ATCHISON COUNTY, Mo. —A Nebraska woman died in an accident just after 7:30p.m. Wednesday in Atchison County, Missouri.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Hyundai Sonata driven Jovannah D. Ross, 38, Omaha, was northbound on Interstate 29 three miles south of Rock Port.

The Hyundai began to slide, crossed the center median and entered the southbound lanes. The passenger side of the Hyundai struck the front of a southbound 2018 Toyota Sienna driven by Emily A. Ptacnik, 34, Omaha.

Ross was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Minter Funeral Chapel in Rock Port.

A private vehicle transported Ptacnik and three children ages, 6, 4 and 2 to Mosaic Life in Care in St. Joseph for treatment of minor injuries. Ross was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

ATCHISON COUNTY, Mo. —A Nebraska woman died in an accident just after 7:30p.m. Wednesday in Atchison County, Missouri.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Hyundai Sonata driven Jovannah D. Ross, 38, Omaha, was northbound on Interstate 29 three miles south of Rock Port.The Hyundai began to slide, crossed the center median and entered the southbound lanes. The passenger side of the Hyundai struck the front of a southbound 2018 Toyota Sienna driven by Emily A. Ptacnik, 34, Omaha.Ross was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Minter Funeral Chapel in Rock Port.A private vehicle transported Ptacnik and three children ages, 6, 4 and 2 to Mosaic Life in Care in St. Joseph for treatment of minor injuries. Ross was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Nebraska woman killed,  4 hospitalized after Missouri crash

COWLEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for an alleged attack on his roommate.

Early Tuesday, police were dispatched to 221 W. Adams Avenue in Arkansas City for a report of a physical disturbance in which the victim had been stabbed, according to a media release from police.

When they arrived on scene, they found a 20-year-old Arkansas City man with a severe laceration to his hand. He was evaluated and treated at the scene by the Arkansas City Fire-EMS Department, which then transported him to South Central Kansas Medical Center for further treatment of his injury.

Police learned the suspect in this incident, later identified as 29-year-old Felipe Augustine was in the bathroom of the residence, but he refused to leave. After some time, he exited the room, still in possession of the knife.

Augustine, who police determined to be the victim’s roommate, was taken into custody without incident on requested charges of aggravated battery, criminal threat and identity theft. He was transported to and booked into the Cowley County Jail in Winfield.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625691310527.png" alt="Augustine photo Cowley County" />
 <figcaption>Augustine photo Cowley County</figcaption>
 </figure>COWLEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for an alleged attack on his roommate.Early Tuesday, police were dispatched to 221 W. Adams Avenue in Arkansas City for a report of a physical disturbance in which the victim had been stabbed, according to a media release from police.When they arrived on scene, they found a 20-year-old Arkansas City man with a severe laceration to his hand. He was evaluated and treated at the scene by the Arkansas City Fire-EMS Department, which then transported him to South Central Kansas Medical Center for further treatment of his injury.Police learned the suspect in this incident, later identified as 29-year-old Felipe Augustine was in the bathroom of the residence, but he refused to leave. After some time, he exited the room, still in possession of the knife.Augustine, who police determined to be the victim’s roommate, was taken into custody without incident on requested charges of aggravated battery, criminal threat and identity theft. He was transported to and booked into the Cowley County Jail in Winfield.

Police: Kansas man allegedly stabbed his roommate

The global death toll from COVID-19 eclipsed 4 million Wednesday as the crisis increasingly becomes a race between the vaccine and the highly contagious delta variant.

The tally of lives lost over the past year and a half, as compiled from official sources by Johns Hopkins University, is about equal to the number of people killed in battle in all of the world’s wars since 1982, according to estimates from the Peace Research Institute Oslo.

The toll is three times the number of people killed in traffic accidents around the globe every year. It is about equal to the population of Los Angeles or the nation of Georgia. It is equivalent to more than half of Hong Kong or close to 50% of New York City.

Even then, it is widely believed to be an undercount because of overlooked cases or deliberate concealment.

But in recent weeks, the mutant delta version of the virus first identified in India has set off alarms around the world, spreading rapidly even in vaccination success stories like the U.S., Britain and Israel.

Britain, in fact, recorded a one-day total this week of more than 30,000 new infections for the first time since January, even as the government prepares to lift all remaining lockdown restrictions in England later this month.

Other countries have reimposed preventive measures, and authorities are rushing to step up the campaign to dispense shots.

At the same time, the disaster has exposed the gap between the haves and the have-nots, with vaccination drives barely getting started in Africa and other desperately poor corners of the world because of extreme shortages of shots.

The U.S. and other wealthy countries have agreed to share at least 1 billion doses with struggling countries.

The U.S. has the world’s highest reported death toll, at over 600,000, or nearly 1 in 7 deaths, followed by Brazil at more than 520,000, though the real numbers are believed to be much higher in Brazil, where President Jair Bolsonaro’s far-right government has long downplayed the virus.

The variants, uneven access to vaccines and the relaxation of precautions in wealthier countries are “a toxic combination that is very dangerous,” warned Ann Lindstrand, a top immunization official at the World Health Organization.

Instead of treating the crisis as a “me-and-myself-and-my-country” problem, she said, “we need to get serious that this is a worldwide problem that needs worldwide solutions.”

By JOSHUA GOODMAN, Associated PressThe global death toll from COVID-19 eclipsed 4 million Wednesday as the crisis increasingly becomes a race between the vaccine and the highly contagious delta variant.The tally of lives lost over the past year and a half, as compiled from official sources by Johns Hopkins University, is about equal to the number of people killed in battle in all of the world’s wars since 1982, according to estimates from the Peace Research Institute Oslo.The toll is three times the number of people killed in traffic accidents around the globe every year. It is about equal to the population of Los Angeles or the nation of Georgia. It is equivalent to more than half of Hong Kong or close to 50% of New York City.Even then, it is widely believed to be an undercount because of overlooked cases or deliberate concealment.But in recent weeks, the mutant delta version of the virus first identified in India has set off alarms around the world, spreading rapidly even in vaccination success stories like the U.S., Britain and Israel.Britain, in fact, recorded a one-day total this week of more than 30,000 new infections for the first time since January, even as the government prepares to lift all remaining lockdown restrictions in England later this month.Other countries have reimposed preventive measures, and authorities are rushing to step up the campaign to dispense shots.At the same time, the disaster has exposed the gap between the haves and the have-nots, with vaccination drives barely getting started in Africa and other desperately poor corners of the world because of extreme shortages of shots.The U.S. and other wealthy countries have agreed to share at least 1 billion doses with struggling countries.The U.S. has the world’s highest reported death toll, at over 600,000, or nearly 1 in 7 deaths, followed by Brazil at more than 520,000, though the real numbers are believed to be much higher in Brazil, where President Jair Bolsonaro’s far-right government has long downplayed the virus.The variants, uneven access to vaccines and the relaxation of precautions in wealthier countries are “a toxic combination that is very dangerous,” warned Ann Lindstrand, a top immunization official at the World Health Organization.Instead of treating the crisis as a “me-and-myself-and-my-country” problem, she said, “we need to get serious that this is a worldwide problem that needs worldwide solutions.”

Global COVID-19 deaths hit 4 million amid rush to vaccinate

KENNESAW, Ga. (AP) — Investigators have identified three men found shot to death on the golf course of a country club in the Atlanta suburbs, but it's still unclear what prompted the violence.

Golf pro Eugene Siller was gunned down when he went to find out why a white pickup truck had driven onto the 10th green at Pinetree Country Club in Kennesaw on Saturday afternoon, police said.

Two other men — both fatally shot — were then found in the bed of the pickup truck. Cobb County police on Wednesday identified those men as 46-year-old Henry Valdez of California and 76-year-old Paul Pierson of Kansas.

The gunman is believed to have gotten away on foot, authorities said. He remained on the loose Wednesday.

Investigators believe that Siller, 46, was slain because he came upon a “crime in progress,” police have said. It doesn’t appear that he was targeted, and the other men appear to have “no relation to the location at all,” police said in a statement. Pierson was the truck’s registered owner.

Police haven't commented on any possible motive for the killings of the two men whose bodies were found in the pickup.

