OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Omaha police and the FBI are investigating after someone spray-painted racist graffiti on a grassy area at a western Omaha park.

The graffiti covered a large area at Lake Zorinsky Park and included a racial slur, a swastika and a stick-figure hanging from a noose, police said.

Maintenance crews removed the graffiti Tuesday as soon as officials learned of it, Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert said. Authorities are investigating the vandalism as a hate crime, she said.

"The racist writings and symbols painted on the grass at Zorinsky Park are not indicative of what Omaha is or what Omaha citizens believe," Stothert said in a written statement. "We do not tolerate acts of hate."

Omaha police and the FBI are asking anyone who has information, video or pictures regarding the vandalism to contact Crime Stoppers.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Omaha police and the FBI are investigating after someone spray-painted racist graffiti on a grassy area at a western Omaha park.The graffiti covered a large area at Lake Zorinsky Park and included a racial slur, a swastika and a stick-figure hanging from a noose, police said.Maintenance crews removed the graffiti Tuesday as soon as officials learned of it, Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert said. Authorities are investigating the vandalism as a hate crime, she said."The racist writings and symbols painted on the grass at Zorinsky Park are not indicative of what Omaha is or what Omaha citizens believe," Stothert said in a written statement. "We do not tolerate acts of hate."Omaha police and the FBI are asking anyone who has information, video or pictures regarding the vandalism to contact Crime Stoppers.

FBI, Omaha police investigating racist graffiti at park

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — Authorities say a Mission man is accused of beating a man to death with a metal bat.

 The Rapid City Journal reports that 37-year-old Nathan Blue Bird Sr. is charged in federal court with second-degree murder and assault with a dangerous weapon. 

Blue Bird is accused of killing 21-year-old Joshua Bordeaux on May 30 in the South Antelope community on the Rosebud Sioux Reservation. 

No further details have been released. Blue Bird faces up to life in prison if convicted.

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — Authorities say a Mission man is accused of beating a man to death with a metal bat. The Rapid City Journal reports that 37-year-old Nathan Blue Bird Sr. is charged in federal court with second-degree murder and assault with a dangerous weapon. He has pleaded not guilty. Blue Bird is accused of killing 21-year-old Joshua Bordeaux on May 30 in the South Antelope community on the Rosebud Sioux Reservation. No further details have been released. Blue Bird faces up to life in prison if convicted.

Mission, SD man accused of beating man to death with metal bat

ALDA, Neb. (AP) — Authorities in south-central Nebraska say a 21-year-old Wood River man has died in a two-vehicle crash. 

The Hall County Sheriff's Office says the crash happened Wednesday afternoon on a rural road near Alda, killing Alexander Schneberger. Investigators say Schneberger was driving a pickup truck southbound on the county road while the truck experienced mechanical issues.

 Officials say another pickup truck, also southbound, crested a curved hill in the road and crashed into the back of Schneberger's disabled truck. 

Schneberger was taken to a Grand Island hospital, where he was pronounced dead. 

Officials did not report injuries for the 54-year-old driver of the other truck.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593691300498.png" alt="Photo: Hall County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Photo: Hall County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>ALDA, Neb. (AP) — Authorities in south-central Nebraska say a 21-year-old Wood River man has died in a two-vehicle crash. The Hall County Sheriff's Office says the crash happened Wednesday afternoon on a rural road near Alda, killing Alexander Schneberger. Investigators say Schneberger was driving a pickup truck southbound on the county road while the truck experienced mechanical issues. Officials say another pickup truck, also southbound, crested a curved hill in the road and crashed into the back of Schneberger's disabled truck. Schneberger was taken to a Grand Island hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Officials did not report injuries for the 54-year-old driver of the other truck.

Wood River man killed in 2-vehicle crash in Hall County

JACKSON, Wyo. (AP) — Health officials in a northwestern Wyoming county busy with visitors to Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks want to require people to wear masks indoors to limit spread of the coronavirus.

 A rise in reported cases has prompted Teton County Health Officer Dr. Travis Riddell to seek state permission to impose the local order. 

The order would also require people to wear masks while waiting in lines outdoors. 

The request comes as the state Department of Health on Wednesday reported 1,514 laboratory-confirmed and suspected coronavirus cases statewide, including 1,119 people who have recovered. 

Nine people are hospitalized and 20 have died.

JACKSON, Wyo. (AP) — Health officials in a northwestern Wyoming county busy with visitors to Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks want to require people to wear masks indoors to limit spread of the coronavirus. A rise in reported cases has prompted Teton County Health Officer Dr. Travis Riddell to seek state permission to impose the local order. The order would also require people to wear masks while waiting in lines outdoors. The request comes as the state Department of Health on Wednesday reported 1,514 laboratory-confirmed and suspected coronavirus cases statewide, including 1,119 people who have recovered. Nine people are hospitalized and 20 have died.

Wyoming tourist county pursues COVID-19 indoor mask order

PAPILLION, Neb. (AP) — The parents of four Gretna teenagers who died in a crash last year have filed a tort claim against Sarpy County, alleging that the design of the road where the crash occurred contributed to their deaths.

 A tort claim is the first step a private citizen must before suing the government. 

The Omaha World-Herald reports the girls' parents argue the county road south of Omaha near the crash site, and a guard rail along the road, were negligently designed, constructed and maintained.

 The four girls died June 17, 2019, when the car they were in veered off the road, came to a stop in a creek and caught fire.&nbsp;

PAPILLION, Neb. (AP) — The parents of four Gretna teenagers who died in a crash last year have filed a tort claim against Sarpy County, alleging that the design of the road where the crash occurred contributed to their deaths. A tort claim is the first step a private citizen must before suing the government. The Omaha World-Herald reports the girls' parents argue the county road south of Omaha near the crash site, and a guard rail along the road, were negligently designed, constructed and maintained. The four girls died June 17, 2019, when the car they were in veered off the road, came to a stop in a creek and caught fire.&nbsp;

Parents of 4 Gretna girls killed in crash file tort claim

WASHINGTON (AP) — The House on Wednesday easily passed a temporary extension of a subsidy program for small businesses slammed by the coronavirus, speeding the measure to President Donald Trump.

Approval by voice vote without debate came after Democrats pushed the legislation through the GOP-controlled Senate late Tuesday as spikes in coronavirus cases in many states led to renewed shutdowns of bars and other businesses.

The legislation extends the June 30 deadline for applying for the program to Aug. 8. Lawmakers created the program in March and have modified it twice since, adding money on one occasion and more recently permitting more flexible use of the funding despite some grumbling among GOP conservatives.

About $130 billion of $660 billion approved for the program remains eligible for businesses to seek direct federal subsidies for payroll and other costs such as rent, though demand for the Paycheck Protection Program has pretty much dried up in recent weeks.

Sponsors of the program, including Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Senate Small Business Committee Chairman Marco Rubio, R-Fla., want to re-purpose the money in a way that’s more targeted for businesses suffering during the upswing in cases.

It was part of an almost $3 trillion federal response to a menacing virus that has slammed the economy as consumers and workers were forced to stay at home through much of spring.

The subsidies come in the form of federal loans that can be forgiven if businesses follow rules such as utilizing 60% of the loan for payroll costs. The loans have been a lifeline to almost 5 million firms, but business owners are looking for more flexibility and aid that helps them survive over the long haul.

Congressional action came as lawmakers were set to exit Washington for more than two weeks. Upon their return, talks were expected to begin on a fifth coronavirus relief measure.

The House has already passed a $3.5 trillion measure that’s a dead letter in the Senate, but the spike in cases may mean less resistance among Senate Republicans to a new measure. The next COVID rescue effort was likely to focus on aid to state and local governments, an extension of unemployment insurance benefits, and another round of direct payments to individuals.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Democrats drove a temporary extension of a popular subsidy program for small businesses through the GOP-controlled Senate late Tuesday, an unexpected development that came as spikes in coronavirus cases in many states are causing renewed shutdowns of bars and other businesses.

