TOPEKA, KAN. - &nbsp;A Kansas man was sentenced Wednesday to 12 years in federal prison for the second degree murder of a woman he was traveling with on a cruise ship vacation, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.

Eric Newman,&nbsp;55, Topeka, Kan., pleaded guilty to killing Tamara Tucker, who died Jan. 19, 2018, on board the Carnival Elation, a vessel registered in Panama. The Carnival Elation was on a voyage that took passengers from Jacksonville, Fla., to the Commonwealth of the Bahamas and back.

“The man who killed Tamara Tucker was no stranger to her,” McAllister said. “He was her intimate partner for years, a person she loved and trusted. He was the one person she wanted to share this special voyage and to join her in celebrating her 50th&nbsp;birthday.”

In his plea, Newman said he and Tucker were traveling together and were assigned to cabin room G-29, located on the 14th deck of the cruise ship’s starboard side. The cabin had a balcony overlooking the ship’s 11th deck. During an argument in their room, Newman attacked Tucker.

“He had his hands around her neck when he pushed her over a balcony railing and she fell to her death on the 11th deck,” McAllister said.

McAllister was joined at a press conference today in Topeka by Ms. Tucker’s family, including her mother, Wanda Tucker-Schrantz, her sister, Dawn Tucker and her brother, Bo Tucker.

“As a professional social worker with a master’s degree, a teacher and an advocate, Ms. Tucker was no stranger to the complexities of human nature that can transform love into deadly violence,” McAllister said.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention use the term “intimate partner violence,” which is defined as physical violence, sexual violence, stalking or psychological harm by a current or former partner or spouse.

Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner, according to the CDC.

About 1 in 4 women and nearly 1 in 10 men have experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence and/or stalking by an intimate partner during their lifetime. About 41 percent of female IPV survivors and 14 percent of male IPV survivors experienced some form of physical injury.

Survivors of IPV can experience health problems including depression and PTSD. In addition, they are at a higher risk for smoking, binge drinking and risky sexual behaviors. For more information, see the CDC’s web page at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/intimatepartnerviolence/fastfact.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/intimatepartnerviolence/fastfact.html</a>

KANSAS&nbsp;CITY, KAN. – U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister will hold a press conference Wednesday in Kansas City, Kan., following the sentencing of a Topeka man for the murder of his longtime girlfriend during a cruise from Florida to the Bahamas in January 2018.

In December 2019, Eric Newman pleaded guilty to murdering Tamara Tucker.

According to the admissions made in connection with the plea, Newman and Tucker boarded the Carnival Elation cruise ship on Jan. 18, 2019, in Jacksonville, Florida, to take a round-trip voyage to the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. Newman and Tucker were staying together in a cabin room on the 13th&nbsp;deck of the cruise ship.

Before midnight on Jan. 18, Newman became involved in a verbal argument with Tucker inside their cabin room. At approximately 12:15 a.m. on Jan. 19, Newman physically attacked Tucker, and strangled her by placing both of his hands around her neck. In the process of strangling her, Newman pushed Tucker over the cabin room balcony railing causing her to fall to her death onto the 11th&nbsp;deck. Ms. Tucker died from blunt force trauma as a result of the fall. At the time, the cruise ship was sailing on the high seas in international water, approximately 30 nautical miles from New Smyrna Beach, Florida.

Following the sentencing Wednesday, the family of the victim, Tamara Tucker, will join United State's Attorney Stephen McAllister to answer questions in the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594227241536.png" alt="Friends and family of murder victim Tamara Tucker during Wednesday's news conference with U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister." />
 <figcaption>Friends and family of murder victim Tamara Tucker during Wednesday's news conference with U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, KAN. - &nbsp;A Kansas man was sentenced Wednesday to 12 years in federal prison for the second degree murder of a woman he was traveling with on a cruise ship vacation, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.Eric Newman,&nbsp;55, Topeka, Kan., pleaded guilty to killing Tamara Tucker, who died Jan. 19, 2018, on board the Carnival Elation, a vessel registered in Panama. The Carnival Elation was on a voyage that took passengers from Jacksonville, Fla., to the Commonwealth of the Bahamas and back.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594206973386.png" alt="Newman" />
 <figcaption>Newman</figcaption>
 </figure>“The man who killed Tamara Tucker was no stranger to her,” McAllister said. “He was her intimate partner for years, a person she loved and trusted. He was the one person she wanted to share this special voyage and to join her in celebrating her 50th&nbsp;birthday.”In his plea, Newman said he and Tucker were traveling together and were assigned to cabin room G-29, located on the 14th deck of the cruise ship’s starboard side. The cabin had a balcony overlooking the ship’s 11th deck. During an argument in their room, Newman attacked Tucker.“He had his hands around her neck when he pushed her over a balcony railing and she fell to her death on the 11th deck,” McAllister said.McAllister was joined at a press conference today in Topeka by Ms. Tucker’s family, including her mother, Wanda Tucker-Schrantz, her sister, Dawn Tucker and her brother, Bo Tucker.“As a professional social worker with a master’s degree, a teacher and an advocate, Ms. Tucker was no stranger to the complexities of human nature that can transform love into deadly violence,” McAllister said.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention use the term “intimate partner violence,” which is defined as physical violence, sexual violence, stalking or psychological harm by a current or former partner or spouse.Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner, according to the CDC.About 1 in 4 women and nearly 1 in 10 men have experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence and/or stalking by an intimate partner during their lifetime. About 41 percent of female IPV survivors and 14 percent of male IPV survivors experienced some form of physical injury.Survivors of IPV can experience health problems including depression and PTSD. In addition, they are at a higher risk for smoking, binge drinking and risky sexual behaviors. For more information, see the CDC’s web page at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/intimatepartnerviolence/fastfact.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/intimatepartnerviolence/fastfact.html</a>--------KANSAS&nbsp;CITY, KAN. – U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister will hold a press conference Wednesday in Kansas City, Kan., following the sentencing of a Topeka man for the murder of his longtime girlfriend during a cruise from Florida to the Bahamas in January 2018.In December 2019, Eric Newman pleaded guilty to murdering Tamara Tucker.According to the admissions made in connection with the plea, Newman and Tucker boarded the Carnival Elation cruise ship on Jan. 18, 2019, in Jacksonville, Florida, to take a round-trip voyage to the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. Newman and Tucker were staying together in a cabin room on the 13th&nbsp;deck of the cruise ship.Before midnight on Jan. 18, Newman became involved in a verbal argument with Tucker inside their cabin room. At approximately 12:15 a.m. on Jan. 19, Newman physically attacked Tucker, and strangled her by placing both of his hands around her neck. In the process of strangling her, Newman pushed Tucker over the cabin room balcony railing causing her to fall to her death onto the 11th&nbsp;deck. Ms. Tucker died from blunt force trauma as a result of the fall. At the time, the cruise ship was sailing on the high seas in international water, approximately 30 nautical miles from New Smyrna Beach, Florida.Following the sentencing Wednesday, the family of the victim, Tamara Tucker, will join United State's Attorney Stephen McAllister to answer questions in the case.

Kansas man who killed girlfriend on cruise ship is headed to prison

MCPHERSON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 8a.m. Wednesday in McPherson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Larry R. Magaee, 52, Utica, Mississippi, was&nbsp; westbound on U.S. 56 just west of 7th Avenue.

The semi rear-ended a 2016 Freightliner semi driven by Joseph&nbsp;Balikowa, 44, Tulsa, OK., who had slowed&nbsp;down to make a left turn.

The 2015 Freightliner, carrying a load of baby chicks&nbsp; then entered the ditch, overturned and caught fire.

EMS transported a passenger in the 2015 semi Lester D. Curry, 58, Utica, Mississippi, to Wesley Medical Center.