The country club is near the campus of Kennesaw State University, about 25 miles northwest of downtown Atlanta.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625690174997.png" alt="Cobb County police on Wednesday identified the victims as&nbsp;Golf pro Eugene Siller, 46-year-old Henry Valdez of California and 76-year-old Paul Pierson of Kansas -photo courtesy WGCL TV" />
 <figcaption>Cobb County police on Wednesday identified the victims as&nbsp;Golf pro Eugene Siller, 46-year-old Henry Valdez of California and 76-year-old Paul Pierson of Kansas -photo courtesy WGCL TV</figcaption>
 </figure>KENNESAW, Ga. (AP) — Investigators have identified three men found shot to death on the golf course of a country club in the Atlanta suburbs, but it's still unclear what prompted the violence.Golf pro Eugene Siller was gunned down when he went to find out why a white pickup truck had driven onto the 10th green at Pinetree Country Club in Kennesaw on Saturday afternoon, police said.Two other men — both fatally shot — were then found in the bed of the pickup truck. Cobb County police on Wednesday identified those men as 46-year-old Henry Valdez of California and 76-year-old Paul Pierson of Kansas.The gunman is believed to have gotten away on foot, authorities said. He remained on the loose Wednesday.Investigators believe that Siller, 46, was slain because he came upon a “crime in progress,” police have said. It doesn’t appear that he was targeted, and the other men appear to have “no relation to the location at all,” police said in a statement. Pierson was the truck’s registered owner.Police haven't commented on any possible motive for the killings of the two men whose bodies were found in the pickup.The country club is near the campus of Kennesaw State University, about 25 miles northwest of downtown Atlanta.

Police: Kan. man among 3 in country club triple homicide

By Scott Carlson-North Platte Post

SEWARD, Neb.-Law enforcement authorities say a Seward County man who had been reported missing was found deceased.

The Seward County Sheriff's Office said a missing person call came in on Friday at around 12:30 p.m.

It was reported that Frederick Rolfsmeier, 84, of Milford, was missing and may be in need of medical attention.

The sheriff's office called the Nebraska State Patrol K-9 unit and Seward County Sheriff's Posse for assistance.

After receiving multiple tips about Rolfsmeier's possible whereabouts, officials were able to narrow the search area and located Rolfsmeier, deceased, along a roadway.

Officials said it appeared Rolfsmeier died of natural causes and no foul play is suspected.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578144856361.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Scott Carlson-North Platte PostSEWARD, Neb.-Law enforcement authorities say a Seward County man who had been reported missing was found deceased.The Seward County Sheriff's Office said a missing person call came in on Friday at around 12:30 p.m.It was reported that Frederick Rolfsmeier, 84, of Milford, was missing and may be in need of medical attention.The sheriff's office called the Nebraska State Patrol K-9 unit and Seward County Sheriff's Posse for assistance.After receiving multiple tips about Rolfsmeier's possible whereabouts, officials were able to narrow the search area and located Rolfsmeier, deceased, along a roadway.Officials said it appeared Rolfsmeier died of natural causes and no foul play is suspected.

Authorities find missing Seward County man deceased

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A Lincoln man faces second-degree murder and firearms charges after police say he fatally shot another man at a party last month. 

Lincoln police said they arrested Shantrel Hickey, 26. 

They said he was seen firing a gun in the direction of&nbsp; Deontae Abron, 31, during a June 12 party in Lincoln around 4 a.m. Abron was shot in the face and died at an Omaha hospital three days later. 

Police say a fight broke out at the party, gunshots were fired and people fled the area. 

Officers say they identified Shantrel Hickey and Daqwan Hickey, 24, as people who were shooting in the vicinity.

 According to police, Daqwan Hickey was seen firing a gun into the air.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A Lincoln man faces second-degree murder and firearms charges after police say he fatally shot another man at a party last month. Lincoln police said they arrested Shantrel Hickey, 26. They said he was seen firing a gun in the direction of&nbsp; Deontae Abron, 31, during a June 12 party in Lincoln around 4 a.m. Abron was shot in the face and died at an Omaha hospital three days later. Police say a fight broke out at the party, gunshots were fired and people fled the area. Officers say they identified Shantrel Hickey and Daqwan Hickey, 24, as people who were shooting in the vicinity. According to police, Daqwan Hickey was seen firing a gun into the air.

Lincoln man charged in connection with fatal party shooting

News Release Nebraska State Patrol

LINCOLN, Neb.-The Nebraska State Patrol is seeking any information regarding the disappearance of a Jefferson County woman. Linda Dillard, 55, has been missing since the early morning hours of Wednesday, June 16, when she was last seen in the rural Table Rock area.

Dillard is believed to be missing under suspicious circumstances. She is described as a white female, 5’0”, 130 lbs., with blue eyes and brown hair (possibly dyed blonde or wearing a wig). She was last seen wearing a white tank top, jean shorts, a white and purple wig, and brown, lace-up sandal boots. She has several tattoos. Dillard sometimes walks with a cane and has a medical condition that makes it difficult for her to walk long distances.

Anyone with information regarding her whereabouts or information about her disappearance is urged to submit a tip through Nebraska Crime Stoppers. Tips are completely anonymous and can be submitted via the&nbsp;<a href="http://nebraskacrimestoppers.com/sitemenu.aspx?ID=450&amp;" target="_blank">Nebraska Crime Stoppers website,</a>&nbsp;the “P3 Tips” mobile app, or by calling 1-800-422-1494.

Nebraska Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information in this investigation. Tips to Nebraska Crime Stoppers can be made anonymously

News Release Nebraska State PatrolLINCOLN, Neb.-The Nebraska State Patrol is seeking any information regarding the disappearance of a Jefferson County woman. Linda Dillard, 55, has been missing since the early morning hours of Wednesday, June 16, when she was last seen in the rural Table Rock area.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625692481203.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dillard is believed to be missing under suspicious circumstances. She is described as a white female, 5’0”, 130 lbs., with blue eyes and brown hair (possibly dyed blonde or wearing a wig). She was last seen wearing a white tank top, jean shorts, a white and purple wig, and brown, lace-up sandal boots. She has several tattoos. Dillard sometimes walks with a cane and has a medical condition that makes it difficult for her to walk long distances.Anyone with information regarding her whereabouts or information about her disappearance is urged to submit a tip through Nebraska Crime Stoppers. Tips are completely anonymous and can be submitted via the&nbsp;<a href="http://nebraskacrimestoppers.com/sitemenu.aspx?ID=450&amp;" target="_blank">Nebraska Crime Stoppers website,</a>&nbsp;the “P3 Tips” mobile app, or by calling 1-800-422-1494.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625692499235.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Nebraska Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information in this investigation. Tips to Nebraska Crime Stoppers can be made anonymously

Authorities search for Jefferson County woman who disappeared mid-June

By ARIANA FIGUEROA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/07/06/white-house-says-executive-order-coming-on-labeling-beef-as-a-product-of-usa/">Kansas Reflector</a>

WASHINGTON
 — The White House will unveil an executive order in the coming days 
that directs the U.S. Department of Agriculture to clarify that meat can
 only receive a “Product of USA” label if that livestock is raised in 
the U.S. rather than abroad, press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters 
Tuesday.

“The
 EO directs USDA to develop a plan to increase opportunities for farmers
 to access markets and receive a fair return, including supporting 
alternative food distribution systems like farmers markets and 
developing standards and labels so that consumers can choose to buy 
products that treat farmers and agriculture workers fairly,” Psaki said.

Psaki
 said that the executive order will make it easier for farmers to 
economically compete against international meat industries.

Under
 current labeling rules, most grass fed beef labeled “Product of USA” is
 actually raised and slaughtered abroad, but imported to the United 
States for processing.

“The
 president and the USDA believe it is unfair for domestic farmers and 
ranchers to have to compete with foreign companies that are misleading 
consumers,” she said.

USDA
 Secretary Tom Vilsack said in a statement last week that the agency 
would initiate a “top-to-bottom” review of the “Product of USA” label 
that will help determine what the label means to consumers. The 
announcement followed <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2021/07/ftc-issues-rule-deter-rampant-made-usa-fraud">a Federal Trade Commission move </a>on strengthening the labeling.

“We
 have taken note of the many comments submitted to USDA and the FTC 
regarding meat labeling and understand that the current ‘Product of USA’
 label on meat products may no longer effectively serve either of those 
purposes, to the detriment of consumers, producers, and fair and 
competitive markets,” said Vilsack.