The move by Maryland Sen. Ben Cardin came hours before a deadline for applying for the program, which was created in March and modified twice since. Cardin, the top Democrat on the Small Business Committee, asked for unanimous approval of the extension of the Paycheck Protection Program through Aug. 8.

Minority lawmakers are hardly ever successful in such attempts, but the pressure swayed Republicans controlling the Senate, who have delayed consideration of a fifth coronavirus relief bill and are preparing to go home for a two-week recess.

About $130 billion remains of $660 billion approved so far for the subsidy program, which provides direct subsidies to businesses harmed by the coronavirus pandemic, which slammed the economy as consumers and workers were forced to stay at home through much of spring.

The subsidies come in the form of federal loans that can be forgiven if businesses follow rules such as utilizing 60% of the loan for payroll costs. The loans been a lifeline to more than 4 million businesses.

Top Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer of New York took a victory lap after the unexpectedly successful maneuver, saying renewed economic troubles are reviving interest in the program.

“There are large numbers of businesses who are going to need to apply now. Had this program run out today, they would have been out of luck,” Schumer said. “Now with this renewal, short time, August 8, they at least get the chance to reapply.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588075781384.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The House on Wednesday easily passed a temporary extension of a subsidy program for small businesses slammed by the coronavirus, speeding the measure to President Donald Trump.Approval by voice vote without debate came after Democrats pushed the legislation through the GOP-controlled Senate late Tuesday as spikes in coronavirus cases in many states led to renewed shutdowns of bars and other businesses.Trump was expected to sign the measure.The legislation extends the June 30 deadline for applying for the program to Aug. 8. Lawmakers created the program in March and have modified it twice since, adding money on one occasion and more recently permitting more flexible use of the funding despite some grumbling among GOP conservatives.About $130 billion of $660 billion approved for the program remains eligible for businesses to seek direct federal subsidies for payroll and other costs such as rent, though demand for the Paycheck Protection Program has pretty much dried up in recent weeks.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593545192155.png" alt="Treasury Secretary Stephen Mnuchin testified Tuesday before a House Committee on Financial Services on oversight of the Treasury Department&nbsp; pandemic response.&nbsp; Image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Treasury Secretary Stephen Mnuchin testified Tuesday before a House Committee on Financial Services on oversight of the Treasury Department&nbsp; pandemic response.&nbsp; Image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>Sponsors of the program, including Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Senate Small Business Committee Chairman Marco Rubio, R-Fla., want to re-purpose the money in a way that’s more targeted for businesses suffering during the upswing in cases.It was part of an almost $3 trillion federal response to a menacing virus that has slammed the economy as consumers and workers were forced to stay at home through much of spring.The subsidies come in the form of federal loans that can be forgiven if businesses follow rules such as utilizing 60% of the loan for payroll costs. The loans have been a lifeline to almost 5 million firms, but business owners are looking for more flexibility and aid that helps them survive over the long haul.Congressional action came as lawmakers were set to exit Washington for more than two weeks. Upon their return, talks were expected to begin on a fifth coronavirus relief measure.The House has already passed a $3.5 trillion measure that’s a dead letter in the Senate, but the spike in cases may mean less resistance among Senate Republicans to a new measure. The next COVID rescue effort was likely to focus on aid to state and local governments, an extension of unemployment insurance benefits, and another round of direct payments to individuals.---------WASHINGTON (AP) — Democrats drove a temporary extension of a popular subsidy program for small businesses through the GOP-controlled Senate late Tuesday, an unexpected development that came as spikes in coronavirus cases in many states are causing renewed shutdowns of bars and other businesses.The move by Maryland Sen. Ben Cardin came hours before a deadline for applying for the program, which was created in March and modified twice since. Cardin, the top Democrat on the Small Business Committee, asked for unanimous approval of the extension of the Paycheck Protection Program through Aug. 8.Minority lawmakers are hardly ever successful in such attempts, but the pressure swayed Republicans controlling the Senate, who have delayed consideration of a fifth coronavirus relief bill and are preparing to go home for a two-week recess.About $130 billion remains of $660 billion approved so far for the subsidy program, which provides direct subsidies to businesses harmed by the coronavirus pandemic, which slammed the economy as consumers and workers were forced to stay at home through much of spring.The subsidies come in the form of federal loans that can be forgiven if businesses follow rules such as utilizing 60% of the loan for payroll costs. The loans been a lifeline to more than 4 million businesses.Top Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer of New York took a victory lap after the unexpectedly successful maneuver, saying renewed economic troubles are reviving interest in the program.“There are large numbers of businesses who are going to need to apply now. Had this program run out today, they would have been out of luck,” Schumer said. “Now with this renewal, short time, August 8, they at least get the chance to reapply.”

Congress extends relief program for COVID-slammed businesses

OLATHE, Kan. (AP) — A Missouri man was sentenced Wednesday to life in prison for a 2018 shooting outside a Kansas elementary school that killed one man and left another paralyzed.

Anthony Grable, 34, of Kansas City, Missouri, will not be eligible for parole for 50 years.

He pleaded guilty last year to first-degree murder, attempted murder, aggravated assault, aggravated robbery and burglary.

In July 2018, Grable was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/c59a04d4095b4f7087eb010bac7ffd9e">installing playground equipment&nbsp;</a>at Sunrise Point Elementary in Overland Park when a fight over tools escalated into a crime spree. Grable fatally shot Todd Eugene Davis and critically injured Efren Joaquin Gomez.

There were no children at the school at the time.

Grable then unsuccessfully tried to carjack someone at a car wash, then stole an SUV from a man a few blocks away. Police said he drove to the carjacking victim’s house, where he was taken into custody after a standoff.

In an unsuccessful defense motion that sought a lesser sentence, his attorney said Grable was experiencing a mental health crisis on the day of the shooting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593685570792.png" alt="Grable photo Johnson County" />
 <figcaption>Grable photo Johnson County</figcaption>
 </figure>OLATHE, Kan. (AP) — A Missouri man was sentenced Wednesday to life in prison for a 2018 shooting outside a Kansas elementary school that killed one man and left another paralyzed.Anthony Grable, 34, of Kansas City, Missouri, will not be eligible for parole for 50 years.He pleaded guilty last year to first-degree murder, attempted murder, aggravated assault, aggravated robbery and burglary.In July 2018, Grable was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/c59a04d4095b4f7087eb010bac7ffd9e">installing playground equipment&nbsp;</a>at Sunrise Point Elementary in Overland Park when a fight over tools escalated into a crime spree. Grable fatally shot Todd Eugene Davis and critically injured Efren Joaquin Gomez.There were no children at the school at the time.Grable then unsuccessfully tried to carjack someone at a car wash, then stole an SUV from a man a few blocks away. Police said he drove to the carjacking victim’s house, where he was taken into custody after a standoff.In an unsuccessful defense motion that sought a lesser sentence, his attorney said Grable was experiencing a mental health crisis on the day of the shooting.

Man sentenced for fatal shooting at Kansas school playground

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — When President Donald Trump speaks at the Mount Rushmore national memorial before the first fireworks show there in years, he’ll stand before a crowd of thousands of people who won't be required to socially distance or wear masks despite the coronavirus pandemic. 

Friday night's event will feature a patriotic display at a monument known as “the Shrine of Democracy.” 

Many in the region also remain loyal to Trump. But the celebration has also sparked controversy and concern. 

Public health experts are warning of the risk that it could help the coronavirus to spread. And others say the fireworks will put the forest around the monument at risk to wildfires.&nbsp;

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — When President Donald Trump speaks at the Mount Rushmore national memorial before the first fireworks show there in years, he’ll stand before a crowd of thousands of people who won't be required to socially distance or wear masks despite the coronavirus pandemic. Friday night's event will feature a patriotic display at a monument known as “the Shrine of Democracy.” Many in the region also remain loyal to Trump. But the celebration has also sparked controversy and concern. Public health experts are warning of the risk that it could help the coronavirus to spread. And others say the fireworks will put the forest around the monument at risk to wildfires.&nbsp;

Trump at Rushmore: Jets and fireworks, but masks optional

LINCOLN – Applications for paddlefish snagging permits are being accepted by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission through July 14.