Magaee and Balikowa were not transported for treatment. Curry was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594250929943.png" alt="Wednesday crash scene photo courtesy KHP" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday crash scene photo courtesy KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 8a.m. Wednesday in McPherson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Larry R. Magaee, 52, Utica, Mississippi, was&nbsp; westbound on U.S. 56 just west of 7th Avenue.The semi rear-ended a 2016 Freightliner semi driven by Joseph&nbsp;Balikowa, 44, Tulsa, OK., who had slowed&nbsp;down to make a left turn.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594250882930.png" alt="Photo KHP" />
 <figcaption>Photo KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>The 2015 Freightliner, carrying a load of baby chicks&nbsp; then entered the ditch, overturned and caught fire.EMS transported a passenger in the 2015 semi Lester D. Curry, 58, Utica, Mississippi, to Wesley Medical Center.Magaee and Balikowa were not transported for treatment. Curry was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

1 man hospitalized after semi carrying baby chicks crashes on Kan. highway

WASHINGTON (AP) —President Donald Trump on Wednesday threatened to withhold federal funding if schools don’t reopen in the fall, and he lashed out at federal health officials over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/b984f9a970d7a81a520dbd456f92cd59">school reopening guidelines</a>&nbsp;that he says are impractical and expensive.

Taking to Twitter to voice his frustration, Trump argued that countries including Germany, Denmark and Norway have reopened schools “with no problems.” The Republican president also repeated his claim that Democrats want to keep schools closed for political reasons and not because of any risks associated with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak">the coronavirus</a>.

“The Dems think it would be bad for them politically if U.S. schools open before the November Election,” Trump said, “but is important for the children &amp; families. May cut off funding if not open!”

He did not immediately say what funding he would cut off or under what authority.

Trump made the comments a day after launching&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/be1ed8b75986393fe0385cae85b6a6c8">an all-out effort pressing state and local officials to reopen the nation’s schools and colleges</a>&nbsp;this fall. At a White House event Tuesday, health and education officials argued that keeping students out of school for the fall semester would pose greater health risks than any tied to the coronavirus.

Among those pushing for a fall reopening was the chief of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But Trump on Wednesday said the agency’s school opening guidelines are “very tough &amp; expensive.”

“While they want them open, they are asking schools to do very impractical things. I will be meeting with them!!!” Trump wrote.

The CDC’s director, Dr. Robert Redfield, had emphasized that his agency’s guidelines were only recommendations, and he urged schools to find ways to reopen while minimizing the spread of COVID-19.

“Nothing would cause me greater sadness than to see any school district or school use our guidance as a reason not to reopen,” Redfield said.

The CDC’s guidance recommends that students and teachers wear masks whenever feasible, spread out desks, stagger schedules, eat meals in classrooms instead of the cafeteria and add physical barriers between bathroom sinks.

Trump did not clarify which of the guidelines he opposed.

The White House’s task force on the coronavirus was meeting at the Education Department on Wednesday, emphasizing the administration’s push to reopen schools.

The Trump administration has pushed for a full reopening of the nation’s schools, with Education Secretary Betsy DeVos saying anything less would be a failure. But some of the nation’s largest districts plan to bring back limited numbers of students for only a few days a week, saying it would be unsafe for all students to return at once.

New York City announced Wednesday that most students will return to their physical classrooms two or three days per week and learn online the rest of the time. Mayor Bill de Blasio said schools can’t accommodate all their students at any one time while also maintaining social distancing.

In a call with governors on Tuesday, DeVos slammed a similar plan at Virginia’s Fairfax County Public Schools, which is asking families to decide between fully remote instruction or two days a week at school. “A choice of two days per week in the classroom is not a choice at all,” DeVos said, according to audio of the call obtained by The Associated Press.

Later at Tuesday’s White House event, DeVos said families should be able to count on having their children in school five days a week: “It’s clear that our nation’s schools must fully reopen and fully operate this school year. Anything short of that robs students, not to mention taxpayers, of their future,” she said.

Trump has also taken aim at Democrats who he says are standing in the way of a fall reopening. “They think it’s going to be good for them politically, so they keep the schools closed,” Trump said at the White House event. “No way. We’re very much going to put pressure on governors and everybody else to open the schools.”

He added that parents and children want schools to reopen, declaring that “it’s time to do it.”

But that bright outlook was met with skepticism by some beyond the White House. The president of the nation’s largest education union said Trump is more interested in scoring points for the November election than in keeping students safe.

“Trump has proven to be incapable of grasping that people are dying — that more than 130,000 Americans have already died,” said Lily Eskelsen García, president of the National Education Association. “Educators want nothing more than to be back in classrooms and on college campuses with our students, but we must do it in a way that keeps students, educators and communities safe.”

Trump’s claim that Democrats are pressing to keep schools closed for political reasons has been criticized by health experts who say politicizing the issue makes it more difficult to work toward reopening schools.

“When you make it about politics and just people trying to score points and get elected, I mean, I really think it’s a disservice to how incredibly important this issue is,” Jennifer Nuzzo of&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/testing" target="_blank">Johns Hopkins University’s COVID-19 Testing Insights Initiative</a>&nbsp;said in an interview. “And it really distracts from what I think we need, which is real solutions and a plan in order to make this happen.”

Whether schools and colleges should open this fall and how has been a topic of growing tension as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/3a3642cb4b7244665dda34c437c87988">the coronavirus continues to surge</a>&nbsp;in parts of the United States. Trump applauded Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis for his state’s recent order to open public schools this fall. The president attacked Harvard University for its decision to hold instruction online for the fall term.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recently issued guidelines suggesting that schools aim to start the academic year “physically present in school.” Keeping students at home can lead to social isolation, the organization said, and prevent schools from identifying learning deficits, abuse, depression and other issues.

WASHINGTON (AP) —President Donald Trump on Tuesday launched an all-out effort pressing state and local officials to reopen schools this fall, arguing that some are keeping schools closed not because of the risks from the coronavirus pandemic but for political reasons.

“They think it’s going to be good for them politically, so they keep the schools closed,” Trump said at a White House discussion on school plans for the fall. “No way. We’re very much going to put pressure on governors and everybody else to open the schools.”

The White House’s round-table gathered health and education leaders from across the nation who said schools and colleges are ready to open this fall and can do so safely. They argued that the risks of keeping students at home outweigh any risks tied to the coronavirus, saying students need access to meal programs and mental and behavioral health services.

“We want to reopen the schools,” Trump said. “Everybody wants it. The moms want it, the dads want it, the kids want it. It’s time to do it.”

At the White House event, Trump repeated his claim that Democrats want to keep schools closed for political reasons and not health reasons. He made the same claim on Twitter a day before, saying: “They think it will help them in November. Wrong, the people get it!”

Trump offered no evidence for the allegation, which has been criticized by health experts who say politicizing the issue will make it harder to work toward reopening schools. Jennifer Nuzzo, of Johns Hopkins University’s COVID-19 Testing Insights Initiative, said she was “deeply troubled” by the claim.

“When you make it about politics and just people trying to score points and get elected, I mean, I really think it’s a disservice to how incredibly important this issue is,” Nuzzo said in an interview. “And it really distracts from what I think we need, which is real solutions and a plan in order to make this happen.”

Whether schools and colleges should open this fall and how has been a topic of growing debate as the coronavirus continues to surge in parts of the United States. Trump applauded Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis for his state’s recent order to open public schools this fall. And Trump attacked Harvard University for its decision to hold instruction online for the fall term.

“I think it’s ridiculous, I think it’s an easy way out and I think they ought to be ashamed of themselves, if you want to know the truth,” Trump said Tuesday.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has sent mixed signals on the issue, saying students should return to the classroom but also noting that virtual classes present the lowest risk of COVID-19 spread. Speaking at Trump’s event Tuesday, however, the agency’s director said unequivocally that it’s better for students to be in school than at home.

Dr. Robert Redfield noted that COVID-19 cases tend to be mild in young people, adding that the greatest risk is transmission from children to more vulnerable populations. He said the CDC encourages all schools to reopen with customized plans to minimize the spread of the coronavirus while giving students access to school services.

“It’s clear that the greater risk to our society is to have these schools close,” Redfield said. “Nothing would cause me greater sadness than to see any school district or school use our guidance as a reason not to reopen.”

The CDC’s guidance for schools recommends that students and teachers wear masks “as feasible,” spread out desks, stagger schedules, eat meals in classrooms instead of the cafeteria, and add physical barriers between bathroom sinks.