Psaki
 said the order also aims to make it easier for farmers to bring claims 
against corporate agriculture companies under the Packers and Stockyards
 Act to prevent chicken processors from underpaying farmers, and would 
protect from retaliation those farmers who report companies that are not
 following the rules.

Ariana Figueroa covers the nation's capital for States Newsroom, a network of state-based nonprofit news outlets that includes Kansas Reflector.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625690364448.png" alt="The White House plans to issue an executive order to clarify the labeling for beef produced in the United States, the president's press secretary said Tuesday. (May 10, 2021, photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>The White House plans to issue an executive order to clarify the labeling for beef produced in the United States, the president's press secretary said Tuesday. (May 10, 2021, photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By ARIANA FIGUEROA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/07/06/white-house-says-executive-order-coming-on-labeling-beef-as-a-product-of-usa/">Kansas Reflector</a>WASHINGTON
 — The White House will unveil an executive order in the coming days 
that directs the U.S. Department of Agriculture to clarify that meat can
 only receive a “Product of USA” label if that livestock is raised in 
the U.S. rather than abroad, press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters 
Tuesday.“The
 EO directs USDA to develop a plan to increase opportunities for farmers
 to access markets and receive a fair return, including supporting 
alternative food distribution systems like farmers markets and 
developing standards and labels so that consumers can choose to buy 
products that treat farmers and agriculture workers fairly,” Psaki said.Psaki
 said that the executive order will make it easier for farmers to 
economically compete against international meat industries.Under
 current labeling rules, most grass fed beef labeled “Product of USA” is
 actually raised and slaughtered abroad, but imported to the United 
States for processing.“The
 president and the USDA believe it is unfair for domestic farmers and 
ranchers to have to compete with foreign companies that are misleading 
consumers,” she said.USDA
 Secretary Tom Vilsack said in a statement last week that the agency 
would initiate a “top-to-bottom” review of the “Product of USA” label 
that will help determine what the label means to consumers. The 
announcement followed <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2021/07/ftc-issues-rule-deter-rampant-made-usa-fraud">a Federal Trade Commission move </a>on strengthening the labeling.“We
 have taken note of the many comments submitted to USDA and the FTC 
regarding meat labeling and understand that the current ‘Product of USA’
 label on meat products may no longer effectively serve either of those 
purposes, to the detriment of consumers, producers, and fair and 
competitive markets,” said Vilsack.Psaki
 said the order also aims to make it easier for farmers to bring claims 
against corporate agriculture companies under the Packers and Stockyards
 Act to prevent chicken processors from underpaying farmers, and would 
protect from retaliation those farmers who report companies that are not
 following the rules.Ariana Figueroa covers the nation's capital for States Newsroom, a network of state-based nonprofit news outlets that includes Kansas Reflector.

White House: ‘Product of USA’ executive order coming for beef industry

BAGHDAD (AP) — U.S.-backed Syrian fighters and American troops foiled an attack with drones Wednesday on a base housing members of the U.S.-led coalition in eastern Syria, the Syrian Democratic Forces said. In neighboring Iraq, rockets hit a base housing U.S. troops, inflicting two minor injuries.

The attacks come as tension has been on the rise between U.S. troops and Iran-backed fighters after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-syria-iran-middle-east-iraq-47774c2b5a6862353c8c6751738e7ba0">American airstrikes in eastern Syria killed four Iraqi fighters&nbsp;</a>late last month in areas along the Syria-Iraq border. The Pentagon said targets attacked on June 27, were facilities used by Iran-backed militia groups to support drone strikes inside Iraq.

The spokesman for the U.S.-led coalition Col. Wayne Marotto said that Al-Assad Air Base in western Iraq was attacked early in the afternoon by 14 rockets that landed on the base and its perimeter, prompting the activation of defensive measures. Marotto later tweeted: “100 % accountability at Ain Al-Assad Air Base after rocket attack. Two personnel sustained minor injuries.” The damage was still to be assessed, he added without elaborating.

A statement from the Security Media Cell, affiliated with Iraq’s security forces, said a mobile rocket launcher hidden in a truck loaded with bags of flour and parked in the nearby village of Baghdadi was used in the attack. It added that 14 rockets were fired toward the base while the rest exploded on the truck, damaging some village homes and a mosque.

Iraq’s government called it a “terrorist attack” and a “flagrant violation” of Iraqi laws.

A previously unknown group calling itself “The brigades to avenge al-Muhandis,” said its members fired 30 rockets toward the base “run by American occupiers.” It added a message to U.S. troops: “We will force you to leave our lands defeated.”

The group is named after Iraqi militia leader Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis who was killed last year in a U.S. drone attack in Baghdad along with Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani.

In Syria, the U.S.-backed and Kurdish-led forces said in a statement they foiled an attack that was using drones on Wednesday morning on the al-Omar oil field in the eastern province of Deir el-Zour. There were no damages, the statement said.

The same al-Omar base was attacked with two rockets over the weekend, according to the Syrian Kurdish-led forces and a Syrian opposition activist. There were no casualties in that attack.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/islamic-state-group-syria-middle-east-1a83bc506552d804e511758a1e915609">The U.S. military denied there were any attacks on Sunday.</a>

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an opposition war monitor, said the drones took off from areas controlled by Iran-backed fighters in the eastern Syrian town of Mayadeen.

Drone attacks against the U.S.-led coalition in Syria are not common. Hundreds of U.S. troops are stationed in northeastern Syria, working with the Kurdish-led fighters in battling the Islamic State group.

Thousands of Iran-backed militiamen from around the Middle East are deployed in different parts of Syria, many of them in areas along the border with Iraq.

The leader of an Iran-backed Iraqi militia vowed on Monday to retaliate against America for the deaths of four of his men in a U.S. airstrike along the Iraq-Syria border last month. Abu Alaa al-Walae, commander of the Kataib Sayyid al-Shuhada group,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-middle-east-iraq-government-and-politics-d6b61b979b2ca123bc04b12ae5576bf6">said the revenge attack will be a military operation everyone will talk about.</a>

The U.S. has blamed Iran-backed militias for attacks — most of them rocket strikes — that have targeted the American presence in Baghdad and at military bases across Iraq. The attacks have recently become more sophisticated, with militants using drones.

Late Tuesday, the counter-terrorism unit in Iraq’s northern Kurdish-run region reported a drone attack on Irbil airport, near where U.S. forces are based. The statement by the counter-terrorism unit said the attack caused no damage, though the missiles fell in open fields and set fires.

BAGHDAD (AP) — U.S.-backed Syrian fighters and American troops foiled an attack with drones Wednesday on a base housing members of the U.S.-led coalition in eastern Syria, the Syrian Democratic Forces said. In neighboring Iraq, rockets hit a base housing U.S. troops, inflicting two minor injuries.The attacks come as tension has been on the rise between U.S. troops and Iran-backed fighters after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-syria-iran-middle-east-iraq-47774c2b5a6862353c8c6751738e7ba0">American airstrikes in eastern Syria killed four Iraqi fighters&nbsp;</a>late last month in areas along the Syria-Iraq border. The Pentagon said targets attacked on June 27, were facilities used by Iran-backed militia groups to support drone strikes inside Iraq.The spokesman for the U.S.-led coalition Col. Wayne Marotto said that Al-Assad Air Base in western Iraq was attacked early in the afternoon by 14 rockets that landed on the base and its perimeter, prompting the activation of defensive measures. Marotto later tweeted: “100 % accountability at Ain Al-Assad Air Base after rocket attack. Two personnel sustained minor injuries.” The damage was still to be assessed, he added without elaborating.A statement from the Security Media Cell, affiliated with Iraq’s security forces, said a mobile rocket launcher hidden in a truck loaded with bags of flour and parked in the nearby village of Baghdadi was used in the attack. It added that 14 rockets were fired toward the base while the rest exploded on the truck, damaging some village homes and a mosque.Iraq’s government called it a “terrorist attack” and a “flagrant violation” of Iraqi laws.A previously unknown group calling itself “The brigades to avenge al-Muhandis,” said its members fired 30 rockets toward the base “run by American occupiers.” It added a message to U.S. troops: “We will force you to leave our lands defeated.”The group is named after Iraqi militia leader Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis who was killed last year in a U.S. drone attack in Baghdad along with Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani.In Syria, the U.S.-backed and Kurdish-led forces said in a statement they foiled an attack that was using drones on Wednesday morning on the al-Omar oil field in the eastern province of Deir el-Zour. There were no damages, the statement said.The same al-Omar base was attacked with two rockets over the weekend, according to the Syrian Kurdish-led forces and a Syrian opposition activist. There were no casualties in that attack.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/islamic-state-group-syria-middle-east-1a83bc506552d804e511758a1e915609">The U.S. military denied there were any attacks on Sunday.</a>The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an opposition war monitor, said the drones took off from areas controlled by Iran-backed fighters in the eastern Syrian town of Mayadeen.Drone attacks against the U.S.-led coalition in Syria are not common. Hundreds of U.S. troops are stationed in northeastern Syria, working with the Kurdish-led fighters in battling the Islamic State group.Thousands of Iran-backed militiamen from around the Middle East are deployed in different parts of Syria, many of them in areas along the border with Iraq.The leader of an Iran-backed Iraqi militia vowed on Monday to retaliate against America for the deaths of four of his men in a U.S. airstrike along the Iraq-Syria border last month. Abu Alaa al-Walae, commander of the Kataib Sayyid al-Shuhada group,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-middle-east-iraq-government-and-politics-d6b61b979b2ca123bc04b12ae5576bf6">said the revenge attack will be a military operation everyone will talk about.</a>The U.S. has blamed Iran-backed militias for attacks — most of them rocket strikes — that have targeted the American presence in Baghdad and at military bases across Iraq. The attacks have recently become more sophisticated, with militants using drones.Late Tuesday, the counter-terrorism unit in Iraq’s northern Kurdish-run region reported a drone attack on Irbil airport, near where U.S. forces are based. The statement by the counter-terrorism unit said the attack caused no damage, though the missiles fell in open fields and set fires.

