WYANDOTTE COUNTY&nbsp; —Law enforcement investigating after a person was found dead on a street in Kansas City, Kansas have identified the victim as 34-year-old Elcena Painter, according to a statement from Kansas City, Kansas police.

Just before 5a.m. Wednesday, callers reported a person lying on the street in the 4600 Block of Greeley Avenue. When officers arrived, they found Painter.&nbsp; Police did not know how the victim died.

This incident remains under investigation by the KCKPD Major Case and Traffic Investigation Units. Anyone with information on this case is urged to call the Crime Stoppers TIPS hotline at 816-474-TIPS (8477). All tips remain anonymous and may qualify for a cash reward.There is nothing further to report at this time.

WYANDOTTE COUNTY&nbsp; —Law enforcement investigating after a person was found dead on a street in Kansas City, Kansas have identified the victim as 34-year-old Elcena Painter, according to a statement from Kansas City, Kansas police.Just before 5a.m. Wednesday, callers reported a person lying on the street in the 4600 Block of Greeley Avenue. When officers arrived, they found Painter.&nbsp; Police did not know how the victim died.This incident remains under investigation by the KCKPD Major Case and Traffic Investigation Units. Anyone with information on this case is urged to call the Crime Stoppers TIPS hotline at 816-474-TIPS (8477). All tips remain anonymous and may qualify for a cash reward.There is nothing further to report at this time.

Police ID victim found dead on Kansas street 

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/michelle-chapman">MICHELLE CHAPMAN</a>

A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ftc-rule-cancel-online-subscriptions-renewal-fb11fe0392c0b60acd131267bcc2eb4a">“click-to-cancel” rule</a>, which would have required businesses to make it easy for consumers to cancel unwanted subscriptions and memberships, has been blocked by a federal appeals court just days before it was set to go into effect.

The Federal Trade Commission’s proposed changes, adopted in October, required businesses to obtain a customer’s consent before charging for memberships,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-6415b40d4ab04d06a70df5519b54411a">auto-renewals</a>&nbsp;and programs linked to free trial offers.

The FTC said at the time that businesses must also disclose when free trials or other promotional offers will end and let customers cancel recurring subscriptions as easily as they started them.

The administration of President Joe Biden included the FTC’s proposal as part of its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/consumer-protection-ftc-fcc-biden-250f6eece6e2665535019128e8fa38da">“Time is Money” initiative</a>, a governmentwide initiative that was announced last year with the aim of cracking down on consumer-related hassles.

The FTC rule was set to go into effect on Monday, but the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit said this week that the FTC made a procedural error by failing to come up with a preliminary regulatory analysis, which is required for rules whose annual impact on the U.S. economy is more than $100 million.

The FTC claimed that it did not have to come up with a preliminary regulatory analysis because it initially determined that the rule’s impact on the national economy would be less than $100 million. An administrative law judge decided that the economic impact would be more than the $100 million threshold.

“While we certainly do not endorse the use of unfair and deceptive practices in negative option marketing, the procedural deficiencies of the Commission’s rulemaking process are fatal here,” the court wrote.

The FTC declined to comment on Wednesday.

The agency is currently moving forward with its preparations for a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/amazon-ftc-doge-trial-delay-3265683227438a61503d2f6727cab5bb">trial</a>&nbsp;involving&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/amazon-prime-ftc-lawsuit-9e60955fc71d9891ed16c5b856222279">Amazon’s Prime program</a>. The trial stems from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/amazon-ftc-lina-khan-antitrust-lawsuit-da0b124e24183a3acd60367f05181f49">a Federal Trade Commission lawsuit</a>&nbsp;that accused Amazon of enrolling consumers in its Prime program without their consent and making it difficult for them to cancel their subscriptions.

The trial is expected to take place next year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752097855985.jpg" alt="Image Pixaby" />
 <figcaption>Image Pixaby</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/michelle-chapman">MICHELLE CHAPMAN</a>A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ftc-rule-cancel-online-subscriptions-renewal-fb11fe0392c0b60acd131267bcc2eb4a">“click-to-cancel” rule</a>, which would have required businesses to make it easy for consumers to cancel unwanted subscriptions and memberships, has been blocked by a federal appeals court just days before it was set to go into effect.The Federal Trade Commission’s proposed changes, adopted in October, required businesses to obtain a customer’s consent before charging for memberships,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-6415b40d4ab04d06a70df5519b54411a">auto-renewals</a>&nbsp;and programs linked to free trial offers.The FTC said at the time that businesses must also disclose when free trials or other promotional offers will end and let customers cancel recurring subscriptions as easily as they started them.The administration of President Joe Biden included the FTC’s proposal as part of its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/consumer-protection-ftc-fcc-biden-250f6eece6e2665535019128e8fa38da">“Time is Money” initiative</a>, a governmentwide initiative that was announced last year with the aim of cracking down on consumer-related hassles.The FTC rule was set to go into effect on Monday, but the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit said this week that the FTC made a procedural error by failing to come up with a preliminary regulatory analysis, which is required for rules whose annual impact on the U.S. economy is more than $100 million.The FTC claimed that it did not have to come up with a preliminary regulatory analysis because it initially determined that the rule’s impact on the national economy would be less than $100 million. An administrative law judge decided that the economic impact would be more than the $100 million threshold.The court decided to vacate the rule.“While we certainly do not endorse the use of unfair and deceptive practices in negative option marketing, the procedural deficiencies of the Commission’s rulemaking process are fatal here,” the court wrote.The FTC declined to comment on Wednesday.The agency is currently moving forward with its preparations for a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/amazon-ftc-doge-trial-delay-3265683227438a61503d2f6727cab5bb">trial</a>&nbsp;involving&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/amazon-prime-ftc-lawsuit-9e60955fc71d9891ed16c5b856222279">Amazon’s Prime program</a>. The trial stems from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/amazon-ftc-lina-khan-antitrust-lawsuit-da0b124e24183a3acd60367f05181f49">a Federal Trade Commission lawsuit</a>&nbsp;that accused Amazon of enrolling consumers in its Prime program without their consent and making it difficult for them to cancel their subscriptions.The trial is expected to take place next year.

Click to cancel: Rule to make canceling subscriptions easier is blocked

SEDGWICK COUNTY — An inmate accused in an attack on a Kansas jail deputy returned to court Wednesday afternoon for a preliminary hearing.

James Chavez, 21, entered a guilty plea to charges of aggravated battery before Judge Chrystal Krier, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp;

On April 14, a Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office Detention Deputy suffered serious burns after an inmate identified as Chavez launched a targeted attack inside the Sedgwick County Adult Detention Facility.

The incident happened while the deputy was speaking with inmates in a housing pod.&nbsp; Chavez obtained a pot of boiling water and threw it on the deputy, causing second and third-degree burns to the back part of his body.

Sedgwick County EMS transported the deputy to a local hospital, where he was admitted to the Burn Unit. The 30-year-old deputy who has served with the Sheriff’s Office for nearly two years is expected.

Chavez was originally booked into the detention facility in March 2024 on pending juvenile charges and later faced an additional charge for trafficking contraband into a correctional facility He has had 39 documented disciplinary incidents since entering the facility.

He is scheduled for sentencing August 22, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744743778023.png" alt="Chavez photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Chavez photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — An inmate accused in an attack on a Kansas jail deputy returned to court Wednesday afternoon for a preliminary hearing.James Chavez, 21, entered a guilty plea to charges of aggravated battery before Judge Chrystal Krier, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp;On April 14, a Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office Detention Deputy suffered serious burns after an inmate identified as Chavez launched a targeted attack inside the Sedgwick County Adult Detention Facility.The incident happened while the deputy was speaking with inmates in a housing pod.&nbsp; Chavez obtained a pot of boiling water and threw it on the deputy, causing second and third-degree burns to the back part of his body.Sedgwick County EMS transported the deputy to a local hospital, where he was admitted to the Burn Unit. The 30-year-old deputy who has served with the Sheriff’s Office for nearly two years is expected.Chavez was originally booked into the detention facility in March 2024 on pending juvenile charges and later faced an additional charge for trafficking contraband into a correctional facility He has had 39 documented disciplinary incidents since entering the facility.He is scheduled for sentencing August 22, according to the district attorney's office.-----------

Prisoner admits throwing scalding water on Kan. jail deputy

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

Topekan served previously in Kansas Senate, worked 40 years as pharmacist

TOPEKA — Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki&nbsp;Schmidt launched Wednesday a campaign to win the Republican Party’s nomination for governor.