Some schools have announced plans to bring students back for only a few days a week, an option that Education Secretary Betsy DeVos on Tuesday said was unacceptable.

“It’s clear that our nations schools must fully reopen and fully operate this school year. Anything short of that robs students, not to mention taxpayers, of their future,” DeVos said.

During a call with governors, DeVos slammed plans by Virginia’s Fairfax County Public Schools to have families decide between fully remote instruction or two days a week at school. “A choice of two days per week in the classroom is not a choice at all,” DeVos said, according to audio of the call obtained by The Associated Press.

DeVos also criticized many schools’ attempts at distance education after the pandemic prompted them to move classes online last spring. She said she was disappointed in schools that “didn’t figure out how to serve students or who just gave up and didn’t try.”

The same thing can’t happen again this fall, she said, urging governors to play a role in getting schools to reopen.

Among those joining Trump on Tuesday was the president of the American Academy of Pediatrics, which recently issued guidelines suggesting that schools aim to start the academic year “physically present in school.” Keeping students at home can lead to social isolation, the organization said, and prevent schools from identifying learning deficits, abuse, depression and other issues.

Students’ mental and emotional health — along with their parents’ — was repeatedly raised in the argument to reopen schools.

“Children’s mental health and social development must be as much of a priority as physical health,” first lady Melania Trump said at the round-table. “The same is true for parents. Many will be forced to make stressful choices between caring for their children and going back to work.”

But some are calling for greater caution. Arne Duncan, who served as education secretary under former President Barack Obama, has said the focus should be on making sure students can return safely.

“We all want children to go back to school,” Duncan said on Twitter. “The question is whether we care enough about our children to ALLOW them to go to school safely. Our behavior, our commitment to shared sacrifice — or our selfishness — will determine what happens this fall for kids.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594154730513.png" alt="President Trump&nbsp;and first lady Melania Trump discuss reopening schools during the coronavirus pandemic -photo courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>President Trump&nbsp;and first lady Melania Trump discuss reopening schools during the coronavirus pandemic -photo courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —President Donald Trump on Wednesday threatened to withhold federal funding if schools don’t reopen in the fall, and he lashed out at federal health officials over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/b984f9a970d7a81a520dbd456f92cd59">school reopening guidelines</a>&nbsp;that he says are impractical and expensive.Taking to Twitter to voice his frustration, Trump argued that countries including Germany, Denmark and Norway have reopened schools “with no problems.” The Republican president also repeated his claim that Democrats want to keep schools closed for political reasons and not because of any risks associated with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak">the coronavirus</a>.“The Dems think it would be bad for them politically if U.S. schools open before the November Election,” Trump said, “but is important for the children &amp; families. May cut off funding if not open!”He did not immediately say what funding he would cut off or under what authority.Trump made the comments a day after launching&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/be1ed8b75986393fe0385cae85b6a6c8">an all-out effort pressing state and local officials to reopen the nation’s schools and colleges</a>&nbsp;this fall. At a White House event Tuesday, health and education officials argued that keeping students out of school for the fall semester would pose greater health risks than any tied to the coronavirus.Among those pushing for a fall reopening was the chief of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But Trump on Wednesday said the agency’s school opening guidelines are “very tough &amp; expensive.”“While they want them open, they are asking schools to do very impractical things. I will be meeting with them!!!” Trump wrote.The CDC’s director, Dr. Robert Redfield, had emphasized that his agency’s guidelines were only recommendations, and he urged schools to find ways to reopen while minimizing the spread of COVID-19.“Nothing would cause me greater sadness than to see any school district or school use our guidance as a reason not to reopen,” Redfield said.The CDC’s guidance recommends that students and teachers wear masks whenever feasible, spread out desks, stagger schedules, eat meals in classrooms instead of the cafeteria and add physical barriers between bathroom sinks.Trump did not clarify which of the guidelines he opposed.The White House’s task force on the coronavirus was meeting at the Education Department on Wednesday, emphasizing the administration’s push to reopen schools.The Trump administration has pushed for a full reopening of the nation’s schools, with Education Secretary Betsy DeVos saying anything less would be a failure. But some of the nation’s largest districts plan to bring back limited numbers of students for only a few days a week, saying it would be unsafe for all students to return at once.New York City announced Wednesday that most students will return to their physical classrooms two or three days per week and learn online the rest of the time. Mayor Bill de Blasio said schools can’t accommodate all their students at any one time while also maintaining social distancing.In a call with governors on Tuesday, DeVos slammed a similar plan at Virginia’s Fairfax County Public Schools, which is asking families to decide between fully remote instruction or two days a week at school. “A choice of two days per week in the classroom is not a choice at all,” DeVos said, according to audio of the call obtained by The Associated Press.Later at Tuesday’s White House event, DeVos said families should be able to count on having their children in school five days a week: “It’s clear that our nation’s schools must fully reopen and fully operate this school year. Anything short of that robs students, not to mention taxpayers, of their future,” she said.Trump has also taken aim at Democrats who he says are standing in the way of a fall reopening. “They think it’s going to be good for them politically, so they keep the schools closed,” Trump said at the White House event. “No way. We’re very much going to put pressure on governors and everybody else to open the schools.”He added that parents and children want schools to reopen, declaring that “it’s time to do it.”But that bright outlook was met with skepticism by some beyond the White House. The president of the nation’s largest education union said Trump is more interested in scoring points for the November election than in keeping students safe.“Trump has proven to be incapable of grasping that people are dying — that more than 130,000 Americans have already died,” said Lily Eskelsen García, president of the National Education Association. “Educators want nothing more than to be back in classrooms and on college campuses with our students, but we must do it in a way that keeps students, educators and communities safe.”Trump’s claim that Democrats are pressing to keep schools closed for political reasons has been criticized by health experts who say politicizing the issue makes it more difficult to work toward reopening schools.“When you make it about politics and just people trying to score points and get elected, I mean, I really think it’s a disservice to how incredibly important this issue is,” Jennifer Nuzzo of&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/testing" target="_blank">Johns Hopkins University’s COVID-19 Testing Insights Initiative</a>&nbsp;said in an interview. “And it really distracts from what I think we need, which is real solutions and a plan in order to make this happen.”Whether schools and colleges should open this fall and how has been a topic of growing tension as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/3a3642cb4b7244665dda34c437c87988">the coronavirus continues to surge</a>&nbsp;in parts of the United States. Trump applauded Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis for his state’s recent order to open public schools this fall. The president attacked Harvard University for its decision to hold instruction online for the fall term.The American Academy of Pediatrics recently issued guidelines suggesting that schools aim to start the academic year “physically present in school.” Keeping students at home can lead to social isolation, the organization said, and prevent schools from identifying learning deficits, abuse, depression and other issues.___WASHINGTON (AP) —President Donald Trump on Tuesday launched an all-out effort pressing state and local officials to reopen schools this fall, arguing that some are keeping schools closed not because of the risks from the coronavirus pandemic but for political reasons.“They think it’s going to be good for them politically, so they keep the schools closed,” Trump said at a White House discussion on school plans for the fall. “No way. We’re very much going to put pressure on governors and everybody else to open the schools.”The White House’s round-table gathered health and education leaders from across the nation who said schools and colleges are ready to open this fall and can do so safely. They argued that the risks of keeping students at home outweigh any risks tied to the coronavirus, saying students need access to meal programs and mental and behavioral health services.“We want to reopen the schools,” Trump said. “Everybody wants it. The moms want it, the dads want it, the kids want it. It’s time to do it.”But that bright outlook was met with skepticism by some beyond the White House. The president of the nation’s largest education union said Trump is more interested in scoring points for the November election than in keeping students safe.“Trump has proven to be incapable of grasping that people are dying — that more than 130,000 Americans have already died,” said Lily Eskelsen García, president of the National Education Association. “Educators want nothing more than to be back in classrooms and on college campuses with our students, but we must do it in a way that keeps students, educators and communities safe.”At the White House event, Trump repeated his claim that Democrats want to keep schools closed for political reasons and not health reasons. He made the same claim on Twitter a day before, saying: “They think it will help them in November. Wrong, the people get it!”Trump offered no evidence for the allegation, which has been criticized by health experts who say politicizing the issue will make it harder to work toward reopening schools. Jennifer Nuzzo, of Johns Hopkins University’s COVID-19 Testing Insights Initiative, said she was “deeply troubled” by the claim.“When you make it about politics and just people trying to score points and get elected, I mean, I really think it’s a disservice to how incredibly important this issue is,” Nuzzo said in an interview. “And it really distracts from what I think we need, which is real solutions and a plan in order to make this happen.”Whether schools and colleges should open this fall and how has been a topic of growing debate as the coronavirus continues to surge in parts of the United States. Trump applauded Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis for his state’s recent order to open public schools this fall. And Trump attacked Harvard University for its decision to hold instruction online for the fall term.“I think it’s ridiculous, I think it’s an easy way out and I think they ought to be ashamed of themselves, if you want to know the truth,” Trump said Tuesday.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has sent mixed signals on the issue, saying students should return to the classroom but also noting that virtual classes present the lowest risk of COVID-19 spread. Speaking at Trump’s event Tuesday, however, the agency’s director said unequivocally that it’s better for students to be in school than at home.Dr. Robert Redfield noted that COVID-19 cases tend to be mild in young people, adding that the greatest risk is transmission from children to more vulnerable populations. He said the CDC encourages all schools to reopen with customized plans to minimize the spread of the coronavirus while giving students access to school services.“It’s clear that the greater risk to our society is to have these schools close,” Redfield said. “Nothing would cause me greater sadness than to see any school district or school use our guidance as a reason not to reopen.”The CDC’s guidance for schools recommends that students and teachers wear masks “as feasible,” spread out desks, stagger schedules, eat meals in classrooms instead of the cafeteria, and add physical barriers between bathroom sinks.Some schools have announced plans to bring students back for only a few days a week, an option that Education Secretary Betsy DeVos on Tuesday said was unacceptable.“It’s clear that our nations schools must fully reopen and fully operate this school year. Anything short of that robs students, not to mention taxpayers, of their future,” DeVos said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585353417200.png" alt="Education Secretary Betsy DeVos during a Coronavirus Task Force briefing in April -photo courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>Education Secretary Betsy DeVos during a Coronavirus Task Force briefing in April -photo courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>During a call with governors, DeVos slammed plans by Virginia’s Fairfax County Public Schools to have families decide between fully remote instruction or two days a week at school. “A choice of two days per week in the classroom is not a choice at all,” DeVos said, according to audio of the call obtained by The Associated Press.DeVos also criticized many schools’ attempts at distance education after the pandemic prompted them to move classes online last spring. She said she was disappointed in schools that “didn’t figure out how to serve students or who just gave up and didn’t try.”The same thing can’t happen again this fall, she said, urging governors to play a role in getting schools to reopen.Among those joining Trump on Tuesday was the president of the American Academy of Pediatrics, which recently issued guidelines suggesting that schools aim to start the academic year “physically present in school.” Keeping students at home can lead to social isolation, the organization said, and prevent schools from identifying learning deficits, abuse, depression and other issues.Students’ mental and emotional health — along with their parents’ — was repeatedly raised in the argument to reopen schools.“Children’s mental health and social development must be as much of a priority as physical health,” first lady Melania Trump said at the round-table. “The same is true for parents. Many will be forced to make stressful choices between caring for their children and going back to work.”But some are calling for greater caution. Arne Duncan, who served as education secretary under former President Barack Obama, has said the focus should be on making sure students can return safely.“We all want children to go back to school,” Duncan said on Twitter. “The question is whether we care enough about our children to ALLOW them to go to school safely. Our behavior, our commitment to shared sacrifice — or our selfishness — will determine what happens this fall for kids.”

