TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The presumed Democratic nominee for an open Senate seat in Kansas raised almost $1.3 million more than the top-tier Republican primary candidates combined during the second quarter of the year, despite a GOP candidate loaning $1.5 million to his own campaign.

Democratic state Sen. Barbara Bollier’s finance numbers worry establishment Republicans at a time when many of them fear a new political action committee with Democratic ties could steer the GOP nomination to polarizing conservative Kris Kobach. It is airing a 30-second spot describing rival and western Kansas Rep. Roger Marshall as “fake, fake, fake” and weak on issues important to the right even as it calls Kobach “too conservative.”

Bollier, a retired Kansas City-area anesthesiologist, is a former moderate Republican who gained national attention for switching parties at the end of 2018. Her campaign reported raising&nbsp;<a href="https://docquery.fec.gov/pdf/791/202007159245085791/202007159245085791.pdf" target="_blank">$3.7 million</a>&nbsp;from April 1 through June 30 and entering July with almost $4.4 million in cash. Her $7.2 million is notable in a state where Democrats often struggle in Senate races and the party hasn’t won one since 1932.

The GOP faces a potentially tough year in defending its 53-47 majority in the Senate. And Bollier’s fundraising also signals that Democrats across the country believe a normally safe Republican seat in Kansas could be competitive, particularly with Kobach as the GOP nominee.

“You have to be concerned when you see that kind of money flowing into our state for a Democrat,” said Kansas Republican Party Chairman Mike Kuckelman.

Bollier spokeswoman Alexandra De Luca noted that the Democrat’s numbers represent an “enormous” advantage after the Aug. 4 primary and show Bollier is prepared for the fall campaign.

“The Republicans simply are not,” she added.

Marshall increasingly has become&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/cb61b0a7f68c299f72d66cab818cb47b">the GOP establishment’s choice</a>&nbsp;in an 11-person field. Kobach, the former Kansas secretary of state, lost the 2018 governor’s race to Democrat Laura Kelly after alienating independent and moderate Republican voters. He’s best known nationally for promoting tough immigration laws.

Earlier this month, the Plains PAC, a new pro-Marshall GOP super-PAC, launched what it said will be a $3 million ad campaign against Kobach.

But his critics suggest that Kobach’s campaign for governor was hampered by poor fundraising. He raised about&nbsp;<a href="https://docquery.fec.gov/pdf/675/202007159249845675/202007159249845675.pdf" target="_blank">$232,000</a>&nbsp;during the second quarter of this year — third among the top four candidates. He was ahead only of David Lindstrom, a Kansas City-area businessman and former Kansas City Chiefs professional football player,&nbsp;<a href="https://docquery.fec.gov/pdf/534/202007159244901534/202007159244901534.pdf" target="_blank">who took in about $124,000.</a>

In total, Kobach has raised about $822,000 for his campaign and finished June with roughly $145,000 in cash.

<a href="https://docquery.fec.gov/pdf/701/202007159250141701/202007159250141701.pdf" target="_blank">Marshall raised $462,000&nbsp;</a>in contributions during the quarter, with total campaign fundraising approaching $2.6 million. He had more than $1 million in cash at the end of June.

Bob Hamilton, the founder of a Kansas City-area plumbing company, has the most money to spend of the GOP candidates,&nbsp;<a href="https://docquery.fec.gov/pdf/667/202007159244856667/202007159244856667.pdf" target="_blank">raising a little more than $1.5 million</a>&nbsp;during the second quarter and $3.7 million overall. But $3.5 million was from his own pocket, including $1.5 million during the last quarter.

Together, the top four candidates raised about $2.4 million during the second quarter.

Some Republicans see the new Sunflower State PAC’s efforts as an obvious attempt to boost Kobach past Marshall. Its spot spends most of its 30 seconds describing Marshall’s political stances as inconsistent and “soft” on President Donald Trump — even though Marshall said he votes 95% of the time in the House with the president and aired an ad earlier with Trump praising him.

The PAC’s initial air-time purchase was $850,000, and the Virginia firm buying the time also has worked for former presidential candidate and Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/news-columns-blogs/the-buzz/article244243272.html" target="_blank">The Kansas City Star reported.</a>

Marshall spokesman Eric Pahls said Kobach has the support “of people who aren’t interested in keeping this seat red.”

The spot reminds some Republicans of ads run by former Democratic Sen. Claire McCaskill ahead of the 2012 GOP primary in neighboring Missouri against then-Republican Rep. Todd Akin. The ads warned voters that Akin was too conservative in an effort to boost Akin in a crowded primary. Akin won the primary and McCaskill beat him by a comfortable margin.

“Democrats want Kris Kobach,” said Plains PAC director C.J. Grover. “It’s just obvious.”

Kobach has argued that a Senate race has a different dynamic than a governor’s race and that Kansas is likely to see a surge of pro-Trump voters who didn’t cast ballots in the mid-terms in 2018. He’s dismissed arguments that he his fundraising would be weak.

Kuckelman said while he would have liked to have seen the top-tier Republicans together match Bollier’s fundraising for the quarter, he expects money to flow to the GOP nominee after the primary.

“A lot of people wait,” Kuckelman said. “I would expect checkbooks will open more freely once we figure out who our candidate is.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585145252311.png" alt=" Barbara Bollier, a former Republican, is running for the U.S. Senate as a Democrat. Credit Jim McLean" />
 <figcaption> Barbara Bollier, a former Republican, is running for the U.S. Senate as a Democrat. Credit Jim McLean</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The presumed Democratic nominee for an open Senate seat in Kansas raised almost $1.3 million more than the top-tier Republican primary candidates combined during the second quarter of the year, despite a GOP candidate loaning $1.5 million to his own campaign.Democratic state Sen. Barbara Bollier’s finance numbers worry establishment Republicans at a time when many of them fear a new political action committee with Democratic ties could steer the GOP nomination to polarizing conservative Kris Kobach. It is airing a 30-second spot describing rival and western Kansas Rep. Roger Marshall as “fake, fake, fake” and weak on issues important to the right even as it calls Kobach “too conservative.”Bollier, a retired Kansas City-area anesthesiologist, is a former moderate Republican who gained national attention for switching parties at the end of 2018. Her campaign reported raising&nbsp;<a href="https://docquery.fec.gov/pdf/791/202007159245085791/202007159245085791.pdf" target="_blank">$3.7 million</a>&nbsp;from April 1 through June 30 and entering July with almost $4.4 million in cash. Her $7.2 million is notable in a state where Democrats often struggle in Senate races and the party hasn’t won one since 1932.The GOP faces a potentially tough year in defending its 53-47 majority in the Senate. And Bollier’s fundraising also signals that Democrats across the country believe a normally safe Republican seat in Kansas could be competitive, particularly with Kobach as the GOP nominee.“You have to be concerned when you see that kind of money flowing into our state for a Democrat,” said Kansas Republican Party Chairman Mike Kuckelman.Bollier spokeswoman Alexandra De Luca noted that the Democrat’s numbers represent an “enormous” advantage after the Aug. 4 primary and show Bollier is prepared for the fall campaign.“The Republicans simply are not,” she added.Marshall increasingly has become&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/cb61b0a7f68c299f72d66cab818cb47b">the GOP establishment’s choice</a>&nbsp;in an 11-person field. Kobach, the former Kansas secretary of state, lost the 2018 governor’s race to Democrat Laura Kelly after alienating independent and moderate Republican voters. He’s best known nationally for promoting tough immigration laws.Earlier this month, the Plains PAC, a new pro-Marshall GOP super-PAC, launched what it said will be a $3 million ad campaign against Kobach.But his critics suggest that Kobach’s campaign for governor was hampered by poor fundraising. He raised about&nbsp;<a href="https://docquery.fec.gov/pdf/675/202007159249845675/202007159249845675.pdf" target="_blank">$232,000</a>&nbsp;during the second quarter of this year — third among the top four candidates. He was ahead only of David Lindstrom, a Kansas City-area businessman and former Kansas City Chiefs professional football player,&nbsp;<a href="https://docquery.fec.gov/pdf/534/202007159244901534/202007159244901534.pdf" target="_blank">who took in about $124,000.</a>In total, Kobach has raised about $822,000 for his campaign and finished June with roughly $145,000 in cash.<a href="https://docquery.fec.gov/pdf/701/202007159250141701/202007159250141701.pdf" target="_blank">Marshall raised $462,000&nbsp;</a>in contributions during the quarter, with total campaign fundraising approaching $2.6 million. He had more than $1 million in cash at the end of June.Bob Hamilton, the founder of a Kansas City-area plumbing company, has the most money to spend of the GOP candidates,&nbsp;<a href="https://docquery.fec.gov/pdf/667/202007159244856667/202007159244856667.pdf" target="_blank">raising a little more than $1.5 million</a>&nbsp;during the second quarter and $3.7 million overall. But $3.5 million was from his own pocket, including $1.5 million during the last quarter.Together, the top four candidates raised about $2.4 million during the second quarter.Some Republicans see the new Sunflower State PAC’s efforts as an obvious attempt to boost Kobach past Marshall. Its spot spends most of its 30 seconds describing Marshall’s political stances as inconsistent and “soft” on President Donald Trump — even though Marshall said he votes 95% of the time in the House with the president and aired an ad earlier with Trump praising him.The PAC’s initial air-time purchase was $850,000, and the Virginia firm buying the time also has worked for former presidential candidate and Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/news-columns-blogs/the-buzz/article244243272.html" target="_blank">The Kansas City Star reported.</a>Marshall spokesman Eric Pahls said Kobach has the support “of people who aren’t interested in keeping this seat red.”The spot reminds some Republicans of ads run by former Democratic Sen. Claire McCaskill ahead of the 2012 GOP primary in neighboring Missouri against then-Republican Rep. Todd Akin. The ads warned voters that Akin was too conservative in an effort to boost Akin in a crowded primary. Akin won the primary and McCaskill beat him by a comfortable margin.“Democrats want Kris Kobach,” said Plains PAC director C.J. Grover. “It’s just obvious.”Kobach has argued that a Senate race has a different dynamic than a governor’s race and that Kansas is likely to see a surge of pro-Trump voters who didn’t cast ballots in the mid-terms in 2018. He’s dismissed arguments that he his fundraising would be weak.Kuckelman said while he would have liked to have seen the top-tier Republicans together match Bollier’s fundraising for the quarter, he expects money to flow to the GOP nominee after the primary.“A lot of people wait,” Kuckelman said. “I would expect checkbooks will open more freely once we figure out who our candidate is.”___