Drawing results will be available by July 20. Any permits remaining following the drawing will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis beginning Aug. 17 at 1 p.m. Central time.

Applications began at 1 p.m. CT on July 1. The paddlefish snagging season is Oct. 1-31.

For more information, including an application form, read the 2020 Nebraska Fishing Guide at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA3MDEuMjM3NjgyMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ndWlkZXMvIn0.mcvhXo0PGHzOsCA5qg7V6nDMD5LcgFp-He_cp4TCSIg/s/497221906/br/80544747818-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/guides</a>.

LINCOLN – Applications for paddlefish snagging permits are being accepted by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission through July 14.Drawing results will be available by July 20. Any permits remaining following the drawing will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis beginning Aug. 17 at 1 p.m. Central time.Applications began at 1 p.m. CT on July 1. The paddlefish snagging season is Oct. 1-31.For more information, including an application form, read the 2020 Nebraska Fishing Guide at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA3MDEuMjM3NjgyMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ndWlkZXMvIn0.mcvhXo0PGHzOsCA5qg7V6nDMD5LcgFp-He_cp4TCSIg/s/497221906/br/80544747818-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/guides</a>.

Paddlefish snagging permits accepted through July 14

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A Nebraska man accused of using a drone to try to deliver marijuana and tobacco to Lincoln Correctional Center pleaded no contest to the charges. 

The Lincoln Journal Star reports that 38-year-old Robert M. Kinser faces up to four years in prison at his August sentencing. 

He entered the pleas Tuesday to charges of attempted delivery of marijuana and attempted conveyance of an article to an inmate. 

An inmate on a work detail in February 2018 found a crashed drone and two white bags. 

One bag contained marijuana, the other had tobacco and rolling papers.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A Nebraska man accused of using a drone to try to deliver marijuana and tobacco to Lincoln Correctional Center pleaded no contest to the charges. The Lincoln Journal Star reports that 38-year-old Robert M. Kinser faces up to four years in prison at his August sentencing. He entered the pleas Tuesday to charges of attempted delivery of marijuana and attempted conveyance of an article to an inmate. An inmate on a work detail in February 2018 found a crashed drone and two white bags. One bag contained marijuana, the other had tobacco and rolling papers.

Nebraska man faces sentencing for drone delivery to prison

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (AP) — The Nebraska State Fair is still a go but will be scaled back considerably to protect people from the coronavirus. 

The fair’s board approved a slimmed-down schedule for this year’s event, which is scheduled from Aug. 28 through Sept. 7. 

Executive Director Bill Ogg says the first weekend of the fair will feature 4-H events, while the second weekend would offer FFA events. 

Other activities such as the Raising Nebraska Experience and Nebraska Game and Parks Display will be available during the week in between. 

Fair officials said they may add other events if the fair nears.

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (AP) — The Nebraska State Fair is still a go but will be scaled back considerably to protect people from the coronavirus. The fair’s board approved a slimmed-down schedule for this year’s event, which is scheduled from Aug. 28 through Sept. 7. Executive Director Bill Ogg says the first weekend of the fair will feature 4-H events, while the second weekend would offer FFA events. Other activities such as the Raising Nebraska Experience and Nebraska Game and Parks Display will be available during the week in between. Fair officials said they may add other events if the fair nears.

Nebraska State Fair still a go, but will be scaled back

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. health officials are pushing a new approach to boost U.S. screening for the coronavirus.

 Pooled testing involves combining patient samples in batches instead of running them individually.

 The potential benefits include stretching laboratory supplies, reducing costs and expanding testing to millions more Americans. 

Chinese officials reported using pooled testing to help screen 11 million people in Wuhan. But U.S. officials have not yet cleared the approach. 

The potential downsides include lower accuracy and longer waits to deliver results to some people. Still, health officials say the approach could help with mass screenings.

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. health officials are pushing a new approach to boost U.S. screening for the coronavirus. Pooled testing involves combining patient samples in batches instead of running them individually. The potential benefits include stretching laboratory supplies, reducing costs and expanding testing to millions more Americans. Chinese officials reported using pooled testing to help screen 11 million people in Wuhan. But U.S. officials have not yet cleared the approach. The potential downsides include lower accuracy and longer waits to deliver results to some people. Still, health officials say the approach could help with mass screenings.

'Pooled testing' for COVID-19 holds promise, pitfalls

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A federal judge has dismissed the lawsuit of a Beatrice man who was shot several times in 2018 by a U.S. marshal in Lincoln.

 U.S. District Judge Joseph Bataillon dismissed Thomas Sailors’ case last week. The Lincoln Journal Star reports that the judge said in his order that nothing supports Sailors' allegation that he was asleep when Deputy Marshal Paul Keyes fired 19 rounds at him, and video of the incident shows Sailors was behind the wheel of a sport utility vehicle that he revved and rammed into a police cruiser. 

Sailor recovered from his wounds and was sentenced last year to five years in prison for assaulting an officer and operating a motor vehicle to avoid arrest.&nbsp;

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A federal judge has dismissed the lawsuit of a Beatrice man who was shot several times in 2018 by a U.S. marshal in Lincoln. U.S. District Judge Joseph Bataillon dismissed Thomas Sailors’ case last week. The Lincoln Journal Star reports that the judge said in his order that nothing supports Sailors' allegation that he was asleep when Deputy Marshal Paul Keyes fired 19 rounds at him, and video of the incident shows Sailors was behind the wheel of a sport utility vehicle that he revved and rammed into a police cruiser. Sailor recovered from his wounds and was sentenced last year to five years in prison for assaulting an officer and operating a motor vehicle to avoid arrest.&nbsp;

Judge dismisses lawsuit of Nebraska man shot by marshal

OGALLALA, Neb. (AP) — A Kansas man has been sentenced to four years of probation in a Nebraska crash that killed four Iowa motorcyclists.

Jeser Cisneros-Hernandez, 24, of Liberal, Kansas, also was ordered Friday to serve 400 hours of community service. He pleaded no contest in February to reckless and willful vehicular homicide. Prosecutors dropped three more counts and two other charges in return for his pleas.

Cisneros-Hernandez’s vehicle hit two motorcycles carrying two people each on July 1, 2017, near Ogallala, prosecutors have said.

Two of them were 54-year-old Sheila Matheny and 61-year-old James Matheny, from Bedford, Iowa. The other motorcyclists were 58-year-old Michal Weese and 59-year-old Jerolyn Weese, who lived in Council Bluffs, Iowa.

Cisneros-Hernandez told investigators he was traveling on about an hour of sleep after his work shift in Sidney, Montana, and was heading home to Liberal, Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565563981648.png" alt="Hernandez photo Keith County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Hernandez photo Keith County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>OGALLALA, Neb. (AP) — A Kansas man has been sentenced to four years of probation in a Nebraska crash that killed four Iowa motorcyclists.Jeser Cisneros-Hernandez, 24, of Liberal, Kansas, also was ordered Friday to serve 400 hours of community service. He pleaded no contest in February to reckless and willful vehicular homicide. Prosecutors dropped three more counts and two other charges in return for his pleas.Cisneros-Hernandez’s vehicle hit two motorcycles carrying two people each on July 1, 2017, near Ogallala, prosecutors have said.Two of them were 54-year-old Sheila Matheny and 61-year-old James Matheny, from Bedford, Iowa. The other motorcyclists were 58-year-old Michal Weese and 59-year-old Jerolyn Weese, who lived in Council Bluffs, Iowa.Cisneros-Hernandez told investigators he was traveling on about an hour of sleep after his work shift in Sidney, Montana, and was heading home to Liberal, Kansas.