Trump threatens to cut federal aid if schools don't reopen

Topeka —Dr. Lee Norman, Secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), held a press briefing Wednesday to discuss the increase in coronavirus in the state.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/KDHEnews/">Click here</a> to watch the press briefing.

&nbsp;The KDHE reported 717 more confirmed coronavirus cases since Monday, an increase that brings the total to at least 17,618 cases. 

The department on Wednesday also reported 282 COVID-19 deaths, up two since Monday.

Norman said on Tuesday that Kansas is among the top 14 states in the country for the most rapid spread of the coronavirus, and in the top 14 states for having the least restrictions on activities. The number of infections is thought to be far higher because many people who have the virus have not been tested.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594242960262.png" alt="KDHE Secretary Dr. Lee Norman answers questions during Wednesday's briefing." />
 <figcaption>KDHE Secretary Dr. Lee Norman answers questions during Wednesday's briefing.</figcaption>
 </figure>Topeka —Dr. Lee Norman, Secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), held a press briefing Wednesday to discuss the increase in coronavirus in the state.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/KDHEnews/">Click here</a> to watch the press briefing.&nbsp;The KDHE reported 717 more confirmed coronavirus cases since Monday, an increase that brings the total to at least 17,618 cases. The department on Wednesday also reported 282 COVID-19 deaths, up two since Monday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594227704495.png" alt="Wednesday July 8, 2020 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday July 8, 2020 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>Norman said on Tuesday that Kansas is among the top 14 states in the country for the most rapid spread of the coronavirus, and in the top 14 states for having the least restrictions on activities. The number of infections is thought to be far higher because many people who have the virus have not been tested.&nbsp;

🎥  Dr. Lee Norman on increase in coronavirus in Kansas

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the drowning of 2-year-old boy.

Just after 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, police responded to a home in the 1900 block of E. 54th Street South in Wichita for a drowning call, according to officer Paul Cruz.

Upon arrival, officers contacted the calling-party who reported observing the boy floating in the neighborhood pool and calling 911. 

Sedgwick County Emergency Medical Service (EMS) and the Wichita Fire Department (WFD) pulled the boy from the pool and attempted life-saving measures. However, the child died.&nbsp;

The investigation revealed the boy was with his 44-year-old father and 4-year-old brother in the neighborhood when he managed to by-pass the fence surrounding the pool, and fell into the water, according to Cruz.

Police released no additional details Wednesday afternoon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594241055278.png" alt="First responders at the scene of the Tuesday night drowning -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>First responders at the scene of the Tuesday night drowning -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the drowning of 2-year-old boy.Just after 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, police responded to a home in the 1900 block of E. 54th Street South in Wichita for a drowning call, according to officer Paul Cruz.Upon arrival, officers contacted the calling-party who reported observing the boy floating in the neighborhood pool and calling 911. Sedgwick County Emergency Medical Service (EMS) and the Wichita Fire Department (WFD) pulled the boy from the pool and attempted life-saving measures. However, the child died.&nbsp;The investigation revealed the boy was with his 44-year-old father and 4-year-old brother in the neighborhood when he managed to by-pass the fence surrounding the pool, and fell into the water, according to Cruz.Police released no additional details Wednesday afternoon.

Police: 2-year-old Kansas boy drowns in neighborhood pool

RAYMORE, Mo. (AP) — The driver of a stolen sport utility vehicle who led police in western Missouri on a chase died after crashing into another vehicle in Raymore, authorities said.

The crash happened Tuesday afternoon after Cass County Sheriff’s deputies tried to stop the SUV, which had been reported stolen out of Overland Park.

The driver refused to pull over and led law enforcement on a 20-mile chase until the SUV hit another vehicle on J Highway and rolled, the sheriff’s office said. The driver of the stolen SUV was ejected and died at the scene, according to investigators. The driver’s name had not been released by Wednesday morning.

Four people in the other vehicle suffered minor injuries and were taken to a hospital as a precaution, officials said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594225266639.png" alt="First responders on the scene of the crash Tuesday-photo Cass Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>First responders on the scene of the crash Tuesday-photo Cass Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>RAYMORE, Mo. (AP) — The driver of a stolen sport utility vehicle who led police in western Missouri on a chase died after crashing into another vehicle in Raymore, authorities said.The crash happened Tuesday afternoon after Cass County Sheriff’s deputies tried to stop the SUV, which had been reported stolen out of Overland Park.The driver refused to pull over and led law enforcement on a 20-mile chase until the SUV hit another vehicle on J Highway and rolled, the sheriff’s office said. The driver of the stolen SUV was ejected and died at the scene, according to investigators. The driver’s name had not been released by Wednesday morning.Four people in the other vehicle suffered minor injuries and were taken to a hospital as a precaution, officials said.