Democrat outpaces top of GOP field in Senate race in Kansas

KANSAS CITY– A Kansas man pleaded guilty in federal court Thursday to engaging in two separate fraud schemes related to millions of dollars in false payday loan debt and to tax evasion totaling more than $8 million, according to the United States Attorney's office.

“This well-dressed thief victimized millions of Americans whose personal information was fraudulently sold to debt collectors,” Garrison said. “Some of those victims, in their fear and confusion, actually paid debts they didn’t owe. And by hiding his income and assets then lying about it to federal agents, he victimized every honest citizen who obeys the law and pays their income taxes. His thievery allowed him to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle for a short time, but he won’t be entitled to such luxuries in federal prison.”

“Today, Mr. Tucker admitted he evaded the payment of taxes assessed against him. Despite receiving millions of dollars, Mr. Tucker used such funds to sustain a lavish lifestyle and not fulfill his civic duty,” said Adam Steiner, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the St. Louis Field Office. “We are determined at the IRS and Department of Justice to halt tax evasion, and the facts outlined in today’s plea are strong indicators that we can and will find this fraudulent activity.”

Joel Jerome Tucker, 51, Prairie Village, Kansas, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Roseann Ketchmark to one count of transporting stolen money across state lines, one count of bankruptcy fraud, and one count of tax evasion.

Tucker, working through various companies, serviced payday loan businesses. Tucker’s company names changed over the years; the primary company was eData Solutions, LLC. eData, formally registered on July 29, 2009, did not make loans directly to borrowers; it collected loan application information, referred to as leads, and sold those leads to its approximately 70 payday lender clients. As a loan servicer, eData also provided software for payday lenders.&nbsp;

Tucker and the other owners of eData sold the company to the Wyandotte Indian tribe in 2012. However, despite selling his interest in eData, Tucker maintained a file of 7.8 million leads he had acquired through eData, containing detailed customer information (including names, addresses, bank accounts, Social Security numbers, dates of birth, etc.). eData had collected the detailed customer information from online payday loan applications or inquiries to its payday lender clients; the file did not represent loans that were made. In addition, Tucker obtained and retained data regarding defaulted payday loans eData had acquired from a number of different payday lender clients. Tucker used these files to create falsified debt portfolios.

By pleading guilty today, Tucker admitted that he engaged in a fraudulent debt scheme from 2014 to 2016. This scheme involved marketing, distributing, and selling false debt portfolios. Tucker defrauded third party debt collectors and millions of individuals listed as debtors through the sale of falsified debt portfolios. Tucker sold supposed debts which: 1) he didn’t personally own; 2) were not true debts; 3) had already been sold to other buyers; and 4) contained false lenders, false loan dates, false loan amounts, and false payment status. Tucker received as much as $7.3 million from the sale of false debt portfolios.&nbsp;

As part of his fraud scheme, Tucker transferred the proceeds of the fraud scheme across state lines.

Tucker also admitted that he executed a related bankruptcy fraud scheme in 2015. In his bankruptcy fraud scheme, Tucker also sold fraudulent debt, which entered the United States Bankruptcy Courts nationwide. When the United States Bankruptcy Court investigated these purported debts which were presented as claims in bankruptcy cases, Tucker provided false information and testimony to the Bankruptcy Court in order to conceal his scheme.

For tax years 2014 - 2016, neither Tucker personally nor any of his companies filed federal tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service. Tucker told IRS agents that he had no income and was living on borrowed money, including a lot of borrowed money from his mother. In reality, Tucker used nominee bank accounts to conceal income and assets and spent hundreds of thousands of dollars in personal living expenses such as vehicles, chartered jets, travel and entertainment, and a personal residence. Tucker also submitted a form to the IRS in which he omitted listing as an asset his membership in the Vail Mountain Club, for which he received $275,000 in 2016.

Under the terms of today’s plea agreement, Tucker must pay $8,057,079.95 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service. Tucker also must forfeit to the government $5,000, which is the amount of stolen proceeds transferred across state lines as referenced in the specific count to which he pleaded guilty.&nbsp;

Under federal statutes, Tucker is subject to a sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

KANSAS CITY– A Kansas man pleaded guilty in federal court Thursday to engaging in two separate fraud schemes related to millions of dollars in false payday loan debt and to tax evasion totaling more than $8 million, according to the United States Attorney's office.“This well-dressed thief victimized millions of Americans whose personal information was fraudulently sold to debt collectors,” Garrison said. “Some of those victims, in their fear and confusion, actually paid debts they didn’t owe. And by hiding his income and assets then lying about it to federal agents, he victimized every honest citizen who obeys the law and pays their income taxes. His thievery allowed him to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle for a short time, but he won’t be entitled to such luxuries in federal prison.”“Today, Mr. Tucker admitted he evaded the payment of taxes assessed against him. Despite receiving millions of dollars, Mr. Tucker used such funds to sustain a lavish lifestyle and not fulfill his civic duty,” said Adam Steiner, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the St. Louis Field Office. “We are determined at the IRS and Department of Justice to halt tax evasion, and the facts outlined in today’s plea are strong indicators that we can and will find this fraudulent activity.”Joel Jerome Tucker, 51, Prairie Village, Kansas, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Roseann Ketchmark to one count of transporting stolen money across state lines, one count of bankruptcy fraud, and one count of tax evasion.Tucker, working through various companies, serviced payday loan businesses. Tucker’s company names changed over the years; the primary company was eData Solutions, LLC. eData, formally registered on July 29, 2009, did not make loans directly to borrowers; it collected loan application information, referred to as leads, and sold those leads to its approximately 70 payday lender clients. As a loan servicer, eData also provided software for payday lenders.&nbsp;Tucker and the other owners of eData sold the company to the Wyandotte Indian tribe in 2012. However, despite selling his interest in eData, Tucker maintained a file of 7.8 million leads he had acquired through eData, containing detailed customer information (including names, addresses, bank accounts, Social Security numbers, dates of birth, etc.). eData had collected the detailed customer information from online payday loan applications or inquiries to its payday lender clients; the file did not represent loans that were made. In addition, Tucker obtained and retained data regarding defaulted payday loans eData had acquired from a number of different payday lender clients. Tucker used these files to create falsified debt portfolios.By pleading guilty today, Tucker admitted that he engaged in a fraudulent debt scheme from 2014 to 2016. This scheme involved marketing, distributing, and selling false debt portfolios. Tucker defrauded third party debt collectors and millions of individuals listed as debtors through the sale of falsified debt portfolios. Tucker sold supposed debts which: 1) he didn’t personally own; 2) were not true debts; 3) had already been sold to other buyers; and 4) contained false lenders, false loan dates, false loan amounts, and false payment status. Tucker received as much as $7.3 million from the sale of false debt portfolios.&nbsp;As part of his fraud scheme, Tucker transferred the proceeds of the fraud scheme across state lines.Tucker also admitted that he executed a related bankruptcy fraud scheme in 2015. In his bankruptcy fraud scheme, Tucker also sold fraudulent debt, which entered the United States Bankruptcy Courts nationwide. When the United States Bankruptcy Court investigated these purported debts which were presented as claims in bankruptcy cases, Tucker provided false information and testimony to the Bankruptcy Court in order to conceal his scheme.For tax years 2014 - 2016, neither Tucker personally nor any of his companies filed federal tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service. Tucker told IRS agents that he had no income and was living on borrowed money, including a lot of borrowed money from his mother. In reality, Tucker used nominee bank accounts to conceal income and assets and spent hundreds of thousands of dollars in personal living expenses such as vehicles, chartered jets, travel and entertainment, and a personal residence. Tucker also submitted a form to the IRS in which he omitted listing as an asset his membership in the Vail Mountain Club, for which he received $275,000 in 2016.Under the terms of today’s plea agreement, Tucker must pay $8,057,079.95 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service. Tucker also must forfeit to the government $5,000, which is the amount of stolen proceeds transferred across state lines as referenced in the specific count to which he pleaded guilty.&nbsp;Under federal statutes, Tucker is subject to a sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

U.S. Attorney: Kan. man victimized millions, faces years in prison

NEW YORK (AP) — Target, CVS Health and Publix Super Markets on Thursday joined the growing list of national chains that will require customers to wear face masks regardless of where cities or states stand on the issue.