2 injured in rocket attack on base housing U.S. troops

IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — A teenager injured in an accident on an Iowa amusement ride that killed his younger brother remains on life support as he marks his 16th birthday. 

David Jaramillo has been in a medically induced coma at Blank Children’s Hospital since Saturday’s accident on the Raging River ride at Adventureland Park in Altoona. 

Family pastor Christian Shields says Jaramillo has some brain function and has woken up a couple times at the Des Moines hospital, opening his eyes and asking what happened. 

Shields, the pastor at Christian Life Church in Cedar Rapids, said it’s a miracle that he is alive after being pinned underneath a boat in the water for several minutes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625693882938.png" alt="photo courtesy KCCI" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy KCCI</figcaption>
 </figure>IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — A teenager injured in an accident on an Iowa amusement ride that killed his younger brother remains on life support as he marks his 16th birthday. David Jaramillo has been in a medically induced coma at Blank Children’s Hospital since Saturday’s accident on the Raging River ride at Adventureland Park in Altoona. Family pastor Christian Shields says Jaramillo has some brain function and has woken up a couple times at the Des Moines hospital, opening his eyes and asking what happened. Shields, the pastor at Christian Life Church in Cedar Rapids, said it’s a miracle that he is alive after being pinned underneath a boat in the water for several minutes.

Brother of teen killed at Iowa amusement park remains on life support

HELENA Mont. (AP) — Authorities resumed searching by ground and from the air for a grizzly bear that killed a woman who was camping in a western Montana town. 

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks spokesperson Greg Lemon says a helicopter crew was flying over the area around the small town of Ovando Wednesday in pursuit of the bear. 

Ovando is a community of fewer than 100 people at the edge of the sprawling Bob Marshall wilderness. 

Powell County Sheriff Gavin Roselles says the bear wandered into the victim’s camping area a couple of times before the fatal mauling early Tuesday. 

The victim’s identity has not been released.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625674135638.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>HELENA Mont. (AP) — Authorities resumed searching by ground and from the air for a grizzly bear that killed a woman who was camping in a western Montana town. Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks spokesperson Greg Lemon says a helicopter crew was flying over the area around the small town of Ovando Wednesday in pursuit of the bear. It will be killed if found. Ovando is a community of fewer than 100 people at the edge of the sprawling Bob Marshall wilderness. Powell County Sheriff Gavin Roselles says the bear wandered into the victim’s camping area a couple of times before the fatal mauling early Tuesday. The victim’s identity has not been released.

Officials hunt grizzly that killed camper in Montana town

WASHINGTON (AP) — Former President Donald Trump announced Wednesday he is filing suits against three of the country’s biggest tech companies: Facebook, Twitter and Google, as well as their CEOs.

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?513223-1/president-trump-delivers-remarks-bedminster-jersey">Click here to watch</a> Trump's comments

Trump said he was serving as lead plaintiff in the class-action suits, claiming he has been wrongfully censored by the companies.

“We’re demanding an end to the shadow-banning, a stop to the silencing and a stop to the blacklisting, banishing and canceling that you know so well,” Trump said at a news conference at his Bedminster, New Jersey golf course.

The suits were filed in U.S. District Court for Florida’s southern district.

Trump was suspended from Twitter and Facebook after his followers stormed the Capitol building on Jan. 6. The companies cited concerns that he would incite further violence. Currently, he can no longer post on either platform.

Nonetheless, Trump has continued to spread lies about the 2020 election, baselessly claiming that he won, even though state and local election officials, his own attorney general and numerous judges, including some he appointed, have said there is no evidence of the mass voter fraud he alleges.

Under Section 230 of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/d3e09c4037e2fc17558492b9bdce1ecc">1996 Communications Decency Act</a>, internet companies are generally exempt from liability for the material that users post. The law, which provides a legal “safe harbor” for internet companies, also allows social media platforms to moderate their services by removing posts that, for instance, are obscene or violate the services’ own standards, so long as they are acting in “good faith.”

But Trump and other politicians have long argued that Twitter, Facebook and other social media platforms have abused that protection and should lose their immunity — or at least have to earn it by satisfying requirements set by the government.

Facebook, Google and Twitter all declined comment Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625675671373.png" alt="Trump said he was serving as lead plaintiff in the class-action suits, claiming he has been wrongfully censored by the companies. photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Trump said he was serving as lead plaintiff in the class-action suits, claiming he has been wrongfully censored by the companies. photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Former President Donald Trump announced Wednesday he is filing suits against three of the country’s biggest tech companies: Facebook, Twitter and Google, as well as their CEOs.<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?513223-1/president-trump-delivers-remarks-bedminster-jersey">Click here to watch</a> Trump's commentsTrump said he was serving as lead plaintiff in the class-action suits, claiming he has been wrongfully censored by the companies.“We’re demanding an end to the shadow-banning, a stop to the silencing and a stop to the blacklisting, banishing and canceling that you know so well,” Trump said at a news conference at his Bedminster, New Jersey golf course.The suits were filed in U.S. District Court for Florida’s southern district.Trump was suspended from Twitter and Facebook after his followers stormed the Capitol building on Jan. 6. The companies cited concerns that he would incite further violence. Currently, he can no longer post on either platform.Nonetheless, Trump has continued to spread lies about the 2020 election, baselessly claiming that he won, even though state and local election officials, his own attorney general and numerous judges, including some he appointed, have said there is no evidence of the mass voter fraud he alleges.Under Section 230 of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/d3e09c4037e2fc17558492b9bdce1ecc">1996 Communications Decency Act</a>, internet companies are generally exempt from liability for the material that users post. The law, which provides a legal “safe harbor” for internet companies, also allows social media platforms to moderate their services by removing posts that, for instance, are obscene or violate the services’ own standards, so long as they are acting in “good faith.”But Trump and other politicians have long argued that Twitter, Facebook and other social media platforms have abused that protection and should lose their immunity — or at least have to earn it by satisfying requirements set by the government.Facebook, Google and Twitter all declined comment Wednesday.

🎥 Trump files lawsuits against Facebook, Twitter and Google

BUTLER COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a weekend shooting have made an arrest.

Just before 1:30 a.m. Sunday,&nbsp; Butler County Deputies were dispatched to the scene of a shooting at a large party in the 6200 block of SW Church Road, Augusta, Kansas, according to Undersheriff Daimon Cundiff.

Upon arrival, Deputies located a 17-year-old boy from Winfield with a gunshot wound. He was pronounced deceased at the scene. According to witnesses, there was an altercation between the 17-year-old victim and 18-year-old Jacob Anton DeLeon, of Haysville, when he was shot.

Later that morning, Butler County Sheriff’s Investigators arrested DeLeon in connection with the shooting. He has since been charged with Second Degree Murder, Aggravated Assault, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm. He is currently being held on a $200,000.00 bond at the Butler County Jail.