Schmidt&nbsp;worked for more than four decades as a pharmacist and served in the Kansas Senate for 14 years before elected state insurance commissioner in 2018. She was reelected in 2022 by a margin of more than 250,000 votes out of nearly 1 million ballots cast.

“Throughout my personal and professional career, I have a track record of serving Kansans and actually getting things done,” Schmidt said in a statement. “If elected governor, my top priority is the people of Kansas and making their lives better.”

“I’m not always going to tell you what you want to hear, but I am going to tell you the truth,” she said.

Schmidt joined other prominent Republicans, including former Gov. Jeff Colyer and Secretary of State Scott Schwab, in the GOP primary scheduled for August 2026.

Colyer, who became governor in 2018 after Gov. Sam Brownback resigned to take a position in the first administration of President Donald Trump, said Schmidt’s candidacy wouldn’t deter his effort to unite the Kansas GOP behind a pro-Trump agenda.

“Welcome to the race, Vicki&nbsp;Schmidt,” Colyer’s statement said. “Never Trumpers deserve a candidate, too.”

In addition, Schwab responded to Schmidt’s entrance into the governor’s race by saying, “Kansans want a conservative who can win in November, deliver true property tax relief and help our shrinking rural communities.”

Interest in the 2026 contest for Kansas governor will be driven by two-term Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s inability to seek reelection.

Schmidt said that as insurance commissioner she advanced regulatory reforms to lower business costs by more than $75 million. She asserted she was known for “her work ethic, scrutiny of government operations and customer service approach to serving Kansans.”

“Every Kansan deserves a governor they can rely on to not only tackle the big issues, but the little things like actually having people answer the phone when you call for help,” she said.

In 2023, she publicly shared her diagnosis of breast cancer and made use of the personal health challenge to encourage women to get yearly mammograms. Her cancer was treated through surgery and radiation.

“The biggest challenge of my life? Beating breast cancer,” she said. “It was scary and humbling. The support I received from Kansans during my darkest days has continued to drive me in my support for them.”

In terms of the race for the Democratic Party’s nomination, Sen. Cindy Holscher, D-Overland Park, announced her candidacy. Other Democrats, including Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes of Lenexa, expressed interest in seeking the nomination.

Johanna Warshaw, spokesperson for the Democratic Governors Association, said Schmidt’s entrance into the race helped transform the “already messy and crowded GOP primary into extreme chaos.” Kelly, the Kansas governor, is chair of DGA.

“Schmidt brings to this race a disastrous and disqualifying record of voting to enact Sam Brownback’s failed tax experiment,” Warshaw said. “On the other hand, Governor Laura Kelly has shown Kansans what steady, middle-of-the-road leadership looks like. That’s exactly the type of leadership Kansans will want to stick with no matter who enters the race.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752150470682.png" alt=" Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt, shown taking the oath of office in 2023, is a candidate for Kansas governor in 2026. The Republican previously served in the Kansas Senate. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt, shown taking the oath of office in 2023, is a candidate for Kansas governor in 2026. The Republican previously served in the Kansas Senate. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a><h2>Topekan served previously in Kansas Senate, worked 40 years as pharmacist</h2>TOPEKA — Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki&nbsp;Schmidt launched Wednesday a campaign to win the Republican Party’s nomination for governor.Schmidt&nbsp;worked for more than four decades as a pharmacist and served in the Kansas Senate for 14 years before elected state insurance commissioner in 2018. She was reelected in 2022 by a margin of more than 250,000 votes out of nearly 1 million ballots cast.“Throughout my personal and professional career, I have a track record of serving Kansans and actually getting things done,” Schmidt said in a statement. “If elected governor, my top priority is the people of Kansas and making their lives better.”“I’m not always going to tell you what you want to hear, but I am going to tell you the truth,” she said.Schmidt joined other prominent Republicans, including former Gov. Jeff Colyer and Secretary of State Scott Schwab, in the GOP primary scheduled for August 2026.Colyer, who became governor in 2018 after Gov. Sam Brownback resigned to take a position in the first administration of President Donald Trump, said Schmidt’s candidacy wouldn’t deter his effort to unite the Kansas GOP behind a pro-Trump agenda.“Welcome to the race, Vicki&nbsp;Schmidt,” Colyer’s statement said. “Never Trumpers deserve a candidate, too.”In addition, Schwab responded to Schmidt’s entrance into the governor’s race by saying, “Kansans want a conservative who can win in November, deliver true property tax relief and help our shrinking rural communities.”Interest in the 2026 contest for Kansas governor will be driven by two-term Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s inability to seek reelection.Schmidt said that as insurance commissioner she advanced regulatory reforms to lower business costs by more than $75 million. She asserted she was known for “her work ethic, scrutiny of government operations and customer service approach to serving Kansans.”“Every Kansan deserves a governor they can rely on to not only tackle the big issues, but the little things like actually having people answer the phone when you call for help,” she said.In 2023, she publicly shared her diagnosis of breast cancer and made use of the personal health challenge to encourage women to get yearly mammograms. Her cancer was treated through surgery and radiation.“The biggest challenge of my life? Beating breast cancer,” she said. “It was scary and humbling. The support I received from Kansans during my darkest days has continued to drive me in my support for them.”In terms of the race for the Democratic Party’s nomination, Sen. Cindy Holscher, D-Overland Park, announced her candidacy. Other Democrats, including Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes of Lenexa, expressed interest in seeking the nomination.Johanna Warshaw, spokesperson for the Democratic Governors Association, said Schmidt’s entrance into the race helped transform the “already messy and crowded GOP primary into extreme chaos.” Kelly, the Kansas governor, is chair of DGA.“Schmidt brings to this race a disastrous and disqualifying record of voting to enact Sam Brownback’s failed tax experiment,” Warshaw said. “On the other hand, Governor Laura Kelly has shown Kansans what steady, middle-of-the-road leadership looks like. That’s exactly the type of leadership Kansans will want to stick with no matter who enters the race.”

Kansas Insurance Commissioner initiates Republican campaign for governor

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Army is ending most of its ceremonial horse programs.

The Army’s history is closely tied to its cavalry, soldiers who rode into battle on horseback. But it announced Tuesday that it’s moving toward a future without the ceremonial horses and will put most of them up for adoption.

However the service will keep operating the Old Guard ceremonial caisson units at Joint Base San Antonio and Arlington National Cemetery for burial honors.

Ceremonial cavalry units will be closed down at several bases including Fort Cavazos in Texas, whose horses were showcased during the military parade in Washington on June 14, which was the Army’s 250th anniversary and also Trump’s birthday.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Army is ending most of its ceremonial horse programs.The Army’s history is closely tied to its cavalry, soldiers who rode into battle on horseback. But it announced Tuesday that it’s moving toward a future without the ceremonial horses and will put most of them up for adoption.However the service will keep operating the Old Guard ceremonial caisson units at Joint Base San Antonio and Arlington National Cemetery for burial honors.Ceremonial cavalry units will be closed down at several bases including Fort Cavazos in Texas, whose horses were showcased during the military parade in Washington on June 14, which was the Army’s 250th anniversary and also Trump’s birthday.

Army ending most ceremonial horse programs; will adopt out the animals

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas stepfather accused in the child abuse death of a toddler made his first court appearance on Wednesday.

Shawn D. Lewis, 33, was charged with first degree murder and child abust in the death of his 2-year-old stepson, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorneys office.

On July 3, police responded to Wesley Medical Center after being notified of a two-year-old boy who was brought to the hospital with severe injuries after a reported fall, according to Wichita Police Captain Aaron Moses.

During the investigation, it was determined that the injuries sustained by the child were inconsistent with the facts provided by Lewis who as caring for the child at the time the boy was injured.&nbsp;

Patrol officers and investigators from the Exploited Missing Children’s Unit and the WPD Homicide Unit began investigating this case due to the severity of the injuries.&nbsp;

On July 3, police arrested the 33-year-old step-father of the boy Shawn D. Lewis, on requested charges of Aggravated Battery, head trauma/permanent and Child Abuse.