Target’s mandatory face mask policy will go into effect Aug. 1, and all CVS stores will begin requiring them on Monday. Publix Super Markets Inc., based in Lakeland, Florida, said that its rule will kick in on Tuesday at all 1,200 stores.

More than 80% of Target’s 1,800 stores already require customers to wear masks due to local and state regulations. Target will hand out masks at entrances to those who need them.&nbsp;

The announcements come one day after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2efc9640fe70badfa6c8f6f5b3923f68">the nation’s largest retailer, Walmart,</a>&nbsp;said that it would mandate face shields for all customers starting Monday.

Starbucks, Best Buy, Kohl’s and Kroger Co. have also announced mandatory masks nationwide in recent days.

Retailers have hesitated to make masks mandatory nationwide out of fear of angering some customers over what, even in a pandemic, has become a political issue.

They have been reluctant to put employees in the position of becoming enforcers. Confrontations with customers and store employees have played out in multiple incidents caught on video.

It was difficult to enforce such rules even in states that mandate face masks. However, the recent surge of new virus cases — particularly in Florida, California, Texas and Arizona — has left them with no choice, retail experts say.

“To be clear, we’re not asking our store employees to play the role of enforcer, ” said Jon Roberts, the chief operating officer at CVS. “What we are asking is that customers help protect themselves and those around them by listening to the experts and heeding the call to wear a face covering.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590784947764.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Target, CVS Health and Publix Super Markets on Thursday joined the growing list of national chains that will require customers to wear face masks regardless of where cities or states stand on the issue.Target’s mandatory face mask policy will go into effect Aug. 1, and all CVS stores will begin requiring them on Monday. Publix Super Markets Inc., based in Lakeland, Florida, said that its rule will kick in on Tuesday at all 1,200 stores.More than 80% of Target’s 1,800 stores already require customers to wear masks due to local and state regulations. Target will hand out masks at entrances to those who need them.&nbsp;The announcements come one day after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2efc9640fe70badfa6c8f6f5b3923f68">the nation’s largest retailer, Walmart,</a>&nbsp;said that it would mandate face shields for all customers starting Monday.Starbucks, Best Buy, Kohl’s and Kroger Co. have also announced mandatory masks nationwide in recent days.Retailers have hesitated to make masks mandatory nationwide out of fear of angering some customers over what, even in a pandemic, has become a political issue.They have been reluctant to put employees in the position of becoming enforcers. Confrontations with customers and store employees have played out in multiple incidents caught on video.It was difficult to enforce such rules even in states that mandate face masks. However, the recent surge of new virus cases — particularly in Florida, California, Texas and Arizona — has left them with no choice, retail experts say.“To be clear, we’re not asking our store employees to play the role of enforcer, ” said Jon Roberts, the chief operating officer at CVS. “What we are asking is that customers help protect themselves and those around them by listening to the experts and heeding the call to wear a face covering.”

List of national retail chains requiring masks is growing

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas official who is trying to unseat a freshman congressman who has been charged criminally with election fraud picked up the endorsement Thursday of another member of the state’s congressional delegation.

Rep. Ron Estes said he is endorsing State Treasurer Jake LaTurner over fellow Rep. Steve Watkins, citing the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/9d6046fd12875b3664cf8388708105e8">three felony charges and one misdemeanor charge&nbsp;</a>against Watkins. He said Watkins’ eastern Kansas seat will be in danger if he wins the primary.

Watkins’ legal problems stem from his having listed a UPS Inc. postal box as his residence on a state voter registration form.

Estes’ endorsement came a day after Watkins’ attorneys sought to raise doubts about the criminal case. The attorney filed a motion Wednesday night asserting that Shawnee County District Attorney Mike Kagay has a conflict of interest and that the case is politically motivated,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article244260162.html" target="_blank">The Kansas City Star reports.</a>

The charges against Watkins, whom fellow Republicans are pushing to oust from the eastern Kansas seat he won in 2018, relate to an investigation into whether he voted illegally in a 2019 municipal election. The criminal complaint said he provided false information to a sheriff’s deputy who was looking into whether he broke state election laws.

The first hearing in the case is set for Dec. 3, a month after the November general election, and Estes said Watkins would have a difficult time doing his job in Congress until the case is resolved.

“He needs to focus on putting his legal problems behind him,” Estes said in a statement. “While he certainly deserves a fair hearing in a court of law, this process won’t play out until after the general election and Republicans cannot put this seat at risk by nominating a candidate charged with multiple felonies.”

Kagay, a Republican who will stand for re-election this year, announced the charges shortly before Watkins was set to appear in a televised primary debate.

Watkins has called the charges “hyper-political” and said he expects to be exonerated.

The motion from Watkins’ team points to the timing of the charges and to connections between Kagay and Watkins’ primary opponent, Jake LaTurner, through a shared direct mail vendor. LaTurner called the assertion absurd Wednesday, noting that hundreds of Republicans use the firm.

Kagay did not immediately reply to an email from The Star about the motion.

Watkins filed a state voter registration form in late August 2019 listing the UPS postal box as his residential address. The postal box still was listed as his residential address when he cast a mailed-in ballot that included a Topeka City Council race in November.

The congressman and his staff have said he inadvertently listed his mailing address instead of his residential address by mistake. He later corrected his address to an apartment, but it is not the same City Council district as the UPS store.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594982785665.png" alt="Rep. Ron Estes and State Treasurer Jake LaTurner on Thursday" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Ron Estes and State Treasurer Jake LaTurner on Thursday</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas official who is trying to unseat a freshman congressman who has been charged criminally with election fraud picked up the endorsement Thursday of another member of the state’s congressional delegation.Rep. Ron Estes said he is endorsing State Treasurer Jake LaTurner over fellow Rep. Steve Watkins, citing the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/9d6046fd12875b3664cf8388708105e8">three felony charges and one misdemeanor charge&nbsp;</a>against Watkins. He said Watkins’ eastern Kansas seat will be in danger if he wins the primary.Watkins’ legal problems stem from his having listed a UPS Inc. postal box as his residence on a state voter registration form.Estes’ endorsement came a day after Watkins’ attorneys sought to raise doubts about the criminal case. The attorney filed a motion Wednesday night asserting that Shawnee County District Attorney Mike Kagay has a conflict of interest and that the case is politically motivated,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article244260162.html" target="_blank">The Kansas City Star reports.</a>The charges against Watkins, whom fellow Republicans are pushing to oust from the eastern Kansas seat he won in 2018, relate to an investigation into whether he voted illegally in a 2019 municipal election. The criminal complaint said he provided false information to a sheriff’s deputy who was looking into whether he broke state election laws.The first hearing in the case is set for Dec. 3, a month after the November general election, and Estes said Watkins would have a difficult time doing his job in Congress until the case is resolved.“He needs to focus on putting his legal problems behind him,” Estes said in a statement. “While he certainly deserves a fair hearing in a court of law, this process won’t play out until after the general election and Republicans cannot put this seat at risk by nominating a candidate charged with multiple felonies.”Kagay, a Republican who will stand for re-election this year, announced the charges shortly before Watkins was set to appear in a televised primary debate.Watkins has called the charges “hyper-political” and said he expects to be exonerated.The motion from Watkins’ team points to the timing of the charges and to connections between Kagay and Watkins’ primary opponent, Jake LaTurner, through a shared direct mail vendor. LaTurner called the assertion absurd Wednesday, noting that hundreds of Republicans use the firm.Kagay did not immediately reply to an email from The Star about the motion.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591476738251.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Rep. Steve Watkins" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Rep. Steve Watkins</figcaption>
 </figure>Watkins filed a state voter registration form in late August 2019 listing the UPS postal box as his residential address. The postal box still was listed as his residential address when he cast a mailed-in ballot that included a Topeka City Council race in November.The congressman and his staff have said he inadvertently listed his mailing address instead of his residential address by mistake. He later corrected his address to an apartment, but it is not the same City Council district as the UPS store.

Kansas congressman's colleague backs GOP foe after charges

RENO COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon following an investigation into an alleged violent altercation.&nbsp;

On Thursday, a subject alleged 40-year-old Billy Joe Greene of Hutchinson struck the victim in the face causing a laceration, according to a media release from the Reno County Sheriff.

The injury sustained required medical attention. The victim received several stitches and may require corrective surgery.&nbsp;

Detectives from the Reno County Sheriff’s Office arrested Greene on requested charges of Kidnapping and Aggravated Battery. 

Greene has a previous conviction for Driving Suspended 3rd or subsequent conviction, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594982039500.png" alt="Greene photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Greene photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon following an investigation into an alleged violent altercation.&nbsp;On Thursday, a subject alleged 40-year-old Billy Joe Greene of Hutchinson struck the victim in the face causing a laceration, according to a media release from the Reno County Sheriff.The injury sustained required medical attention. The victim received several stitches and may require corrective surgery.&nbsp;Detectives from the Reno County Sheriff’s Office arrested Greene on requested charges of Kidnapping and Aggravated Battery. Greene has a previous conviction for Driving Suspended 3rd or subsequent conviction, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Deputies arrest Kansas felon after alleged violent attack

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a series of crimes this week in Topeka. Police Bill Cochran is asking the public for help.