This was a large party and investigators are still trying to contact any other witnesses, victims, or people who were in attendance. Anyone with any information regarding this incident is asked to call Butler County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division at (316) 322-4257, the Butler County Tip Line at (316) 322-8817, E-mail: crimetips@bucoks.com, toll free (866) 484-5924, or message the Butler County Sheriff’s Office on Facebook.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625607024507.png" alt="Jacob Anton DeLeon is jailed on a $200,000 bond" />
 <figcaption>Jacob Anton DeLeon is jailed on a $200,000 bond</figcaption>
 </figure>BUTLER COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a weekend shooting have made an arrest.Just before 1:30 a.m. Sunday,&nbsp; Butler County Deputies were dispatched to the scene of a shooting at a large party in the 6200 block of SW Church Road, Augusta, Kansas, according to Undersheriff Daimon Cundiff.Upon arrival, Deputies located a 17-year-old boy from Winfield with a gunshot wound. He was pronounced deceased at the scene. According to witnesses, there was an altercation between the 17-year-old victim and 18-year-old Jacob Anton DeLeon, of Haysville, when he was shot.Later that morning, Butler County Sheriff’s Investigators arrested DeLeon in connection with the shooting. He has since been charged with Second Degree Murder, Aggravated Assault, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm. He is currently being held on a $200,000.00 bond at the Butler County Jail.This was a large party and investigators are still trying to contact any other witnesses, victims, or people who were in attendance. Anyone with any information regarding this incident is asked to call Butler County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division at (316) 322-4257, the Butler County Tip Line at (316) 322-8817, E-mail: crimetips@bucoks.com, toll free (866) 484-5924, or message the Butler County Sheriff’s Office on Facebook.

Sheriff investigating Kan. teen's shooting death at large party

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service and partners in non-profit 
organizations, churches, community groups and others will host events in
 12 cities this weekend to help people who don't normally file a federal
 tax return to register for the monthly Advance Child Tax Credit 
(AdvCTC) payments.

The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p5532.pdf">special events&nbsp;PDF</a>
 by IRS and partner groups to help people quickly file income tax 
returns and register for the advance payments will take place July 9-10,
 2021. Events will be held in Atlanta, New York, Detroit, Houston, Los 
Angeles, Las Vegas, Miami, Milwaukee, Philadelphia, Phoenix, St. Louis 
and Washington, DC/Maryland.

"This is part of a wider effort by the IRS to reach as many people as
 possible who don't file a tax return but may be eligible for the Child 
Tax Credit and Economic Impact Payments," said Ken Corbin, IRS Wage and 
Investment Commissioner and the agency's Chief Taxpayer Experience 
Officer. "We encourage people to share this information widely and 
encourage those who need help to visit these locations."

With the help of a new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-non-filer-sign-up-tool">Non-filer Sign-up Tool</a>
 on the IRS website, volunteers and IRS employees will assist eligible 
individuals and families get these important tax credits and benefits. 
This tool, an update of last year's IRS Non-Filers tool, is also 
designed to help individuals register for the $1,400 third round of 
Economic Impact Payments (also known as stimulus checks) and claim the 
Recovery Rebate Credit for any amount of the first two rounds of 
Economic Impact Payments they may have missed. Individuals do not need 
to have children to attend these events and sign up for Economic Impact 
Payments.

People can check their eligibility for the AdvCTC payments by using the new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-eligibility-assistant">Advance Child Tax Credit Eligibility Assistant</a>.

For this weekend's events, to make the sign-up process go quickly and
 smoothly, people are encouraged to have the following information when 
they come to one of these events: (1) Social Security numbers for their 
children, (2) Social Security numbers or Tax Identification Numbers for 
themselves and their spouse, (3) a reliable mailing address, (4) an 
e-mail address, and (5) their bank account information if they want to 
receive their payment by direct deposit.

The IRS is also planning to do additional events in the future as 
well as work with partners inside and outside the tax community to share
 information as widely as possible to people who may be eligible for 
Child Tax Credits and the Economic Impact Payments. This is part of a 
wider effort to raise awareness of the expanded Child Tax Credit, the 
IRS also encourages its partners to use available <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">online tools and toolkits</a> to help non-filers, low-income families and other underserved groups sign up to receive the AdvCTC.

Some tax credits, such as the Child Tax Credit (CTC), are 
"refundable," meaning that even if taxpayers don't owe income tax, the 
IRS will issue them a refund if they're eligible; but they must file a 
tax return or register with the new Non-filer Sign-up Tool to receive 
it. Some people who haven't filed a 2020 tax return yet are also 
eligible for the $1,400 per person Economic Impact Payments and the 
Recovery Rebate Credit.

The first monthly payments of the expanded and newly-advanceable CTC 
from the American Rescue Plan will be made starting July 15. Most 
families will begin receiving monthly payments without any additional 
action. Eligible families will receive a payment of up to $300 per month
 for each child under age 6, and up to $250 per month for each child 
ages 6 to 17.

People who need to file a 2020 federal income tax return, but are 
unable to attend one of these events, may be able to prepare and file 
their own federal income tax online using IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a> if their income is $72,000 or less.

People who don't need to file a 2020 federal tax return can also use the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-non-filer-sign-up-tool">Non-filer Sign-up Tool</a> to register to receive the advance CTC payments, the Third Round Economic Impact Payment, and the Recovery Rebate Credit.

The IRS encourages people to request payments via direct deposit, 
which is faster and more secure than other payment methods. People who 
don't have a bank account should visit the <a href="https://www.fdic.gov/about/initiatives/getbanked/index.html">Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation</a> website for details on opening an account online. They can also use the FDIC's <a href="https://banks.data.fdic.gov/bankfind-suite/bankfind">BankFind</a> tool to locate an FDIC-insured bank.

Finally, <a href="https://covidbanking.joinbankon.org/">BankOn</a>, <a href="https://www.aba.com/advocacy/community-programs/consumer-resources/manage-your-money/choosing-safe-affordable-account">American Bankers Association</a>, <a href="https://www.icba.org/about/find-a-community-bank/open-a-bank-account-remotely">Independent Community Bankers of America</a> and <a href="https://www.mycreditunion.gov/about-credit-unions/credit-union-locator">National Credit Union Administration</a> have lists of banks and credit unions that can open an account online. Veterans can see the <a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/benefits/banking.asp">Veterans Benefits Banking Program</a> for financial services at participating banks.

The expanded and newly-advanceable Child Tax Credit was authorized by
 the American Rescue Plan Act, enacted in March. Normally, the IRS will 
calculate the payment based on a family's 2020 tax return, including 
those who use the Non-filer Sign-up Tool. If that return is not 
available because it has not yet been filed or is still being processed,
 the IRS will instead determine the initial payment amounts using the 
2019 return or the information entered using the Non-filers tool that 
was available in 2020.

The payment will be up to $300 per month for each child under age 6 and up to $250 per month for each child age 6 through 17.

To make sure families have easy access to their money, the IRS will 
issue these payments by direct deposit, as long as correct banking 
information has previously been provided to the IRS. Otherwise, people 
should watch their mail around July 15 for their mailed payment. The 
dates for the Advance Child Tax Credit payments are July 15, Aug. 13, 
Sept. 15, Oct. 15, Nov. 15, and Dec. 15.

