system from Core &amp; Main, McPherson. It includes hiring a project manager with Tyler Technologies for $35,000 to assist with integration with the city's billing software. The bid is about $551,000 below the budget of $5 million.

The project would not require a rate increase for Hays water customers.

A utility bond will be issued to pay for the project by taking advantage of an expiring 2009 utility system bond payment this year. A 20-year bond is anticipated.

The technology has been around for years and is used by&nbsp;Garden City, Derby, Lawrence, Mulvane, Junction City and Abilene. Hays already uses the Sensus meters in other areas of operation and has a local representative. Hays-based Midwest Energy also utilizes advanced metering infrastructure for its electric and gas meters.

"Unlike today, where meters are read every 30 days or so, this technology provides continuous monitoring, proactively detecting malfunctions in the meter or with the water usage," said Jeff Crispin, director of water resources. "We'll be able to see things beyond 30-day increments."

The customer is also able to monitor their water usage in real-time.&nbsp;

If approved during Thursday's Hays City Commission meeting, the system would be installed by a third party beginning later this year and be completed by mid-2025. Core &amp; Main provides a maximum 20-year warranty for the meters and transmitter devices.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719344415702.jpeg" alt="Current water meters in Hays are read by city employees walking with handheld touch wands and computers. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Current water meters in Hays are read by city employees walking with handheld touch wands and computers. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostIf a Hays water line starts leaking, it may take up to 30 days for city water meter readers to detect it. During that time, a lot of water can be wasted."Currently, we have four staff members who walk Mondays and touch each of the city's 8,500 water meters once a month using a handheld computer to take a reading," said Collin Bielser, deputy city manager.City staff is proposing replacing the metering system with advanced metering infrastructure that will automatically read the system via radio frequency signals every 15 minutes."This new technology enables two-way radio frequency communication between the meters and the utility building office, which would eliminate this task," Bielser said.The four employees would be reassigned to other Department of Water Resources areas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719327223049.png" alt="Two collectors would be attached to the Sternberg Museum water tower and the water plant. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Two collectors would be attached to the Sternberg Museum water tower and the water plant. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>Out of 10 vetted proposals, the recommended bid is $4.44 million for the Sensus system from Core &amp; Main, McPherson. It includes hiring a project manager with Tyler Technologies for $35,000 to assist with integration with the city's billing software. The bid is about $551,000 below the budget of $5 million.The project would not require a rate increase for Hays water customers.A utility bond will be issued to pay for the project by taking advantage of an expiring 2009 utility system bond payment this year. A 20-year bond is anticipated.The technology has been around for years and is used by&nbsp;Garden City, Derby, Lawrence, Mulvane, Junction City and Abilene. Hays already uses the Sensus meters in other areas of operation and has a local representative. Hays-based Midwest Energy also utilizes advanced metering infrastructure for its electric and gas meters.<div><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mPSjPdXJD70" title="Jeff Crispin on new water meter technology" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>"Unlike today, where meters are read every 30 days or so, this technology provides continuous monitoring, proactively detecting malfunctions in the meter or with the water usage," said Jeff Crispin, director of water resources. "We'll be able to see things beyond 30-day increments."The customer is also able to monitor their water usage in real-time.&nbsp;If approved during Thursday's Hays City Commission meeting, the system would be installed by a third party beginning later this year and be completed by mid-2025. Core &amp; Main provides a maximum 20-year warranty for the meters and transmitter devices.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719328646306.jpeg" alt="New advanced metering infrastructure by Sensus that would replace the Hays current water meters.&nbsp; Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>New advanced metering infrastructure by Sensus that would replace the Hays current water meters.&nbsp; Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>In addition to improved efficiencies in the water department and the city clerk's billing departments, "we're potentially saving our community water, possibly finding [leaks] faster, and better utilizing staff," said Mayor Shaun Musil."This is really, really exciting," said Sandy Jacobs, vice-mayor. "Why didn't we do this sooner?""Mainly, the reason it didn't happen is money," said Toby Dougherty, city manager, "because previous commissions weren't interested in raising rates for this to happen. And then, most recently, there was a multi-year rate increase to deal with a backlog of maintenance items tied in with the rebuild of the wastewater facility."There wasn't much will on our part at that time to bring forward a $5 million expenditure that translated into another rate increase. This allows the timing perfectly. We have bonds rolling off. We can incur the debt and not affect those rates.""It's a lot of work to get to this point," said Crispin. "Several of our departments have been looking at it off and on the past 10 years.