“Just this week our community has lost three lives due to gun violence and others have been seriously injured. One of the lives lost was a 13-year-old girl. We as a community must come together and take a stand against this violence. We cannot allow this to happen in Topeka"

Just after 8p.m. Monday, police were dispatched to a report of a shooting in the 1100 block of SW Clay in Topeka, according to Lt. Kelvin Johnson.

 Officers located two victims with apparent gunshot wounds. One victim had non-life threatening injuries and 66-year-old Harry T. Jenkins was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;

Just before 2a.m. Tuesday,&nbsp; police responded to another shooting in the 500 Block of SW 5th Street and found two victims identified as Crystal D. Andrews, 37, and Mercedes M. Holford, 13, both of Topeka with gunshot wounds dead inside a home, according to Johnson.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Just before 6:30 a.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to the 600 block of SW Taylor Street on a report of another shooting.

Upon arrival, officers located one adult male suffering from life-threatening injuries believed to be associated with the shooting.

Late Thursday, police had not announced arrests in these cases.

"The Topeka Police Department’s priority is to thoroughly investigate these crimes and find the persons responsible, but we know we can’t do it alone," said Cochran. 

"If you have any information about these crimes, please say something. You can remain anonymous through Crime Stoppers by calling 785-234-0007.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594724946557.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation on SW Clay in Topeka Monday evening -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation on SW Clay in Topeka Monday evening -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a series of crimes this week in Topeka. Police Bill Cochran is asking the public for help.“Just this week our community has lost three lives due to gun violence and others have been seriously injured. One of the lives lost was a 13-year-old girl. We as a community must come together and take a stand against this violence. We cannot allow this to happen in Topeka"Just after 8p.m. Monday, police were dispatched to a report of a shooting in the 1100 block of SW Clay in Topeka, according to Lt. Kelvin Johnson. Officers located two victims with apparent gunshot wounds. One victim had non-life threatening injuries and 66-year-old Harry T. Jenkins was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;Just before 2a.m. Tuesday,&nbsp; police responded to another shooting in the 500 Block of SW 5th Street and found two victims identified as Crystal D. Andrews, 37, and Mercedes M. Holford, 13, both of Topeka with gunshot wounds dead inside a home, according to Johnson.&nbsp;&nbsp;Just before 6:30 a.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to the 600 block of SW Taylor Street on a report of another shooting.Upon arrival, officers located one adult male suffering from life-threatening injuries believed to be associated with the shooting.Late Thursday, police had not announced arrests in these cases."The Topeka Police Department’s priority is to thoroughly investigate these crimes and find the persons responsible, but we know we can’t do it alone," said Cochran. "If you have any information about these crimes, please say something. You can remain anonymous through Crime Stoppers by calling 785-234-0007.”&nbsp;

Police Chief comments on series of violent crimes in Topeka

KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Kansas priest who pleaded guilty to possessing child pornography was sentenced Wednesday to 37 months in federal prison, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.

The defendant also was ordered to pay $5,000 under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act.

In his plea,&nbsp;Christopher Rossman, 47, who formerly served at the Annunciation Catholic Church in Baldwin City, Kan., admitted that investigators found child pornography on his Samsung Galaxy tablet. 

The crime occurred in September 2016 when monitoring software installed on Rossman’s computer devices reported he had visited adult pornography and child pornography websites. The archdiocese forwarded the report to law enforcement.

When investigators tried to find Rossman in Baldwin City, they learned that his sister had taken possession of the Galaxy tablet and tried to run over it a number of times. 

A forensics examination found files on the device depicting prepubescent females engaged in sexual activities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594837983453.png" alt="Rossman-photo KBI offender registry" />
 <figcaption>Rossman-photo KBI offender registry</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Kansas priest who pleaded guilty to possessing child pornography was sentenced Wednesday to 37 months in federal prison, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.The defendant also was ordered to pay $5,000 under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act.In his plea,&nbsp;Christopher Rossman, 47, who formerly served at the Annunciation Catholic Church in Baldwin City, Kan., admitted that investigators found child pornography on his Samsung Galaxy tablet. The crime occurred in September 2016 when monitoring software installed on Rossman’s computer devices reported he had visited adult pornography and child pornography websites. The archdiocese forwarded the report to law enforcement.When investigators tried to find Rossman in Baldwin City, they learned that his sister had taken possession of the Galaxy tablet and tried to run over it a number of times. A forensics examination found files on the device depicting prepubescent females engaged in sexual activities.

Kansas priest registers as sex offender, is sentenced to prison

JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on drug distribution charges.

Just before noon Tuesday, sheriff's deputies&nbsp;served a search warrant on a home at 15464 150th Road in rural Mayetta following an ongoing investigation into the distribution of marijuana, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

&nbsp;Deputies seized U.S. currency and marijuana from the residence and arrested 57-year-old Terry Lynn Fox.

He was booked on requested charges of distribution of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, using a communication facility; in the commission of a felony drug violation and no drug tax stamp.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594896232996.png" alt="Fox photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Fox photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on drug distribution charges.Just before noon Tuesday, sheriff's deputies&nbsp;served a search warrant on a home at 15464 150th Road in rural Mayetta following an ongoing investigation into the distribution of marijuana, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.&nbsp;Deputies seized U.S. currency and marijuana from the residence and arrested 57-year-old Terry Lynn Fox.He was booked on requested charges of distribution of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, using a communication facility; in the commission of a felony drug violation and no drug tax stamp.

Deputies seize cash, marijuana following Kan. drug investigation

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Wichita State University’s technical school has embraced a national program the president’s daughter has touted telling workers who lost jobs because of the pandemic to “Find Something New.” The move comes a month after cancelling a speech by Ivanka Trump.

The university’s tech school president, Sheree Utash, serves on a White House panel seeking to promote technical and job training opportunities. 

Utash spoke to the Sedgwick County Commission Wednesday about the new national ad campaign. She says the school is involved in the campaign and is highlighted as one of the institutions within it. the institutions within it.

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Wichita State University’s technical school has embraced a national program the president’s daughter has touted telling workers who lost jobs because of the pandemic to “Find Something New.” The move comes a month after cancelling a speech by Ivanka Trump.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Jobs are changing — and the Covid-19 has accelerated the pace. Today we are launching <a href="https://t.co/dRZMdZyON4">https://t.co/dRZMdZyON4</a> a website that highlights edu pathways, info about rising careers, a directory of services like childcare, food assistance and Internet access. <a href="https://t.co/PKtGBcSWGc">https://t.co/PKtGBcSWGc</a>&mdash; Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/IvankaTrump/status/1283037272468750340?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The university’s tech school president, Sheree Utash, serves on a White House panel seeking to promote technical and job training opportunities. Utash spoke to the Sedgwick County Commission Wednesday about the new national ad campaign. She says the school is involved in the campaign and is highlighted as one of the institutions within it. the institutions within it.

Kansas school embraces Ivanka Trump ad campaign

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an injury accident and asking the public for help locating 20-year-old Aubriana Wilburn of Wichita.

&nbsp;Wilburn is wanted on charges of attempted murder, aggravated battery, and an outstanding warrant, according to officer Charley Davidson.

Just before 1p.m. Monday, June 22, officers responded to an injury accident in the 1600 block of South Glendale in Wichita, according to Davidson. 

At the scene, officers contacted a 33-year-old male victim with serious injures. He was transported to an area hospital for medical treatmentand remains hospitalized.

An investigation revealed Wilburn was driving a 2003 Ford Focus and was backing out of a parking stall at a business at Harry and Oliver in Wichita. The victim was walking through the parking lot of the business and was almost struck by the vehicle. 

A disturbance then ensued between the victim, Wilburn and a passenger inside of the Focus.

During the disturbance, Wilburn intentionally drove the car toward the victim, striking him, and dragging him approximately 1 ½ blocks, before fleeing from the scene. 

Investigators learned of Wilburn's involvement through the investigation.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594913436560.png" alt="Wilburn photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Wilburn photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an injury accident and asking the public for help locating 20-year-old Aubriana Wilburn of Wichita.&nbsp;Wilburn is wanted on charges of attempted murder, aggravated battery, and an outstanding warrant, according to officer Charley Davidson.Just before 1p.m. Monday, June 22, officers responded to an injury accident in the 1600 block of South Glendale in Wichita, according to Davidson. At the scene, officers contacted a 33-year-old male victim with serious injures. He was transported to an area hospital for medical treatmentand remains hospitalized.An investigation revealed Wilburn was driving a 2003 Ford Focus and was backing out of a parking stall at a business at Harry and Oliver in Wichita. The victim was walking through the parking lot of the business and was almost struck by the vehicle. A disturbance then ensued between the victim, Wilburn and a passenger inside of the Focus.During the disturbance, Wilburn intentionally drove the car toward the victim, striking him, and dragging him approximately 1 ½ blocks, before fleeing from the scene. Investigators learned of Wilburn's involvement through the investigation.The case has been presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's Office.