To learn more about advance CTC payments, visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">IRS.gov/childtaxcredit2021</a> or see <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/2021-child-tax-credit-and-advance-child-tax-credit-payments-frequently-asked-questions">FAQs on the 2021 Child Tax Credit and Advance Child Tax Credit Payments</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRS&nbsp;WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service and partners in non-profit 
organizations, churches, community groups and others will host events in
 12 cities this weekend to help people who don't normally file a federal
 tax return to register for the monthly Advance Child Tax Credit 
(AdvCTC) payments.The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p5532.pdf">special events&nbsp;PDF</a>
 by IRS and partner groups to help people quickly file income tax 
returns and register for the advance payments will take place July 9-10,
 2021. Events will be held in Atlanta, New York, Detroit, Houston, Los 
Angeles, Las Vegas, Miami, Milwaukee, Philadelphia, Phoenix, St. Louis 
and Washington, DC/Maryland."This is part of a wider effort by the IRS to reach as many people as
 possible who don't file a tax return but may be eligible for the Child 
Tax Credit and Economic Impact Payments," said Ken Corbin, IRS Wage and 
Investment Commissioner and the agency's Chief Taxpayer Experience 
Officer. "We encourage people to share this information widely and 
encourage those who need help to visit these locations."With the help of a new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-non-filer-sign-up-tool">Non-filer Sign-up Tool</a>
 on the IRS website, volunteers and IRS employees will assist eligible 
individuals and families get these important tax credits and benefits. 
This tool, an update of last year's IRS Non-Filers tool, is also 
designed to help individuals register for the $1,400 third round of 
Economic Impact Payments (also known as stimulus checks) and claim the 
Recovery Rebate Credit for any amount of the first two rounds of 
Economic Impact Payments they may have missed. Individuals do not need 
to have children to attend these events and sign up for Economic Impact 
Payments.People can check their eligibility for the AdvCTC payments by using the new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-eligibility-assistant">Advance Child Tax Credit Eligibility Assistant</a>.For this weekend's events, to make the sign-up process go quickly and
 smoothly, people are encouraged to have the following information when 
they come to one of these events: (1) Social Security numbers for their 
children, (2) Social Security numbers or Tax Identification Numbers for 
themselves and their spouse, (3) a reliable mailing address, (4) an 
e-mail address, and (5) their bank account information if they want to 
receive their payment by direct deposit.The IRS is also planning to do additional events in the future as 
well as work with partners inside and outside the tax community to share
 information as widely as possible to people who may be eligible for 
Child Tax Credits and the Economic Impact Payments. This is part of a 
wider effort to raise awareness of the expanded Child Tax Credit, the 
IRS also encourages its partners to use available <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">online tools and toolkits</a> to help non-filers, low-income families and other underserved groups sign up to receive the AdvCTC.Some tax credits, such as the Child Tax Credit (CTC), are 
"refundable," meaning that even if taxpayers don't owe income tax, the 
IRS will issue them a refund if they're eligible; but they must file a 
tax return or register with the new Non-filer Sign-up Tool to receive 
it. Some people who haven't filed a 2020 tax return yet are also 
eligible for the $1,400 per person Economic Impact Payments and the 
Recovery Rebate Credit.The first monthly payments of the expanded and newly-advanceable CTC 
from the American Rescue Plan will be made starting July 15. Most 
families will begin receiving monthly payments without any additional 
action. Eligible families will receive a payment of up to $300 per month
 for each child under age 6, and up to $250 per month for each child 
ages 6 to 17.People who need to file a 2020 federal income tax return, but are 
unable to attend one of these events, may be able to prepare and file 
their own federal income tax online using IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a> if their income is $72,000 or less.People who don't need to file a 2020 federal tax return can also use the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-non-filer-sign-up-tool">Non-filer Sign-up Tool</a> to register to receive the advance CTC payments, the Third Round Economic Impact Payment, and the Recovery Rebate Credit.The IRS encourages people to request payments via direct deposit, 
which is faster and more secure than other payment methods. People who 
don't have a bank account should visit the <a href="https://www.fdic.gov/about/initiatives/getbanked/index.html">Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation</a> website for details on opening an account online. They can also use the FDIC's <a href="https://banks.data.fdic.gov/bankfind-suite/bankfind">BankFind</a> tool to locate an FDIC-insured bank.Finally, <a href="https://covidbanking.joinbankon.org/">BankOn</a>, <a href="https://www.aba.com/advocacy/community-programs/consumer-resources/manage-your-money/choosing-safe-affordable-account">American Bankers Association</a>, <a href="https://www.icba.org/about/find-a-community-bank/open-a-bank-account-remotely">Independent Community Bankers of America</a> and <a href="https://www.mycreditunion.gov/about-credit-unions/credit-union-locator">National Credit Union Administration</a> have lists of banks and credit unions that can open an account online. Veterans can see the <a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/benefits/banking.asp">Veterans Benefits Banking Program</a> for financial services at participating banks.<h2>About the advance Child Tax Credit</h2>The expanded and newly-advanceable Child Tax Credit was authorized by
 the American Rescue Plan Act, enacted in March. Normally, the IRS will 
calculate the payment based on a family's 2020 tax return, including 
those who use the Non-filer Sign-up Tool. If that return is not 
available because it has not yet been filed or is still being processed,
 the IRS will instead determine the initial payment amounts using the 
2019 return or the information entered using the Non-filers tool that 
was available in 2020.The payment will be up to $300 per month for each child under age 6 and up to $250 per month for each child age 6 through 17.To make sure families have easy access to their money, the IRS will 
issue these payments by direct deposit, as long as correct banking 
information has previously been provided to the IRS. Otherwise, people 
should watch their mail around July 15 for their mailed payment. The 
dates for the Advance Child Tax Credit payments are July 15, Aug. 13, 
Sept. 15, Oct. 15, Nov. 15, and Dec. 15.To learn more about advance CTC payments, visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">IRS.gov/childtaxcredit2021</a> or see <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/2021-child-tax-credit-and-advance-child-tax-credit-payments-frequently-asked-questions">FAQs on the 2021 Child Tax Credit and Advance Child Tax Credit Payments</a>.

Don't normally file taxes? Here's how to get your Child Tax Credit, COVID stimulus payments

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas woman stopped at an intersection to make a turn died in a four vehicle&nbsp; accident just before 5p.m. Tuesday in Sedgwick County.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Dodge Ram driven by<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=161387"> Javan Jermaine Ervin, 37,</a> Wichita, was actively attempting to elude law enforcement following a robbery.

The pickup was northbound on Ridge Road in Wichita at a high rate of speed and failed to stop at the red traffic light at Central Avenue.

The pickup collided with a westbound 2000 Chevy Silverado driven by Jordan Samuel Peltzer, 40, Henderson, Nevada.

 The impact caused the driver side rear wheels and tires to detach from the vehicle which collided with a 2016 Jeep Compass driven by Connie L. Holt, 73, Wichita, that was stopped on the inside left turn lane from South bound Ridge Road to East bound Central Avenue.

The Dodge Ram then collided with 2019 Mazda CX3 driven by Samantha Lee Russell which was stopped behind the Jeep. The Dodge Ram then rolled onto its top and came to a rest in the North bound lanes of Ridge Road.

EMS transported Russell to Wesley Medical Center where she was pronounced dead.

Ervin, Peltzer and Holt were not injured. Police took Ervin into custody on requested charges of aggravated battery, first degree murder in the commission of a felony and criminal possession of a firearm, <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=161387">according to online booking records.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625654789637.png" alt="Police arrested Javan Ervin on requested charges of aggravated battery, first degree murder in the commission of a felony and criminal possession of a firearm." />
 <figcaption>Police arrested Javan Ervin on requested charges of aggravated battery, first degree murder in the commission of a felony and criminal possession of a firearm.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas woman stopped at an intersection to make a turn died in a four vehicle&nbsp; accident just before 5p.m. Tuesday in Sedgwick County.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Dodge Ram driven by<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=161387"> Javan Jermaine Ervin, 37,</a> Wichita, was actively attempting to elude law enforcement following a robbery.The pickup was northbound on Ridge Road in Wichita at a high rate of speed and failed to stop at the red traffic light at Central Avenue.The pickup collided with a westbound 2000 Chevy Silverado driven by Jordan Samuel Peltzer, 40, Henderson, Nevada. The impact caused the driver side rear wheels and tires to detach from the vehicle which collided with a 2016 Jeep Compass driven by Connie L. Holt, 73, Wichita, that was stopped on the inside left turn lane from South bound Ridge Road to East bound Central Avenue.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625655160724.png" alt="First responders at the scene of the fatal crash Tuesday evening photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>First responders at the scene of the fatal crash Tuesday evening photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>The Dodge Ram then collided with 2019 Mazda CX3 driven by Samantha Lee Russell which was stopped behind the Jeep. The Dodge Ram then rolled onto its top and came to a rest in the North bound lanes of Ridge Road.EMS transported Russell to Wesley Medical Center where she was pronounced dead.Ervin, Peltzer and Holt were not injured. Police took Ervin into custody on requested charges of aggravated battery, first degree murder in the commission of a felony and criminal possession of a firearm, <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=161387">according to online booking records.</a>

Kan. woman dies in 4-vehicle crash after police chase

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — An Omaha therapist and mental health advocate announced that she will run in the Democratic primary for Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District. 