Driver in SUV stolen in Kansas dies in Missouri crash

SEDGWICK COUNTY - A Kansas man arrested in Mexico for the alleged murder of two people in January at the Hotel at WaterWalk in Wichita&nbsp; made his first appearance in court on Monday.

Kyle Young was formally charged with capital murder, aggravated burglary, and criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. He remains jailed on a total bond of over one million dollars, according to online jail records.

In the early morning of January 2, police responded to a shooting call at the Hotel at WaterWalk in the 700 block of South Main, in Wichita, according to officer Kevin Wheeler.

Upon arrival, officers located the bodies of 27-year-old George Kirksey and 22-year-old Alicia Roman with multiple gunshot wounds, according to officer Kevin Wheeler.

The investigation revealed that Kirksey and Roman were inside of the hotel room when a suspect identified as 33-year-old Young entered the room and fired multiple shots, striking them and then fleeing on foot.

Investigators learned of Young's involvement through their investigation and have been working to locate him. 

Authorities recently located him in Mexico and made an arrest, according to Wheeler.

On July 2, Young was transported back to Sedgwick County and booked into jail on requested charges of capital murder, aggravated burglary, criminal possession of a firearm and aggravated assault, according to Wheeler.

SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting of a Kansas man and woman and have made an arrest.

On Thursday, Young was transported back to Sedgwick County and booked into jail on requested charges of capital murder, aggravated burglary, criminal possession of a firearm and aggravated assault, according to Wheeler.

The case has been presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and asking the public for help to locate a suspect.

According to a media release from police, 33-year-old Kyle Young is a&nbsp; a suspect in the shooting deaths of 27-year-old George Kirksey and 22-year-old Alicia Roman on January 2, at Hotel at WaterWalk in Wichita.

He should be considered armed and dangerous.

Young has felony warrants for two counts of aggravated assault and one count of criminal possession of a weapon by a felon.

Anyone with information on Young and his whereabouts are asked to contact police.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593795027094.png" alt="Young-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Young-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY - A Kansas man arrested in Mexico for the alleged murder of two people in January at the Hotel at WaterWalk in Wichita&nbsp; made his first appearance in court on Monday.Kyle Young was formally charged with capital murder, aggravated burglary, and criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. He remains jailed on a total bond of over one million dollars, according to online jail records.In the early morning of January 2, police responded to a shooting call at the Hotel at WaterWalk in the 700 block of South Main, in Wichita, according to officer Kevin Wheeler.Upon arrival, officers located the bodies of 27-year-old George Kirksey and 22-year-old Alicia Roman with multiple gunshot wounds, according to officer Kevin Wheeler.The investigation revealed that Kirksey and Roman were inside of the hotel room when a suspect identified as 33-year-old Young entered the room and fired multiple shots, striking them and then fleeing on foot.Investigators learned of Young's involvement through their investigation and have been working to locate him. Authorities recently located him in Mexico and made an arrest, according to Wheeler.On July 2, Young was transported back to Sedgwick County and booked into jail on requested charges of capital murder, aggravated burglary, criminal possession of a firearm and aggravated assault, according to Wheeler.--------SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting of a Kansas man and woman and have made an arrest.In the early morning of January 2, police responded to a shooting call at the Hotel at WaterWalk in the 700 block of South Main, in Wichita, according to officer Kevin Wheeler.Upon arrival, officers located the bodies of 27-year-old George Kirksey and 22-year-old Alicia Roman with multiple gunshot wounds, according to officer Kevin Wheeler.The investigation revealed that Kirksey and Roman were inside of the hotel room when a suspect identified as 33-year-old Young entered the room and fired multiple shots, striking them and then fleeing on foot.Investigators learned of Young's involvement through their investigation and have been working to locate him. Authorities recently located him in Mexico and made an arrest, according to Wheeler.On Thursday, Young was transported back to Sedgwick County and booked into jail on requested charges of capital murder, aggravated burglary, criminal possession of a firearm and aggravated assault, according to Wheeler.The case has been presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.---------SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and asking the public for help to locate a suspect.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583357082094.png" alt="Young photo Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Young photo Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>According to a media release from police, 33-year-old Kyle Young is a&nbsp; a suspect in the shooting deaths of 27-year-old George Kirksey and 22-year-old Alicia Roman on January 2, at Hotel at WaterWalk in Wichita.He should be considered armed and dangerous.Young has felony warrants for two counts of aggravated assault and one count of criminal possession of a weapon by a felon.Anyone with information on Young and his whereabouts are asked to contact police.

Kan. double-murder suspect captured in Mexico makes court appearance

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A Wichita police officer who fatally shot an innocent man in 2017 while responding to a hoax emergency call stemming from a dispute between two online gamers is appealing a ruling allowing a lawsuit filed against him to move forward.

Attorneys for Justin Rapp filed a notice of appeal Monday to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit, asking it to review a lower court order that refused to grant him protection from civil liability in Andrew Finch’s death.

The death of the 28-year-old drew national attention to “swatting,” a form of retaliation in which someone reports a false emergency to get authorities to descend on an address. The address the gamers used was old, leading police to Finch, who was not involved in the dispute or video game.

Rapp’s attorneys argued that the officer was entitled to qualified immunity.

But U.S. District Judge John W. Broomes wrote&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/020ee77af3c6e11a525e53540fdae42b">last month</a>&nbsp;that a “reasonable officer would have known that using deadly force when Finch displayed no weapon and made no overtly threatening movement was unlawful.”

The decision leaves it up to jurors in the civil case to decide whether Rapp’s actions were reasonable. Rapp is not charged criminally.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592601982960.png" alt="Police camera image the night of the deadly swatting call -image courtesy Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Police camera image the night of the deadly swatting call -image courtesy Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A Wichita police officer who fatally shot an innocent man in 2017 while responding to a hoax emergency call stemming from a dispute between two online gamers is appealing a ruling allowing a lawsuit filed against him to move forward.Attorneys for Justin Rapp filed a notice of appeal Monday to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit, asking it to review a lower court order that refused to grant him protection from civil liability in Andrew Finch’s death.The death of the 28-year-old drew national attention to “swatting,” a form of retaliation in which someone reports a false emergency to get authorities to descend on an address. The address the gamers used was old, leading police to Finch, who was not involved in the dispute or video game.Rapp’s attorneys argued that the officer was entitled to qualified immunity.But U.S. District Judge John W. Broomes wrote&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/020ee77af3c6e11a525e53540fdae42b">last month</a>&nbsp;that a “reasonable officer would have known that using deadly force when Finch displayed no weapon and made no overtly threatening movement was unlawful.”The decision leaves it up to jurors in the civil case to decide whether Rapp’s actions were reasonable. Rapp is not charged criminally.

Kansas officer in deadly hoax shooting appeals ruling  

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

An Ellis County Commission candidate is facing legal trouble after two arrests in recent weeks.

According to the Ellis County Attorney’s office, Lisa “L R” Boyd, D-Victoria, is accused of violating a restraining order on two occasions in June.

Boyd allegedly violated the restraining order for the first time on June 15 and then again on June 19. Following the second incident, Boyd was arrested. Ellis County Attorney Tom Drees said Boyd has been charged with two counts of violating a restraining order.

While out on bond, Boyd allegedly was involved in a third incident on July 4 that led to a second arrest in less than a month.

Drees said a second set of charges are expected to be filed against Boyd later this week.

The charges are expected to include two felonies — two counts of aggravated battery for reportedly firing a Roman candle firework at the alleged victims, including a teenager — and criminal threat. Boyd is also expected to face a misdemeanor charge of violating a restraining order.

Boyd made her first appearance in court in the most recent incident Tuesday and is currently being held in the Ellis County jail in lieu of bond.