Kan. woman faces attempted-murder charge for dragging man with car

<a href="https://www.kcur.org/health/2020-04-14/updated-regularly-what-kansans-need-to-know-about-the-covid-19-coronavirus">Kansas News Service</a>

The latest coronavirus case numbers and other Kansas-specific information about the outbreak.

The Kansas News Service is boiling down key coronavirus-related developments in the state. To read this information in Spanish, <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/en-constante-actualizaci-n-lo-que-los-ciudadanos-de-kansas-deben-saber-sobre-el-coronavirus#stream/0" target="_blank">go here</a>.

This list was last updated at 1:30 p.m. July 16.

NOTE:
 KNS will update these figures Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The tallies
 include both confirmed and probable cases ("confirmed" being people who
 test positive for the virus, while probable is people with COVID-19 
symptoms and direct exposure to confirmed cases or people who have 
tested positive on antibody tests and have symptoms or direct exposure 
to confirmed cases). View additional charts showing the disease’s spread
 over time and other trends <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas" target="_blank">here</a>.

The rate of testing in Kansas started 
slow, but in June state health officials said capacity had improved and 
Kansas could now test at least 2% of its population per month.

Kansans
 who aren’t very sick or don't have any symptoms and don’t work certain 
essential jobs may still have trouble getting tested. Hospitals and 
clinics want more rapid testing platforms and kits.

Under a new federal law, you should not have to pay for your coronavirus test, regardless of insurance status (but patients <a href="https://khn.org/news/bill-of-the-month-covid19-tests-are-free-except-when-theyre-not/" target="_blank">could still see related bills</a>).

Public and private universities and community colleges in the state finished the spring semester online. Big schools will <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/how-go-back-college-pandemic-face-masks-social-distancing-and-shorter-semesters" target="_blank">come back in the fall</a>,
 but with dramatically different schedules. The University of Kansas is 
mandating face masks and plans to test every student, staff member and 
instructor. Haskell Indian Nations University will go <a href="https://www2.ljworld.com/news/general-news/2020/jun/25/haskell-students-will-not-return-this-fall-all-classes-to-be-held-online/" target="_blank">online only</a>.

In mid-March, Kansas became <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-becomes-first-state-end-person-classes-year#stream/0" target="_blank">the first state</a> in the U.S. to shut down school buildings for the rest of the 2019-20 school year, moving all learning online.

As the 2020-21 school year approaches, the state Board of Education has <a href="https://www.kcur.org/education/2020-07-14/expect-to-see-more-masks-and-occasional-closures-as-kansas-reopens-schools" target="_blank">issued guidelines</a> for reopening. And the governor is looking to push back the <a href="https://www.kcur.org/education/2020-07-15/kansas-gov-kelly-pushes-for-schools-to-open-after-labor-day-to-slow-coronavirus-spread" target="_blank">in-person start date until after Labor Day</a>.

The
 Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is mandating home 
quarantine for 14 days if you've traveled to the places listed <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/175/Travel-Exposure-Related-Isolation-Quaran" target="_blank">at this website</a>.
 If you come down with symptoms (such as a fever of 100.4 degrees or 
higher, coughing or shortness of breath) during those 14 days, contact 
your health care provider and explain your potential COVID-19 exposure.

People
 who need to continue to quarantine include those told by public health 
officials to do so because of known exposure to the virus.

Some 
doctors recommend patients with COVID-19 symptoms stay home even if they
 test negative for the disease, because some studies point to 
significant risk for <a href="https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/06/200610094112.htm" target="_blank">false negatives</a>.

Since
 July 3, anyone in Kansas is supposed to wear a mask in public places or
 in outdoor public situations where you cannot socially distance. But a<a href="https://www.kansas.com/news/politics-government/article244091222.html" target="_blank"> majority of counties</a> opted out of Kelly’s executive order.

<a href="https://www.kcur.org/2020-07-02/heres-what-you-need-to-know-about-the-new-mask-mandate-in-kansas" target="_blank">The rule</a> has a few exceptions:

COVID-19
 usually causes mild to moderate symptoms, like a fever or cough. Most 
people with mild symptoms recover in two weeks. More severe cases, which
 are more common in, but not limited to, older adults and people with 
health issues, can have up to six weeks’ recovery time or can lead to 
death.

Kansas Department of Health and Environment: <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/" target="_blank">http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/</a>

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594928370440.png" alt=" Celia Llopis-Jepsen / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption> Celia Llopis-Jepsen / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.kcur.org/health/2020-04-14/updated-regularly-what-kansans-need-to-know-about-the-covid-19-coronavirus">Kansas News Service</a><h2>The latest coronavirus case numbers and other Kansas-specific information about the outbreak.</h2>The Kansas News Service is boiling down key coronavirus-related developments in the state. To read this information in Spanish, <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/en-constante-actualizaci-n-lo-que-los-ciudadanos-de-kansas-deben-saber-sobre-el-coronavirus#stream/0" target="_blank">go here</a>. This list was last updated at 1:30 p.m. July 16. <h2>CASES AND DEATHS</h2>20,933 cases (see map for counties) 1,393 hospitalizations299 deathsNOTE:
 KNS will update these figures Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The tallies
 include both confirmed and probable cases ("confirmed" being people who
 test positive for the virus, while probable is people with COVID-19 
symptoms and direct exposure to confirmed cases or people who have 
tested positive on antibody tests and have symptoms or direct exposure 
to confirmed cases). View additional charts showing the disease’s spread
 over time and other trends <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas" target="_blank">here</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594928432056.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>TESTING AVAILABILITY</h2>The rate of testing in Kansas started 
slow, but in June state health officials said capacity had improved and 
Kansas could now test at least 2% of its population per month.Kansans
 who aren’t very sick or don't have any symptoms and don’t work certain 
essential jobs may still have trouble getting tested. Hospitals and 
clinics want more rapid testing platforms and kits.Under a new federal law, you should not have to pay for your coronavirus test, regardless of insurance status (but patients <a href="https://khn.org/news/bill-of-the-month-covid19-tests-are-free-except-when-theyre-not/" target="_blank">could still see related bills</a>).<h2>HOW ARE UNIVERSITIES RESPONDING?</h2>Public and private universities and community colleges in the state finished the spring semester online. Big schools will <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/how-go-back-college-pandemic-face-masks-social-distancing-and-shorter-semesters" target="_blank">come back in the fall</a>,
 but with dramatically different schedules. The University of Kansas is 
mandating face masks and plans to test every student, staff member and 
instructor. Haskell Indian Nations University will go <a href="https://www2.ljworld.com/news/general-news/2020/jun/25/haskell-students-will-not-return-this-fall-all-classes-to-be-held-online/" target="_blank">online only</a>.<h2>HOW ABOUT K-12 SCHOOLS?</h2>In mid-March, Kansas became <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-becomes-first-state-end-person-classes-year#stream/0" target="_blank">the first state</a> in the U.S. to shut down school buildings for the rest of the 2019-20 school year, moving all learning online.As the 2020-21 school year approaches, the state Board of Education has <a href="https://www.kcur.org/education/2020-07-14/expect-to-see-more-masks-and-occasional-closures-as-kansas-reopens-schools" target="_blank">issued guidelines</a> for reopening. And the governor is looking to push back the <a href="https://www.kcur.org/education/2020-07-15/kansas-gov-kelly-pushes-for-schools-to-open-after-labor-day-to-slow-coronavirus-spread" target="_blank">in-person start date until after Labor Day</a>.<h2>SHOULD I SELF-QUARANTINE? </h2>The
 Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is mandating home 
quarantine for 14 days if you've traveled to the places listed <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/175/Travel-Exposure-Related-Isolation-Quaran" target="_blank">at this website</a>.
 If you come down with symptoms (such as a fever of 100.4 degrees or 
higher, coughing or shortness of breath) during those 14 days, contact 
your health care provider and explain your potential COVID-19 exposure.People
 who need to continue to quarantine include those told by public health 
officials to do so because of known exposure to the virus.Some 
doctors recommend patients with COVID-19 symptoms stay home even if they
 test negative for the disease, because some studies point to 
significant risk for <a href="https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/06/200610094112.htm" target="_blank">false negatives</a>.<h2>DO I NEED TO WEAR A MASK?</h2>Since
 July 3, anyone in Kansas is supposed to wear a mask in public places or
 in outdoor public situations where you cannot socially distance. But a<a href="https://www.kansas.com/news/politics-government/article244091222.html" target="_blank"> majority of counties</a> opted out of Kelly’s executive order.<a href="https://www.kcur.org/2020-07-02/heres-what-you-need-to-know-about-the-new-mask-mandate-in-kansas" target="_blank">The rule</a> has a few exceptions:<ul>
 <li>If you’re at a restaurant, you can take off your mask to eat, but still need to sit six feet away from other tables.</li><li>Athletes in training don’t need masks, but the six-foot rule still applies.</li><li>Adults with medical conditions, disabilities or mental health issues that make it hard to wear a mask don’t have to.</li><li>Neither do kids who are 5 or younger.</li>
 </ul><h2>HOW BAD IS THE VIRUS?</h2>COVID-19
 usually causes mild to moderate symptoms, like a fever or cough. Most 
people with mild symptoms recover in two weeks. More severe cases, which
 are more common in, but not limited to, older adults and people with 
health issues, can have up to six weeks’ recovery time or can lead to 
death.<h2>HOW CAN YOU AVOID IT?</h2><ul>
 <li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IisgnbMfKvI" target="_blank">Wash your hands</a> for at least 20 seconds. Frequently.</li><li>Cover your coughs.</li><li>Wear a mask in situations where social distancing isn’t possible; instructions for sewn and non-sewn versions are <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</li><li>If you’re an older Kansan or medically fragile, limit your trips to the grocery store or any public space.</li><li>Stay home if you are sick — this goes for all ages.</li>
 </ul><h2>FOR MORE INFORMATION ON COVID-19</h2>Kansas Department of Health and Environment: <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/" target="_blank">http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/</a>The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html</a>

UPDATED: What Kansans need to know about COVID-19

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Four U.S. lawmakers are calling on Attorney General William Barr to block the early release of a former Missouri pharmacist who pleaded guilty in a scheme to dilute tens of thousands of prescriptions for seriously ill patients to boost profits.