Alisha Shelton says she will seek the party’s nomination to challenge incumbent U.S. Rep. Don Bacon, a three-term Republican in the district that includes Omaha and parts of its suburbs. 

In a statement announcing her run, Shelton says she plans to focus her campaign on jobs, affordable health care and higher wages. 

Shelton would be Nebraska’s first Black member of Congress if elected. 

Bacon has already said he we’ll seek re-election, ruling out the prospect that he might run for governor in 2022.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625605327381.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — An Omaha therapist and mental health advocate announced that she will run in the Democratic primary for Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District. Alisha Shelton says she will seek the party’s nomination to challenge incumbent U.S. Rep. Don Bacon, a three-term Republican in the district that includes Omaha and parts of its suburbs. In a statement announcing her run, Shelton says she plans to focus her campaign on jobs, affordable health care and higher wages. Shelton would be Nebraska’s first Black member of Congress if elected. Bacon has already said he we’ll seek re-election, ruling out the prospect that he might run for governor in 2022.

Omaha therapist announces run for Nebraska's 2nd District

SHAWNEE COUNTY —A 17-year-old girl wounded in a weekend shooting in Topeka has died.

Just before 10:30 p.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to a call for service in the 1100 Block of SW Clay Street, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith. The caller reported a woman later identified as&nbsp;Navaeh Martinez, 17, Topeka,&nbsp; was suffering from a gunshot wound. 

On arrival, officers located the Martinez who was transported to a local hospital.&nbsp;

On Sunday, police identified the suspect as 21-year-old Daisha Butler of Topeka. Police transported her to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections. She now faces a requested charge of first-degree murder and along aggravated battery.

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating a shooting that injured a woman in Topeka have made an arrest.

Just before 10:30 p.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to a call for service in the 1100 Block of SW Clay Street, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith. The caller reported&nbsp; a woman was suffering from a gunshot wound. 

On arrival, officers located the victim, who was transported to a local hospital.&nbsp;

On Sunday, police identified the suspect as 21-year-old Daisha Butler of Topeka. Police transported her to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of attempted 1st Degree Murder and&nbsp;Aggravated Battery, according to Monasmith.

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting that injured a woman in Topeka.

On arrival, officers located the victim, who was transported to a local hospital. As a result, Topeka Police Department Detectives are reviewing all investigative leads. Police have not released the victim's name.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625450854895.png" alt="Butler faces new charges, according police- photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Butler faces new charges, according police- photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —A 17-year-old girl wounded in a weekend shooting in Topeka has died.Just before 10:30 p.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to a call for service in the 1100 Block of SW Clay Street, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith. The caller reported a woman later identified as&nbsp;Navaeh Martinez, 17, Topeka,&nbsp; was suffering from a gunshot wound. On arrival, officers located the Martinez who was transported to a local hospital.&nbsp;On Sunday, police identified the suspect as 21-year-old Daisha Butler of Topeka. Police transported her to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections. She now faces a requested charge of first-degree murder and along aggravated battery.----------SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating a shooting that injured a woman in Topeka have made an arrest.Just before 10:30 p.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to a call for service in the 1100 Block of SW Clay Street, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith. The caller reported&nbsp; a woman was suffering from a gunshot wound. On arrival, officers located the victim, who was transported to a local hospital.&nbsp;On Sunday, police identified the suspect as 21-year-old Daisha Butler of Topeka. Police transported her to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of attempted 1st Degree Murder and&nbsp;Aggravated Battery, according to Monasmith.----------SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting that injured a woman in Topeka.Just before 10:30 p.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to a call for service in the 1100 Block of SW Clay Street, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith. The caller reported&nbsp; a woman was suffering from a gunshot wound. On arrival, officers located the victim, who was transported to a local hospital. As a result, Topeka Police Department Detectives are reviewing all investigative leads. Police have not released the victim's name.

Police: Kan. girl injured in weekend shooting has died

WASHINGTON (AP) —The company whose software was exploited in the biggest ransomware attack on record said Tuesday that it so far it appears that fewer than 1,500 businesses were compromised. But cybersecurity experts suspected the estimate was low and noted that victims are still being identified.

Miami-based Kaseya said in a prepared statement that it believed only about 800 to 1,500 of the estimated 800,000 to 1,000,000 mostly small business — customers of companies that use it software to manage IT infrastructure - were affected by the attack.

The statement was widely reported after the White House shared it with media outlets.

However, cybersecurity experts said it was too early for Kaseya to know the true impact of Friday’s attack, especially since it was launched by the Russia-linked REvil gang on the eve of the U.S. Fourth of July holiday and many targets may only be discovering it on returning to work Tuesday.

Most of the more than 60 Kaseya customers that company spokeswoman Dana Liedholm said were affected in an email Sunday are managed service providers (MSPs) who have multiple customers downstream.

“Given the relationship between Kaseya and MSPs, it’s not clear how Kaseya would know the number of victims impacted. There is no way the numbers are as low as Kaseya is claiming though,” said Jake Williams, chief technical officer of the cybersecurity firm BreachQuest.

The hacked Kaseya tool, VSA, remotely maintains customer networks, automating security and other software updates. Essentially, a tool designed to protect networks from malware was cleverly used to distribute it.

“It’s too soon to tell, since this entire incident is still under investigation,” said the cybersecurity firm Sophos, which has been tracking the incident closely. It and other cybersecurity outfits questioned whether Kaseya had visibility into crippled managed service providers.

In an interview with The Associated Press on Sunday, Kaseya CEO Fred Voccola estimated the number of victims in “the low thousands.” The German news agency dpa reported earlier Sunday an unnamed German IT services company told authorities several thousand of its customers were compromised. Also among reported victims were two Dutch IT services companies.

A broad array of businesses and public agencies were hit by the latest attack, apparently on all continents, including in financial services, travel and leisure and the public sector — though few large companies, Sophos said.

Ransomware criminals infiltrate networks and sow malware that cripples them by scrambling all their data. Victims get a decoder key when they pay up. Most ransomware victims don’t publicly report attacks or disclose if they’ve paid ransoms.

<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/speeches-remarks/2021/07/03/remarks-by-president-biden-after-visiting-king-orchards/" target="_blank">President Joe Biden said Saturday that he ordered a “deep dive” by U.S. intelligence into the attack</a>&nbsp;and that the U.S. would respond if it determines the Kremlin is involved.

WASHINGTON (AP) —The company whose software was exploited in the biggest ransomware attack on record said Tuesday that it so far it appears that fewer than 1,500 businesses were compromised. But cybersecurity experts suspected the estimate was low and noted that victims are still being identified.Miami-based Kaseya said in a prepared statement that it believed only about 800 to 1,500 of the estimated 800,000 to 1,000,000 mostly small business — customers of companies that use it software to manage IT infrastructure - were affected by the attack.The statement was widely reported after the White House shared it with media outlets.However, cybersecurity experts said it was too early for Kaseya to know the true impact of Friday’s attack, especially since it was launched by the Russia-linked REvil gang on the eve of the U.S. Fourth of July holiday and many targets may only be discovering it on returning to work Tuesday.Most of the more than 60 Kaseya customers that company spokeswoman Dana Liedholm said were affected in an email Sunday are managed service providers (MSPs) who have multiple customers downstream.“Given the relationship between Kaseya and MSPs, it’s not clear how Kaseya would know the number of victims impacted. There is no way the numbers are as low as Kaseya is claiming though,” said Jake Williams, chief technical officer of the cybersecurity firm BreachQuest.The hacked Kaseya tool, VSA, remotely maintains customer networks, automating security and other software updates. Essentially, a tool designed to protect networks from malware was cleverly used to distribute it.“It’s too soon to tell, since this entire incident is still under investigation,” said the cybersecurity firm Sophos, which has been tracking the incident closely. It and other cybersecurity outfits questioned whether Kaseya had visibility into crippled managed service providers.In an interview with The Associated Press on Sunday, Kaseya CEO Fred Voccola estimated the number of victims in “the low thousands.” The German news agency dpa reported earlier Sunday an unnamed German IT services company told authorities several thousand of its customers were compromised. Also among reported victims were two Dutch IT services companies.A broad array of businesses and public agencies were hit by the latest attack, apparently on all continents, including in financial services, travel and leisure and the public sector — though few large companies, Sophos said.Ransomware criminals infiltrate networks and sow malware that cripples them by scrambling all their data. Victims get a decoder key when they pay up. Most ransomware victims don’t publicly report attacks or disclose if they’ve paid ransoms.<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/speeches-remarks/2021/07/03/remarks-by-president-biden-after-visiting-king-orchards/" target="_blank">President Joe Biden said Saturday that he ordered a “deep dive” by U.S. intelligence into the attack</a>&nbsp;and that the U.S. would respond if it determines the Kremlin is involved.