Boyd is running as a Democrat for Ellis County Commissioner 3rd District. That seat is currently held by Republican Dean Haselhorst. The two will face off in the November primary election.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594228988714.png" alt="Boyd-photo Ellis Co." />
 <figcaption>Boyd-photo Ellis Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostAn Ellis County Commission candidate is facing legal trouble after two arrests in recent weeks.According to the Ellis County Attorney’s office, Lisa “L R” Boyd, D-Victoria, is accused of violating a restraining order on two occasions in June.Boyd allegedly violated the restraining order for the first time on June 15 and then again on June 19. Following the second incident, Boyd was arrested. Ellis County Attorney Tom Drees said Boyd has been charged with two counts of violating a restraining order.While out on bond, Boyd allegedly was involved in a third incident on July 4 that led to a second arrest in less than a month.Drees said a second set of charges are expected to be filed against Boyd later this week.The charges are expected to include two felonies — two counts of aggravated battery for reportedly firing a Roman candle firework at the alleged victims, including a teenager — and criminal threat. Boyd is also expected to face a misdemeanor charge of violating a restraining order.Boyd made her first appearance in court in the most recent incident Tuesday and is currently being held in the Ellis County jail in lieu of bond.Boyd is running as a Democrat for Ellis County Commissioner 3rd District. That seat is currently held by Republican Dean Haselhorst. The two will face off in the November primary election.

Ellis Co. Attorney: Commission candidate arrested twice 

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 717 to a total of 17,618, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional numbers from the KDHE.

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 717 to a total of 17,618, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 282<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional numbers from the KDHE.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594227704495.png" alt="Wednesday July 8, 2020 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday July 8, 2020 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

COWLEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal July 4 head-on crash that killed a Kansas teen have made an arrest.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Chevy Traverse driven by&nbsp; &nbsp;Kaitlyn Michelle Keeling, 26, Belle Plaine, was westbound in the 11000 block of 82nd Road just before 10p.m. on Saturday.

The vehicle crossed the center line and struck a 1982 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Chase Edward Augur, 18,&nbsp; Augusta head-on, according to Cowley County Sheriff Dave Faletti.

Augur was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Miles Funeral Home.

The sheriff’s office conducted standard field sobriety tests on Keeling who was not injured in the crash, according to Faletti.

Deputies arrested her on a requested charge of Driving Under the Influence and she was transported to the Cowley County Jail.&nbsp;&nbsp;She posted a bond of $1,000.00 Saturday night same night and was released, according to Faletti.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594214286258.png" alt="Keeling -photo Cowley County" />
 <figcaption>Keeling -photo Cowley County</figcaption>
 </figure>COWLEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal July 4 head-on crash that killed a Kansas teen have made an arrest.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Chevy Traverse driven by&nbsp; &nbsp;Kaitlyn Michelle Keeling, 26, Belle Plaine, was westbound in the 11000 block of 82nd Road just before 10p.m. on Saturday.The vehicle crossed the center line and struck a 1982 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Chase Edward Augur, 18,&nbsp; Augusta head-on, according to Cowley County Sheriff Dave Faletti.Augur was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Miles Funeral Home.The sheriff’s office conducted standard field sobriety tests on Keeling who was not injured in the crash, according to Faletti.Deputies arrested her on a requested charge of Driving Under the Influence and she was transported to the Cowley County Jail.&nbsp;&nbsp;She posted a bond of $1,000.00 Saturday night same night and was released, according to Faletti.

Kan. woman accused of DUI in crash that killed teen on motorcycle

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld Trump administration rules allowing some employers to decline to provide contraceptive coverage on religious or moral grounds, which could leave more than 70,000 women without cost-free birth control.

The high court ruled 7-2 for the administration, which made a policy change to allow some employers who cite religious or moral objections to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/8c90eb432f73420786de1c05da872761">opt out of providing no-cost birth control required by the Obama-era healthcare law</a>. Lower courts had previously blocked the Trump administration’s changes.

“We hold today that the Departments had the statutory authority to craft that exemption, as well as the contemporaneously issued moral exemption. We further hold that the rules promulgating these exemptions are free from procedural defects,” Justice Clarence Thomas wrote for a majority of the court.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Wednesday sided with the Trump administration in its effort to allow employers who cite religious or moral objections to opt out of providing no-cost birth control to women as required by the Affordable Care Act.

The high court on Wednesday said 7-2 the administration acted properly when it made the change, which lower courts had blocked.

The government had estimated that the rule changes would cause about 70,000 women, and at most 126,000 women, to lose contraception coverage in one year.

Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg cited those numbers in dissenting.

“In accommodating claims of religious freedom, this Court has taken a balanced approach, one that does not allow the religious beliefs of some to overwhelm the rights and interests of others who do not share those beliefs. Today, for the first time, the Court casts totally aside countervailing rights and interests in its zeal to secure religious rights to the nth degree,” she wrote.

Birth control has been a topic of contention since the law was passed. Initially, churches, synagogues and mosques were exempt from the contraceptive coverage requirement. The Obama administration also created a way by which religiously affiliated organizations including hospitals, universities and charities could opt out of paying for contraception, but women on their health plans would still get no-cost birth control. Some groups complained the opt-out process itself violated their religious beliefs.

That opt-out process was the subject of a 2016 Supreme Court case, but the court, with only eight justices at the time because of the death of Justice Antonin Scalia, didn’t decide the issue. It instead sent both sides back to see if they could work out a compromise.

After the Trump administration took over, officials announced a rule change that allows many companies and organization with religious or moral objections to opt out of covering birth control without providing an alternate avenue for coverage. But the change was blocked by courts after New Jersey and Pennsylvania challenged it.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld Trump administration rules allowing some employers to decline to provide contraceptive coverage on religious or moral grounds, which could leave more than 70,000 women without cost-free birth control.The high court ruled 7-2 for the administration, which made a policy change to allow some employers who cite religious or moral objections to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/8c90eb432f73420786de1c05da872761">opt out of providing no-cost birth control required by the Obama-era healthcare law</a>. Lower courts had previously blocked the Trump administration’s changes.“We hold today that the Departments had the statutory authority to craft that exemption, as well as the contemporaneously issued moral exemption. We further hold that the rules promulgating these exemptions are free from procedural defects,” Justice Clarence Thomas wrote for a majority of the court.-----------WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Wednesday sided with the Trump administration in its effort to allow employers who cite religious or moral objections to opt out of providing no-cost birth control to women as required by the Affordable Care Act.The high court on Wednesday said 7-2 the administration acted properly when it made the change, which lower courts had blocked.“We hold today that the Departments had the statutory authority to craft that exemption, as well as the contemporaneously issued moral exemption. We further hold that the rules promulgating these exemptions are free from procedural defects,” Justice Clarence Thomas wrote for a majority of the court.The government had estimated that the rule changes would cause about 70,000 women, and at most 126,000 women, to lose contraception coverage in one year.Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg cited those numbers in dissenting.“In accommodating claims of religious freedom, this Court has taken a balanced approach, one that does not allow the religious beliefs of some to overwhelm the rights and interests of others who do not share those beliefs. Today, for the first time, the Court casts totally aside countervailing rights and interests in its zeal to secure religious rights to the nth degree,” she wrote.Birth control has been a topic of contention since the law was passed. Initially, churches, synagogues and mosques were exempt from the contraceptive coverage requirement. The Obama administration also created a way by which religiously affiliated organizations including hospitals, universities and charities could opt out of paying for contraception, but women on their health plans would still get no-cost birth control. Some groups complained the opt-out process itself violated their religious beliefs.That opt-out process was the subject of a 2016 Supreme Court case, but the court, with only eight justices at the time because of the death of Justice Antonin Scalia, didn’t decide the issue. It instead sent both sides back to see if they could work out a compromise.After the Trump administration took over, officials announced a rule change that allows many companies and organization with religious or moral objections to opt out of covering birth control without providing an alternate avenue for coverage. But the change was blocked by courts after New Jersey and Pennsylvania challenged it.

Supreme Court: Some employers can refuse to offer free birth control

St. Joseph, Mo. —Missouri Western State University President Matt Wilson is leaving the university for what he calls his “dream job.”