U.S. Sens. Roy Blunt and Josh Hawley, along with U.S. Reps Emanuel Cleaver and Sam Graves, said in a letter Thursday that they “strongly disagree" with freeing Robert Courtney&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e61b99f70c4610abe3d8f589f9a457cf">seven years</a>&nbsp;early because of the coronavirus pandemic.

“Courtney’s crimes are heinous," they wrote. “He acted without consideration for the theft of his victims’ health and quality of life, and his actions can be described as no less than purposefully evil."

Courtney, a 67-year-old former pharmacist in Kansas City whose own health is now failing, was sentenced to 30 years in prison in December 2002 and projected to be released in May 2027.

The Bureau of Prisons said it doesn’t discuss release plans for specific inmates. But Michael Ketchmark, an attorney whose office was involved in more than 275 wrongful death lawsuits against Courtney, told The Kansas City Star that he was informed that Courtney could be released as early as this week to a halfway house and then to home confinement.

By DAN MARGOLIES <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-07-13/kansas-city-pharmacist-who-diluted-cancer-meds-is-getting-out-of-prison-early">Kansas News Service</a>

Robert Courtney, the Kansas City pharmacist whose drug dilution 
scheme drew national headlines 19 years ago, is being released from 
prison seven years early.

In a letter last week, the U.S. Justice 
Department informed some of Courtney’s victims and members of their 
families that Courtney will be moved to a halfway house this week and 
then to home confinement in Trimble, Missouri.

The letter said 
that Courtney, 67, had been found eligible for home confinement due to 
the COVID-19 pandemic. Attorney General William Barr instructed the 
Federal Bureau of Prisons to release inmates who are “at a minimal risk 
of recidivating.”

Courtney, whose pharmacy was located in Research
 Hospital in Kansas City, was sentenced in 2002 after pleading guilty to
 diluting medications for cancer patients and other seriously ill people
 and pocketing the resulting profits. He had been serving a 30-year 
prison sentence in the Federal Correctional Institution in Englewood, 
Colorado, a low-security prison for male inmates. He was due to be 
released in 2027.

People who learned of his imminent release said they were appalled.

Kelly
 Ann Allen, whose grandmother was treated with cancer drugs mixed by 
Courtney and died in 2000, said she had people whose parents were 
victims of Courtney’s scheme reach out to her this week.

“I lost 
my grandma when I was a teenager and that, of course, was difficult,” 
Allen said. “It’s hard to go from thinking an illness took your family 
member to thinking that greed and murder took your family member.”

Michael
 Ketchmark, a Leawood, Kansas, attorney who helped negotiate legal 
settlements on behalf of Courtney’s victims, said he couldn’t imagine 
the pain they were feeling.

“My heart goes out to all of Robert 
Courtney’s victims, the thousands of lives that he impacted. The pain 
that they must be feeling on hearing this is unimaginable.”

Gene 
Porter, a now-retired assistant U.S. attorney who prosecuted Courtney, 
said he disagreed with the decision to release him from prison. 

"I
 can no longer speak on behalf of the WDMO USAO [U.S. Attorney's Office 
for the Western District of Missouri] and can only speak as a private 
citizen," Porter said in an email. "In that capacity I can say this was 
an unfortunate and misguided decision. Robert Courtney should not have 
been released early and should have served the full 30 year sentence 
justly imposed by the district court."

FBI and Food and Drug 
Administration agents began an investigation in the summer of 2001 after
 Kansas City oncologist Verda Hunter notified them that a salesman from 
drugmaker Eli Lilly and Co. had told her Courtney was dispensing far 
more of the cancer medication Gemzar than he was purchasing.

Agents
 set up a sting operation to buy drugs from Courtney, who mixed cancer 
drugs for Hunter, and discovered that the drugs were far less potent 
than Hunter had ordered. One sample contained less than 1 percent of the
 prescribed amount.

Authorities said the scheme lasted for a 
decade and affected as many as 4,200 patients and 98,000 prescriptions 
for cancer medications and a variety of other drugs.

Hundred of 
his victims and their families sued Courtney and the makers of two of 
the cancer drugs Courtney diluted, claiming the companies knew or should
 have known of Courtney’s scheme through their detailed sales records.

The
 drug companies, Eli Lilly and Co. and Bristol-Myers Squibb Co., 
eventually entered into a confidential settlement with the plaintiffs, 
later revealed to total about $71 million. The company that insured 
Courtney and his two pharmacies agreed to pay an additional $35 million.

The
 settlements came after a Jackson County jury in October 2002 ordered 
Courtney to pay Georgia Hayes, an ovarian cancer patient, $225 million 
in compensatory damages and $2 billion in punitive damages. The judge 
later reduced the amounts to $30.1 million and $300 million, 
respectively.

The Hayes case was the only one to go to trial. The 
judgment was largely symbolic because Courtney had already agreed to 
forfeit his assets to the government. But the bellwether case was a 
major factor in persuading the drug company defendants to settle.

In
 handing down a maximum 30-year sentence in December 2002, U.S. District
 Judge Ortrie Smith told Courtney: “Your crimes are a shock to the 
conscience of a nation, the conscience of a community and the conscience
 of this court.”

In a statement before his sentencing, Courtney 
apologized to his victims and his family: “From this moment, and for a 
long time to come, I will be agonizing over what I have done,” he said. 
“My hope is that ... everyone knows that I apologize. And I'm sorry. For
 the rest of my life, any good that I can do, any kindness that I can 
show, I'll do.”

Dan Margolies is senior reporter and editor at KCUR. He can be reached by email at dan@kcur.org or on Twitter @DanMargolies.&nbsp;