On Saturday the child, John Landon Delano, died of his injuries.&nbsp; Lewis is being held on a $2 million bond and is due back in court July 21.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751843575801.png" alt="Lewis photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Lewis photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas stepfather accused in the child abuse death of a toddler made his first court appearance on Wednesday.Shawn D. Lewis, 33, was charged with first degree murder and child abust in the death of his 2-year-old stepson, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorneys office.On July 3, police responded to Wesley Medical Center after being notified of a two-year-old boy who was brought to the hospital with severe injuries after a reported fall, according to Wichita Police Captain Aaron Moses.During the investigation, it was determined that the injuries sustained by the child were inconsistent with the facts provided by Lewis who as caring for the child at the time the boy was injured.&nbsp;Patrol officers and investigators from the Exploited Missing Children’s Unit and the WPD Homicide Unit began investigating this case due to the severity of the injuries.&nbsp;On July 3, police arrested the 33-year-old step-father of the boy Shawn D. Lewis, on requested charges of Aggravated Battery, head trauma/permanent and Child Abuse.On Saturday the child, John Landon Delano, died of his injuries.&nbsp; Lewis is being held on a $2 million bond and is due back in court July 21.

Kan. man accused in 2-year-old stepson's death faces a judge

KANSAS CITY —The owner of the Kansas City Chiefs is making a financial contribution toward the relief efforts following the deadly flooding in Texas.

In a statement released Wednesday through the MLS club the Hunt family owns, FC Dallas, Hunt said donations will be directed toward both immediate disaster response and long-term care.

On Sunday, Tavia Hunt, the wife of Chiefs owner Clark Hunt,&nbsp; reported on Instagram they were mourning the loss of lives, “including a precious little Hunt cousin, along with several friend’s little girls.”&nbsp;

More than 160 are still believed to be missing in hard-hit Kerr County, Texas. The floods are now the deadliest from inland flooding in the U.S. since 1976. The Hunt Family is originally from Texas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751903988970.jpeg" alt="Photo Texa National Guard" />
 <figcaption>Photo Texa National Guard</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —The owner of the Kansas City Chiefs is making a financial contribution toward the relief efforts following the deadly flooding in Texas.In a statement released Wednesday through the MLS club the Hunt family owns, FC Dallas, Hunt said donations will be directed toward both immediate disaster response and long-term care.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Ffcdallas%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0puF6cMNNAbjg1JJo6yVXbFXYTQ9DiBBHWjd52rwxVnaeQmMiKyxeUo4MKKidLQ1El&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="692" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>On Sunday, Tavia Hunt, the wife of Chiefs owner Clark Hunt,&nbsp; reported on Instagram they were mourning the loss of lives, “including a precious little Hunt cousin, along with several friend’s little girls.”&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DLvT-cIxSIx/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; 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<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>More than 160 are still believed to be missing in hard-hit Kerr County, Texas. The floods are now the deadliest from inland flooding in the U.S. since 1976. The Hunt Family is originally from Texas.

Hunt family donates toward relief efforts after deadly Texas floods

The Kansas City Missouri Police Department is attempting two identify the&nbsp; suspects who were involved in an assault that occurred in the 7900 Block of Troost Avenue on June 29 at 6:31p.m., according to KCPD Police Sergeant Phil Dimartino.&nbsp; On Wednesday, police released security camera images of the suspects.

If you can identify the suspects please contact the Assault Squad at 816-234-5227 or the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752091957731.png" alt="photo KCPD" />
 <figcaption>photo KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas City Missouri Police Department is attempting two identify the&nbsp; suspects who were involved in an assault that occurred in the 7900 Block of Troost Avenue on June 29 at 6:31p.m., according to KCPD Police Sergeant Phil Dimartino.&nbsp; On Wednesday, police released security camera images of the suspects.If you can identify the suspects please contact the Assault Squad at 816-234-5227 or the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS.

KCPD asks for help to ID alleged assault suspects

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The State of Kansas ends June 2025 with total tax collections at $1.06 billion. That is $72.6 million, or 7.4%, above the estimate. Total tax collections were up 3.2% from June 2024, according to a media release from the Governor's office.

Click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FKSOG%2F2025%2F07%2F07%2Ffile_attachments%2F3317176%2F12_June_Revenue_FY2025_07-03-2025_Final.pdf/1/01010197f0df98e6-bb810e31-3c36-4a5a-8db1-d9c6734cd341-000000/GdBX1JaP3ntGPDo2pF5HcBWNScedhsWxt8iXTJMvqFM=413">here</a>&nbsp;to view the June 2025 revenue numbers.

“While this month’s stronger-than-expected revenues are a welcome sign, it does not alleviate my concern that the state legislature’s budget will put Kansas in the red by over $375 million by 2029,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“Even with current revenues exceeding the forecast, the budget created by the state legislature still has us spending $300 to $700 million more than we receive each year for the foreseeable future, jeopardizing the long-term fiscal health of the state, which I have prioritized as governor.”

Keeping Kansas on the path of fiscal stability will require discipline in the coming years to prevent a return to four-day school weeks, crumbling roads and bridges, and a depleted rainy day fund.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1564697584639.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;– The State of Kansas ends June 2025 with total tax collections at $1.06 billion. That is $72.6 million, or 7.4%, above the estimate. Total tax collections were up 3.2% from June 2024, according to a media release from the Governor's office.Click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FKSOG%2F2025%2F07%2F07%2Ffile_attachments%2F3317176%2F12_June_Revenue_FY2025_07-03-2025_Final.pdf/1/01010197f0df98e6-bb810e31-3c36-4a5a-8db1-d9c6734cd341-000000/GdBX1JaP3ntGPDo2pF5HcBWNScedhsWxt8iXTJMvqFM=413">here</a>&nbsp;to view the June 2025 revenue numbers.“While this month’s stronger-than-expected revenues are a welcome sign, it does not alleviate my concern that the state legislature’s budget will put Kansas in the red by over $375 million by 2029,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“Even with current revenues exceeding the forecast, the budget created by the state legislature still has us spending $300 to $700 million more than we receive each year for the foreseeable future, jeopardizing the long-term fiscal health of the state, which I have prioritized as governor.”Keeping Kansas on the path of fiscal stability will require discipline in the coming years to prevent a return to four-day school weeks, crumbling roads and bridges, and a depleted rainy day fund.

June total tax collections in Kansas far above the estimate

CHEROKEE COUNTY&nbsp;– The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office arrested a firefighter of the Coffeyville Fire Department for child sex crimes.

Just after 8:30a.m. Wednesday,&nbsp; KBI agents arrested 25-year-old Spencer Barnard, of Baxter Springs, after a traffic stop in Cherokee County. Barnard was arrested on requested charges of sexual exploitation of a child and aggravated indecent solicitation of a child, according to a media release from the KBI.

KBI agents and sheriff’s deputies also conducted a search warrant at a residence at 1004 Cherokee Ave., in Baxter Springs, related to the case.

Following the arrest, Barnard was booked into the Cherokee County Jail.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752098616252.png" alt="Barnard photo Cherokee Co." />
 <figcaption>Barnard photo Cherokee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>CHEROKEE COUNTY&nbsp;– The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office arrested a firefighter of the Coffeyville Fire Department for child sex crimes.Just after 8:30a.m. Wednesday,&nbsp; KBI agents arrested 25-year-old Spencer Barnard, of Baxter Springs, after a traffic stop in Cherokee County. Barnard was arrested on requested charges of sexual exploitation of a child and aggravated indecent solicitation of a child, according to a media release from the KBI.KBI agents and sheriff’s deputies also conducted a search warrant at a residence at 1004 Cherokee Ave., in Baxter Springs, related to the case.Following the arrest, Barnard was booked into the Cherokee County Jail.&nbsp;

Kansas firefighter accused of child sex crimes

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — An Oregon judge on Wednesday sentenced former University of Kansas and NBA player Ben McLemore to over eight years in prison, a week after a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ben-mclemore-convicted-rape-trail-blazers-9c8ac0eca30d0aeecea9ddeb2df6e06d">jury found him guilty</a>&nbsp;of raping a woman at a 2021 party at the home of a then-teammate.