According to a media release from the school, Wilson will leave his position at Missouri Western State University to become the next dean of <a href="https://news.temple.edu/announcements/2020-07-07/matthew-wilson-next-dean-temple-university-japan" target="_blank">Temple University Japan</a>.&nbsp;

“You hear people talking about dream jobs, but this is literally my greatest hope come true,” Wilson said. “My roots at Temple University run deep. Not only did I earn my Juris Doctor degree there, but I also spent part of my law school career as a student at Temple University Japan and worked there in various capacities for six years. Temple University Japan helped shape me, and I feel like I’m going home.”&nbsp;

TUJ, founded in 1982, is the oldest and largest foreign university in Japan. It serves more than 1300 undergraduate students from approximately 60 countries, and a total student population of approximately 3,000.

Matthew Wilson, J.D., became the fifth president of Missouri Western State University on July 1, 2019. The year since then has been marked by innovation, with the launch of initiatives like the <a href="https://www.missouriwestern.edu/finaid/griff-guarantee/" target="_blank">Griffon Guarantee Scholarship</a>, <a href="https://www.missouriwestern.edu/goldfridays/" target="_blank">Gold Fridays</a>, the <a href="https://www.missouriwestern.edu/center-for-service/" target="_blank">Center for Service</a> and more, all while addressing serious financial challenges.&nbsp;

“Through the efforts of many, we have made considerable progress amidst challenging times and unexpected circumstances,” President Wilson said. “We have prioritized students, facilitated student success and helped strengthen community relationships. We have reminded the community, region and state about the many advantages of a Missouri Western education. Albeit difficult, we have made progress on the budgetary front as well. I know that the Board of Governors, the leadership team and our supporters are fully committed to the plan and strategies we have developed.”

“While we are saddened at Matt’s departure, we certainly understand this unique opportunity presented to his family and we are extremely grateful for the outstanding leadership he has provided during these challenging times,” said Lee Tieman, chair of the Missouri Western Board of Governors. “The foundation laid by President Wilson and the blueprint established for Missouri Western to move forward have all been done with unanimous Board support and our Board is committed to continuing this plan with our next President. This University truly is a special place with an incredibly bright future.”

President Wilson plans to remain at Missouri Western as needed to ensure a smooth transition. The Board of Governors will meet again soon to discuss the search process for Missouri Western’s next president.

Wilson came to Missouri Western after serving two years as president of the University of Akron. He had previously served as dean of the University of Akron School of Law, associate dean of the University of Wyoming College of Law and senior associate dean and general counsel of Temple University Japan.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594213209721.jpeg" alt="Matt Wilson is President of Missouri Western State University. The school is a member of the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Conference that includes Fort Hays State, Emporia State, Pitt State, Washburn, Newman and nine other school in Missouri, Nebraska and Oklahoma." />
 <figcaption>Matt Wilson is President of Missouri Western State University. The school is a member of the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Conference that includes Fort Hays State, Emporia State, Pitt State, Washburn, Newman and nine other school in Missouri, Nebraska and Oklahoma.</figcaption>
 </figure>St. Joseph, Mo. —Missouri Western State University President Matt Wilson is leaving the university for what he calls his “dream job.”According to a media release from the school, Wilson will leave his position at Missouri Western State University to become the next dean of <a href="https://news.temple.edu/announcements/2020-07-07/matthew-wilson-next-dean-temple-university-japan" target="_blank">Temple University Japan</a>.&nbsp;“You hear people talking about dream jobs, but this is literally my greatest hope come true,” Wilson said. “My roots at Temple University run deep. Not only did I earn my Juris Doctor degree there, but I also spent part of my law school career as a student at Temple University Japan and worked there in various capacities for six years. Temple University Japan helped shape me, and I feel like I’m going home.”&nbsp;TUJ, founded in 1982, is the oldest and largest foreign university in Japan. It serves more than 1300 undergraduate students from approximately 60 countries, and a total student population of approximately 3,000.Matthew Wilson, J.D., became the fifth president of Missouri Western State University on July 1, 2019. The year since then has been marked by innovation, with the launch of initiatives like the <a href="https://www.missouriwestern.edu/finaid/griff-guarantee/" target="_blank">Griffon Guarantee Scholarship</a>, <a href="https://www.missouriwestern.edu/goldfridays/" target="_blank">Gold Fridays</a>, the <a href="https://www.missouriwestern.edu/center-for-service/" target="_blank">Center for Service</a> and more, all while addressing serious financial challenges.&nbsp;“Through the efforts of many, we have made considerable progress amidst challenging times and unexpected circumstances,” President Wilson said. “We have prioritized students, facilitated student success and helped strengthen community relationships. We have reminded the community, region and state about the many advantages of a Missouri Western education. Albeit difficult, we have made progress on the budgetary front as well. I know that the Board of Governors, the leadership team and our supporters are fully committed to the plan and strategies we have developed.”“While we are saddened at Matt’s departure, we certainly understand this unique opportunity presented to his family and we are extremely grateful for the outstanding leadership he has provided during these challenging times,” said Lee Tieman, chair of the Missouri Western Board of Governors. “The foundation laid by President Wilson and the blueprint established for Missouri Western to move forward have all been done with unanimous Board support and our Board is committed to continuing this plan with our next President. This University truly is a special place with an incredibly bright future.”President Wilson plans to remain at Missouri Western as needed to ensure a smooth transition. The Board of Governors will meet again soon to discuss the search process for Missouri Western’s next president.Wilson came to Missouri Western after serving two years as president of the University of Akron. He had previously served as dean of the University of Akron School of Law, associate dean of the University of Wyoming College of Law and senior associate dean and general counsel of Temple University Japan.&nbsp;

Missouri Western president leaving for 'dream job' in Japan

By MARGERY A. BECK and JAMIE STENGLE, Associated Press

Missouri leaders knew the risk of convening thousands of kids at summer camps across the state during a pandemic, the state's top health official said, and insisted that camp organizers have plans in place to keep an outbreak from happening.

An overnight summer camp in rural southwestern Missouri has seen scores of campers, counselors and staff infected with the coronavirus, the local health department revealed this week, raising questions about the ability to keep kids safe at what is a rite of childhood for many.

Missouri is one of several states to report outbreaks at summer camps. The Kanakuk camp near Branson ended up sending its teenage campers home. On Friday, the local health department announced 49 positive cases of the COVID-19 virus at the camp. By Monday, the number had jumped to 82.

Some states, like Oregon, New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, closed summer camps this year, and many camps elsewhere have voluntarily canceled programs. But other camps are plowing ahead, hoping that precautions like social distancing, masks and requiring children to quarantine before coming to camp will quell the risk. Other states where outbreaks have been reported have included Texas, Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee.

Some 26 million youths normally take part in camps across the U.S. each year, the American Camp Association said Tuesday. The group estimates 19.5 million young people will miss out on in-person day and overnight camps this year due to the pandemic, with 6.5 million still expected to go.

Missouri's outbreak at a camp operated by Christian-based Kanakuk Kamp has done little to change the way that state is handling summer camps, which essentially calls for camp operators to consult with their local public health agency to craft plans to keep kids and staff safe. Camps must report any positive cases to the state.

Dr. Randall Williams, director of the Missouri Department of Health, said Monday that his agency had no plans to shut down summer camps in the wake of the Missouri outbreak.

“We think school is incredibly important to kids. We also think camps are important,” Williams said.

In fact, the camp plans to reopen later this summer once test results from all staffers are returned and show it's safe to do so, Williams said.

Phone and email messages left Tuesday by The Associated Press for Kanakuk Kamp were not immediately returned. The organization holds six overnight and day camps across the state, usually drawing more than 20,000 kids from across the country, according to its website.

In Texas, dozens of campers and staffers who attended Pine Cove’s Christian camps have tested positive, and several weeks of camp were canceled after clusters of cases were discovered. That includes at least 76 cases in June linked to its overnight camp for teens in Southeast Texas near Columbus. The Ridge camp shut down for two weeks in June before reopening last week, Pine Cove spokeswoman Susan Andreone said.