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Four U.S. lawmakers are calling on Attorney General William Barr to block the early release of a former Missouri pharmacist who pleaded guilty in a scheme to dilute tens of thousands of prescriptions for seriously ill patients to boost profits.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Department of Justice informed me this morning that they will NOT release Courtney from imprisonment. That’s the right call. COVID-19 should not be an opportunity at jailbreak for violent offenders <a href="https://t.co/MPu9REMeZ6">https://t.co/MPu9REMeZ6</a>&mdash; Josh Hawley (@HawleyMO) <a href="https://twitter.com/HawleyMO/status/1283818923725594625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>U.S. Sens. Roy Blunt and Josh Hawley, along with U.S. Reps Emanuel Cleaver and Sam Graves, said in a letter Thursday that they “strongly disagree" with freeing Robert Courtney&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e61b99f70c4610abe3d8f589f9a457cf">seven years</a>&nbsp;early because of the coronavirus pandemic.“Courtney’s crimes are heinous," they wrote. “He acted without consideration for the theft of his victims’ health and quality of life, and his actions can be described as no less than purposefully evil."Courtney, a 67-year-old former pharmacist in Kansas City whose own health is now failing, was sentenced to 30 years in prison in December 2002 and projected to be released in May 2027.The Bureau of Prisons said it doesn’t discuss release plans for specific inmates. But Michael Ketchmark, an attorney whose office was involved in more than 275 wrongful death lawsuits against Courtney, told The Kansas City Star that he was informed that Courtney could be released as early as this week to a halfway house and then to home confinement.----------------By DAN MARGOLIES <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-07-13/kansas-city-pharmacist-who-diluted-cancer-meds-is-getting-out-of-prison-early">Kansas News Service</a>Robert Courtney, the Kansas City pharmacist whose drug dilution 
scheme drew national headlines 19 years ago, is being released from 
prison seven years early.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594735016860.png" alt="Robert Courtney's pharmacy was located on the ground floor of Research Medical Center on East Meyer Boulevard. Dan Margolies / KCUR " />
 <figcaption>Robert Courtney's pharmacy was located on the ground floor of Research Medical Center on East Meyer Boulevard. Dan Margolies / KCUR </figcaption>
 </figure>In a letter last week, the U.S. Justice 
Department informed some of Courtney’s victims and members of their 
families that Courtney will be moved to a halfway house this week and 
then to home confinement in Trimble, Missouri.The letter said 
that Courtney, 67, had been found eligible for home confinement due to 
the COVID-19 pandemic. Attorney General William Barr instructed the 
Federal Bureau of Prisons to release inmates who are “at a minimal risk 
of recidivating.”Courtney, whose pharmacy was located in Research
 Hospital in Kansas City, was sentenced in 2002 after pleading guilty to
 diluting medications for cancer patients and other seriously ill people
 and pocketing the resulting profits. He had been serving a 30-year 
prison sentence in the Federal Correctional Institution in Englewood, 
Colorado, a low-security prison for male inmates. He was due to be 
released in 2027.People who learned of his imminent release said they were appalled.Kelly
 Ann Allen, whose grandmother was treated with cancer drugs mixed by 
Courtney and died in 2000, said she had people whose parents were 
victims of Courtney’s scheme reach out to her this week.“I lost 
my grandma when I was a teenager and that, of course, was difficult,” 
Allen said. “It’s hard to go from thinking an illness took your family 
member to thinking that greed and murder took your family member.”Michael
 Ketchmark, a Leawood, Kansas, attorney who helped negotiate legal 
settlements on behalf of Courtney’s victims, said he couldn’t imagine 
the pain they were feeling.“My heart goes out to all of Robert 
Courtney’s victims, the thousands of lives that he impacted. The pain 
that they must be feeling on hearing this is unimaginable.”Gene 
Porter, a now-retired assistant U.S. attorney who prosecuted Courtney, 
said he disagreed with the decision to release him from prison. "I
 can no longer speak on behalf of the WDMO USAO [U.S. Attorney's Office 
for the Western District of Missouri] and can only speak as a private 
citizen," Porter said in an email. "In that capacity I can say this was 
an unfortunate and misguided decision. Robert Courtney should not have 
been released early and should have served the full 30 year sentence 
justly imposed by the district court."FBI and Food and Drug 
Administration agents began an investigation in the summer of 2001 after
 Kansas City oncologist Verda Hunter notified them that a salesman from 
drugmaker Eli Lilly and Co. had told her Courtney was dispensing far 
more of the cancer medication Gemzar than he was purchasing.Agents
 set up a sting operation to buy drugs from Courtney, who mixed cancer 
drugs for Hunter, and discovered that the drugs were far less potent 
than Hunter had ordered. One sample contained less than 1 percent of the
 prescribed amount.Authorities said the scheme lasted for a 
decade and affected as many as 4,200 patients and 98,000 prescriptions 
for cancer medications and a variety of other drugs.Hundred of 
his victims and their families sued Courtney and the makers of two of 
the cancer drugs Courtney diluted, claiming the companies knew or should
 have known of Courtney’s scheme through their detailed sales records.The
 drug companies, Eli Lilly and Co. and Bristol-Myers Squibb Co., 
eventually entered into a confidential settlement with the plaintiffs, 
later revealed to total about $71 million. The company that insured 
Courtney and his two pharmacies agreed to pay an additional $35 million.The
 settlements came after a Jackson County jury in October 2002 ordered 
Courtney to pay Georgia Hayes, an ovarian cancer patient, $225 million 
in compensatory damages and $2 billion in punitive damages. The judge 
later reduced the amounts to $30.1 million and $300 million, 
respectively.The Hayes case was the only one to go to trial. The 
judgment was largely symbolic because Courtney had already agreed to 
forfeit his assets to the government. But the bellwether case was a 
major factor in persuading the drug company defendants to settle.In
 handing down a maximum 30-year sentence in December 2002, U.S. District
 Judge Ortrie Smith told Courtney: “Your crimes are a shock to the 
conscience of a nation, the conscience of a community and the conscience
 of this court.”In a statement before his sentencing, Courtney 
apologized to his victims and his family: “From this moment, and for a 
long time to come, I will be agonizing over what I have done,” he said. 
“My hope is that ... everyone knows that I apologize. And I'm sorry. For
 the rest of my life, any good that I can do, any kindness that I can 
show, I'll do.”Dan Margolies is senior reporter and editor at KCUR. He can be reached by email at dan@kcur.org or on Twitter @DanMargolies.&nbsp;

Senator: Pharmacist who diluted cancer meds not getting out of prison early

BARTON COUNTY —When Governor Laura Kelly announced her statewide mask order in early July, more than 90 of the state’s 105 counties opted out of the mandate thanks to a new state law that allowed local leaders to follow or discard Kelly’s pandemic-related executive orders. 

Law enforcement agencies including the Barton County Sheriff's Office said the mandate was unenforceable since it was a civil issue and not a criminal issue.

But now that both retail giants Walmart and Kroger and have announced new mask requirements that begin next week, Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir says that has changed the scenario for law enforcement.

“If you go into one of these businesses and they ask you to wear a mask and you say no and they tell you that you cannot come in, that is their right,” Bellendir says. “If you are told to leave and don't, then you have crossed into the criminal world of criminal trespass. Then you will have a problem with law enforcement.”

Bellendir has heard plenty from both sides of the mask issue, an issue that won't be going away anytime soon.

“This who mask issue has become politicized on both sides of the aisle,” Bellindir added. “It has become confusing because both sides are using the same data to make their arguments. It's going to be a balancing act for the next several months.”

Walmart's mask requirement begins on Monday July 20 while shoppers at Kroger stores nationwide that includes Dillons stores in the midwest begins next Wednesday July 22

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594924172631.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY —When Governor Laura Kelly announced her statewide mask order in early July, more than 90 of the state’s 105 counties opted out of the mandate thanks to a new state law that allowed local leaders to follow or discard Kelly’s pandemic-related executive orders. Law enforcement agencies including the Barton County Sheriff's Office said the mandate was unenforceable since it was a civil issue and not a criminal issue.But now that both retail giants Walmart and Kroger and have announced new mask requirements that begin next week, Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir says that has changed the scenario for law enforcement.“If you go into one of these businesses and they ask you to wear a mask and you say no and they tell you that you cannot come in, that is their right,” Bellendir says. “If you are told to leave and don't, then you have crossed into the criminal world of criminal trespass. Then you will have a problem with law enforcement.”Bellendir has heard plenty from both sides of the mask issue, an issue that won't be going away anytime soon.“This who mask issue has become politicized on both sides of the aisle,” Bellindir added. “It has become confusing because both sides are using the same data to make their arguments. It's going to be a balancing act for the next several months.”Walmart's mask requirement begins on Monday July 20 while shoppers at Kroger stores nationwide that includes Dillons stores in the midwest begins next Wednesday July 22

Sheriff: Defying mask order at Kan. business could land you in jail

GRETNA, La. (AP) — An appeals court has granted the killer of NFL running back Joe McKnight a new trial because his manslaughter conviction was delivered by a split jury.

Ronald Gasser's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/5d092e43f54147c3924e19d868862a66/Man-gets-30-years-for-road-rage-killing-of-ex-NFL-player">30-year sentence</a>&nbsp;and manslaughter conviction were vacated Wednesday by the Louisiana 5th Circuit Court of Appeal, news outlets reported.

The panel's decision comes after the U.S. Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a4f065037299491913827b7d8eda9023">outlawed</a>&nbsp;split-jury verdicts in April. The ruling was retroactive for all cases with convictions currently under appeal.

Gasser&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a292a23d5dc641b2a112cbc442a40719">was convicted</a>&nbsp;of manslaughter by a 10-2 vote in 2018. He had been tried for second-degree murder, but most of the jurors settled on the lesser charge.

Gasser fatally shot McKnight on Dec. 1, 2016 after a 5-mile chase over a bridge led to an altercation.

Witnesses at the trial said McKnight had been weaving in and out of traffic at high speed before the shooting. Prosecutors acknowledged to the jury that he was, in the words of Assistant District Attorney Seth Shute, “driving like a jerk.” But they argued that Gasser escalated the conflict, following him down an exit that he would not ordinarily have taken moments prior to the shooting.

Gasser said he was defending himself because McKnight lunged into his car. The prosecutor said physical evidence proved Gasser lied.

Gasser's attorney, Dane Ciolino, praised the decision. Ciolino said Gasser would remain in custody until a bond hearing could be scheduled.

McKnight had been a high school football hero at Louisiana’s John Curtis Christian School. He signed with the University of Southern California in 2006. In the NFL, the running back played three seasons for the New York Jets and briefly in 2014 with the Kansas City Chiefs.

GRETNA, La. (AP) — An appeals court has granted the killer of NFL running back Joe McKnight a new trial because his manslaughter conviction was delivered by a split jury.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594910560020.png" alt="Gasser photo Jefferson Parrish Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Gasser photo Jefferson Parrish Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>Ronald Gasser's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/5d092e43f54147c3924e19d868862a66/Man-gets-30-years-for-road-rage-killing-of-ex-NFL-player">30-year sentence</a>&nbsp;and manslaughter conviction were vacated Wednesday by the Louisiana 5th Circuit Court of Appeal, news outlets reported.The panel's decision comes after the U.S. Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a4f065037299491913827b7d8eda9023">outlawed</a>&nbsp;split-jury verdicts in April. The ruling was retroactive for all cases with convictions currently under appeal.Gasser&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a292a23d5dc641b2a112cbc442a40719">was convicted</a>&nbsp;of manslaughter by a 10-2 vote in 2018. He had been tried for second-degree murder, but most of the jurors settled on the lesser charge.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594918451537.png" alt="Deputies at the scene of Gasser's arrest in 2016 photo courtesy WWL-TV" />
 <figcaption>Deputies at the scene of Gasser's arrest in 2016 photo courtesy WWL-TV</figcaption>
 </figure>Gasser fatally shot McKnight on Dec. 1, 2016 after a 5-mile chase over a bridge led to an altercation.Witnesses at the trial said McKnight had been weaving in and out of traffic at high speed before the shooting. Prosecutors acknowledged to the jury that he was, in the words of Assistant District Attorney Seth Shute, “driving like a jerk.” But they argued that Gasser escalated the conflict, following him down an exit that he would not ordinarily have taken moments prior to the shooting.Gasser said he was defending himself because McKnight lunged into his car. The prosecutor said physical evidence proved Gasser lied.Gasser's attorney, Dane Ciolino, praised the decision. Ciolino said Gasser would remain in custody until a bond hearing could be scheduled.McKnight had been a high school football hero at Louisiana’s John Curtis Christian School. He signed with the University of Southern California in 2006. In the NFL, the running back played three seasons for the New York Jets and briefly in 2014 with the Kansas City Chiefs.