Kan. man sentenced for crash that killed 4 motorcyclists

OMAHA-United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Renee L. Coats, 58, of Hastings, Nebraska, was sentenced today in Lincoln by Chief United States District Judge John M. Gerrard for opening and destroying U.S. mail as postal employee.&nbsp; Coats was sentenced for a term of 3 years’ probation with special conditions, and an additional condition of 6 consecutive weekends (or 2-day periods) of intermittent confinement, to be served within one year.&nbsp; She will also be required to pay a $1,000 fine.&nbsp; There is no parole in the federal system.&nbsp;

In 2018, a postal customer on Coats’s postal route complained that she believed her mail was being stolen by her postal carrier. During the investigation of this complaint, Coats opened and retained six separate greeting cards which the investigators were monitoring through the months of August to October of 2018. On October 18, 2018, Coats’s postal vehicle was pulled over after she had opened one of these mailings. When she was searched incident to arrest, several rebate cards which were address to local businesses were located in Coats’s own wallet.

This case was investigated by the Office of Inspector General for the United States Postal Service.

News Release US Attorney's OfficeOMAHA-United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Renee L. Coats, 58, of Hastings, Nebraska, was sentenced today in Lincoln by Chief United States District Judge John M. Gerrard for opening and destroying U.S. mail as postal employee.&nbsp; Coats was sentenced for a term of 3 years’ probation with special conditions, and an additional condition of 6 consecutive weekends (or 2-day periods) of intermittent confinement, to be served within one year.&nbsp; She will also be required to pay a $1,000 fine.&nbsp; There is no parole in the federal system.&nbsp;In 2018, a postal customer on Coats’s postal route complained that she believed her mail was being stolen by her postal carrier. During the investigation of this complaint, Coats opened and retained six separate greeting cards which the investigators were monitoring through the months of August to October of 2018. On October 18, 2018, Coats’s postal vehicle was pulled over after she had opened one of these mailings. When she was searched incident to arrest, several rebate cards which were address to local businesses were located in Coats’s own wallet.This case was investigated by the Office of Inspector General for the United States Postal Service.

Hastings postal worker sentenced for opening mail

MIAMI-On July 1, a new United States Postal Service pricing structure for the movement of low-value small parcels goes into effect, raising rates on international shipments connecting a number of origin and destination postal systems.(1)&nbsp;“These rate increases,” says A.J. Hernandez, president and CEO of international&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUYAaSxOnE6p5LD0pCMRpBXqwIpET4RwW08pOwvWgUAbpslfH_f5CCQS0N95iO0XGkG5jjbwFPcyVdNsE7ynqorsRVxhOi2A2KVJqJgpwSdOopdwB9qVFiew9AKCljxqzSssGaaTwkDbyYb-2F6h-2FlGffwI9EOh28X4tGqWc-2FNUxlIe0kXfGYE9dcb7WCw2Kr6-2FpkF5nJQshn07ZZu0p-2BEHwy-2BlBFIrSE6eCnkHtZZNJtB0hwtvsvZkUBx1z9xYYjpSXbVkx9TaM6XCIVXdQ77-2FJ5BB5-2FsxQK8nwuFwwpkBOlWbxSFWjbODjZAVKoZI7jFnhsZeR7-2BJxAkzE1PcVWZUgO4Zsi6R6z-2FhdDRQ4l9bvmuljWdlvA2s0DIdwT3EiMNKHrgn2OdhQC7LKK6CbPF4y8Lor1LY-3D" target="_blank">business-to-consumer shipping</a>&nbsp;firm SkyPostal, Inc., “further confuse a global ecommerce marketplace already struggling with the market confusion and logistical difficulties caused by the recent coronavirus-triggered shutdown in international delivery.”

Logistics services, notes Hernandez, were affected worldwide this spring when freight forwarders like the U.S. Postal Service stopped delivery services across more than 100 international markets. Thousands of businesses that depended on USPS for their international deliveries were left stranded, as they rushed to find alternative ways of getting shipments into their desired markets.(2)

The postal procedures taking effect July 1 will require foreign recipient countries to ratify new rates under ePacket, a USPS service that allows packages to be shipped—quickly, inexpensively, and with tracking—to more than 40 countries. As of July 1, the available list of ePacket recipient countries will shrink to 12; major ecommerce markets like the UK and Brazil are not among them. Given these circumstances, industry experts recommend that shippers move parcel volume to commercial networks such as carriers and freight forwarders to obtain discounted rates.(3)

Partnerships of this sort, says Hernandez, are particularly valuable to ecommerce merchants seeking to expand their reach into Latin America. The Latin American market represents a significant opportunity, with a total population of more than 626 million(4)&nbsp;and estimated 2020 retail ecommerce sales of $71.34 billion, up 21.3% from 2019.(5)&nbsp;There are, however, numerous challenges to doing business in Latin America, among them logistics, language, and the laws and regulations of some 40 different countries and dependencies. This is particularly true, he notes, of Brazil, which is the world’s fifth most populous country and ranks among its top 10 economies in terms of GDP.(6)&nbsp;&nbsp;

“SkyPostal,” says Hernandez, “offers Packet service into Brazil,&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUYAaSxOnE6p5LD0pCMRpBXot1TDYRygjFuvhIvFTWypiAaTWA02CYhqSZMJPmbKVqw-3D-3DQXmM_f5CCQS0N95iO0XGkG5jjbwFPcyVdNsE7ynqorsRVxhOi2A2KVJqJgpwSdOopdwB9qVFiew9AKCljxqzSssGaaTwkDbyYb-2F6h-2FlGffwI9EOh28X4tGqWc-2FNUxlIe0kXfGYE9dcb7WCw2Kr6-2FpkF5nJQshn07ZZu0p-2BEHwy-2BlBFIrSE6eCnkHtZZNJtB0hwtvsvZkUBx1z9xYYjpSXbVkx9dscBrjoc1EDmSC3o2oDAogo0mnI58c43qhdAdKNwcBOYpE-2ByssLfuUJevqyqppR4fNUT8SxCivbFrtm4YNBMStzcqBYfFTnZzgB-2BnWgB-2BNA4Z02yN03GQovAiGr2MhOtYsu1grzHmtnizvpY4rckps-3D" target="_blank">which consistently outperforms ePacket while maintaining the same postal clearance advantage</a>. We recommend that any U.S.-based ecommerce merchant needing a service provider to Latin America should look for a company that specializes in customs clearance, provides fully online-trackable delivery, offers localized services such as customer support throughout the area, offers return services, and can handle multiple currencies.”