The organization's Silverado camp, also near Columbus, and two of its camps in East Texas also saw staff changes or interruptions after coronavirus cases. Despite that, Andreone said more than 8,500 people had been on their camp properties through last week, and most sessions haven’t been affected. Pine Cove has 10 overnight properties in Texas.

The spread came despite state requirements that include enforcing social distancing and banning outside visitors. As of last week, campers and staff must wear masks when social distancing isn't possible.

“Can we guarantee that someone is not going to get COVID? Absolutely not. But we also understand that parents really know their families best, they know what their particular circumstances are or any particular risks that they have within their family,” Andreone said.

Increases in reported cases around the country led Tara Carlson, of Omaha, Nebraska, to pull her 9-year-old son and 6-year-old daughter from their planned summer camps at the last minute.

“We lost over $300," Carson said, “but we feared the risk was too great."

Carlson said she was comfortable with efforts camps had taken against the virus, including mask requirements, limited group sizes and increased cleaning of communal areas. But she didn't want to risk picking up the virus because of regular visits with her parents, including her mom in hospice care.

“I didn't feel I could trust what other families were doing as far as social distancing," she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594203537118.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MARGERY A. BECK and JAMIE STENGLE, Associated PressMissouri leaders knew the risk of convening thousands of kids at summer camps across the state during a pandemic, the state's top health official said, and insisted that camp organizers have plans in place to keep an outbreak from happening.The outbreak happened anyway.An overnight summer camp in rural southwestern Missouri has seen scores of campers, counselors and staff infected with the coronavirus, the local health department revealed this week, raising questions about the ability to keep kids safe at what is a rite of childhood for many.Missouri is one of several states to report outbreaks at summer camps. The Kanakuk camp near Branson ended up sending its teenage campers home. On Friday, the local health department announced 49 positive cases of the COVID-19 virus at the camp. By Monday, the number had jumped to 82.Some states, like Oregon, New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, closed summer camps this year, and many camps elsewhere have voluntarily canceled programs. But other camps are plowing ahead, hoping that precautions like social distancing, masks and requiring children to quarantine before coming to camp will quell the risk. Other states where outbreaks have been reported have included Texas, Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee.Some 26 million youths normally take part in camps across the U.S. each year, the American Camp Association said Tuesday. The group estimates 19.5 million young people will miss out on in-person day and overnight camps this year due to the pandemic, with 6.5 million still expected to go.Missouri's outbreak at a camp operated by Christian-based Kanakuk Kamp has done little to change the way that state is handling summer camps, which essentially calls for camp operators to consult with their local public health agency to craft plans to keep kids and staff safe. Camps must report any positive cases to the state.Dr. Randall Williams, director of the Missouri Department of Health, said Monday that his agency had no plans to shut down summer camps in the wake of the Missouri outbreak.“We think school is incredibly important to kids. We also think camps are important,” Williams said.In fact, the camp plans to reopen later this summer once test results from all staffers are returned and show it's safe to do so, Williams said.Phone and email messages left Tuesday by The Associated Press for Kanakuk Kamp were not immediately returned. The organization holds six overnight and day camps across the state, usually drawing more than 20,000 kids from across the country, according to its website.In Texas, dozens of campers and staffers who attended Pine Cove’s Christian camps have tested positive, and several weeks of camp were canceled after clusters of cases were discovered. That includes at least 76 cases in June linked to its overnight camp for teens in Southeast Texas near Columbus. The Ridge camp shut down for two weeks in June before reopening last week, Pine Cove spokeswoman Susan Andreone said.The organization's Silverado camp, also near Columbus, and two of its camps in East Texas also saw staff changes or interruptions after coronavirus cases. Despite that, Andreone said more than 8,500 people had been on their camp properties through last week, and most sessions haven’t been affected. Pine Cove has 10 overnight properties in Texas.The spread came despite state requirements that include enforcing social distancing and banning outside visitors. As of last week, campers and staff must wear masks when social distancing isn't possible.“Can we guarantee that someone is not going to get COVID? Absolutely not. But we also understand that parents really know their families best, they know what their particular circumstances are or any particular risks that they have within their family,” Andreone said.Increases in reported cases around the country led Tara Carlson, of Omaha, Nebraska, to pull her 9-year-old son and 6-year-old daughter from their planned summer camps at the last minute.“We lost over $300," Carson said, “but we feared the risk was too great."Carlson said she was comfortable with efforts camps had taken against the virus, including mask requirements, limited group sizes and increased cleaning of communal areas. But she didn't want to risk picking up the virus because of regular visits with her parents, including her mom in hospice care.“I didn't feel I could trust what other families were doing as far as social distancing," she said.

Summer camp virus outbreak raises safety questions

JACKSON COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after a weekend arrest.

Just after 2p.m. Sunday, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office was notified of an alleged theft that occurred at the Holton Walmart, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. The report indicated that a suspect had taken some items from the store without paying. 

Witnesses gave deputies the description of the woman and the vehicle she was driving. A&nbsp;deputy stopped a vehicle matching the description near 126th Road on U.S. Highway 75. 

The suspect allegedly provided a false name to law enforcement. She was later identified as Tracy Lee Blevins, 48, of Topeka, according to Morse.

Deputies also located items believed to be stolen from Walmart inside the vehicle along with substances believed to be methamphetamine and marijuana. 

Blevins was also allegedly in possession of credit cards, checks, and social security cards that belonged to other individuals, according to Morse.

Blevins was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, interference with law enforcement, identity theft, and theft.  Blevins also had outstanding warrants from other agencies.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594143723154.png" alt="Tracy Blevins has previous convictions that include forgery, aggravated assault and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>Tracy Blevins has previous convictions that include forgery, aggravated assault and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after a weekend arrest.Just after 2p.m. Sunday, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office was notified of an alleged theft that occurred at the Holton Walmart, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. The report indicated that a suspect had taken some items from the store without paying. Witnesses gave deputies the description of the woman and the vehicle she was driving. A&nbsp;deputy stopped a vehicle matching the description near 126th Road on U.S. Highway 75. The suspect allegedly provided a false name to law enforcement. She was later identified as Tracy Lee Blevins, 48, of Topeka, according to Morse.Deputies also located items believed to be stolen from Walmart inside the vehicle along with substances believed to be methamphetamine and marijuana. Blevins was also allegedly in possession of credit cards, checks, and social security cards that belonged to other individuals, according to Morse.Blevins was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, interference with law enforcement, identity theft, and theft. Blevins also had outstanding warrants from other agencies.

Sheriff: Kansas felon allegedly gave fake name during traffic stop

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly issued an executive order on Tuesday that will require the state to track foster children’s progress in school, shortly after having vetoed a similar bill last month.

In an annual report card detailing the academic progress and classroom struggles of children in its care, Kelly’s order will require the state Department of Education to work with the Department for Children and Families to prepare the report and submit it by January 15 of each year to the education committees in both legislative chambers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594205091059.png" alt="Photo courtesy office of Governor Laura Kelly" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy office of Governor Laura Kelly</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly issued an executive order on Tuesday that will require the state to track foster children’s progress in school, shortly after having vetoed a similar bill last month.In an annual report card detailing the academic progress and classroom struggles of children in its care, Kelly’s order will require the state Department of Education to work with the Department for Children and Families to prepare the report and submit it by January 15 of each year to the education committees in both legislative chambers.Kelly had initially vetoed the bill on June 1, saying the state couldn’t afford it.“This executive order is another step my administration is taking to improve outcomes for vulnerable children in the foster care system,” Kelly said in a statement accompanying her order. “Education is key to a strong future workforce in Kansas. This report will help us track educational outcomes of Kansas students in foster care — which will in turn help Kansas’ vulnerable families, and make our public education system more accountable.”The report card will contain graduation rates of Kansas foster kids, suspension rates and standardized test scores. Each category also will include race and ethnicity data.Kelly’s order says that “as their legal custodian, the State of Kansas bears a heightened responsibility to make every effort to ensure Kansas students in foster care receive a quality education.”Laura Howard, secretary for DCF, applauded Kelly and her order and said her agency is already working with the Department of Education to begin gathering data.