Court drops split-jury verdict in killing of former KC Chief

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Due to the cancellation of the 2020 Kansas State Fair and lack of anticipated revenue, Robin Jennison, the fair’s general manager, announced he is stepping down.

Jennison sent his resignation to the board Tuesday, stating it was an effort to help keep the jobs of full-time employees who work all year to make the fair an annual tradition. The fair board voted unanimously Monday to cancel the 2020 fair, scheduled for Sept. 11-20.

“The impact that COVID-19 has had and will continue to have on the Kansas State Fair will be significant,” Jennison said in the letter. “It is my intent that — in serving as the first casualty — it hopefully will lessen the impact on our other employees.”

“It will be a welcome surprise if the fair is able to weather this storm without some furloughs or even a reduction in workforce,” Jennison added. “Having the highest-placed administrator surviving while frontline essential employees bear the brunt is something I will not do.”

The Kansas State Fair is a fee-funded state agency. The fair survives on what it makes from each fair, which includes gate admission, grandstand entertainment, food and beverage sales and vendor fees, plus RV park rentals and non-fair events.

In a letter to the Kansas Division of Budget, Jennison noted the fair’s situation and reminded them the state still owes the fair its statutory share to the State Fair Capital Improvement Fund.

The Kansas Legislature was required to match what the fair put into the fund — up to $300,000 each year — to help with building upkeep and improvements. However, those transfers were not made regularly, or on occasion, adequately, for several years — leaving the fair at a more than $1.8 million shortfall to the account.

Subsequently, legislation passed in 2018 allows the Kansas State Fair to capture the portion of sales tax that is generated on the Kansas State Fairgrounds to cover the state’s statutory share. In 2019, this generated about $312,000. However, without the sales tax collections for the 2020 fair, not only will the fair not be able to make the $300,000 transfer to the capital improvement fund, but it won’t collect that amount in sales tax dollars, either.

The first official Kansas State Fair was held in September 1913. For 106 uninterrupted years, the fair has been the state’s largest gathering of Kansans — with not even the Spanish flu, world wars or the 2001 terrorist attacks halting the annual end-of-summer rite.

Jennison said protecting the future of the fair and its employees is the highest priority.

“It has been my great privilege to be given this opportunity to work with an absolutely great staff that love their jobs, work well together and are not afraid to think outside the box,” he said. “That is what it will take to get past this, and we need to do all we can to protect the Kansas State Fair’s most valuable asset, our employees.”

The 2021 Kansas State Fair is Sept. 10-19.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594205779878.jpeg" alt="Robin Jennison -photo courtesy Kansas State Fair" />
 <figcaption>Robin Jennison -photo courtesy Kansas State Fair</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Due to the cancellation of the 2020 Kansas State Fair and lack of anticipated revenue, Robin Jennison, the fair’s general manager, announced he is stepping down.Jennison sent his resignation to the board Tuesday, stating it was an effort to help keep the jobs of full-time employees who work all year to make the fair an annual tradition. The fair board voted unanimously Monday to cancel the 2020 fair, scheduled for Sept. 11-20.“The impact that COVID-19 has had and will continue to have on the Kansas State Fair will be significant,” Jennison said in the letter. “It is my intent that — in serving as the first casualty — it hopefully will lessen the impact on our other employees.”“It will be a welcome surprise if the fair is able to weather this storm without some furloughs or even a reduction in workforce,” Jennison added. “Having the highest-placed administrator surviving while frontline essential employees bear the brunt is something I will not do.”The Kansas State Fair is a fee-funded state agency. The fair survives on what it makes from each fair, which includes gate admission, grandstand entertainment, food and beverage sales and vendor fees, plus RV park rentals and non-fair events.In a letter to the Kansas Division of Budget, Jennison noted the fair’s situation and reminded them the state still owes the fair its statutory share to the State Fair Capital Improvement Fund.The Kansas Legislature was required to match what the fair put into the fund — up to $300,000 each year — to help with building upkeep and improvements. However, those transfers were not made regularly, or on occasion, adequately, for several years — leaving the fair at a more than $1.8 million shortfall to the account.Subsequently, legislation passed in 2018 allows the Kansas State Fair to capture the portion of sales tax that is generated on the Kansas State Fairgrounds to cover the state’s statutory share. In 2019, this generated about $312,000. However, without the sales tax collections for the 2020 fair, not only will the fair not be able to make the $300,000 transfer to the capital improvement fund, but it won’t collect that amount in sales tax dollars, either.The first official Kansas State Fair was held in September 1913. For 106 uninterrupted years, the fair has been the state’s largest gathering of Kansans — with not even the Spanish flu, world wars or the 2001 terrorist attacks halting the annual end-of-summer rite.Jennison said protecting the future of the fair and its employees is the highest priority.“It has been my great privilege to be given this opportunity to work with an absolutely great staff that love their jobs, work well together and are not afraid to think outside the box,” he said. “That is what it will take to get past this, and we need to do all we can to protect the Kansas State Fair’s most valuable asset, our employees.”The 2021 Kansas State Fair is Sept. 10-19.

With cancellation of Kansas State Fair, general manager resigns

By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/people/elle-moxley">Elle Moxley</a>, Kansas News Service

Delaying the start of school until Sept. 9 must be approved by the Kansas State Board of Education, which approved reopening guidelines on Wednesday.

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly wants to push the start of K-12 school until after Labor Day in hopes of slowing the spread of the coronavirus.

Kelly’s announcement Wednesday came hours after the State Board of Education&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/education/2020-07-14/expect-to-see-more-masks-and-occasional-closures-as-kansas-reopens-schools" target="_blank">approved guidelines for reopening</a>&nbsp;schools, and she said districts need time to act on recommendations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594895096535.png" alt="Kansas Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp; said, “I can’t in good conscience open schools when cases in our state are at an all-time high and continuing to rapidly rise."" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp; said, “I can’t in good conscience open schools when cases in our state are at an all-time high and continuing to rapidly rise."</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/people/elle-moxley">Elle Moxley</a>, Kansas News Service<h2>Delaying the start of school until Sept. 9 must be approved by the Kansas State Board of Education, which approved reopening guidelines on Wednesday.</h2>Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly wants to push the start of K-12 school until after Labor Day in hopes of slowing the spread of the coronavirus.Kelly’s announcement Wednesday came hours after the State Board of Education&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/education/2020-07-14/expect-to-see-more-masks-and-occasional-closures-as-kansas-reopens-schools" target="_blank">approved guidelines for reopening</a>&nbsp;schools, and she said districts need time to act on recommendations.“The additional three weeks will provide schools time to work with their counties to get the necessary mitigation supplies like masks, thermometers and hand sanitizer,” she said.Kelly plans to issue an executive order on Monday that would delay the start of school until Sept. 9, but the Kansas State Board of Education will have to approve it. The State Finance Council can review Kelly’s executive order but cannot revoke it. That power lies only with the full Legislature through a concurrent resolution.Kelly said she is frustrated because the number of new coronavirus cases continues to climb, with the state reporting more than 2,000 new cases since last Friday and more than 20,000 overall.“I told every Kansan when I issued the mandate that I believed masks are the best tool we have, along with social distancing, avoiding mass gatherings and good hygiene, to keep our economy open and to keep each other safe,” Kelly said.About a month into the pandemic, Kelly and the GOP-majority State Finance Council had contentious fights over executive orders on whether churches could be singled out in the statewide stay-at-home mandate.Eventually, lawmakers and the governor compromised, which led to Kansas' reopening plan and mask ordinance becoming recommendations for local governments instead of mandates.Kelly believes that by delaying the start of school, Kansas will have more time to get the infection curve under control before students and teachers head back to class.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594895773879.png" alt="KDHE Secretary Dr. Lee Norman during Wednesday's news conference" />
 <figcaption>KDHE Secretary Dr. Lee Norman during Wednesday's news conference</figcaption>
 </figure>But Lee Norman, secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, said that won’t happen if Kansans don’t change their behavior. He said it’ll be another week before the state knows the full effect of mass gatherings over the Fourth of July holiday.“Because of how infectious COVID-19 is, every week we don’t take the virus seriously sets the state back two weeks at a minimum,” Norman said.Kansas News Service news editor Erica Hunzinger contributed to this report