SkyPostal was created in 2001 to meet the need for improved and efficient cross-border mail and parcel service from the United States and Europe to all countries in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Mexico. It is now the largest private mail and delivery network in Latin America, serving European postal administrations, major publishers, the world’s largest ecommerce retailers, international shippers, and financial institutions that require reliable and secure delivery of their mail and parcels. For more information, please see&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9mdh0iPj3hu5P5ZWFmxx1-2Bs-3DRDlw_f5CCQS0N95iO0XGkG5jjbwFPcyVdNsE7ynqorsRVxhOi2A2KVJqJgpwSdOopdwB9qVFiew9AKCljxqzSssGaaTwkDbyYb-2F6h-2FlGffwI9EOh28X4tGqWc-2FNUxlIe0kXfGYE9dcb7WCw2Kr6-2FpkF5nJQshn07ZZu0p-2BEHwy-2BlBFIrSE6eCnkHtZZNJtB0hwtvsvZkUBx1z9xYYjpSXbVkx9XwoMC5YWB2R6F-2FHXH0RTT8IP0cvllXB1Hgi1TTLC8esF0qhD977iwRdUitk9n2zPEvgMAdnAXmQ-2BQnCAWobK61z5KcjGRYwmDKtDOD4OR2V84AYneXdle66j3m-2BsfVvpjyuVTc8PMX7R5Sa2-2BBm-2BLM-3D" target="_blank">www.skypostal.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593533326953.png" alt="Photo: usps.gov" />
 <figcaption>Photo: usps.gov</figcaption>
 </figure>News ReleaseMIAMI-On July 1, a new United States Postal Service pricing structure for the movement of low-value small parcels goes into effect, raising rates on international shipments connecting a number of origin and destination postal systems.(1)&nbsp;“These rate increases,” says A.J. Hernandez, president and CEO of international&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUYAaSxOnE6p5LD0pCMRpBXqwIpET4RwW08pOwvWgUAbpslfH_f5CCQS0N95iO0XGkG5jjbwFPcyVdNsE7ynqorsRVxhOi2A2KVJqJgpwSdOopdwB9qVFiew9AKCljxqzSssGaaTwkDbyYb-2F6h-2FlGffwI9EOh28X4tGqWc-2FNUxlIe0kXfGYE9dcb7WCw2Kr6-2FpkF5nJQshn07ZZu0p-2BEHwy-2BlBFIrSE6eCnkHtZZNJtB0hwtvsvZkUBx1z9xYYjpSXbVkx9TaM6XCIVXdQ77-2FJ5BB5-2FsxQK8nwuFwwpkBOlWbxSFWjbODjZAVKoZI7jFnhsZeR7-2BJxAkzE1PcVWZUgO4Zsi6R6z-2FhdDRQ4l9bvmuljWdlvA2s0DIdwT3EiMNKHrgn2OdhQC7LKK6CbPF4y8Lor1LY-3D" target="_blank">business-to-consumer shipping</a>&nbsp;firm SkyPostal, Inc., “further confuse a global ecommerce marketplace already struggling with the market confusion and logistical difficulties caused by the recent coronavirus-triggered shutdown in international delivery.”Logistics services, notes Hernandez, were affected worldwide this spring when freight forwarders like the U.S. Postal Service stopped delivery services across more than 100 international markets. Thousands of businesses that depended on USPS for their international deliveries were left stranded, as they rushed to find alternative ways of getting shipments into their desired markets.(2)The postal procedures taking effect July 1 will require foreign recipient countries to ratify new rates under ePacket, a USPS service that allows packages to be shipped—quickly, inexpensively, and with tracking—to more than 40 countries. As of July 1, the available list of ePacket recipient countries will shrink to 12; major ecommerce markets like the UK and Brazil are not among them. Given these circumstances, industry experts recommend that shippers move parcel volume to commercial networks such as carriers and freight forwarders to obtain discounted rates.(3)Partnerships of this sort, says Hernandez, are particularly valuable to ecommerce merchants seeking to expand their reach into Latin America. The Latin American market represents a significant opportunity, with a total population of more than 626 million(4)&nbsp;and estimated 2020 retail ecommerce sales of $71.34 billion, up 21.3% from 2019.(5)&nbsp;There are, however, numerous challenges to doing business in Latin America, among them logistics, language, and the laws and regulations of some 40 different countries and dependencies. This is particularly true, he notes, of Brazil, which is the world’s fifth most populous country and ranks among its top 10 economies in terms of GDP.(6)&nbsp;&nbsp;“SkyPostal,” says Hernandez, “offers Packet service into Brazil,&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUYAaSxOnE6p5LD0pCMRpBXot1TDYRygjFuvhIvFTWypiAaTWA02CYhqSZMJPmbKVqw-3D-3DQXmM_f5CCQS0N95iO0XGkG5jjbwFPcyVdNsE7ynqorsRVxhOi2A2KVJqJgpwSdOopdwB9qVFiew9AKCljxqzSssGaaTwkDbyYb-2F6h-2FlGffwI9EOh28X4tGqWc-2FNUxlIe0kXfGYE9dcb7WCw2Kr6-2FpkF5nJQshn07ZZu0p-2BEHwy-2BlBFIrSE6eCnkHtZZNJtB0hwtvsvZkUBx1z9xYYjpSXbVkx9dscBrjoc1EDmSC3o2oDAogo0mnI58c43qhdAdKNwcBOYpE-2ByssLfuUJevqyqppR4fNUT8SxCivbFrtm4YNBMStzcqBYfFTnZzgB-2BnWgB-2BNA4Z02yN03GQovAiGr2MhOtYsu1grzHmtnizvpY4rckps-3D" target="_blank">which consistently outperforms ePacket while maintaining the same postal clearance advantage</a>. We recommend that any U.S.-based ecommerce merchant needing a service provider to Latin America should look for a company that specializes in customs clearance, provides fully online-trackable delivery, offers localized services such as customer support throughout the area, offers return services, and can handle multiple currencies.”About SkyPostal:SkyPostal was created in 2001 to meet the need for improved and efficient cross-border mail and parcel service from the United States and Europe to all countries in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Mexico. It is now the largest private mail and delivery network in Latin America, serving European postal administrations, major publishers, the world’s largest ecommerce retailers, international shippers, and financial institutions that require reliable and secure delivery of their mail and parcels. For more information, please see&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9mdh0iPj3hu5P5ZWFmxx1-2Bs-3DRDlw_f5CCQS0N95iO0XGkG5jjbwFPcyVdNsE7ynqorsRVxhOi2A2KVJqJgpwSdOopdwB9qVFiew9AKCljxqzSssGaaTwkDbyYb-2F6h-2FlGffwI9EOh28X4tGqWc-2FNUxlIe0kXfGYE9dcb7WCw2Kr6-2FpkF5nJQshn07ZZu0p-2BEHwy-2BlBFIrSE6eCnkHtZZNJtB0hwtvsvZkUBx1z9xYYjpSXbVkx9XwoMC5YWB2R6F-2FHXH0RTT8IP0cvllXB1Hgi1TTLC8esF0qhD977iwRdUitk9n2zPEvgMAdnAXmQ-2BQnCAWobK61z5KcjGRYwmDKtDOD4OR2V84AYneXdle66j3m-2BsfVvpjyuVTc8PMX7R5Sa2-2BBm-2BLM-3D" target="_blank">www.skypostal.com</a>.<ol>
 <li>Solomon, Mark. “USPS, Facing Fiscal Calamity, Confronts New Challenges to International Parcel Competitiveness.”&nbsp;FreightWaves, freightwaves-com.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/www.freightwaves.com/news/usps-facing-fiscal-calamity-confronts-new-challenges-to-international-parcel-competitiveness/amp.</li><li>Rajamanickam, Vishnu. “International Shipping Holds Promise for Retailers Post-COVID-19.”&nbsp;FreightWaves, 22 May 2020, freightwaves.com/news/international-shipping-holds-promise-for-retailers-post-covid-19.</li><li>O'Brien, Mike. “Cross-Border Shipping Costs Going Up July 1, More Hikes in January.”&nbsp;Multichannel Merchant, 15 June 2020, multichannelmerchant.com/operations/cross-border-shipping-costs-going-july-1-hikes-coming-january/.</li><li>“Latin America and the Caribbean Population (LIVE).”&nbsp;Worldometer, www.worldometers.info/world-population/latin-america-and-the-caribbean-population/</li><li>Schwarzkopf, Aron, Guest. “Where ECommerce Is Headed In Latin America.”&nbsp;Crunchbase News, Crunchbase News, 20 May 2020, news.crunchbase.com/news/where-ecommerce-is-headed-in-latin-america/#:~:</li><li>Mari, Angelica. “Brazilian e-Commerce Expected to Grow 18% in 2020.”&nbsp;ZDNet, ZDNet, 15 Feb. 2020, www.zdnet.com/article/brazilian-e-commerce-expected-to-grow-18-in-2020/#</li>
 </ol>

USPS hikes international shipping rates

COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa (AP) - A person has been hit by a train in western Iowa's Council Bluffs and was taken in critical condition to a hospital in nearby Omaha, Nebraska, police said.

Council Bluffs police said in a news release that the incident happened late Monday night on the south side of Council Bluffs. First responders called to the area around 10:40 p.m. found a person injured near Union Pacific Railroad tracks and applied pressure to the person's wounds until an ambulance arrived.

The victim, whose name had not been released by Tuesday morning, was taken to Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. Police and the railroad continue to investigate.

COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa (AP) - A person has been hit by a train in western Iowa's Council Bluffs and was taken in critical condition to a hospital in nearby Omaha, Nebraska, police said.Council Bluffs police said in a news release that the incident happened late Monday night on the south side of Council Bluffs. First responders called to the area around 10:40 p.m. found a person injured near Union Pacific Railroad tracks and applied pressure to the person's wounds until an ambulance arrived.The victim, whose name had not been released by Tuesday morning, was taken to Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. Police and the railroad continue to investigate.

Person hit by train in western Iowa now at Nebraska hospital

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska's largest school district has announced it will open up in-person classes a week earlier than planned and require all students, staff and others to wear masks on school grounds to try to fight the spread of the new coronavirus. 

The Omaha World-Herald reports that the Omaha Public Schools board on Monday approved changes to the upcoming school year, including a new start date of Aug. 11 and an extension of the winter break by one week. 

Last week, school district officials announced plans to have students attend school part time. 

The plan divides students into two groups who would each attend school in person during different days of the week.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska's largest school district has announced it will open up in-person classes a week earlier than planned and require all students, staff and others to wear masks on school grounds to try to fight the spread of the new coronavirus. The Omaha World-Herald reports that the Omaha Public Schools board on Monday approved changes to the upcoming school year, including a new start date of Aug. 11 and an extension of the winter break by one week. Last week, school district officials announced plans to have students attend school part time. The plan divides students into two groups who would each attend school in person during different days of the week.

Nebraska's largest school district reveals fall reopen plan

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Gov. Mark Gordon says Wyoming will keep current public health orders to contain the coronavirus in place for two more weeks amid a surge in reported cases. 

State officials had been gradually easing up on restrictions since early May. Gordon says the increase in known cases makes clear the threat of COVID-19 isn’t going away. 

The Wyoming Department of Health reports 1,450 laboratory confirmed and suspected coronavirus cases in the state, including 1,070 people who have recovered from the illness. 

No more than 50 people may gather in confined spaces without restrictions under the ongoing state health orders.&nbsp;

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Gov. Mark Gordon says Wyoming will keep current public health orders to contain the coronavirus in place for two more weeks amid a surge in reported cases. State officials had been gradually easing up on restrictions since early May. Gordon says the increase in known cases makes clear the threat of COVID-19 isn’t going away. The Wyoming Department of Health reports 1,450 laboratory confirmed and suspected coronavirus cases in the state, including 1,070 people who have recovered from the illness. Seven people are reported hospitalized. No more than 50 people may gather in confined spaces without restrictions under the ongoing state health orders.&nbsp;

Amid surge, Wyoming hits pause on easing COVID-19 orders

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Authorities say a 34-year-old Nebraska man is under arrest after allegedly spitting at law enforcement officers during a disturbance in a hospital emergency room. 

The Lincoln Journal Star reports police responding to a call Saturday at the emergency room at Bryan West found Seth Ketelhut of Walton arguing and yelling at hospital security and a Cass County deputy who had brought him to the hospital.

 Ketelhut spit on the deputy’s face on the deputy’s face, then spit at and headbutted a Lincoln police officer who was trying to control him. 

He was arrested and charged with assault on an officer.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Authorities say a 34-year-old Nebraska man is under arrest after allegedly spitting at law enforcement officers during a disturbance in a hospital emergency room. The Lincoln Journal Star reports police responding to a call Saturday at the emergency room at Bryan West found Seth Ketelhut of Walton arguing and yelling at hospital security and a Cass County deputy who had brought him to the hospital. Ketelhut spit on the deputy’s face on the deputy’s face, then spit at and headbutted a Lincoln police officer who was trying to control him. He was arrested and charged with assault on an officer.

Nebraska man charged after spitting on officers

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem says a U.S. Supreme Court ruling striking down a Louisiana law regulating abortion clinics is “wrong for a number of reasons.”

 Justices ruled Monday that the law requiring doctors who perform abortions have admitting privileges at nearby hospitals violates abortion rights that were outlined in the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision. 

The Louisiana law is similar to one in Texas that the court struck down in 2016.

 Noem cited Justice Clarence Thomas’ opinion stating that the Constitution does not constrain states’ ability to regulate or prohibit abortion. 

The governor says the fight to eliminate abortion is “unquestionably the right one.”

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem says a U.S. Supreme Court ruling striking down a Louisiana law regulating abortion clinics is “wrong for a number of reasons.” Justices ruled Monday that the law requiring doctors who perform abortions have admitting privileges at nearby hospitals violates abortion rights that were outlined in the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision. The Louisiana law is similar to one in Texas that the court struck down in 2016. Noem cited Justice Clarence Thomas’ opinion stating that the Constitution does not constrain states’ ability to regulate or prohibit abortion. The governor says the fight to eliminate abortion is “unquestionably the right one.”

Noem slams US Supreme Court ruling on Louisiana abortion law

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Kansas City’s Black mayor said Monday that he was called a racist slur and told he should “swing from a tree” after he announced mandatory face masks in the Missouri city.

Mayor Quinton Lucas on Twitter shared a screenshot of the texts, which came after he announced Friday that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d46319f474c58304165f2acca6a52ec9">masks will be required</a>&nbsp;in Kansas City when 6 feet of separation isn’t feasible.

“You walked with RIOTERS not wearing a mask idiot,” a text read, according to a screenshot Lucas shared. “You should swing from a tree, I’m not threatening it, but would love to see it.”

Lucas has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/14cdff4bf0ef25bc81ddac12edd0bc65">joined in Kansas City protests</a>&nbsp;sparked by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a55d2662f200ead0da4fed9e923b60a7">the death of George Floyd</a>&nbsp;and other Black people at the hands of police. Floyd died May 25 after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed his knee on Floyd’s neck for nearly eight minutes as the handcuffed man pleaded for air.

Lucas did not share the name or number of the person who allegedly sent the texts, which included a racist slur and obscene language describing the Black mayor.

In a tweet about the texts, Lucas wrote, “let’s do better.”

Masks as of Monday are required in Kansas City. The mandate will remain in place until at least July 12.

It’s unclear if police are investigating the texts to the mayor as a threat. An Associated Press request for comment to a Kansas City police spokesman wasn’t immediately returned Monday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589226208948.png" alt="Mayor Quinton Lucas prepares for a press conference in April-image courtesy city of KCMO" />
 <figcaption>Mayor Quinton Lucas prepares for a press conference in April-image courtesy city of KCMO</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — Kansas City’s Black mayor said Monday that he was called a racist slur and told he should “swing from a tree” after he announced mandatory face masks in the Missouri city.Mayor Quinton Lucas on Twitter shared a screenshot of the texts, which came after he announced Friday that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d46319f474c58304165f2acca6a52ec9">masks will be required</a>&nbsp;in Kansas City when 6 feet of separation isn’t feasible.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A downside to giving your cell number to everyone. <a href="https://t.co/PIMntQWV9A">https://t.co/PIMntQWV9A</a>&mdash; Mayor Q (@QuintonLucasKC) <a href="https://twitter.com/QuintonLucasKC/status/1277630049110425603?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“You walked with RIOTERS not wearing a mask idiot,” a text read, according to a screenshot Lucas shared. “You should swing from a tree, I’m not threatening it, but would love to see it.”Lucas has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/14cdff4bf0ef25bc81ddac12edd0bc65">joined in Kansas City protests</a>&nbsp;sparked by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a55d2662f200ead0da4fed9e923b60a7">the death of George Floyd</a>&nbsp;and other Black people at the hands of police. Floyd died May 25 after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed his knee on Floyd’s neck for nearly eight minutes as the handcuffed man pleaded for air.Lucas did not share the name or number of the person who allegedly sent the texts, which included a racist slur and obscene language describing the Black mayor.In a tweet about the texts, Lucas wrote, “let’s do better.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Wearing a mask or face covering can be uncomfortable, but this is a necessary step to ensure we can save lives and keep our economy open. We wear masks to protect our loved ones, those around us, and their loved ones. Mayor Lucas’s updated Order goes into effect on Monday. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KCMO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KCMO</a> <a href="https://t.co/Cnf96dB9fY">pic.twitter.com/Cnf96dB9fY</a>&mdash; Mayor Quinton Lucas (@MayorLucasKC) <a href="https://twitter.com/MayorLucasKC/status/1276623543120297985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Masks as of Monday are required in Kansas City. The mandate will remain in place until at least July 12.It’s unclear if police are investigating the texts to the mayor as a threat. An Associated Press request for comment to a Kansas City police spokesman wasn’t immediately returned Monday.