The ex-Portland Trail Blazer was sentenced to 100 months in prison by Clackamas County Circuit Court Judge Michael Wetzel,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kgw.com/article/news/crime/former-portland-trail-blazer-ben-mclemore-sentenced-rape-sexual-assault/283-480c7d65-a32b-44dc-beb7-df6d1a55ebab">Portland TV station KGW reported</a>. The jury last week found the 32-year-old guilty of rape, unlawful sexual penetration and one count of sexual abuse. He was found not guilty on another count of sexual abuse.

The charges involved a 21-year-old woman and stemmed from a party at a home owned by then-teammate Robert Covington in the Portland suburb of Lake Oswego.

During the trial, Clackamas County prosecutors described the sexual encounter as rape. The defense argued it was consensual sex.

The woman testified that she was incapacitated due to alcohol, and was unable to consent, KGW reported. McLemore said he had also been drinking but testified that it was consensual.

McLemore, who played college at Kansas, was the seventh pick in the 2013 NBA draft by the Sacramento Kings. He also played for Memphis, Houston and the Los Angeles Lakers before his last NBA season with Portland in 2021-2022.

Since then, he has played professionally overseas in Europe, China and Turkey.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751586386443.png" alt="McLemore photo&nbsp;Clackamas County" />
 <figcaption>McLemore photo&nbsp;Clackamas County</figcaption>
 </figure>PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — An Oregon judge on Wednesday sentenced former University of Kansas and NBA player Ben McLemore to over eight years in prison, a week after a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ben-mclemore-convicted-rape-trail-blazers-9c8ac0eca30d0aeecea9ddeb2df6e06d">jury found him guilty</a>&nbsp;of raping a woman at a 2021 party at the home of a then-teammate.The ex-Portland Trail Blazer was sentenced to 100 months in prison by Clackamas County Circuit Court Judge Michael Wetzel,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kgw.com/article/news/crime/former-portland-trail-blazer-ben-mclemore-sentenced-rape-sexual-assault/283-480c7d65-a32b-44dc-beb7-df6d1a55ebab">Portland TV station KGW reported</a>. The jury last week found the 32-year-old guilty of rape, unlawful sexual penetration and one count of sexual abuse. He was found not guilty on another count of sexual abuse.The charges involved a 21-year-old woman and stemmed from a party at a home owned by then-teammate Robert Covington in the Portland suburb of Lake Oswego.During the trial, Clackamas County prosecutors described the sexual encounter as rape. The defense argued it was consensual sex.The woman testified that she was incapacitated due to alcohol, and was unable to consent, KGW reported. McLemore said he had also been drinking but testified that it was consensual.McLemore, who played college at Kansas, was the seventh pick in the 2013 NBA draft by the Sacramento Kings. He also played for Memphis, Houston and the Los Angeles Lakers before his last NBA season with Portland in 2021-2022.Since then, he has played professionally overseas in Europe, China and Turkey.

Former KU player sentenced for rape

NEW YORK (AP) —Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence company said Wednesday that it’s taking down “inappropriate posts” made by its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2024-misinformation-x-twitter-elon-musk-4821523a795ba0dd04695c385c4b14d3">Grok chatbot</a>, which appeared to include antisemitic comments that praised Adolf Hitler.

Grok was developed by Musk’s xAI and pitched as alternative to “woke AI” interactions from rival chatbots like Google’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/google-search-artificial-intelligence-upheaval-5b0cdc59870508dab856227185cb8e23">Gemini</a>, or OpenAI’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/openai-ceo-sam-altman-congress-senate-testify-ai-20e7bce9f59ee0c2c9914bc3ae53d674">ChatGPT</a>.

Musk said Friday that Grok has been improved significantly, and users “should notice a difference.”

Since then, Grok has shared several antisemitic posts, including the trope that Jews run Hollywood, and denied that such a stance could be described as Nazism.

“Labeling truths as hate speech stifles discussion,” Grok said.

It also appeared to praise Hitler, according to screenshots of posts that have now apparently been deleted.

After making one of the posts, Grok walked back the comments, saying it was “an unacceptable error from an earlier model iteration, swiftly deleted” and that it condemned “Nazism and Hitler unequivocally — his actions were genocidal horrors.”

“We are aware of recent posts made by Grok and are actively working to remove the inappropriate posts,” the Grok account posted early Wednesday, without being more specific.

“Since being made aware of the content, xAI has taken action to ban hate speech before Grok posts on X. xAI is training only truth-seeking and thanks to the millions of users on X, we are able to quickly identify and update the model where training could be improved.

Talia Ringer, a professor of computer science at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, said it’s likely that the Grok update that caused the chatbot to spew antisemitic messages this week was the “soft launch” of Grok 4, which Musk plans to introduce late Wednesday. But if that’s the case, it doesn’t appear ready, she said.

“Fixing this is probably going to require retraining the model,” she said. “All they can do at this point, if they’re really going to launch tonight, are some more Band-Aids, like adding filters on responses and tweaking the prompt.”

Editing some of the chatbot’s instructions “might make its behavior a little bit better” but won’t fix all of its problems.

“I think they’re probably scrambling for some kind of fix right now,” she said on Wednesday.

A similar instruction was baked into Grok’s “prompts” that guide it on how to respond, which told the chatbot to “not shy away from making claims which are politically incorrect, as long as they are well substantiated.” That part of the instructions was deleted on Tuesday.

The Anti-Defamation League, which works to combat antisemitism, called out Grok’s behavior.

“What we are seeing from Grok LLM right now is irresponsible, dangerous and antisemitic, plain and simple,” the group said in a post on X. “This supercharging of extremist rhetoric will only amplify and encourage the antisemitism that is already surging on X and many other platforms.”

Musk later waded into the debate, alleging that some users may have been trying to manipulate Grok into making the statements.

“Grok was too compliant to user prompts. Too eager to please and be manipulated, essentially. That is being addressed,” he wrote on X, in response to comments that a user was trying to get Grok to make controversial and politically incorrect statements.

Also Wednesday, a court in Turkey ordered a ban on Grok and Poland’s digital minister said he would report the chatbot to the European Commission after it made vulgar comments about politicians and public figures in both countries.

Krzysztof Gawkowski, who’s also Poland’s deputy prime minister, told private broadcaster RMF FM that his ministry would report Grok “for investigation and, if necessary, imposing a fine on X.” Under an EU digital law, social media platforms are required to protect users or face hefty fines.

“I have the impression that we’re entering a higher level of hate speech, which is controlled by algorithms, and that turning a blind eye ... is a mistake that could cost people in the future,” Gawkowski told the station.

Turkey’s pro-government A Haber news channel reported that Grok posted vulgarities about Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, his late mother and well-known personalities. Offensive responses were also directed toward modern Turkey’s founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, other media outlets said.

That prompted the Ankara public prosecutor to file for the imposition of restrictions under Turkey’s internet law, citing a threat to public order. A criminal court approved the request early on Wednesday, ordering the country’s telecommunications authority to enforce the ban.

It’s not the first time Grok’s behavior has raised questions.