Number of victims in massive ransomware attack still unclear

BY LAURA OLSON <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/07/05/cdc-study-finds-racial-regional-disparities-as-schools-reopened-for-in-person-learning/">Kansas Reflector</a>

WASHINGTON
 —&nbsp;After last year’s abrupt shutdown of schools due to the coronavirus 
pandemic, increasing numbers of students returned to in-person learning.

But
 a new study shows that racial and geographic gaps persisted as K-12 
students went back to their classrooms — with non-Hispanic white kids 
more often the ones attending a brick-and-mortar school full-time in 
most states.

From
 last September through April, students in the South also generally had 
greater access to full-time, in-person learning than those in other 
regions of the United States, according to the study, featured in <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/70/wr/mm7026e2.htm?s_cid=mm7026e2_w">a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report</a>.

The study’s lead author was Emily Oster, a Brown University economist who <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2021/06/22/us/emily-oster-school-reopening.html">became a cultural icon for many U.S. parents</a>
 during the COVID-19 pandemic for her data analysis of the health 
threats to children from the virus and advice on how to calculate risk.&nbsp;

At the same time, the conclusions from Oster that schools could reopen safely and that risks to children are generally low <a href="https://www.nationalreview.com/corner/brown-professor-gets-hounded-off-twitter-for-article-saying-its-okay-to-take-your-kids-on-vacation/">also drew pushback</a> as federal public health officials grappled with crafting guidance for the nation’s schools.

The
 study found that access to in-person learning varied by state: 100% of 
students in Wyoming and Montana had access to in-person instruction, 
while Hawaii, Maryland and Washington had the lowest shares of students 
in their classrooms full-time.

The
 new data also found a racial disparity in most states on whether 
students were learning online or in person. In 43 states, access to 
full-time, in-person learning was higher for non-Hispanic white students
 compared to those of color.

The
 highest racial disparities were in Ohio and Pennsylvania, where on 
average, students of color were 21% and 23% less likely to have access 
to full-time, in-person learning.&nbsp;

The
 smallest disparities were in Montana and Wyoming — where all students 
had in-person access — as well as the District of Columbia, Delaware, 
and Hawaii.&nbsp;

More
 broadly, the report shows that the prevalence of virtual-only education
 did decline across racial groups starting in January, but with a larger
 share of white students returning to their classrooms than students of 
color.

The percentage of white students with access to in-person, full-time classes rose the most by April, from 38% to nearly 75%.&nbsp;

For
 Black students, 63% were able to access in-person instruction in April,
 up from 32%, while Hispanic students’ access to in-person classes went 
up to 60%, compared to 36% at the beginning of the year.

Oster,
 who’s also written popular books on pregnancy and parenting, and her 
co-authors noted several limitations on their analysis, including that 
it only covered 46% of public K-12 enrollment in the U.S.&nbsp;

It
 also looked at access to different types of instruction, not the number
 of students who actually received their instruction in person or 
virtually.

Their
 analysis was based on data collected from school district websites, 
Facebook pages, and other public data from 1,200 school districts across
 all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

The
 researchers logged whether the schools offered fully remote, hybrid, or
 fully in-person instruction, and which grades and demographic groups 
had access to each kind of instruction, tracking that data weekly from 
January to April.

BY LAURA OLSON <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/07/05/cdc-study-finds-racial-regional-disparities-as-schools-reopened-for-in-person-learning/">Kansas Reflector</a>WASHINGTON
 —&nbsp;After last year’s abrupt shutdown of schools due to the coronavirus 
pandemic, increasing numbers of students returned to in-person learning.But
 a new study shows that racial and geographic gaps persisted as K-12 
students went back to their classrooms — with non-Hispanic white kids 
more often the ones attending a brick-and-mortar school full-time in 
most states.From
 last September through April, students in the South also generally had 
greater access to full-time, in-person learning than those in other 
regions of the United States, according to the study, featured in <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/70/wr/mm7026e2.htm?s_cid=mm7026e2_w">a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report</a>.The study’s lead author was Emily Oster, a Brown University economist who <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2021/06/22/us/emily-oster-school-reopening.html">became a cultural icon for many U.S. parents</a>
 during the COVID-19 pandemic for her data analysis of the health 
threats to children from the virus and advice on how to calculate risk.&nbsp;At the same time, the conclusions from Oster that schools could reopen safely and that risks to children are generally low <a href="https://www.nationalreview.com/corner/brown-professor-gets-hounded-off-twitter-for-article-saying-its-okay-to-take-your-kids-on-vacation/">also drew pushback</a> as federal public health officials grappled with crafting guidance for the nation’s schools.The
 study found that access to in-person learning varied by state: 100% of 
students in Wyoming and Montana had access to in-person instruction, 
while Hawaii, Maryland and Washington had the lowest shares of students 
in their classrooms full-time.The
 new data also found a racial disparity in most states on whether 
students were learning online or in person. In 43 states, access to 
full-time, in-person learning was higher for non-Hispanic white students
 compared to those of color.The
 highest racial disparities were in Ohio and Pennsylvania, where on 
average, students of color were 21% and 23% less likely to have access 
to full-time, in-person learning.&nbsp;The
 smallest disparities were in Montana and Wyoming — where all students 
had in-person access — as well as the District of Columbia, Delaware, 
and Hawaii.&nbsp;More
 broadly, the report shows that the prevalence of virtual-only education
 did decline across racial groups starting in January, but with a larger
 share of white students returning to their classrooms than students of 
color.The percentage of white students with access to in-person, full-time classes rose the most by April, from 38% to nearly 75%.&nbsp;For
 Black students, 63% were able to access in-person instruction in April,
 up from 32%, while Hispanic students’ access to in-person classes went 
up to 60%, compared to 36% at the beginning of the year.Oster,
 who’s also written popular books on pregnancy and parenting, and her 
co-authors noted several limitations on their analysis, including that 
it only covered 46% of public K-12 enrollment in the U.S.&nbsp;It
 also looked at access to different types of instruction, not the number
 of students who actually received their instruction in person or 
virtually.Their
 analysis was based on data collected from school district websites, 
Facebook pages, and other public data from 1,200 school districts across
 all 50 states and the District of Columbia.The
 researchers logged whether the schools offered fully remote, hybrid, or
 fully in-person instruction, and which grades and demographic groups 
had access to each kind of instruction, tracking that data weekly from 
January to April.They also identified differences in access by grade level.&nbsp;In
 January 2021, 39% of students in grades K-5 had access to full-time, 
in-person learning, compared with 33% of students in grades 6-8, and 30%
 of students in grades 9-12.That
 may reflect a challenge faced by local, state and federal officials as 
they tried to sort out how to safely reopen schools. Older students 
faced slightly different levels of risk from COVID-19 infections.&nbsp;But
 it also was harder to keep those students in the same cohorts all day 
if they were in the school building, a practice that helped with tracing
 potential exposure if a student tested positive for infection.The
 gap between which students were learning virtually and which were 
learning online last year could exacerbate some of the educational 
disparities that already existed, the report’s authors said, noting that
 reduced access to in-person learning is associated with poorer learning
 outcomes and <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/03/26/health/cdc-remote-learning-kids-mental-health-wellness/index.html">adverse mental health and behavioral effects in children</a>.“Therefore,
 disparities in access to full-time in-person learning across 
demographic groups might translate into short-term increases in 
educational disparities,” they wrote.&nbsp;The
 report said those disparities may be driven by a number of factors, 
such as urban districts with more students of color that may have been 
less likely to open due to higher COVID-19 community infection rates.&nbsp;As school districts look to next year, many are preparing to reopen fully if they had not yet already.&nbsp;But
 some are waiting on the CDC to offer updated guidance on whether 
students should continue wearing face coverings, though it’s not yet 
clear when or if federal public health officials will alter those 
recommendations.Laura covers the nation's capital as a senior reporter for States Newsroom, a network of nonprofit outlets that includes Kansas Reflector.&nbsp;