Kansas City mayor called racist slur after requiring masks

NEW YORK (AP) — Billions of dollars offered by Congress as a lifeline to small businesses struggling to survive the pandemic are about to be left on the table when a key government program stops accepting applications for loans.

Business owners and advocacy groups complain that the money in the Paycheck Protection Program was not fully put to work because the program created obstacles that stopped countless small businesses from applying. For those that did seek loans, the ever-changing application process proved to be an exercise in futility.

“It was a flawed structure to begin with,” said John Arensmeyer, CEO of Small Business Majority, an advocacy group. “It favored established businesses. It was set up to give money to people with strong banking relationships.”

The program’s shortcomings also made it more difficult for minority businesses to get loans, according to a report from the Center for Responsible Lending, a research group.

The loans were designed to give companies devastated by government-ordered shutdowns money to pay staffers and survive. The money was aimed at small businesses such as restaurants, retailers and salons that are desperately trying to stay afloat as the U.S. economy&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/5bc6644329af546be3b06763da8abd29">reopens in fits and starts</a>.

As of late Friday, the Small Business Administration had approved more than 4.7 million loans worth nearly $518 billion. Small businesses that also included medical offices, dry cleaners and manufacturers obtained money that ultimately saved jobs and eased the unemployment rate from April’s staggering 14.7% to May’s still-excruciating 13.3%.

But more than $140 billion in loan money remained unclaimed out of $659 billion allocated by Congress. It will be up to Congress to decide what to do with any leftover funds, an SBA spokeswoman said.

Some banks rejected any companies that did not have multiple accounts. Sole proprietors and freelancers had to wait a week before applying, and many found they could not supply the kind of documents the government and banks demanded.

The program’s biggest appeal was its promise that loans would be forgiven, but confusion abounded about requirements owners had to meet to get that forgiveness.

Those requirements and information about the program kept changing: Between March 31 and June 15, the SBA issued 35 changes to program rules and its frequently asked questions, according to a Government Accountability Office report issued last week. It was not until May 22, seven weeks after the program began, that the SBA and the Treasury Department released the first instructions and applications for loan forgiveness.

“It’s been a moving target this whole time,” Arensmeyer said.

In the dark and struggling with the effect of shutdowns, many owners said, “no thanks.”

Gabriella Borrero, co-owner of The Vault, a Boonton, New Jersey, recording studio, said she was uncomfortable with the possibility that the business, which had been shut for three months, could be burdened with a loan if it could not get forgiveness. And she could not determine up-front how much money might need to be repaid.

“We decided to simply tough it out ourselves and make it through by dipping into our savings,” she said. “I’d rather not have this looming thought, ‘Are we going to have it forgiven or will it come back to bite us?’”

For many small business owners, a big drawback was the law’s original requirement that companies use loan money within eight weeks, with a June 30 spending deadline. That gave businesses like restaurants two undesirable choices: recall laid-off workers immediately and risk having to lay them off again after eight weeks, or wait to use the money and then have to repay part of the loan.

“We knew it was a problem a week after the legislation was signed, when we looked at the shutdown orders,” said Karen Kerrigan, CEO of the Small Business &amp; Entrepreneurship Council, an advocacy group. At that point, it was clear that businesses were going to be closed longer than initially thought, and that the impact of the virus would be felt well after June 30, she said.

Not until June 3, less than four weeks before the deadline, did the Senate give final approval to extending the time frame to 24 weeks.

The law also required that companies spend 75% of their loan money on payroll to get forgiveness. But some businesses, like closed restaurants, needed money for rent and costs to reopen. They also worried about being stuck with a loan. Congress did not lower the payroll requirement to 60% until June.

“It was too late for many companies,” said Todd McCracken, CEO of the advocacy group National Small Business Association. He summed up the program as “poorly designed from the start.”

The program did not account for the vast differences among small businesses. Many hire freelancers or independent contractors rather than employees and under the program could not include those workers’ compensation in calculations for loan amounts. Even when these owners were able to get loans, they were of little help.

“It seemed to be structured by people who might not know how small businesses are run,” said Frank Groff, co-owner of Portland’s White House, a bed and breakfast in Portland, Oregon. The B&amp;B’s workers, including cleaning services and landscapers, are independent contractors. Groff got $12,000, but it only covered two managers’ salaries. The B&amp;B has remained open during the outbreak, but its revenue is down nearly 75%.

Also at a disadvantage: Sole proprietors who don’t have employees, owners who work as freelancers and brand-new businesses.

Sole proprietor Michael Gips started his security consultancy at the end of 2019, had no revenue and so did not have the required tax return showing his business income. The first bank he applied to never reviewed his application. He then applied to an online bank, providing documents to show he was making money in early 2020.

“My application was denied for insufficient proof of salary payments,” Gips said. As of Monday, he was waiting to hear about a third application.

Tiffany Joy Murchison, who owns a New York-based publicity firm, submitted her application April 3, the day the program began. The bank rejected the application on mistaken grounds that her account had not been open long enough, then took three weeks to correct the problem.

It took another three weeks before Murchison learned that her application was denied because it “didn’t show we needed that amount of money.” As the deadline approached, she was trying to get paperwork together that would get a loan approved, but was afraid she was running out of time.

Many businesses have gotten the message that the program isn’t for them.

When Akosua Ayim looked at the requirements, the CEO of Equal Space realized her co-working space in Newark, New Jersey, was unlikely to get much help. All its workers are independent contractors. But what convinced her not to apply was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/5964650fb3327133dccd9c4251de32fd">news</a>&nbsp;that companies like restaurant chain Shake Shack and the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers were easily able to get millions in the first round of funding. Although the companies said they were returning the money, and the government said it would audit loans over $2 million, Ayim had already given up.