Earlier this year the chatbot&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/grok-ai-south-africa-64ce5f240061ca0b88d5af4c424e1f3b">kept talking about</a>&nbsp;South African racial politics and the subject of “white genocide” despite being asked a variety of questions, most of which had nothing to do with the country. An “unauthorized modification” was behind the problem, xAI said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752110888460.png" alt="Grok image from the App Store" />
 <figcaption>Grok image from the App Store</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) —Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence company said Wednesday that it’s taking down “inappropriate posts” made by its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2024-misinformation-x-twitter-elon-musk-4821523a795ba0dd04695c385c4b14d3">Grok chatbot</a>, which appeared to include antisemitic comments that praised Adolf Hitler.Grok was developed by Musk’s xAI and pitched as alternative to “woke AI” interactions from rival chatbots like Google’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/google-search-artificial-intelligence-upheaval-5b0cdc59870508dab856227185cb8e23">Gemini</a>, or OpenAI’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/openai-ceo-sam-altman-congress-senate-testify-ai-20e7bce9f59ee0c2c9914bc3ae53d674">ChatGPT</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740511408091.png" alt="File image Elon Musk -courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>File image Elon Musk -courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>Musk said Friday that Grok has been improved significantly, and users “should notice a difference.”Since then, Grok has shared several antisemitic posts, including the trope that Jews run Hollywood, and denied that such a stance could be described as Nazism.“Labeling truths as hate speech stifles discussion,” Grok said.It also appeared to praise Hitler, according to screenshots of posts that have now apparently been deleted.After making one of the posts, Grok walked back the comments, saying it was “an unacceptable error from an earlier model iteration, swiftly deleted” and that it condemned “Nazism and Hitler unequivocally — his actions were genocidal horrors.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We are aware of recent posts made by Grok and are actively working to remove the inappropriate posts. Since being made aware of the content, xAI has taken action to ban hate speech before Grok posts on X. xAI is training only truth-seeking and thanks to the millions of users on…&mdash; Grok (@grok) <a href="https://twitter.com/grok/status/1942720721026699451?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“We are aware of recent posts made by Grok and are actively working to remove the inappropriate posts,” the Grok account posted early Wednesday, without being more specific.“Since being made aware of the content, xAI has taken action to ban hate speech before Grok posts on X. xAI is training only truth-seeking and thanks to the millions of users on X, we are able to quickly identify and update the model where training could be improved.Talia Ringer, a professor of computer science at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, said it’s likely that the Grok update that caused the chatbot to spew antisemitic messages this week was the “soft launch” of Grok 4, which Musk plans to introduce late Wednesday. But if that’s the case, it doesn’t appear ready, she said.“Fixing this is probably going to require retraining the model,” she said. “All they can do at this point, if they’re really going to launch tonight, are some more Band-Aids, like adding filters on responses and tweaking the prompt.”Editing some of the chatbot’s instructions “might make its behavior a little bit better” but won’t fix all of its problems.“I think they’re probably scrambling for some kind of fix right now,” she said on Wednesday.A similar instruction was baked into Grok’s “prompts” that guide it on how to respond, which told the chatbot to “not shy away from making claims which are politically incorrect, as long as they are well substantiated.” That part of the instructions was deleted on Tuesday.The Anti-Defamation League, which works to combat antisemitism, called out Grok’s behavior.“What we are seeing from Grok LLM right now is irresponsible, dangerous and antisemitic, plain and simple,” the group said in a post on X. “This supercharging of extremist rhetoric will only amplify and encourage the antisemitism that is already surging on X and many other platforms.”Musk later waded into the debate, alleging that some users may have been trying to manipulate Grok into making the statements.“Grok was too compliant to user prompts. Too eager to please and be manipulated, essentially. That is being addressed,” he wrote on X, in response to comments that a user was trying to get Grok to make controversial and politically incorrect statements.Also Wednesday, a court in Turkey ordered a ban on Grok and Poland’s digital minister said he would report the chatbot to the European Commission after it made vulgar comments about politicians and public figures in both countries.Krzysztof Gawkowski, who’s also Poland’s deputy prime minister, told private broadcaster RMF FM that his ministry would report Grok “for investigation and, if necessary, imposing a fine on X.” Under an EU digital law, social media platforms are required to protect users or face hefty fines.“I have the impression that we’re entering a higher level of hate speech, which is controlled by algorithms, and that turning a blind eye ... is a mistake that could cost people in the future,” Gawkowski told the station.Turkey’s pro-government A Haber news channel reported that Grok posted vulgarities about Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, his late mother and well-known personalities. Offensive responses were also directed toward modern Turkey’s founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, other media outlets said.That prompted the Ankara public prosecutor to file for the imposition of restrictions under Turkey’s internet law, citing a threat to public order. A criminal court approved the request early on Wednesday, ordering the country’s telecommunications authority to enforce the ban.It’s not the first time Grok’s behavior has raised questions.Earlier this year the chatbot&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/grok-ai-south-africa-64ce5f240061ca0b88d5af4c424e1f3b">kept talking about</a>&nbsp;South African racial politics and the subject of “white genocide” despite being asked a variety of questions, most of which had nothing to do with the country. An “unauthorized modification” was behind the problem, xAI said.

 Musk says AI chatbot Grok's inappropriate posts being addressed

KANSAS CITY, KAN.– A federal grand jury in Kansas City, Kansas, returned an indictment charging a Kansas man on drug trafficking and illegal firearms offenses, according to the United State's Attorney.

Marquis V. Bridgeman, 26, of Kansas City, Kansas, is charged with two counts of felon in possession of a firearm, one count of possession of a machine gun, one count of possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, according to court documents.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Kansas Highway Patrol are investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney David Zabel is prosecuting the case

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751486918750.png" alt="Bridgeman from an earlier arrest in Wyandotte County" />
 <figcaption>Bridgeman from an earlier arrest in Wyandotte County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, KAN.– A federal grand jury in Kansas City, Kansas, returned an indictment charging a Kansas man on drug trafficking and illegal firearms offenses, according to the United State's Attorney.Marquis V. Bridgeman, 26, of Kansas City, Kansas, is charged with two counts of felon in possession of a firearm, one count of possession of a machine gun, one count of possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, according to court documents.The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Kansas Highway Patrol are investigating the case.Assistant U.S. Attorney David Zabel is prosecuting the case

Indictment: Kan. man had a machine gun and was selling fentanyl

WASHINGTON (AP) —President Trump praised the IRS decision allowing church pastors to endorse political candidates.

The president said he thinks “it’s great” and “terrific” that the IRS has ruled pastors can endorse political candidates without losing their tax-exempt status.

“We have a lot of respect for the people that lead the church,” the president said.

On Tuesday, the IRS said pastors who endorse political candidates from the pulpit should not have to risk losing their tax-exempt status.

The move effectively calls for a carve out for religious organizations from the rarely used IRS rule called the Johnson Amendment, put in place in 1954 and named after then-Sen. Lyndon Johnson.

In a joint court filing intended to end an ongoing case against the IRS, the tax collection agency and the National Religious Broadcasters Association — a Evangelical media consortium — and other plaintiffs have asked a federal court in Texas to stop the government from enforcing the Johnson Amendment against the plaintiffs.

The Johnson Amendment is a 1954 amendment to the U.S. tax code that prohibits tax-exempt organizations, including churches, from endorsing or opposing political candidates.

The Christian media group and others filed suit against the IRS last August, stating that the amendment violates their First Amendment rights to the freedom of speech and free exercise of religion, among other legal protections. On Monday, the IRS and plaintiffs wrote that the Johnson Amendment should be interpreted “so that it does not reach communications from a house of worship to its congregation in connection with religious services through its usual channels of communication on matters of faith.”

WASHINGTON (AP) —President Trump praised the IRS decision allowing church pastors to endorse political candidates.The president said he thinks “it’s great” and “terrific” that the IRS has ruled pastors can endorse political candidates without losing their tax-exempt status.“We have a lot of respect for the people that lead the church,” the president said.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Q: The IRS says that churches can now endorse political candidates. What&#39;s your reaction to this? Do you support that? Trump: I love the fact that churches can endorse a political candidate <a href="https://t.co/GXgWP8PgE8">pic.twitter.com/GXgWP8PgE8</a>&mdash; FactPost (@factpostnews) <a href="https://twitter.com/factpostnews/status/1943007381513806270?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>On Tuesday, the IRS said pastors who endorse political candidates from the pulpit should not have to risk losing their tax-exempt status.The move effectively calls for a carve out for religious organizations from the rarely used IRS rule called the Johnson Amendment, put in place in 1954 and named after then-Sen. Lyndon Johnson.In a joint court filing intended to end an ongoing case against the IRS, the tax collection agency and the National Religious Broadcasters Association — a Evangelical media consortium — and other plaintiffs have asked a federal court in Texas to stop the government from enforcing the Johnson Amendment against the plaintiffs.The Johnson Amendment is a 1954 amendment to the U.S. tax code that prohibits tax-exempt organizations, including churches, from endorsing or opposing political candidates.The Christian media group and others filed suit against the IRS last August, stating that the amendment violates their First Amendment rights to the freedom of speech and free exercise of religion, among other legal protections. On Monday, the IRS and plaintiffs wrote that the Johnson Amendment should be interpreted “so that it does not reach communications from a house of worship to its congregation in connection with religious services through its usual channels of communication on matters of faith.”

🎥Trump praises IRS decision allowing pastors to endorse candidates

MCPHERSON, Kan. — McPherson County Crimestoppers is asking for the public’s help in tracking down three would-be thieves who attempted to withdraw cash from an ATM — the hard way.

According to police, the attempted theft happened on June 29, 2025, when three suspects, disguised in hoodies and hats, tried to break into an ATM. Surveillance footage shows the trio fumbling with tools and prying the machine open, apparently unaware that their entire “heist” was being recorded on multiple cameras.