“After that information, that’s when we decided to focus our efforts on grants,” Ayim said. Equal Space has applied for federal, state and local grants, and so far has received money from two organizations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585947238604.png" alt="Jovita Carranza, administrator of the Small Business Administration during a Coronavirus Task Force briefing in March -photo courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>Jovita Carranza, administrator of the Small Business Administration during a Coronavirus Task Force briefing in March -photo courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Billions of dollars offered by Congress as a lifeline to small businesses struggling to survive the pandemic are about to be left on the table when a key government program stops accepting applications for loans.Business owners and advocacy groups complain that the money in the Paycheck Protection Program was not fully put to work because the program created obstacles that stopped countless small businesses from applying. For those that did seek loans, the ever-changing application process proved to be an exercise in futility.“It was a flawed structure to begin with,” said John Arensmeyer, CEO of Small Business Majority, an advocacy group. “It favored established businesses. It was set up to give money to people with strong banking relationships.”The program’s shortcomings also made it more difficult for minority businesses to get loans, according to a report from the Center for Responsible Lending, a research group.The loans were designed to give companies devastated by government-ordered shutdowns money to pay staffers and survive. The money was aimed at small businesses such as restaurants, retailers and salons that are desperately trying to stay afloat as the U.S. economy&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/5bc6644329af546be3b06763da8abd29">reopens in fits and starts</a>.As of late Friday, the Small Business Administration had approved more than 4.7 million loans worth nearly $518 billion. Small businesses that also included medical offices, dry cleaners and manufacturers obtained money that ultimately saved jobs and eased the unemployment rate from April’s staggering 14.7% to May’s still-excruciating 13.3%.But more than $140 billion in loan money remained unclaimed out of $659 billion allocated by Congress. It will be up to Congress to decide what to do with any leftover funds, an SBA spokeswoman said.Some banks rejected any companies that did not have multiple accounts. Sole proprietors and freelancers had to wait a week before applying, and many found they could not supply the kind of documents the government and banks demanded.The program’s biggest appeal was its promise that loans would be forgiven, but confusion abounded about requirements owners had to meet to get that forgiveness.Those requirements and information about the program kept changing: Between March 31 and June 15, the SBA issued 35 changes to program rules and its frequently asked questions, according to a Government Accountability Office report issued last week. It was not until May 22, seven weeks after the program began, that the SBA and the Treasury Department released the first instructions and applications for loan forgiveness.“It’s been a moving target this whole time,” Arensmeyer said.In the dark and struggling with the effect of shutdowns, many owners said, “no thanks.”Gabriella Borrero, co-owner of The Vault, a Boonton, New Jersey, recording studio, said she was uncomfortable with the possibility that the business, which had been shut for three months, could be burdened with a loan if it could not get forgiveness. And she could not determine up-front how much money might need to be repaid.“We decided to simply tough it out ourselves and make it through by dipping into our savings,” she said. “I’d rather not have this looming thought, ‘Are we going to have it forgiven or will it come back to bite us?’”For many small business owners, a big drawback was the law’s original requirement that companies use loan money within eight weeks, with a June 30 spending deadline. That gave businesses like restaurants two undesirable choices: recall laid-off workers immediately and risk having to lay them off again after eight weeks, or wait to use the money and then have to repay part of the loan.“We knew it was a problem a week after the legislation was signed, when we looked at the shutdown orders,” said Karen Kerrigan, CEO of the Small Business &amp; Entrepreneurship Council, an advocacy group. At that point, it was clear that businesses were going to be closed longer than initially thought, and that the impact of the virus would be felt well after June 30, she said.Not until June 3, less than four weeks before the deadline, did the Senate give final approval to extending the time frame to 24 weeks.The law also required that companies spend 75% of their loan money on payroll to get forgiveness. But some businesses, like closed restaurants, needed money for rent and costs to reopen. They also worried about being stuck with a loan. Congress did not lower the payroll requirement to 60% until June.“It was too late for many companies,” said Todd McCracken, CEO of the advocacy group National Small Business Association. He summed up the program as “poorly designed from the start.”The program did not account for the vast differences among small businesses. Many hire freelancers or independent contractors rather than employees and under the program could not include those workers’ compensation in calculations for loan amounts. Even when these owners were able to get loans, they were of little help.“It seemed to be structured by people who might not know how small businesses are run,” said Frank Groff, co-owner of Portland’s White House, a bed and breakfast in Portland, Oregon. The B&amp;B’s workers, including cleaning services and landscapers, are independent contractors. Groff got $12,000, but it only covered two managers’ salaries. The B&amp;B has remained open during the outbreak, but its revenue is down nearly 75%.Also at a disadvantage: Sole proprietors who don’t have employees, owners who work as freelancers and brand-new businesses.Sole proprietor Michael Gips started his security consultancy at the end of 2019, had no revenue and so did not have the required tax return showing his business income. The first bank he applied to never reviewed his application. He then applied to an online bank, providing documents to show he was making money in early 2020.“My application was denied for insufficient proof of salary payments,” Gips said. As of Monday, he was waiting to hear about a third application.Tiffany Joy Murchison, who owns a New York-based publicity firm, submitted her application April 3, the day the program began. The bank rejected the application on mistaken grounds that her account had not been open long enough, then took three weeks to correct the problem.It took another three weeks before Murchison learned that her application was denied because it “didn’t show we needed that amount of money.” As the deadline approached, she was trying to get paperwork together that would get a loan approved, but was afraid she was running out of time.Many businesses have gotten the message that the program isn’t for them.When Akosua Ayim looked at the requirements, the CEO of Equal Space realized her co-working space in Newark, New Jersey, was unlikely to get much help. All its workers are independent contractors. But what convinced her not to apply was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/5964650fb3327133dccd9c4251de32fd">news</a>&nbsp;that companies like restaurant chain Shake Shack and the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers were easily able to get millions in the first round of funding. Although the companies said they were returning the money, and the government said it would audit loans over $2 million, Ayim had already given up.“After that information, that’s when we decided to focus our efforts on grants,” Ayim said. Equal Space has applied for federal, state and local grants, and so far has received money from two organizations.

Billions of dollars in aid for small businesses go unclaimed

TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly held a press briefing  Monday afternoon to discuss the increase in COVID-19 cases in Kansas.&nbsp; She announced that beginning 12:01 a.m. July 3 every Kansan in a public space will be required to wear a mask. Local officials will be responsible for enforcing the mandate, according to the governor.

“This is a simple, proactive step we can take to keep Kansans at work, get our kids back to school, and keep ourselves and our neighbors healthy,” Governor Kelly said. “Wearing a mask is not only safe – but it is necessary to avoid another shut down.

“Remember – my mask protects you, and your mask protects me,” Governor Kelly said. “We’re all in this together.”

Under the order, most Kansans must wear masks in stores and shops, restaurants, and in any situation in which social distancing of 6 feet cannot be maintained, including outside. The EO will be released on Thursday, and will provide specific guidance regarding under what circumstances masks must be worn.

“I know Kansans will have many questions about this order – and we will answer them when it is released later this week,” Governor Kelly said. “But by announcing the requirement today, people in our state will have the appropriate time to acquire the masks.”

The Kansas Attorney General’s Office will work closely with officials in Governor Kelly’s administration to ensure that the order complies with Kansas law.

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 905 to a total of 14,443, the state health department reported Monday afternoon.&nbsp;

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has added two states to the quarantine list: South Carolina and Florida and removed Maryland. This is in effect for persons arriving in or returning to Kansas&nbsp; June 29, and moving forward. The state will review/update this list every two weeks.

A comprehensive list of those individuals needing to quarantine for 14 days includes visitors and Kansans who have:

Others who need to continue quarantining:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593465508296.png" alt="Gov. Laura Kelly arrived at Monday's press briefing wearing a mask" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Laura Kelly arrived at Monday's press briefing wearing a mask</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly held a press briefing  Monday afternoon to discuss the increase in COVID-19 cases in Kansas.&nbsp; She announced that beginning 12:01 a.m. July 3 every Kansan in a public space will be required to wear a mask. Local officials will be responsible for enforcing the mandate, according to the governor.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGovLauraKelly%2Fvideos%2F3154697867948519%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>“This is a simple, proactive step we can take to keep Kansans at work, get our kids back to school, and keep ourselves and our neighbors healthy,” Governor Kelly said. “Wearing a mask is not only safe – but it is necessary to avoid another shut down.“Remember – my mask protects you, and your mask protects me,” Governor Kelly said. “We’re all in this together.”Under the order, most Kansans must wear masks in stores and shops, restaurants, and in any situation in which social distancing of 6 feet cannot be maintained, including outside. The EO will be released on Thursday, and will provide specific guidance regarding under what circumstances masks must be worn.“I know Kansans will have many questions about this order – and we will answer them when it is released later this week,” Governor Kelly said. “But by announcing the requirement today, people in our state will have the appropriate time to acquire the masks.”The Kansas Attorney General’s Office will work closely with officials in Governor Kelly’s administration to ensure that the order complies with Kansas law.The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 905 to a total of 14,443, the state health department reported Monday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 270.The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has added two states to the quarantine list: South Carolina and Florida and removed Maryland. This is in effect for persons arriving in or returning to Kansas&nbsp; June 29, and moving forward. The state will review/update this list every two weeks.A comprehensive list of those individuals needing to quarantine for 14 days includes visitors and Kansans who have:Traveled to:<ul>
 <li>South Carolina and Florida on or after June 29.</li><li>Alabama, Arizona and Arkansas on or after June 17.</li><li>Been on a cruise ship or river cruise on or after March 15.</li><li>International travel on or after March 15.</li>
 </ul>Others who need to continue quarantining:<ul>
 <li>Received notification from public health officials (state or local) that you are a close contact of a laboratory-confirmed case of COVID-19.</li>
 </ul>