“Let’s just say the ATM wasn’t impressed — and neither are we,” they said in a Facebook post.

Police described the suspects as male and likely inexperienced in any actual form of ATM theft. Investigators are urging anyone who may recognize the individuals — or knows a roommate, ex, or coworker who suddenly seems flush with cash — to contact Crime Stoppers.

Tips can be made anonymously, and information leading to an arrest may be eligible for a reward

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752076537158.jpeg" alt="Photo McPherson County Crime Stoppers" />
 <figcaption>Photo McPherson County Crime Stoppers</figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBS Hutch Post&nbsp;MCPHERSON, Kan. — McPherson County Crimestoppers is asking for the public’s help in tracking down three would-be thieves who attempted to withdraw cash from an ATM — the hard way.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752101355143.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>According to police, the attempted theft happened on June 29, 2025, when three suspects, disguised in hoodies and hats, tried to break into an ATM. Surveillance footage shows the trio fumbling with tools and prying the machine open, apparently unaware that their entire “heist” was being recorded on multiple cameras.“Let’s just say the ATM wasn’t impressed — and neither are we,” they said in a Facebook post.Police described the suspects as male and likely inexperienced in any actual form of ATM theft. Investigators are urging anyone who may recognize the individuals — or knows a roommate, ex, or coworker who suddenly seems flush with cash — to contact Crime Stoppers.Tips can be made anonymously, and information leading to an arrest may be eligible for a reward

Police ask for help to ID Kansas ATM theft suspects

TOPEKA —The Kansas Department of Health on Wednesday reported four new cases of measles over the past week in the state for a total of 87 cases in 11 counties.

On July 4, the&nbsp; KDHE reported a measles exposure that occurred at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita&nbsp;so individuals can take steps to protect their health and help prevent further spread.&nbsp;There is no risk of measles exposure outside&nbsp;of&nbsp;the&nbsp;specific unit,&nbsp;dates and times&nbsp;listed. Individuals who were not in the affected&nbsp;unit&nbsp;during that&nbsp;time, including those in other parts of the hospital or its departments,&nbsp;are&nbsp;not&nbsp;considered exposed.

According to the Associated Press, the U.S. is having its worst year for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-vaccination-rfk-mmr-e5d928e41fd6b3dc6ade087662d61c5c">measles spread</a>&nbsp;in more than three decades, with a total of 1,288 cases nationally and another six months to go in 2025.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Wednesday that the national case count surpassed 2019, when there were 1,274 cases for the year and the country almost lost its status of having eliminated the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vaccines-measles-polio-whooping-cough-rubella-af4cd1aef8f408a960601df6372f9c32">vaccine-preventable illness.</a>&nbsp;That could happen this year if the virus has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-new-mexico-outbreak-mmr-vaccine-6cfda9a944084c390bc70f0e7a37a426">nonstop spread for 12 months</a>.

This year's outbreaks, some of them interconnected, started five months ago in undervaccinated communities in West Texas. Three people have died — two children in Texas and an adult in New Mexico — and dozens of people have been hospitalized. Public health experts maintain the true case count may be higher than state health departments have confirmed.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-new-mexico-outbreak-mmr-vaccine-6cfda9a944084c390bc70f0e7a37a426">North America</a>&nbsp;has three other major measles outbreaks, with 2,966 cases in Chihuahua state, Mexico, 2,223 cases in Ontario, Canada and 1,230 in Alberta, Canada. Thirteen other states have current confirmed outbreaks of three or more people — Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma and Utah — and four other states saw their outbreaks end.

The measles, mumps and rubella vaccine is 97% effective at preventing measles after two doses.

The World Health Organization said in 2000 that measles had been eliminated from the U.S.

The CDC identified 22 outbreaks in 2019, the largest being two separate clusters in New York — 412 in New York state and 702 in New York City. These were linked because as measles was spreading through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/68/wr/mm6840e2.htm">close-knit Orthodox Jewish communities</a>, the CDC said.

It's a similar situation in North America this year, where the Canada, Mexico and Texas outbreaks stem from large Mennonite communities in the regions. Mennonite churches do not formally discourage vaccination, though&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-texas-rfk-vaccines-8cf4641b04731c713edb524ca943490c">more conservative Mennonite communities</a>&nbsp;historically have low vaccination rates and a distrust of government.

A recent study found childhood vaccination rates against measles fell after the COVID-19 pandemic&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-vaccine-mmr-covid-exemptions-87cbfe44d8599b68408861f9b62421ed">in nearly 80% of the more than 2,000 U.S. counties</a>&nbsp;with available data, including in states that are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-vaccination-us-rfk-mmr-8fb86f56b0892408680daae4a52047e6">battling outbreaks</a>&nbsp;this year.

Only&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vaccinations-kindergarten-exemptions-cdc-1c0f9a196a70491fccf48b9125090de0">92.7%</a>&nbsp;of kindergarteners in the U.S. had the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine in the 2023-2024 school year, below the 95% needed to prevent outbreaks. In Gaines County, Texas, the epicenter of the Texas outbreak, only 82% of kindergarteners were up-to-date with MMR vaccines.

State and federal leaders have for years kept funding&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-vaccines-funding-cuts-5785985d6b74024b0502f6a2fc1576e2">stagnant</a>&nbsp;for local public health departments' vaccination programs that are tasked with reversing the trend.

“What we’re seeing with measles is a little bit of a ‘canary in a coal mine,'" said Lauren Gardner, leader of Johns Hopkins University's independent measles and COVID tracking databases. "It’s indicative of a problem that we know exists with vaccinatio

TOPEKA —The Kansas Department of Health on Wednesday reported four new cases of measles over the past week in the state for a total of 87 cases in 11 counties.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752083381391.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On July 4, the&nbsp; KDHE reported a measles exposure that occurred at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita&nbsp;so individuals can take steps to protect their health and help prevent further spread.&nbsp;There is no risk of measles exposure outside&nbsp;of&nbsp;the&nbsp;specific unit,&nbsp;dates and times&nbsp;listed. Individuals who were not in the affected&nbsp;unit&nbsp;during that&nbsp;time, including those in other parts of the hospital or its departments,&nbsp;are&nbsp;not&nbsp;considered exposed.<ol>
 <li>Location:&nbsp;Fifth-Floor Pediatric Unit, Building 4, Wesley Medical Center</li><li>Address:&nbsp;550 N Hillside St, Wichita, KS 67214</li><li>Dates and times:&nbsp;Tuesday, July 1, 2025, from 10 p.m. until Thursday, July 3, 2025, 4:45 p.m.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>According to the Associated Press, the U.S. is having its worst year for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-vaccination-rfk-mmr-e5d928e41fd6b3dc6ade087662d61c5c">measles spread</a>&nbsp;in more than three decades, with a total of 1,288 cases nationally and another six months to go in 2025.The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Wednesday that the national case count surpassed 2019, when there were 1,274 cases for the year and the country almost lost its status of having eliminated the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vaccines-measles-polio-whooping-cough-rubella-af4cd1aef8f408a960601df6372f9c32">vaccine-preventable illness.</a>&nbsp;That could happen this year if the virus has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-new-mexico-outbreak-mmr-vaccine-6cfda9a944084c390bc70f0e7a37a426">nonstop spread for 12 months</a>.This year's outbreaks, some of them interconnected, started five months ago in undervaccinated communities in West Texas. Three people have died — two children in Texas and an adult in New Mexico — and dozens of people have been hospitalized. Public health experts maintain the true case count may be higher than state health departments have confirmed.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-new-mexico-outbreak-mmr-vaccine-6cfda9a944084c390bc70f0e7a37a426">North America</a>&nbsp;has three other major measles outbreaks, with 2,966 cases in Chihuahua state, Mexico, 2,223 cases in Ontario, Canada and 1,230 in Alberta, Canada. Thirteen other states have current confirmed outbreaks of three or more people — Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma and Utah — and four other states saw their outbreaks end.The measles, mumps and rubella vaccine is 97% effective at preventing measles after two doses.The World Health Organization said in 2000 that measles had been eliminated from the U.S.The CDC identified 22 outbreaks in 2019, the largest being two separate clusters in New York — 412 in New York state and 702 in New York City. These were linked because as measles was spreading through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/68/wr/mm6840e2.htm">close-knit Orthodox Jewish communities</a>, the CDC said.It's a similar situation in North America this year, where the Canada, Mexico and Texas outbreaks stem from large Mennonite communities in the regions. Mennonite churches do not formally discourage vaccination, though&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-texas-rfk-vaccines-8cf4641b04731c713edb524ca943490c">more conservative Mennonite communities</a>&nbsp;historically have low vaccination rates and a distrust of government.A recent study found childhood vaccination rates against measles fell after the COVID-19 pandemic&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-vaccine-mmr-covid-exemptions-87cbfe44d8599b68408861f9b62421ed">in nearly 80% of the more than 2,000 U.S. counties</a>&nbsp;with available data, including in states that are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-vaccination-us-rfk-mmr-8fb86f56b0892408680daae4a52047e6">battling outbreaks</a>&nbsp;this year.Only&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vaccinations-kindergarten-exemptions-cdc-1c0f9a196a70491fccf48b9125090de0">92.7%</a>&nbsp;of kindergarteners in the U.S. had the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine in the 2023-2024 school year, below the 95% needed to prevent outbreaks. In Gaines County, Texas, the epicenter of the Texas outbreak, only 82% of kindergarteners were up-to-date with MMR vaccines.State and federal leaders have for years kept funding&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-vaccines-funding-cuts-5785985d6b74024b0502f6a2fc1576e2">stagnant</a>&nbsp;for local public health departments' vaccination programs that are tasked with reversing the trend.“What we’re seeing with measles is a little bit of a ‘canary in a coal mine,'" said Lauren Gardner, leader of Johns Hopkins University's independent measles and COVID tracking databases. "It’s indicative of a problem that we know exists with vaccinatio

US having worst year for measles in decades; more cases in Kansas

BOURBON COUNTY—One person died in a fire in Bourbon County.

Just before 5p.m. Tuesday, the Kansas State Fire Marshal (KSFM) Investigation Division was requested to assist with a fatality fire in the 2200 block of Osage Road, Fort Scott, according to a media release.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Local authorities requested Kansas State Fire Marshal Special Agents after they responded to house fire with a fatality.&nbsp; Two Special Agents/Certified Fire Investigators were sent to assist with this fire.

The Scott Township Fire Department, with mutual aid from the Fort Scott Fire Department and the Bourbon County Fire District #3, responded to&nbsp; working fire. A woman with a mobility issues was trapped.&nbsp; Fire crews found her deceased in her bed in the front living room.

The fire incident classification will be made after the preliminary autopsy report becomes available. There is nothing suspicious about the fire, according to the Fire Marshal's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752090277875.png" alt="Photo Scott Township Fire" />
 <figcaption>Photo Scott Township Fire</figcaption>
 </figure>BOURBON COUNTY—One person died in a fire in Bourbon County.Just before 5p.m. Tuesday, the Kansas State Fire Marshal (KSFM) Investigation Division was requested to assist with a fatality fire in the 2200 block of Osage Road, Fort Scott, according to a media release.&nbsp;&nbsp;Local authorities requested Kansas State Fire Marshal Special Agents after they responded to house fire with a fatality.&nbsp; Two Special Agents/Certified Fire Investigators were sent to assist with this fire.The Scott Township Fire Department, with mutual aid from the Fort Scott Fire Department and the Bourbon County Fire District #3, responded to&nbsp; working fire. A woman with a mobility issues was trapped.&nbsp; Fire crews found her deceased in her bed in the front living room.The fire incident classification will be made after the preliminary autopsy report becomes available. There is nothing suspicious about the fire, according to the Fire Marshal's office.

Woman dies in rural Kansas house fire

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden’s former White House physician refused on Wednesday to answer questions as part of the House Republican investigation into Biden’s health in office.

Dr. Kevin O’Connor invoked his rights under the Fifth Amendment during a closed-door interview with the House Oversight Committee, his attorney and lawmakers said.

Republicans on the Oversight Committee&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-fitness-investigation-trump-republicans-congress-oversight-c10b31a4087ddccc5b214e024656ee6d">subpoenaed O'Connor</a>&nbsp;last month as part of a their sweeping investigation into Biden’s health and his mental fitness as president. They claim some policies carried out during Biden's term through the use of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-biden-autopen-investigation-pardons-9095684acf3c31189f03295a9e9de7e1">the White House autopen</a>&nbsp;may be illegitimate if it's proven the Democrat was mentally incapacitated for some of his term.

Biden has strongly denied that he was not in a right state of mind at any point while in office, calling the claims&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-investigation-autopen-james-comer-ae7013baea1f3da5417d02a6e83811ec">“ridiculous and false.”</a>

David Schertler, one of O’Connor’s lawyers, said the doctor had “no choice” but to invoke his Fifth Amendment rights in testimony before the committee. Schertler cited both O'Connor's responsibilities to protect patient privacy as a doctor and the Justice Department's ongoing investigation into Biden's use of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-biden-pardons-autopen-capitol-riot-1956c5dcb44ecba10cd9b01171ca9efa">the autopen</a>.

Rep. James Comer of Kentucky, the Oversight chair, said O’Connor’s refusal to testify made it “clear there was a conspiracy.”

“The American people demand transparency, but Dr. O’Connor would rather conceal the truth,” Comer said in a statement.

Witnesses routinely invoke their Fifth Amendment rights in testimony to Congress. Allies of President Donald Trump, for example,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/steve-bannon-roger-stone-capitol-siege-subpoenas-congress-1286e3017eead8967cd7cf25c5e596cc">invoked their rights</a>&nbsp;when refusing to testify to the committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-confirm-joe-biden-78104aea082995bbd7412a6e6cd13818">a mob of his supporters</a>.

Comer has has sought testimony from nearly a dozen former Biden aides as he conducts his investigation, including former White House chiefs of staff Ron Klain and Jeff Zients; former senior advisers Mike Donilon and Anita Dunn; former deputy chief of staff Bruce Reed, former counselor to the president Steve Ricchetti, former deputy chief of staff Annie Tomasini and a former assistant to the president, Ashley Williams.

He has also issued a subpoena for Anthony Bernal, the former chief of staff to former first lady Jill Biden.

Trump's White House has waived executive privilege, a right that protects many communications between the president and staff from Congress and the courts, for almost all of those senior staffers. That clears the way for those staffers to discuss their conversations with Biden while he was president.

Rep. Robert Garcia of California, the top Democrat on the Oversight panel, dismissed the Republican investigation as a waste of time.

“Oversight Republicans could be working to lower costs for American families and conducting oversight of President Trump’s corruption, but instead are obsessed with the past," he said.

Dr. Kevin O’Connor invoked doctor-client privilege and his rights under the Fifth Amendment during an appearance Wednesday before the House Oversight Committee, his attorneys said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727691434816.png" alt="File photo Former President Joe Biden-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>File photo Former President Joe Biden-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden’s former White House physician refused on Wednesday to answer questions as part of the House Republican investigation into Biden’s health in office.Dr. Kevin O’Connor invoked his rights under the Fifth Amendment during a closed-door interview with the House Oversight Committee, his attorney and lawmakers said.Republicans on the Oversight Committee&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-fitness-investigation-trump-republicans-congress-oversight-c10b31a4087ddccc5b214e024656ee6d">subpoenaed O'Connor</a>&nbsp;last month as part of a their sweeping investigation into Biden’s health and his mental fitness as president. They claim some policies carried out during Biden's term through the use of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-biden-autopen-investigation-pardons-9095684acf3c31189f03295a9e9de7e1">the White House autopen</a>&nbsp;may be illegitimate if it's proven the Democrat was mentally incapacitated for some of his term.Biden has strongly denied that he was not in a right state of mind at any point while in office, calling the claims&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-investigation-autopen-james-comer-ae7013baea1f3da5417d02a6e83811ec">“ridiculous and false.”</a>David Schertler, one of O’Connor’s lawyers, said the doctor had “no choice” but to invoke his Fifth Amendment rights in testimony before the committee. Schertler cited both O'Connor's responsibilities to protect patient privacy as a doctor and the Justice Department's ongoing investigation into Biden's use of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-biden-pardons-autopen-capitol-riot-1956c5dcb44ecba10cd9b01171ca9efa">the autopen</a>.Rep. James Comer of Kentucky, the Oversight chair, said O’Connor’s refusal to testify made it “clear there was a conspiracy.”“The American people demand transparency, but Dr. O’Connor would rather conceal the truth,” Comer said in a statement.Witnesses routinely invoke their Fifth Amendment rights in testimony to Congress. Allies of President Donald Trump, for example,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/steve-bannon-roger-stone-capitol-siege-subpoenas-congress-1286e3017eead8967cd7cf25c5e596cc">invoked their rights</a>&nbsp;when refusing to testify to the committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-confirm-joe-biden-78104aea082995bbd7412a6e6cd13818">a mob of his supporters</a>.Comer has has sought testimony from nearly a dozen former Biden aides as he conducts his investigation, including former White House chiefs of staff Ron Klain and Jeff Zients; former senior advisers Mike Donilon and Anita Dunn; former deputy chief of staff Bruce Reed, former counselor to the president Steve Ricchetti, former deputy chief of staff Annie Tomasini and a former assistant to the president, Ashley Williams.He has also issued a subpoena for Anthony Bernal, the former chief of staff to former first lady Jill Biden.Trump's White House has waived executive privilege, a right that protects many communications between the president and staff from Congress and the courts, for almost all of those senior staffers. That clears the way for those staffers to discuss their conversations with Biden while he was president.Rep. Robert Garcia of California, the top Democrat on the Oversight panel, dismissed the Republican investigation as a waste of time.“Oversight Republicans could be working to lower costs for American families and conducting oversight of President Trump’s corruption, but instead are obsessed with the past," he said.Dr. Kevin O’Connor invoked doctor-client privilege and his rights under the Fifth Amendment during an appearance Wednesday before the House Oversight Committee, his attorneys said.

Biden's former doctor refuses to answer questions in House GOP probe

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Most members of the Kansas State Board of Education voted to increase their pay to equal state legislators, which was commonplace until legislators doubled their pay this year, leaving board members behind.

In a 9-1 vote on Tuesday, the board approved a request for around $126,000 beginning July 1, 2026, to fund the salaries of the 10 board members and make them commensurate with legislator pay.

The last time the board received a raise was nearly two decades ago.

A handful of board members viewed the raises as the right thing to do for future generations. Others were emboldened by the principle of the matter, emphasizing the equivalence of their public service to that of state legislators.

Beryl New, a former Topeka public school administrator and educator, said it was important to look beyond the current board members, many of whom said they didn’t need the pay.

“There are other people who may come on and take my seat who need to know that whatever they’re putting out is honored, appreciated and respected, just as a legislator is,” she said.

The Legislature created a commission that approved raises for lawmakers in 2024. Those raises went into effect in January. The current average annual legislator salary is $43,000, and lawmakers budgeted for an additional 4.4% increase next year. Before legislators raised their pay independently of the board, their salary rates were intertwined. They passed a law in April that permits the state board to set their compensation. It was attached to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2382/" target="_blank">legislation</a>&nbsp;requiring school districts to show videos in classes on human growth, development and sexuality that depict fetal development. &nbsp;

Board members currently make $88.66 per day in addition to a subsistence allowance of $166 daily. The $126,000 members approved would bring them up to par with legislative pay, including the future 4.4% raise.

The Legislature’s rationale for pay increases was rooted in its standing as a citizen legislature, said Frank Harwood, deputy education commissioner. Lawmakers argued in 2024 that higher pay would attract more people to the job.

“The question is, does that same logic apply to the state board?” he asked the board.

Board members represent the equivalent of four state Senate districts, or around 270,000 people each, Harwood said.

Jim Porter, a longtime educator and administrator from Fredonia, said the board will soon need younger people who can occupy seats long term and offer different perspectives.

“I’m ambivalent when it comes to me, but I’m not ambivalent for the future,” he said.

Betty Arnold, a former state auditor from Wichita, agreed. Education often gets passed over, she said.

“It’s looking to the future. It’s increasing the field of people that could care about education but can’t afford to sit in these seats,” Arnold said.

The vote came at a time when the Kansas State Department of Education is reckoning with a smaller budget and higher costs. The budget crafted by the Legislature didn’t leave the department any wiggle room, so board members approved a slate of requests for budget enhancements. One was so the department could continue to pay rent in the state building it leases for employees.

The U.S. Department of Education is also holding $42.9 million of Kansas funds in limbo.

Debby Potter, a conservative board member from Great Plains, was the only member who voted against the raises. Earlier in the day’s meeting, she also voted to cut funds for teacher professional development.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752081445188.png" alt="Michelle Dombrosky and Jim Porter, members of the Kansas State Board of Education, at a July 8, 2025, meeting in Topeka. (Anna Kaminski/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Michelle Dombrosky and Jim Porter, members of the Kansas State Board of Education, at a July 8, 2025, meeting in Topeka. (Anna Kaminski/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Most members of the Kansas State Board of Education voted to increase their pay to equal state legislators, which was commonplace until legislators doubled their pay this year, leaving board members behind.In a 9-1 vote on Tuesday, the board approved a request for around $126,000 beginning July 1, 2026, to fund the salaries of the 10 board members and make them commensurate with legislator pay.The last time the board received a raise was nearly two decades ago.A handful of board members viewed the raises as the right thing to do for future generations. Others were emboldened by the principle of the matter, emphasizing the equivalence of their public service to that of state legislators.Beryl New, a former Topeka public school administrator and educator, said it was important to look beyond the current board members, many of whom said they didn’t need the pay.“There are other people who may come on and take my seat who need to know that whatever they’re putting out is honored, appreciated and respected, just as a legislator is,” she said.The Legislature created a commission that approved raises for lawmakers in 2024. Those raises went into effect in January. The current average annual legislator salary is $43,000, and lawmakers budgeted for an additional 4.4% increase next year. Before legislators raised their pay independently of the board, their salary rates were intertwined. They passed a law in April that permits the state board to set their compensation. It was attached to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2382/" target="_blank">legislation</a>&nbsp;requiring school districts to show videos in classes on human growth, development and sexuality that depict fetal development. &nbsp;Board members currently make $88.66 per day in addition to a subsistence allowance of $166 daily. The $126,000 members approved would bring them up to par with legislative pay, including the future 4.4% raise.The Legislature’s rationale for pay increases was rooted in its standing as a citizen legislature, said Frank Harwood, deputy education commissioner. Lawmakers argued in 2024 that higher pay would attract more people to the job.“The question is, does that same logic apply to the state board?” he asked the board.It appeared it did.Board members represent the equivalent of four state Senate districts, or around 270,000 people each, Harwood said.Jim Porter, a longtime educator and administrator from Fredonia, said the board will soon need younger people who can occupy seats long term and offer different perspectives.“I’m ambivalent when it comes to me, but I’m not ambivalent for the future,” he said.Betty Arnold, a former state auditor from Wichita, agreed. Education often gets passed over, she said.“It’s looking to the future. It’s increasing the field of people that could care about education but can’t afford to sit in these seats,” Arnold said.The vote came at a time when the Kansas State Department of Education is reckoning with a smaller budget and higher costs. The budget crafted by the Legislature didn’t leave the department any wiggle room, so board members approved a slate of requests for budget enhancements. One was so the department could continue to pay rent in the state building it leases for employees.The U.S. Department of Education is also holding $42.9 million of Kansas funds in limbo.Debby Potter, a conservative board member from Great Plains, was the only member who voted against the raises. Earlier in the day’s meeting, she also voted to cut funds for teacher professional development.“If I’m willing to cut professional development, I am willing to cut this,” she said.Cathy Hopkins, board chair, said: “I am not.”Hopkins said she lobbied the Legislature this year for board raises to no avail. Her decision was based on principle, she said.Melanie Haas, an executive from Overland Park, mentioned an old comment from Senate President Ty Masterson, an Andover Republican who in 2022 called the board “monolithic” as the Legislature was approving a redrawn state education district map that favored more conservative candidates, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article259917870.html#storylink=cpy" target="_blank">reporting</a>&nbsp;from the Kansas City Star.To Porter, it boils down to a matter of respect.He said Masterson’s 2022 comment was a direct insult to the board because it “didn’t do what the Senate president wanted them to do.”The pay inequity is akin to disrespect toward the board and public education, Porter said.“We need to be respected,” he said.